How much game time does he need to be able to control a football? I understand what you're saying but doing the basics like hold up the ball, control and pass a few yards should be bread and butter regardless of how much game time you've had. Bellamy hasn't had too much game time but poses more of a threat. We can't continue to keep using game time as an excuse for him. He does not look sharp and he does not look threatening. Yes - he will win headers and can bully defenders but I want a striker who has more to his game. I want someone with good movement, intelligence, ability to link with other players, get involved in the game, good control and can finish. Carroll is one dimensional and traditional English CF's are dying out for this very reason. Having said all that, I don't think we should be getting rid of Carroll He's still a youngster and has time to develop his game. Once he can a few things to his game, he could become unstoppable.
People seem to have forgotten how good Carroll was last season. Check these bits http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z258UPOSybg (I know its YouTube) his touch is very good, as is his close control. He is a quick player and is very strong. I really think Carrolls problem is not his ability but all the factors surrounding his current position: 1. The price tag and expectation that goes with it. 2. Constantly put down even after good performances. 3. He played without fear whiel at newcastle and thats really important. Now every pass and every touch is analysed and mulled over. I think a huge positive is how you see him react when other players score, he is always sprinting to congratulate his team mates. This means he is getting on very well and so I think it wont be long until we see his best. I think after christmas we will see a different beast.
Yeah you're right, not sure why I'm defending not being able to control a ball at this level! But these things that he can add to his game to become better are going to have to come with playing matches. I just think there is a myth that we play **** when he plays and I simply don't think that is the case
Not to cause hysteria but Kopwatch this evening are suggesting there is firm interest in Leandro Damaio, who would definitely fit the bill from what i have seen. I'm not one for twitter rumors, but the guys that run it are fairly decent.
For me it is simply that we need to start with the best players possible and who are in form; for me that is not Carrol right now. Thats not to say it won't be in the near future but at the moment he looks a little lost and off the pace, perhaps the pressure is getting to him a little? I think he is suited to coming off the bench for the last 20minutes or so. One thing that has gone against him really and that is adding to the pressure is that the team is not scoring enough which means he is getting no time whatsoever to play with the freedom perhaps needed to play more naturally! It would be interesting to see him introduced when we are two or three goals up(if that ever happens!) and see how he plays then. I don't think he should be starting games right now but the circumstances really have not been ideal for him so far this season.
