Maybe. I think if we're going to play Magic as a RB though, we need to have a more defensively solid LB.
In fact, I'm going to start a thread about this...
In fact, I'm going to start a thread about this...
aqualini = keane mark 2?
- Thread starter spider-Neil
- Start date
- Latest activity Latest activity:
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[quote author=Squiggles link=topic=39094.msg1061961#msg1061961 date=1267393596]
Maybe, but if we get 7-10 years of decent service out of him, nobody will be arsed.
I think he may prove a bad signing for Benitez, but not for this club, if that makes sense.
[/quote]
That could definitely prove to be the case.
With regard to the 10/17 lost with him playing, 2/11 lost without him thing, Carragher has regained significant form since the beginning of the season as well, and our other CBs have improved. Sure some of it may have to do with our back four losing shape with Johnson in the side, but nowhere near all of it.
Maybe, but if we get 7-10 years of decent service out of him, nobody will be arsed.
I think he may prove a bad signing for Benitez, but not for this club, if that makes sense.
[/quote]
That could definitely prove to be the case.
With regard to the 10/17 lost with him playing, 2/11 lost without him thing, Carragher has regained significant form since the beginning of the season as well, and our other CBs have improved. Sure some of it may have to do with our back four losing shape with Johnson in the side, but nowhere near all of it.
Wasn't the won/lost stat used by Rebel to prove Lucas is better than Alonso?
Also, if we were playing with any amount of confidence and spent anywhere near the amount of time in the opposition's half as we did last season, Johnson would be destroying some teams. He was a great purchase for that team, but that team left with Alonso's ability to find a decent outlet ball 9 out of 10 times.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1061958#msg1061958 date=1267393406]
[quote author=Skullflower link=topic=39094.msg1061875#msg1061875 date=1267386808]
[quote author=Brendan link=topic=39094.msg1061863#msg1061863 date=1267384890]
Bollocks, probably, but it is exactly what Benitez has actually said
[/quote]
i just can't believe that's true.
[/quote]
His plan was to play Keane and Torres up front. And a midfield like this :
Barry - Mascherano - Gerrard - Kuyt
[/quote]
That midfield has less width than Victoria Beckham's arse.
[quote author=Skullflower link=topic=39094.msg1061875#msg1061875 date=1267386808]
[quote author=Brendan link=topic=39094.msg1061863#msg1061863 date=1267384890]
Bollocks, probably, but it is exactly what Benitez has actually said
[/quote]
i just can't believe that's true.
[/quote]
His plan was to play Keane and Torres up front. And a midfield like this :
Barry - Mascherano - Gerrard - Kuyt
[/quote]
That midfield has less width than Victoria Beckham's arse.
S
Squiggles
Guest
I'd prefer him pushed up to RW, Bunny, and have a decent solid defender behind him. I'm with you on the 'keep it simple' view.
I just kind of see it similar to Rooney joining United. They weren't crying out for a player like him, but they recognised he was worth pursuing and it's paid off handsomely.
Obviously they are richer and can afford that kind of luxury, whereas we cannot. But with Johnson I do think it's best to look at the long-term, if only to keep one sane.
I just kind of see it similar to Rooney joining United. They weren't crying out for a player like him, but they recognised he was worth pursuing and it's paid off handsomely.
Obviously they are richer and can afford that kind of luxury, whereas we cannot. But with Johnson I do think it's best to look at the long-term, if only to keep one sane.
S
Squiggles
Guest
[quote author=Farkmaster link=topic=39094.msg1061972#msg1061972 date=1267394142]
Also, if we were playing with any amount of confidence and spent anywhere near the amount of time in the opposition's half as we did last season, Johnson would be destroying some teams. He was a great purchase for that team, but that team left with Alonso's ability to find a decent outlet ball 9 out of 10 times.
[/quote]
Everything comes back to him doesn't it.
Sad times.
Also, if we were playing with any amount of confidence and spent anywhere near the amount of time in the opposition's half as we did last season, Johnson would be destroying some teams. He was a great purchase for that team, but that team left with Alonso's ability to find a decent outlet ball 9 out of 10 times.
[/quote]
Everything comes back to him doesn't it.
