I think if we're looking for Porter to score 35 goals then we're looking at the wrong man, so comparisons with Ched will never be fair. Ched was technically a very good player as he eventually proved and was more of an all rounder - pace, power and the ability to make the right runs and pick a pass. He was also a finisher. Porter isn't such a talent.
What I expect from Porter is 8-15 goals. Nothing spectactular, but to come in at the right games. A similar tally to Cresswell will be right for him. He needs to be the workhorse.
I expect that between Cresswell, Porter, Cofie and the fringe strikers we should be looking to get 40-50 goals. This needs to be followed up with a good share from Midfield - Quinn, Macca, I'm looking at you!
The problem and also the benefit that we had up front last season was that we relied on the first choice XI too much. This worked to our benefit as it got Ched & Cresswell working a partnership which blossomed. The result was a major goals share for the pairing (albeit with Ched getting a huge percentage of team goals). I would always prefer this strategy to start and finish with your strongest XI. The problem was, as we found, was that the fringe players like Porter, Flynn, BT, Hoskins etc were never ready to hit the ground running when they got their chance.
We need a better balance and less reliance on individuals, but to also get a well drilled, gelled team, so that when different players come in the team can adapt to different styles.
Porter, whilst we can't play his way every game, should be useful for a dozen goals, but that means he needs supply and games. Replacing a potent 35 goal striker in the formn of his life with a striker struggling for match fitness and goals is not the right balance.
