"Like all the lads, I know I need to go out there and train hard every week," said Clucas, who has started all five games in City's current winning streak. "With (Robert) Snodgrass coming back, and some of the players we have got off of the bench coming in, as soon as I don't play well I'll be out of the team. "It could well be a few months before I get back in the team, so I have to try and keep my shirt every week. "It keeps everyone on their toes. All you have to do is look across the bench that we had against Middlesbrough. "It's a great credit to all of the lads starting to be keeping these players out. "It certainly gives me a massive confidence boost when the gaffer is picking me." http://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/Sam-...tory-28201000-detail/story.html#ixzz3rvNBZvKs
I like him, I think he's really growing into the role. I can see why he is one of the first names on the team sheet. He has despite knock backs never given up, his work ethic is unrivalled and I think that alone has a positive impact on the rest of the team in upping their game. Let alone he's scoring and is quite a decent provider too. For me, he's been a great acquisition. He's grown into the role so much so, had we kept Quinn, Quinn wouldn't be getting into the side at the moment ahead of Clucas, and I really rated Quinn.
Had my doubts about him at first, thought maybe he was out his depth, pleased to say I was wrong , he seems to get better every game.
I think Bruce would play Snodgrass in any position that he thought he could do a better job than the present incumbent. I would think that would mean most attacking midfield positions.
I've said it before but he does seem like Quinn and Boyd in one player. The only thing he's lacking is pure pace but with his game he doesn't need it.
I get that comparison. Neither Quinn or Boyd had pace either. But I also don't think Clucas is a slouch either!
In the games I have seen on Tiger Player I have been impressed with the partnership that Clucas has developed with Robertson. Not only going forward but also in sharing the defensive duties. When Robertson is forward and out of position and the opposition has the ball Clucas is usually there covering for him. This allows Robertson the freedom to do what he does best-attack without fear of being caught out of position. Talk about Clucas moving to central midfield in place of the injured Meyler, may be better to leave him where he is and not break up the partnership with Robertson. Suspect we will see Huddlestone come in for Meyler with the rest of the team the same for Saturday.
I do wish he wouldn't use the term 'the gaffer' though, also players saying 'the boss' puts me in mind of serfdom or slavery.
Clucas has been the bargain of the championship IMO. He has done so well that we don't even miss Quinn-iesta anymore. Clucas and Robbo are now a great combo on the left. FACT.
Snodgrass could well play and is another option in centre midfield alongside Livermore at some point. He also gives us more ammunition at free kicks just outside the box. Assuming that everyone is back fit come the New Year, Steve Bruce can make 11 changes from the dramas away game for the FAC 3rd round game and we would still be very strong.
The key thing with Clucas is he appears keen to learn, and seems also to be very quick at picking things up, he has a good engine, and a decent footballing brain, he is certainly on an upward curve, I too had doubts after the first few games but he has come on so much since then. I also believe that having Meyler/ Livermore in the middle has helped him develop too, neither appear short of a word or two.