Sad times.
johnson is an excellent signing and imho one of the few bright spots of this season
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1061996#msg1061996 date=1267394770]
What sort of criteria are you using to judge that Spidey ?
[/quote]
He likes fast black players who attack from the full-back positions. Glen Johnson is like spidey's ultimate wet dream.
What sort of criteria are you using to judge that Spidey ?
[/quote]
He likes fast black players who attack from the full-back positions. Glen Johnson is like spidey's ultimate wet dream.
Surely you can't argue that Johnson hasn't been a bright spot this season?
He's been responsible for some of only a handful moments of glee this season. He's a player that can do unexpected things.
Yea, I know, we aren't Arsenal, it's not about pretty football, you'd take 1-0 any day. Well, our recent run of conservatism and the steadying of the ship, shows that to be a bit false. Most aren't that cheery on here. People like players that wow them a bit, are aggressive on the dribble, are exciting to watch.
The problem is our general state of play has emphasized Johnson's weaknesses while limiting his strengths. Nevertheless, any moments that made me smile this season I'll put under the bright spot column, and Johnson's had a couple. Still, not the best signing, especially when you buy 20 million worth of tippy tappy bench warmer as well.
He's been responsible for some of only a handful moments of glee this season. He's a player that can do unexpected things.
Yea, I know, we aren't Arsenal, it's not about pretty football, you'd take 1-0 any day. Well, our recent run of conservatism and the steadying of the ship, shows that to be a bit false. Most aren't that cheery on here. People like players that wow them a bit, are aggressive on the dribble, are exciting to watch.
The problem is our general state of play has emphasized Johnson's weaknesses while limiting his strengths. Nevertheless, any moments that made me smile this season I'll put under the bright spot column, and Johnson's had a couple. Still, not the best signing, especially when you buy 20 million worth of tippy tappy bench warmer as well.
[quote author=TheBunnyman link=topic=39094.msg1062000#msg1062000 date=1267394873]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1061996#msg1061996 date=1267394770]
What sort of criteria are you using to judge that Spidey ?
[/quote]
He likes fast black players who attack from the full-back positions. Glen Johnson is like spidey's ultimate wet dream.
[/quote]
pretty much.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1061996#msg1061996 date=1267394770]
What sort of criteria are you using to judge that Spidey ?
[/quote]
He likes fast black players who attack from the full-back positions. Glen Johnson is like spidey's ultimate wet dream.
[/quote]
pretty much.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
S
Squiggles
Guest
Ha, stumbled upon this:
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062167#msg1062167 date=1267431519]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[/quote]
I've said it once I'll say it again we aren't going to get any quality wingers anytime soon so our fullbacks should be encouraged to go forwards, there are enough people in the team that get nosebleeds when they can the half way line as it is.
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[/quote]
I've said it once I'll say it again we aren't going to get any quality wingers anytime soon so our fullbacks should be encouraged to go forwards, there are enough people in the team that get nosebleeds when they can the half way line as it is.
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062171#msg1062171 date=1267432041]
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062167#msg1062167 date=1267431519]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[/quote]
I've said it once I'll say it again we aren't going to get any quality wingers anytime soon so our fullbacks should be encouraged to go forwards, there are enough people in the team that get nosebleeds when they can the half way line as it is.
[/quote]
That's sidestepping the issue, we shouldn't have to have fullbacks compensating for our lack of a genuine winger. If we had fullbacks that defended well (ala Finnan) then it might force the gaffa's hand with regards to buying some quality outwide.
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062167#msg1062167 date=1267431519]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[/quote]
I've said it once I'll say it again we aren't going to get any quality wingers anytime soon so our fullbacks should be encouraged to go forwards, there are enough people in the team that get nosebleeds when they can the half way line as it is.
[/quote]
That's sidestepping the issue, we shouldn't have to have fullbacks compensating for our lack of a genuine winger. If we had fullbacks that defended well (ala Finnan) then it might force the gaffa's hand with regards to buying some quality outwide.
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062173#msg1062173 date=1267432186]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062171#msg1062171 date=1267432041]
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062167#msg1062167 date=1267431519]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[/quote]
I've said it once I'll say it again we aren't going to get any quality wingers anytime soon so our fullbacks should be encouraged to go forwards, there are enough people in the team that get nosebleeds when they can the half way line as it is.
