The message to players like Jack Cork applies equally to the first-choice players in Koeman's philosophy, I would guess. If picked, you have to give 100% or risk being dropped. That gives those like Jack (and Artur) hope that they are only ever one bad game by someone else away from the first team.
I do feel a bit sorry for Jack Cork. Throughout his career he has never been a properly established first choice player, apart from the run of games in the Championship and the odd few together in the PL. He's never going to break any records for appearances, in his career. He has always had to prove to a manager that he is worthy of selection. If and when he eventually comes on he invariably improves the situation, showing that he can and does indeed make a difference. Then the next game he's back on the subs bench. This would piss off almost any player eventually. Trouble with Jack is that I think he may be too nice. His competitive streak is against the opposition, not with his own teammates. And he loves being a Southampton player. I suppose it takes all sorts, even in football, to make a league.
Agreed TSS, but the fact of the matter is that in a mid/upper table team, he's just not *quite* good enough to be a first choice starter (despite the clamour in some quarters here) - so his choice is, guaranteed start in a poor team, or game time as sub and/or in place of an injured player in a better team. As things stand he's looking to do the latter on a decent wage, rather than break appearance records at Wolves.
Agreed. Some [though few] players can be an asset to any side. Jack isn't one of those, but he is a vey worthwhile part of Southampton's squad. I think he knows it and Koeman knows it. One thing I understand we didn't get from Koeman's pre-match interview is whether Jack called for no move or whether Koeman demanded he stayed. Or if indeed Koeman said, Jack, you're not going, and Cork answered, Don't worry Boss, I don't want to go anyway.
Simon Peach spoke to Jack Cork, who told him he would like to sign a new deal at Saints - but is just focused on showing Koeman his ability for now.
Jack likes it here and wants to stay, but it seems that the club isn't certain at the moment. We've been stuck with players on contracts before...you can see there is little advantage to Saints to give him a longer contract whilst he isn't clamouring for a move and other clubs aren't falling over themselves to sign him. Sadly for Jack, we are the best game in town for him, but he isn't for us. Incidentally, I would like him to have a contract extension, but I'm not in charge. But I will be one day and the world had better watch out
Sign him up, important part of our central defence especially with question marks over Snidders future
If we are to compete in EPL and the FA Cup and The league Cup (& hopefully in Europe on day) its all about squad not just team. We saw last year that with just three key injures in November our season fell apart after a very successful opening spell and that was without paying any attention to the cups which MP completely disrespected How good was it on Saturday to see a bench that strong and to have subs come on and make a difference and not just fill a space on the pitch Sign Corky up!
And Koeman likes to give people game time, so they are ready if needed. Perhaps he could have a word with Les.
What is it about his play that you don't think is good enough for other clubs? He passes well, has huge energy, is a decent tackler, rarely gives the ball away, he is a great link between attack and defence and is a goal scoring machine! What on earth more do you want from a midfielder?
http://www.independent.ie/sport/soccer/cork-keen-to-cement-firstteam-spot-30589128.html Full interview with Jack Cork in the Independent. Didn't realise he was so close to Bertrand.
For example, Morgan could walk into any PL club and improve them. Shall I go on..? BTW, I'm a huge fan of Jack Cork. I would have thought you would have counted all us other pro-Cork posters up by now.
