I've been one of Ramirez's biggest cheerleaders, but I'm starting to think I might have been wrong about him. I didn't see the cup game but what I heard wasn't positive and now he's been left out of the squad again, it doesn't look good. I'm sure he'll have a great career, but if his heart's really not in it here then there's not much point keeping him.
I have said before that our team are hungry and will work hard (especially as they can see the reward) but some players who are better than we have just wouldn't put in the effort. It just hasn't worked for Gaston...he can't coast with Mauricio and he may feel that his talents aren't being best used here.
On Lawro's prediction challenge, his opposition this week, comedian David Schneider, refers to Saints as England 'B' in the video. http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/24841322
Gaston might have shone if we had carried on playing in the old Adkins style, but I think the writing was on the wall as soon as Pochettino changed us to the high pressing game, with everyone involved in defending. Gaston just hasn't been able to adapt. After their showing on Wednesday I fully expect Ramirez, Lee, and, sadly, Hooiveld to be on their way in January, with suitable improvements coming in.
I'm not expecting much activity in January unless Mauricio wants a new player and has to clear decks a bit. Can't see Jos going for instance unless a top CB is brought in...no point in swapping Jos for a back up CB. Can't see that happening.
It can't be too long before Turnbull is considered a better option than Jos. We have three very reliable players in that position already so we really should be looking at youth for that fourth spot before bringing in a new Forren.
Can see us pushing to bring Banega in with Gaston going. I rather suspect we'll have some stiff competition for him though.......
Club confirmed that we had to release Ramirez on this date at the latest to let him travel with the Uruguay squad for their upcoming fixture. Suarez was given an extra few days to stay an play with Liverpool upon their request, as you would expect.
Not sure we will bring anyone in in January, it's not our favourite transfer window. Although if the right offer comes in, I wouldn't be surprised to see Gaston sold. With regards to the game today, exciting to have Gallagher on the bench! Although I can't see him coming on unless we're cruising.
Heh, starting to think that the reasons for Gaston's absences are as much about retaining his sale value as anything.
