'Generic arms covered in biro' should be entered into the Oxford Dictionary as the true description of what these trendy young boys call a 'Sleeve'. Quality.
I’m not a massive fan of Moncur for the reasons you’re not at the same time due to the spreadsheet recruiting 45678 number 10s and no midfielders and us then loaning Bird McGheehan out we have no better options.
Moncur reminds me of the saying 'all the gear no idea'. He was an absolute liability yesterday from about the 15th minute. Doesn't do the basics for a central midfielder, those being run, tackle and find a red shirt with the ball and doesn't offer nearly enough as a number 10 in this division, namely chances created, assists and goals. He seems to lack any basic positional sense for either and for a professional footballer his engine is appalling.
He had a team built around him in Colchester. He had zero defensive responsibility and played a free role. That’s why he’s struggles in a more rigid system. Like others have said he’s a very talented attacking player but when he spends 99% of the time in the middle third he won’t get chance to influence the game. I’m not saying we are using him incorrectly as he is a professional footballer, he should adapt and develop his weaknesses. He hasn’t so will never play with any success above division 3
What’s Stephen Dawson got to do with anything? I think you mean typical football fan for wanting your team to be fit to play 90 minutes. Look at Butterfield when he came through with us, he was carrying too much weight & out drinking a lot & cane back after pre-season a lot leaner & fitter, he made the change at about 19 so why’s Moncur still overweight in his mid-20’s?
15 goals, League 1 team of the season, off in January, BBS in meltdown, his dad calling us tossers, his replacement signed from Torquay for £50,000
Only if we “build the team around him” AKA removing him from any responsibility other than playing for George Moncur. Like Colchester did. Who got relegated.
Sadly, I think Moncur is simply a League 1 player and no more. I think that also sums up the bulk of the squad. Yiadom's level is probably mid-upper Champoinship, McBurnie probably upper Championship - lower Premiership, but other than that, we've gambled on lower league 'budget' players stepping up which looks like ultimately failing. I genuinely believe 6/7 of yesterday's starting line up, plus Bradshaw and Isgrove, are capable of shining in League 1 next season. I'm not resigned to relegation, by the way, but staying up is now more 'hope' than 'Believe'. But equally as important as summer recruitment HAS to be working on fitness. To see players on the pitch being close to physically sick as they run out of steam, that's a big issue that needs addressing. I'm quite sure if I told my employers I was only fit enough to work 3 days a week, my salary would be adjusted down accordingly while they secretly work on a way to get me down the road. So players only able to produce for 60-70 mins is not acceptable.
Or just call him in and say "George, those fans pay for you to do your job to the best of your ability. That includes training effectively so that you can give your best for 90 mins plus. That also includes being bothered to help your team mates out by being switched on and committed when you haven't got the ball. Maybe I should put you on half pay and have a close look at your responsibilities under your contract. You've been here a while now so shape up or Ship out!"
Just an example of a player with limited ability who ran around a lot. Moncur probably could be fitter. I still think he's the only midfielder we've got who actually looks comfortable on the ball and for that I'll forgive his inability to run around all game.
It’s nowt to do with not being able to run around all game. Talented players who are effective always blend hard work with said ability. George does not because he’s not fit enough not to mention he plays for George Moncur not BFC. He’s never matured beyond a junior footballer
How about if he could make a tackle or track a run? Put pressure in the man in possession or actually contribute something going forward? Doesn't score goals doesn't create goals. What exactly does he offer?
My opinion is that not having GM at Oakwell would make not one iota of difference to the on field 'success' of this club. I'd rather select an academy player than GM. Send the message and send it strong.