[/quote]
chelsea do and they are top of the league.
That's sidestepping the issue, we shouldn't have to have fullbacks compensating for our lack of a genuine winger.
[/quote]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062171#msg1062171 date=1267432041]
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062167#msg1062167 date=1267431519]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062054#msg1062054 date=1267397651]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062052#msg1062052 date=1267397524]
[quote author=spider-neil link=topic=39094.msg1062048#msg1062048 date=1267397184]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=39094.msg1062042#msg1062042 date=1267396828]
He's had a few bright spots, he's had as many dark ones.
It was the "great signing" criteria I was asking about.
[/quote]
johnson is eveything I want from a fullback unfortunately for him he came into a team that was all over the fucking place defensively so its a little rich placing the blame at johnson's door for the defenders inability to defend.
[/quote]
Johnson played the first game of the season Spidey. He's not independent of our defensive mess.
It's the combo of him and Insua in the team that completely destabilised the team. I fully expect us to play with Johnson and Insua at full back again for the rest of the season and I'm fairly sure we'll see a defensive mess once again.
[/quote]
if that mess happens in games we win because are taking the fight to the oppsition then fucking bring it on.
[/quote]
We won alot of games last season, and have done in the past, with two balanced fullbacks. We lost points this season because of Johnson's defensive frailties. He's great going forward but we're sacrificing our defensive side heavily with him.
His own defensive play is poor, as shown for England too, and his positioning destabilises the defence. Carra and Skrtel have both occupied the right side of the centre back pairing. Is it just a coincidence that both had a rough time with Johnson at fullback, and then both picked up their form when he got injured?
[/quote]
I've said it once I'll say it again we aren't going to get any quality wingers anytime soon so our fullbacks should be encouraged to go forwards, there are enough people in the team that get nosebleeds when they can the half way line as it is.
[/quote]
chelsea do and they are top of the league.
That's sidestepping the issue, we shouldn't have to have fullbacks compensating for our lack of a genuine winger.
[/quote]
Aquilani's rare appearances are mystifying.
I can only assume it's to do with his physical condition rather than his suitability as when he has appeared he has given us glimpses of his talent.
I wonder if his contract has clauses regarding his fitness and availability?
Given Keane's form since leaving us I'd say it was pretty shrewd shipping him back. Perhaps the same will occur with Aquilani.
I can only assume it's to do with his physical condition rather than his suitability as when he has appeared he has given us glimpses of his talent.
I wonder if his contract has clauses regarding his fitness and availability?
Given Keane's form since leaving us I'd say it was pretty shrewd shipping him back. Perhaps the same will occur with Aquilani.
Chelsea do what? They play a different system to us alot of the time and play more central with alot of power and defensive ability in there. Besides which, trying to imply that they have two rampaging fullbacks isn't exactly true.
You can't compensate for attacking fullbacks by having work hard wingers, and vice versa. Riera and Kuyt's general solidity and protection doesn't stop a fullback being caught out of position on the break, nor does it stop the two centre backs being dragged away from each other, or the gaping hole in between.
You can't compensate for attacking fullbacks by having work hard wingers, and vice versa. Riera and Kuyt's general solidity and protection doesn't stop a fullback being caught out of position on the break, nor does it stop the two centre backs being dragged away from each other, or the gaping hole in between.
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1062178#msg1062178 date=1267432452]
Chelsea do what? They play a different system to us alot of the time and play more central with alot of power and defensive ability in there. Besides which, trying to imply that they have two rampaging fullbacks isn't exactly true.
You can't compensate for attacking fullbacks by having work hard wingers, and vice versa. Riera and Kuyt's general solidity and protection doesn't stop a fullback being caught out of position on the break, nor does it stop the two centre backs being dragged away from each other, or the gaping hole in between.
[/quote]
chelsea have cole and boswinger (more recently ivanovic)
manu have evra and Rafael
arsenal have cliche(sp) and sanga
those fullbacks are encouraged to go forwards yet the goals their teams have conceeded is comparable (and sometimes better) than ours.
