by Homebooby » Fri Jul 15, 2005 9:14 am
I may have missed a post somewhere else, but I think that everyone is focussing on the outfield players that are coming in as being our chance to improve this season.
For me the real shining light in the team is our new keeper. My comments aren't based on too much experience with him, but I think that he is going to instill a new sense of confidence at the back. If we concede less goals, the gap between us and Chelsea will close without a problem.
Watching him on Wednesday, even though he didn't have much to do, he looked like he owned the box. I am sure I am not the only one who held his breath thinking "oh no, here we go again" when that corner came over, only for my jaw to hit the ground when it soared off to the touchline for a throw. I was amazed, cos I can't remember a time when a pool keeper was that decisive. He even took down one of his own players in the process and that is a sign of a really good keeper when he is that focussed and determined. I also noticed a few times that when the ball went back to him, he actually looked comfortable with it at his feet. I get sick and tired of all these keepers who look like they have never been introduced to the concept of kicking a moving ball week in week out. My point being is that again, instead of worrying he is going to screw up on a pass back, he looks confident and that spreads throughout the team.
Things are looking really good, although I think we really need a striker and cover centreback to ensure we can maintain a high standard throughout the season.