He'll inevitably get slagged off by some as the honeymoon period wears off. There are simply too many good vibes about this signing. I'm predicting Ist game of the season whether he plays or not. 'An experienced midfielder should have them better organised than that' or, based on this board's affinity for patience, 'why the fu.ck did we re-sign this bloke?' So at current betting it's game 1 for me.
Every player gets slagged off at some point. He isn’t the player we sold seven and a half years ago - otherwise we wouldn’t be getting him. Some people will have unreachable expectations. Of course. The majority will hopefully see it like I do, he’s here as a calming influence, a wise old head, a master of the craft of professionalism and “dark arts”, an example setter on the training field, and an excellent player technically - even if without the legs he used to have; his passing and set piece delivery alone will be worthy of a place in the team or coming on as a finisher in games, either to see it out when in front or to turn it around if behind. There’s no negative to the signing for me - but as I say, some will expect too much.
Have to say that this is the first piece of news that would entice me to attend a game at Oakwell since February 2020.
I don't think his lack of pace will be a big factor, he'll have "people" to do his running. I have fond memories of Jan "Mido" Molby controlling games without leaving the centre circle. John Sheridan I seem to recall once did a similar job on us for the pigs. There's no substitute for experience, which we've been sadly lacking for so long - and quality.
Seen a Woodrow rumour. I think he'd compliment Cosgrove like he did Moore. However, wouldn't be distraught lining up with Cosgrove and Watters and a change of direction. Factoring in Hourihane possibly not playing every game the mould needs to/ needed to change. Hence me harping on about Grant. That lad reminded me so much of Hourihane.
