[quote author=SaintGeorge67 link=topic=44673.msg1304566#msg1304566 date=1300924314]
Martin Kelly proved that wasn't the case. Even Ayala showed promise.
Pacheco has a wonderful opportunity here. I'm hardly his greatest fan, but to say he's gone "to die" is ludicrous. He's never had a better opportunity.
[/quote]
I think the timing and circumstance of the loan makes a difference though. In Kelly's case, he hadn't really broken into the first team squad at that time (meaning, getting onto the bench) and thus, the loan was less of a death knell (hindsight speaking of course) because he was never going to threaten to get any minutes any way.
In Pacheco's case, he's been a regular on the bench this season; just not getting any chances to play. I think Kenny rates Pacheco over Jovanovic, but at the same time, doesn't rate him highly enough to be able to contribute (right now) to the team's cause. That he's willing to let him go out on loan in the crucial ending stretch tells a lot. It also says a lot (to me) that in the event our challenge for a European place falters early, Pacheco won't be around to pick up minutes in the remaining meaningless games.
Pacheco could surprise by pulling up trees with Norwich, but he has a very small window to do so. I think his time is up. The arrival of Shelvey (as Gerrard's heir-apparent in terms of playing style), and the resurgence of Spearing (if he maintains his form) is going to squeeze the seats on the bench. And if Kenny fancies one of Sterling or Suso to make the step up, then I think Pacheco's future is sealed.