We'd only have conceded 8 if this lot were only playing the likes of Rotherham and Burton Albion every week.
Pope has been a magnificent signing, made one mistake in his time here, but is usually top of his game. Botman was a signing I was desperate for us to sign and I've not been let down, we went out there and signed a top class, trophy winning CB.
Agree Pope has been a fantasticsigning but think he has made a a few mistakes, most of which haven't been punished (so they aren't really mistakes) but he does look like he has a seasonal clanger or two in his locker... It's actually a position I'm probably most keen to see what the next step in the process is. Pope, Dubz and Karius is probably the best "trio" of keepers we've ever had at the club, so no immediate rush, but I am excited to see the next long term keeper coming in, who it might be and what type of quality they'll be as those above are all 30+ (I think) so probably 3/4 years at the top level before needing replacing...
Pope’s mistakes mostly originate from poor footwork with ball at his feet. He is a superb shot stopper. I was wrong about Botman - I thought he might be too slow for PL but he has superb positioning and is so comfortable on the ball. His long diagonal passes are always spot on as well.
Our back five are outstanding. I sort of expect a clean sheet every game now, when have we ever thought that?
Right? When we think of some of the sh!te we've had to endure over the years. Boumsong. Bramble. Marcelino. Steven Taylor. Andy Griffin. Williamson.
Seen we've been linked with Harwood-Bellis from City today - 21 y/o, 6'2, CB. Replacement for Lascelles? Looks like a decent player from the limited amount I've seen of him (mainly England U21's where he's Captain currently).
Honestly think the manager and owners have been surprised and impressed with how much can be got from the players we had. Before Howe I'd have said that Almiron, Joelinton, Longstaff and Schar weren't going to be part of a squad competing for the top 6-8 positions and even our better players (or those with potential) like Wilson, ASM, Willock I'd have had doubts over. And Murphy is probably a mid-table Championship player but he's warranting his spot at the moment so credit where it's due. Yes we'll be looking for more first team players in the summer but i reckon there'll be more of an emphasis on potential with only a couple of first teamers coming in. It's better that way for growth, push players like Richie and Manquillo out, etc. Harwood-Bellis. Don't know him.
I think the players are probably pretty amazed at what Howe is getting out of them tbh, let alone the coaching staff, board and us fans!
The Boumsong and Bramble central defence combo, commonly known as The Chuckle Brothers. Man, they were bleak times.
Maddison will be signing, I am convinced. We have officially lodged interest on two seperate occasions, he's still probably their best player and he will instantly improve us.
