He's been very good in the last few months. I'm not going to forget that he was poor for a couple of years prior, but he's looking the part now.
Needs do it for a long period to be considered anything like a legend. He's nowhere near the level of Ian Taylor, Cowans, Barry etc. Not for me. Not yet.
Emery has got some tune out of him.
Technically excellent (so not Phillips). Walker does currently walk into our team, yes. I just think we'll have a longer term, younger and more cultured solution in mind.
If he comes in with another though, I'm all for it. Young is reaching the end and Cash isn't of the standard we need in my opinion.
They don't strike me as Emery type players. Walker, maybe if he's available for a decent price. Phillips? nah, I can't see it.
I think we'll be shopping in South America and Spain / France in the summer.
Yeah he was totally off it last two games. Actually walking around for periods against Fulham. No issues as he's had a great second half to the season.
If Duran was more ready I'd have thrown him in but he's probably not so it is what is.
Like many of our players, he needs a decent rest but we can't afford it. More competition next year and more fitness management. Just needs to throw everything at it for this run in now.
I think judging by the squad / bench and the reluctance to use it, we need to be quite busy in the summer and I think we will.
I've seen a few suggestions we only need one or two and we shouldn't change too much.
I understand that point of view but I think the players are playing well because of the coaching and tactics and spirit and any new signings will enjoy the same but be better players, or at least as good.
I reckon 6 or 7 coming in and a few going out in terms of first teamers. Plus some kids promoted to the squad and more fringe players leaving.
Reasonably big changes.
Intriguing player but his numbers are a little concerning. Not a massive amount of goals / assists at senior level.
I know it doesn't tell a whole story and a good manager can see beyond the story so far, still...
I cant believe Newcastle went for him, he's been shite for a year or so and his attitude is suspect. That, and he looks like Claire Balding after an over zealous colonic irrigation.
He'll get preseason in the US and then we'll see I guess. We'll use more youngsters if we're in Europe.
However, I'm pretty sure we'll be buying another senior striker in the summer too.
He'll come through eventually though and there'll be no stopping him. He reminds me of Darius Vassell, but technically better.
True, but I suppose the premium is that Smith Rowe knows the league and there are less uncertainties over whether he'd fit in being a "native".
Prices for young English players do take the piss though so at some point it's best to say no thanks and look abroad.
We could, as there'll be a lot of money to spend. Whether Emery does is another matter. There's usually / always better value abroad and he knows the markets well.
I wouldn't call Smith Rowe a top PL player at this point in time though. He doesn't play enough. He certainly could be.