As far as I know he's not injured but seems out of favour. I still think he's one of those genius players who can conjure up flashes of brilliance. As a result not sure he will fit in to Pardew's long term pragmatic approach. Any thoughts?
No sorry should of made it clearer .. Just said that he needs to up his game and still needs his sharpness back.
I reckon Pardew is saving him for when Ba goes to the ACON, because the two of them don't play to each other's strengths (both of them want to play the pacy, poaching player) Best / Benny up front will be deadly.
He just needs time, Pardew is managing him well, if we play him every week it will make him think he is the best. AP is just showing him he needs to work hard to get into the team
I expect he'll play tonight. He essentially needs to show that he is the player we all think he can be. Since his injury, he hasn't really. Also, Pardew is of the opinion (which I respect) that he is most useful against sides who play football and less useful in hoofball situations
I think its similar to the way Colin is handling Taarabt. Yes he's fantastically skilful and capable of great things, but needs to remember there's a team around him, and if there's a simple pass on to take it as all great players do. He looks great ripping people to shreds around halfway, but I'd rather see Shola give an assist to Demba in the box with his arse...
Wonderful expression, a fan who just wants us to win at any cost whether it be pretty or not ....it's a compliment mate. I too would rather win in the 95th minute with an off the knee goal but if we can win and play beautiful football too then it's a bonus.