Chelsea do what? They play a different system to us alot of the time and play more central with alot of power and defensive ability in there. Besides which, trying to imply that they have two rampaging fullbacks isn't exactly true.
You can't compensate for attacking fullbacks by having work hard wingers, and vice versa. Riera and Kuyt's general solidity and protection doesn't stop a fullback being caught out of position on the break, nor does it stop the two centre backs being dragged away from each other, or the gaping hole in between.
[/quote]
chelsea have cole and boswinger (more recently ivanovic)
manu have evra and Rafael
arsenal have cliche(sp) and sanga
those fullbacks are encouraged to go forwards yet the goals their teams have conceeded is comparable (and sometimes better) than ours.
This thread has turned into a discussion about full-backs and Glen Johnson
[quote author=mark1975 link=topic=39094.msg1061779#msg1061779 date=1267377800]
[quote author=Peatcheo link=topic=39094.msg1061769#msg1061769 date=1267377386]
[quote author=Brendan link=topic=39094.msg1061768#msg1061768 date=1267377291]
It's obvious he has more talent and is more incisive than Lucas, but that's not really hard is it?
Certainly being 'better than Lucas' was about the bottom rung of my expectations for a 20m player who was bought to replace Xabi Alonso
[/quote]
Least Keane was given a chance and proved he was shit, Aquilani isnt even getting a chance to show if he is good enough.
[/quote]
True, though it just seems like another horrendous case of Rafa buying a player and not really doing his homework on how to play him and fit him into the side. It's obvious he's too lightweight (and injury prone) to play in central midfield, which leaves the hole position, which is currently occupied by one of the best players in the World. Well done Rafa.
Even if you look at the likes of Kuyt, he was brought in as a striker and played there for a while, until it was made obvious he wasn't really prolific or natural enough at it, or even quick enough, so he was shoved outwide.
Does Rafa actually watch half the players he signs?
[/quote]
Well. You have a valid point. Besides that Rafa in this game took one of the top 3 best CMs in the world an put to right fullback as he doesnt trust the right backs he has signed, and drew Stevie G back to CM leaving his place open for Aquilani. And he still isnt among the 14 guys getting a sniff into another catious and well balanced game.
[quote author=Peatcheo link=topic=39094.msg1061769#msg1061769 date=1267377386]
[quote author=Brendan link=topic=39094.msg1061768#msg1061768 date=1267377291]
It's obvious he has more talent and is more incisive than Lucas, but that's not really hard is it?
Certainly being 'better than Lucas' was about the bottom rung of my expectations for a 20m player who was bought to replace Xabi Alonso
[/quote]
Least Keane was given a chance and proved he was shit, Aquilani isnt even getting a chance to show if he is good enough.
[/quote]
True, though it just seems like another horrendous case of Rafa buying a player and not really doing his homework on how to play him and fit him into the side. It's obvious he's too lightweight (and injury prone) to play in central midfield, which leaves the hole position, which is currently occupied by one of the best players in the World. Well done Rafa.
Even if you look at the likes of Kuyt, he was brought in as a striker and played there for a while, until it was made obvious he wasn't really prolific or natural enough at it, or even quick enough, so he was shoved outwide.
Does Rafa actually watch half the players he signs?
[/quote]
Well. You have a valid point. Besides that Rafa in this game took one of the top 3 best CMs in the world an put to right fullback as he doesnt trust the right backs he has signed, and drew Stevie G back to CM leaving his place open for Aquilani. And he still isnt among the 14 guys getting a sniff into another catious and well balanced game.
Aqualini, as we all know a massive gamble that went wrong, his recovery took longer than expected and when it came , it has not been handled well. Clearly Aqualani is better playing further forward than Rafa likes, and is never going to do the job Alonso did.
Verdict probably a good player, (will we ever find out?) , but Rafa brought himself a lamp, and not for the first time.
I do think he is being Rafa-ised towards the door, and not being given a chance to show what he can do, as Rafa realises he is not the table he wanted, so in that respect he is has similarities to Keane.
I happen to think he could be a very good player if played in the right position and given a few games.
Johnson, I really like Johnson, fantastic breaking forward , not as bad defensively as some think, and not that much worse than Arby in that area.
