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Seen both and my initial thoughts are that nobody has disappointed. For the first time in at least 5 seasons we have a group of players prepared to support one another and do the ugly stuff. Early days of course but allied to a bit of quality I am cautiously optimistic.
Of the new lads 2 or 3 particularly stand out.
Fitzsimons looks and acts like a proper keeper- even when he has little to do as in the Donny game he keeps his concentration and is sharp when needed. Chapman is decent and did little wrong against Hull but has a tendency to switch off. Fitzsimons to start with Chapman as strong back up. Both significant upgrades on Watson and the gaggle of loanees.
Kouogan looks good, strong competitive and a bit of pace. Not afraid of the ball and can hit a decent long pass. First choice centre back on what he has shown so far. Evan’s looks decent but Boyce also looking much better with a bit of pace next to him. Toss up with those 2 who partners Kouogan.
Kelly and Denton both energetic and consistent at left back.
In midfield Clunan looks a quality player. If he had gone full time sooner would have made 2 or 3 levels higher than this. Constantly talking to team mates and organising things. Will be surprised if he is not made captain. Also “works” the ref which is something we have not had since Dawson. Scales shows some nice touches and his first inclination is forward which I like.
Up front Whitehall is a proper centre forward – defenders and opposition fans will hate him. He is no Torpey but from the same mould and should be really effective at this level. Probably won’t get as many goals as we would like but will occupy centre backs all game and leave gaps for others. Elliot will probably have to play second fiddle in a 4-3-3 but is looking fitter and livelier than last season and should be able to take advantage of defenders for 20/30 minutes once Whitehall has softened them up.
Robert’s has plenty of skill and class. Will either be player of the season or take Hallam’s spot on the physios table. Would be nowhere near this level if it was not for his injury record.
Laws shows promise but won’t get in ahead of a fit Roberts.
Of the existing players Ogle will play when fit. Shrimpton looks ready to step up a level this season as does Wilson and I expect both will feature heavily.
Butterfield has obvious class but not sure he fits with Dean’s approach and tactics which seems to be poor man’s Klopp.
Beeston might cope with that but probably needs to pick his position and stick to it.
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Loving the nicknames Kian Scales has for Chris Plummer and Andy Butler, Plums and Butts, just need another coach in called Titler and we’ll have the full set.
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Chapman has played the 2 games I have seen against Gainsborough and Hull, so can’t comment on Fitzsimmons but he hasn’t conceded yet,but apart from that MK is spot on, but the players look to be enjoying themselves so I hope we see the Jimmy Dean that people were saying he is a quality coach not the one that was here for a few months last season
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My only criticism would be up front. I think we have a good group of forwards,but I would like a partnership rather than individuals,if you get what I mean.
Sharp and Keogh,Hooper and Hayes,Daws and Flounders they go together. Would like a recognised partnership in the present team,working as a partnership,and not looking like isolated individuals.2 users thanked author for this post.
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