McManaman is a decent player, but he's not exactly Eden Hazard. The fact that he looked like West Brom's biggest threat is somewhat a reflection of Targett being the weak link on defense right now. I thought McManaman dove (and props to Pulis for his comments after the game). At the same time, Targett did not get the ball and his lunge definitely prevented McManaman from playing the ball. So I feel there was a good argument it was a foul whether McManaman dove or not, and Koeman was right we got a little lucky.
Still, I thought he did okay yesterday. In the end, he did manage to contain McManaman enough to prevent a goal. Which I think is about his level right now. He has his hands full just doing his defensive duties, so you can't expect much on the offensive side of things. And that is the right approach for him as well. I felt in the first few games we conceded 2-3 goals that were at least partially result of Targett getting caught out of position, so I have no problem with him not taking risks and just making sure he does the basics.
The only reason I might loan him out is because I think if he were to go to a very good Championship side where he was a key player it could help his game. But it would have to be the right team. And I don't think that is really an option right now, as we need him as backup. And as a backup, I'm reasonably okay with his play and the games he is getting while Bertrand is out will help him.
If he is getting abuse from some supporters that is incredibly stupid. It's never productive to abuse your own player, and I don't get why people think it's fun to shout insults at someone who is trying their best to win a game and send you home happy. Unless you only derive happiness from abusing others, which is sad. But in Targett's case it's even more stupid than usual as he hasn't been that bad and did okay yesterday. What do they expect? He's still young and learning so will make mistakes. He's not exactly shining out there, but he's managing to keep his head above water and at 19, that's pretty good.
It does seem to me that Targett just doesn't have the speed/instincts to be a threat as an attacking wingback type. But that's okay. There's nothing wrong with a defense-first fullback. He just needs to pick his spots and get forward a few times a game. If he does enough on offense to keep the other team honest while being a plus defensive player, that's fine with me. And I think he will get there, given time and support from the team and fans.
He's on a tough learning curve...give him a break.
