Fair points, CaptainB. I think the Palarse connection is putting a downer on it. Plus the breaking of the loan-duck for this season. Hughes has filled in at centre-back over the years for various clubs. I think that is part of his appeal as a utility man.
The onloy way to get Mambo past the raw stage is to play him in matches which we perceive as "easier" than say MK Dons, Sheff U or Wed. He has already been out on loan to the lesser leagues and has done fairly well when he has been played (e.g Reading). I reckon he needs blooding at this level and if found wanting rested and tried again later in the season. He does appear to learn what is wanted (his communication against Reading seemed better). Cort does offer certainty and may well play a big part in our season but I would hate that to be at the expense of a player we could lose on a free at the end of the season who may be the real deal.
