Deadbat
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Midfielders
Jose Baxter
To be honest his grade really should be F- based on his decisions and conduct off the field but tried to reflect his actual performances towards his grade as well as off field stuff. It is incredible to think the club stuck by him after he failed a drugs test in the summer and then though an alleged assault in Ireland early on in the season. For him to fail another drugs test is simply staggering
On the field we saw some good displays and he started the season quite well. I have actually been one of his staunches defenders at time but even I recognise what he cannot do. He is lazy and another like so many that does not run or do the defensive side. He is a liability when tracking back or chasing (he cannot chase) and United so often have had to play others to compensate for this weakness (doing same with Hammond and Coutts now!).
For all the criticism of him, he did always look a goal and assist threat. At times he was obsessed with the Hollywood ball but at least tried things in terms of passing forward or through balls. The ball at Bradford and a few others showed his ability on the ball. He also scored some decent goals and in midfield that seemed incapable of direct assists/through balls to strikers to set up chances and/or goals; he did offer something different with 7 goals and 6 assists still more than Coutts/Hammond combined and they have played a lot more. Still his performances generally were patchy. He infuriated at times with his lack of work ethic and for simply only doing it in the odd game. Occasionally he looked determined and put a real shift in but these times were few and far between. What was most annoying is that there is talent in there but he would coast though games and the great pass he would play now and again was mixed with some poor passing and blind balls to no one. He would set teams on the attack quite often and then not chase back.
After the Bury game he gave a strange interview where he said they all were not good enough and then days later the news of the drugs test came in. I can only think United have not sacked him as they are being guided by the FA. It was unlikely he would return due to his patch performances but now due to this latest indiscretion his immediate future as a professional for any club are remote. The ban is likely to be anything between 12 to 24 months and some say it could even be harsher. The guy clearly had ‘issues’ but like many footballers, seems to lack the intelligence to deal with being in a very privileged position. Just thrown his career down the drain and now will be very hard for him to get back to any kind of decent level (by that I mean league football).
Grade E (Last season C-)
Dean Hammond Hammond was linked with United ever since Adkins took charge and eventually and he finally signed on loan; a deal that would be converted into a season long loan. He made his debut against Fleetwood but it quickly emerged that he not the answer. His legs seem to have gone and he was quite limited in what he offered. His passing was mixed and he could not get around the pitch. He fouled a lot without being that intimidating and picked up so many bookings. He rarely lasted 90 minutes and even by the end of the season looked no fitter or more mobile than when he began at the Lane. This suggests as I said that he simply does not have the mobility/stamina and athleticism that is needed even at this level. He scored a few headed goals and had the odd decent game where he broke bits and pieces up and was quietly effective but had many more poor games.
The fact he was cheered off quite often when subbed summed it up. We needed some bite, some experience and leadership but he did not do any of these things (maybe did behind the scenes) and was ineffectual as we got overrun in many games in midfield. We could not play him in a two and had to switch to a three to compensate for his lack of pace/mobility. He picked up 12 bookings but his fouls were just clumsy or cynical. He did not win many tackles or really impose himself. I struggled to see his qualities. Even with the ball he shuffled it off to the side or behind and never really moved forward with the ball and often needed numerous touches to do a basic square pass, often slowing us down.
His final day performance in the first half against Scunthorpe was simply abysmal. He did nothing right. Adkins kept defending him and maybe off the park he was a motivator or leader but saw nothing on the pitch where he led by example. He was not able to really stamp himself on games and often other sides midfielders just ran beyond him. He is exactly the sort of player we should be running a million miles from signing but you know if Adkins remains, he will want to keep him. Not seen anything to suggest why? The technical board ought to put their foot down and say he is the wrong age and is going to get worse not better. We need to learn from past mistakes and look elsewhere. Players will be available that have potential to improve and also can add energy and running to this key area. They will also be on lesser wages than Hammond would command. If he re-signs this could be a real question mark over Adkins’ judgement and put further pressure on him come August.
Grade E-
Chris Basham Basham has moved between central midfield, to centre back, to right back, to central midfield and then to right wing back in his 2 seasons at the club. Basham is an odd case. Always puts a real shift in and never hides. He is a battler and seems to really care. He will play any position but sadly I am not sure there is one he really stands out. He continues to be a regular but this says more about the rest. He knows he will get a spot. His ability to play several positions in a plus but sadly questions remain over him in all long term for a side going for promotion but with so many other problems, he will probably get a start somewhere next season.
