Elliot was outstanding up to getting sent off it's true, but every player has made a massive contribution, including Wade, that start against Sheff Utd on the TV was what brought us here!
In her eyes he gave calmness at the end of last season and led the team to safety, and also carried it into the unbeaten run up to as you said the Swindon game. Then we had a slight wobble and he came back and yes he wasn't the same but we returned to winning till he went off injured against Crewe. Lucky enough Pack then started his going from a bit part player to actually becoming a tidy player with an eye for a good pass. He doesn't win my player of the season but as she says all of them deserve it, but he shades it by guiding them in the first part. The one thing I will add about him, is the players respect him. Did anyone notice when he came onto the pitch on Sunday Wibraham walked towards him to hand over the arm band. I noticed Korey Smith do this a few months back. It tells me that they see him as their leader.
Could be argued that he was fouled though.. It's the 3 F's for me. Fielding, Flint and Freeman. Whilst I wouldn't say Fielding has been on of our best players this season, compared to last he stands out the most! Was so nervous and you could tell confidence had been ripped from him but fair play to Cotterill, he kept the faith in him and we now have one of the best keepers in the league and the one Capello decided to take to a world cup! Flint.... what a guy! To be fair to him his good form started at the beginning of our run last season, and only a nasty knee injury stopped him from seeing it out until the end of the season. For a CB to score 10 at this point in the season is amazing and I've no doubt he'll score 1 or 2 more before seasons end (hopefully the winner against Swindon) Freeman. Nothing needs to be said about this guy, as everything that could, has! Signing of the decade. Special mention to our young lads in Bryan, Williams and Ayling also! All 3 easily Championship standard.
I think Flint has been outstanding this season with his defending and also managing to score 10 goals in there with only a couple of bookings to boot. Although I also have to say that Pack is making a late run
just smashed my computer screen trying to get a couple ants off it.................. should do a first second third choice / pick 3 see who wins then! In no particular order........ Freeman ..good season overall Fielding...most peoples whipping post coming into season but has performed well Wilbers.. without his injury could easily have been on 20 goals age is no barrier there are cases for at least 3 others please log in to view this image please log in to view this image please log in to view this image
Apologies if I sounded patronising-not my intention. I have been a regular at AG since my first match back in 1970. I feel I have paid my dues and earned the right to comment and participate in these tet a tets. It is after all a club for ALL of us, and I cry and laugh along with everyone else
Actually I think Fielding's done all right this year - very few mistakes and has grown in confidence. Watching him last year I never thought I would say that - but then confidence was not a word that existed under SOD's management style. One thing I would say about Waggy (and the others who have spent most of the season on the bench) is that their attitude to not being in the starting XI has been first class. I know you don't rate him, and I tend to agree that the Championship maybe beyond his ability Oh - I've only missed one home game (as was too ill to drive 120 mile round trip for a midweek game) and have seen 4 away games - so hopefully I qualify!!
Brr, hope you're right about Fielding. The picture will be clearer in August. Smhbcfc - you qualify with flying colours.
Missed 4 games this season, 3 of which were midweek, (180 mile round trip for a home game) and once when I was in Newcastle doing the Great North Run. Will also miss the Coventry game as running in the Manchester Marathon. For me, Bryan, Ayling, Flint and Freeman are the 4 that have had an edge on many others, with pack making a late charge.There are only a small number that haven't played a full and active part. Flint has been solid, scored 10 goals and I think I am right in saying hasn't even been booked. Ayling has been consistent and a great swap for Maloney. Bryan continues to improve and show potential but the one who, for me delivers consistently and looks a constant threat is Freeman.
Kory Smith for me is a very good player, very industrious and good at breaking up play and tackling. Personally, I feel that he is a little too defensive, harsh criticism maybe but that's why Freeman for me was more of a choice, Freeman is always looking to make things happen, Smiths role is much more reactive.
I think Freeman has got better and caught the eye since Elliott's injury. Having Pack and Korey in the same midfield allows Freeman much more freedom. Balance. I think these 3 will 'cut it' in the Championship.
I agee, how can Korey Smith not be in anyone's...best players...this season, the lad has been tremendous!
A keeper gets better with confidence, a keeper void of confidence is bad at positioning and catching/dealing with balls coming in
