Thing is Knack, I'm not certain just how effective it can be in coaching a keeper to take high balls. For sure in training the protocol would be for passive routines to avoid the risk of injury to the keeper. This is not much preparation for when a big, ugly striker like Holt or tough beanpoles such as Carroll or Crouch come calling. My experience is that keepers are either born with the ability or not. When I played it was a far tougher world for keepers because they didn't enjoy the protection that they do in today's game and it always helped to have a keeper with attitude who was prepared to give as good as he got. So, in that context, I don't understand how today's breed opt to punch so much when they do get a lot of protection. On the other hand, the heavier balls of yesteryear were so much easier to judge for a keeper. The modern ball enables players to get much more swerve, dip, power and flight on the ball making it far more difficult for a keeper to catch. One thing's for sure, a good keeper is worth every one of the 10 points a season that Brendan claimed. I wouldn't mind betting that Vorm is batting pretty near that already for us.
My son (now 23) had successful trials in goal for Wales Youth (think it was U15, can't remember) till it all fell apart because of FAW mismanagement. He was told they couldn't afford to organise any competitive games for them. Yes, really. So he gave up. But you're right about the coaching aspect. It helps if you have that robustness about you, and Vorm is slight to say the least.
The first thing I thought when reading this article was, where is Vorm? and although it was great to see Rodgers and Leon getting recognition, I still feel that Vorm is better than some of the keepers mentioned there! Ivor if you where talking about Dorus de Vries, then I might agree, but I think you are being a bit picky regarding Vorm, and his command of his area in set pieces. While he's human (Yes despite opposition fans claim that he's a machine!) he's 100% better than Dorus, so I'll cut Vorm the slack he deserves regarding this, and don't see it as an issue......................... please log in to view this image I remember when Leon was rumoured to be on his way back from Sheff, how some felt contrary to Rodgers view, that Leon was not needed, but how wrong that view was, and I'm glad that Dai has been big enough to recognise that, well said Dai, and for the record here's the old BBC article!............. Link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A79327263 The best comment in that old article, comes from aswan in my view, although Dai comes a close second!..........
Not knocking Vorm, Phil. I've given him a lot of praise. But he does have a pronounced weakness in taking the high ball which is why I think he didn't get the votes from the other managers. He made a complete cock up with that Richards header, for instance so let's call a spade a spade. A couple of inches, or a mistake from that lovely lady running the line and the mood on here would be far removed from what it has been during the past few days. Vorm is a great keeper and has done wonders for us but the fact is, he is not good at dealing with crosses.
He makes up for any mistakes he has made with 10 clean sheets imo, the best keeper we have had in years .... plus all keepers make mistakes some time or other and vorm makes less than most.....
I thought it was actually 11, Dai. Look, I can't make it any clearer, I think that Vorm is a tremendous keeper, perhaps the best shot stopper in the League. I'm chuffed to bits that he plays for us because he does a great job. All that said, he does have a weakness on crosses which is why I'm guessing is the reason he wasn't even mentioned in the poll. Let's face it, he has to have some flaws which, and I'm guessing again, is probably the reason why we picked him up so cheaply. We took a chance that others wouldn't and I'm very pleased we did!
Ivor like you I'm a perfectionist when it comes to the great game, but I cannot begin to tell you how happy I was with Vorm, after just watching him in his first two games, and while I know exactly where your coming from with your observations, the way I see it is, what the hell, he makes up for any deficiencies with his outstanding shot stopping skills, and let's be honest, we have a keeper who is better than Manu's, so I don't see this as an issue at all Ivor, matter of fact, he must be our signing of the season!.... please log in to view this image
Vorm is an excellent keeper but the clean sheets are not just down to him. The very solid Caulker / Williams partnership that's blossomed this season has a lot to do with that stat imo. I agree with Ivor that Vorm is one of the best, if not the best shot-stopper in this League. As de Vries was in the Champ. But there are times when he doesn't command his box, like it or not. That's why when we concede it's often from corners or other set pieces. If he was perfect he'd be number one for Holland and playing for Man United. He might achieve both, but not yet. However, like you Dragon I'm surprised he didn't make the list. But careful about trawling through old posts just to embarrass people. Your 'Brenda The Tea Lady' post may resurface.
Ha ha while we have you Knackered, 'Brenda the tea lady' is very safe indeed! I'm sure Dai and aswan see the post in the good nature it was posted! Dai and I are best of mates too!....................... please log in to view this image
Just read some quotes from Britton on how Rodgers inspired & motivated the team before & at half time against Man City , pride & respect can go a long way .
Pride and respect don't account for the fantastic football we are playing which is down to years of good coaching. Who appoints the coaches? Huw and the Board.
Pride & respect are responsible for Britton fooling just about everyone on what is possible out of a career , just an opinion though .
All players have weaknesses it's how they work around them that counts, I am happy with Vorm he has been the second best signing in the league this season, with the top going to Ba at Newcastle I think. As Brendan has been preaching we are a team and not standout individuals, I am also happy at that.