At the back he has been ok at centre back but does not really dominate and has not totally convinced. In midfield it is a similar story. His touch is not great and is not the most technical player often being on the stretch after his control. Played 43 games and that is a sign that he has been one of few you can count on. Does not get injured much and one of our fitter players but he is in truth quite ordinary and is extremely slow. He lacks guile and invention and whilst scored odd goal or assisted occasionally not sure he will create/score many and another midfielder that lacks this invention. A big lad that can cause some problems with his height (did well in right wing back but not sure he will remain there long term) and is all arms and legs.
A player that seems to escape criticism at least compared to others (Edgar, Collins, Coutts, Hammond, Flynn) but not sure he has been that much better than many of those. He has just been more reliable in terms of starting games and quite consistent with his effort/work ethic but actual contributions and qualities, does he offer that much rather than an honest pro who runs around a lot? Sadly I think for us to progress we need to do better than average players like him but as I say with so many holes he will probably start somewhere next season rather than be a utility sub/squad man that can be plugged in when we need him.
Grade C- (Last season B-)
Paul Coutts Another that divides opinion. He is a decent ball player who can show great feet and close control. He is technically one of better players at the club and can link play nicely at times but a lot of questions remain. Another limited player in terms of running/ability to cover ground. He cannot carry the ball much and rarely beats a man. He is very slow and lacks aggression/physicality to worry other players. He is not a dribbler and nor does he get on the ball and demand it and make us tick.
He is another that goes sideways and backwards way too much. He rarely gets assists on goals and has not scored a goal for 3 seasons and rarely looks like breaking this duck. Too often he runs out of gas after decent starts to games and another he struggled to last 90 minutes. You can see 4 or 5 years ago why he was rated at Preston and Derby. He is a proper footballer in his touch and passing but again does not affect games enough for me. We have to have runners/legs around him and when he is not scoring/setting up but not a defensive shield it means we have holes in midfield in essential characteristics any midfield needs. At times like Baxter he seems to just give up ghost and disappeared in many games as players just ran beyond him. Another pointer who seems to like passing on responsibility of doing the nitty/gritty and defensive side.
He has only played 26 games and after the previous seasons; unsure he will ever be able to play 35-45 games again. Does he offer enough really to compensate for not being able to get around the pitch as many modern day midfielders need to do? Not sure he does. Has another year but barring a miraculous change in his fitness/running then same questions will remain. Like Basham, should be a backup but then he is not a player that will come on and change games. If he was scoring goals, or making assists or playing several defence splitting passes or prompting and probing to set us up; you could live with no tackling, barely any running back and no defensive play. The fact is he does not do anything that well. A player I would personally look to move on. We have had a good look at him now but he is not someone that I would see as a starter in a team that is winning week after week and going for promotion? Not the worst player in the world but one who simply cannot cover the ground you need at this level and very average in most things he does. A poor signing based on his record so far and considering his injury record previously.
Grade D- (Last season D-)
Ryan Flynn Like Collins, seems to have been here for ever and as we finish our 5th campaign at this level; he remains. A frustrating player who has good games but mostly against poorer sides and those I would consider to be a soft touch. He has a poor record this season with injuries and did not even start 20 games. He had an injury to start the season and then when he came back was moved about a bit positionally. He had a spell right wing but then ended up in a three in central midfield and did well v Crewe/Oldham but then disappeared in other games such as Southend/Millwall/Barnsley where we needed results. Another neat and today footballer who has some decent skill and ability but too often games just pass him by. Always been a decent finishes and to me should score more goals as he does get in good areas at times and can be calm when given a chance but he has hardly been prolific (2 goals this season).
A player that goes to the floor constantly and does not need much of a challenge to be put out of the game. Remarkable that such an average player has remained so long. Never really been a total regular in the side; remember when we had Quinn/Williamson first season down; and a brief good spell (with Brayford when we got to the FA Cup semi) apart he has never really nailed himself down as a definite starter in his whole time at the club. Very inconsistent sadly and this has seen him moved around the team, be in and out and never totally convinced that he is answer in any position.
His performances improved when he came to the end of his last contract and it happened again to some extent but surely he will not be kept. Even as a squad player I am unsure whether you would want to keep him. We have some young lads coming through and I think he has had his chance here at the Lane and never really proved he is good enough. Another very average player that lacks many outstanding qualities and has been woefully inconsistent and in/out of the team in his spell here. Expect he may get another League One side or go back to Scotland.