However he was a luxury purchase that we apparently couldn't afford. In hindsight, it was probably a good idea as we would have been whistling for the money Pompey owed us now.
In conclusion , something that many of us have been banging on about since the summer transfer window opened last year, whatever money we needed to spend on a forward should have been spent, and what was left over from nearly £40m should have been split on a full back and a midfield player.
I know Rick Parry had his faults, but if he was still around he would be getting slaughtered for letting Rafa spend that amount on these two players.
It seems to me Rafa has a history of buying players he does not know what to do with and everyone else getting the blame.
regards
Verdict probably a good player, (will we ever find out?) , but Rafa brought himself a lamp, and not for the first time.
I do think he is being Rafa-ised towards the door, and not being given a chance to show what he can do, as Rafa realises he is not the table he wanted, so in that respect he is has similarities to Keane.
I happen to think he could be a very good player if played in the right position and given a few games.
Johnson, I really like Johnson, fantastic breaking forward , not as bad defensively as some think, and not that much worse than Arby in that area.
However he was a luxury purchase that we apparently couldn't afford. In hindsight, it was probably a good idea as we would have been whistling for the money Pompey owed us now.
In conclusion , something that many of us have been banging on about since the summer transfer window opened last year, whatever money we needed to spend on a forward should have been spent, and what was left over from nearly £40m should have been split on a full back and a midfield player.
I know Rick Parry had his faults, but if he was still around he would be getting slaughtered for letting Rafa spend that amount on these two players.
It seems to me Rafa has a history of buying players he does not know what to do with and everyone else getting the blame.
regards
[quote author=Vlads Quiff link=topic=39094.msg1062199#msg1062199 date=1267435375]
Aqualini, as we all know a massive gamble that went wrong, his recovery took longer than expected and when it came , it has not been handled well. Clearly Aqualani is better playing further forward than Rafa likes, and is never going to do the job Alonso did.
Verdict probably a good player, (will we ever find out?) , but Rafa brought himself a lamp, and not for the first time.
I do think he is being Rafa-ised towards the door, and not being given a chance to show what he can do, as Rafa realises he is not the table he wanted, so in that respect he is has similarities to Keane.
I happen to think he could be a very good player if played in the right position and given a few games.
Johnson, I really like Johnson, fantastic breaking forward , not as bad defensively as some think, and not that much worse than Arby in that area.
However he was a luxury purchase that we apparently couldn't afford. In hindsight, it was probably a good idea as we would have been whistling for the money Pompey owed us now.
In conclusion , something that many of us have been banging on about since the summer transfer window opened last year, whatever money we needed to spend on a forward should have been spent, and what was left over from nearly £40m should have been split on a full back and a midfield player.
I know Rick Parry had his faults, but if he was still around he would be getting slaughtered for letting Rafa spend that amount on these two players.
It seems to me Rafa has a history of buying players he does not know what to do with and everyone else getting the blame.
regards
[/quote]
^^^
Aqualini, as we all know a massive gamble that went wrong, his recovery took longer than expected and when it came , it has not been handled well. Clearly Aqualani is better playing further forward than Rafa likes, and is never going to do the job Alonso did.
Verdict probably a good player, (will we ever find out?) , but Rafa brought himself a lamp, and not for the first time.
I do think he is being Rafa-ised towards the door, and not being given a chance to show what he can do, as Rafa realises he is not the table he wanted, so in that respect he is has similarities to Keane.
I happen to think he could be a very good player if played in the right position and given a few games.
Johnson, I really like Johnson, fantastic breaking forward , not as bad defensively as some think, and not that much worse than Arby in that area.
However he was a luxury purchase that we apparently couldn't afford. In hindsight, it was probably a good idea as we would have been whistling for the money Pompey owed us now.
In conclusion , something that many of us have been banging on about since the summer transfer window opened last year, whatever money we needed to spend on a forward should have been spent, and what was left over from nearly £40m should have been split on a full back and a midfield player.
I know Rick Parry had his faults, but if he was still around he would be getting slaughtered for letting Rafa spend that amount on these two players.
It seems to me Rafa has a history of buying players he does not know what to do with and everyone else getting the blame.
regards
[/quote]
^^^
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