Grade D+ (Last season C)
Jamie Murphy Murphy was our player of the season for 14-15 and seen to be a key man under Adkins but rumours of teams being interested with only a year left on his contract did not go away. He had a poor game at Gillingham and then the next week Brighton came in and he was off. The board got a lot of criticism but not sure there was too much they could do. It all depends whether Murphy wanted to go – we will never really know but he has got a chance to go to a side that was in a promotion race, probably doubled his wage and got in the Scotland squad. It has been a great move for him. For United we really missed him. Whilst Sharp came in and got goals; Murphy’s running and ability to draw two or three defenders saw us get several goals and chances. We really missed his penetration and ability to ease any pressure on the back line by simply running at opponents. This season we were too predictable. It is funny how some fans have found faults with likes of him, McDonald, Quinn etc. When they have gone you realise what you have missed.
Grade E (Last season B+)
Martyn Woolford Came same time as Sharp and had been an Adkins favourite before but this was some time ago and Millwall a team that went down released him. Still you felt Adkins wanted some trusted players around him to help him but as Murphy went you felt it was a massive downgrade in this area. He started the season but was then out of the side and only came back regularly for a brief spell in September. He got one goal v Colchester but only ended up starting 12 games. He was mostly used in some of the cup games.
He got back in for the games against Port Vale and Rochdale and was steady but another that you were unsure what he offered. Another very slow midfielder and not someone who was going to offer much going forward in a wing position due to lack of pace/drive. He was often pitched in either at left wing or left back/wing back when we were coming to the end of games. He was used as extra defensive protection.
When he has played his crossing has not been great and rarely has he been able to penetrate. His control/touch has not been the best either! In short another player that looks like his legs have gone and does not offer much at all. Another year to go and will remain as a squad type player as no one will want him now and if Adkins remains he will probably keep him due to previous experiences working with him. A poor, poor signing that clogs up the wage bill further. Adkins moaned about the size of the squad but then signed likes of him that offered nothing more than we already had.
Grade E-
Stephan Scougall A player that Clough liked and had done so well when he started his United career with non stop energy and a no fear approach. He scored at Wembley and looked a player that could go on and develop. Last season was a poor one and he lost his place in the side. Adkins came in and he never really took to him and never played him. Had a series of knocks but did not help but in odd cameo he did not impress with his headless chicken act now not even seeing him offering a goal threat or surprise element. He is another that spent so much time on the deck and/or receiving treatment off the physio.
Only played 4 games and was not involved in many match day squads and rumours surfaced that loan moves had not happened for one reason or another. Ended up at Fleetwood but was in and out of their side as they battled relegation. I saw one game at Walsall on Sky and he looked exactly same as at United. Running around a lot but not really affecting anything. He lost the ball too often when he had it and the trademark lung bursting runs with the ball when he first came to the Lane, were nowhere to be seen. A player that has simply not kicked on and one that will almost certainly be leaving. He has another year left on his contract but not sure both parties will want him stuck in the reserves and expect some kind of deal to be done to allow him to move on. Certainly be surprised if he is still here at the start of the season.
Grade E-[ (Last season D-)
James Wallace Another complete and utterly waste of a season. He was actually almost fit at the start of the season and played a few games from the bench along with some in the cup. However, he got injured again! We did not see him for a long period and then he was ready to come back but then got injured again. It was all sorts of different injuries and never one particular problem. He claimed he was fit after a further spell out but was not considered and ended up on loan at Shrewsbury. Where guess what? He got injured again. Even the fans over there were not convinced when he did play. A player that showed some ability in the few games he did play over his United career but in 2 seasons he really was a major disappointment and a further drain on already limited resources. It seems the club has an option on his contract. Guess we won’t be taking this option! Not sure what his future holds and he may have to consider whether he can carry on. I am unsure how any club will offer him anything more than a week to week contract at best.
Grade E- (Last season C-)
Ben Whiteman A player who had made one appearance in the FA Cup in 14-15 but as the season progressed in 15-16 ended up on the bench for a few games and was talked up by Adkins. He came on against Burton and then started against Oldham. He had a reasonable debut. He kept it simple but also moved ball on quicker than many of the more experienced players and had a decent range of passing. Tall lad who also seemed to have a bit more mobility as you would expect for a younger player than others. He was harshly dropped at Millwall as Adkins went back with more a so called more solid, experienced midfield (did not work!) and then was put in at right wing back against Southend on TV and had a difficult evening. After this we saw glimpses of him but he was back on periphery as Adkins preferred Flynn, Coutts and Hammond.
He came back in at Coventry but had another poor game but criticism by Adkins of a young lad was poor I felt. Still despite this Adkins does seem to see a player in him. Unsure he has got any real quality but then I remember thinking same of someone like Phil Jagielka or Matt Lowton so you sometimes don’t know in terms of development. He looks a neat and tidy sort of player but does lack pace and physical strength at this stage despite size. May be a squad player as we move into next season but feel he may benefit from some time maybe at League Two to toughen him up. He has another year I believe so will look to push on from the cameo role this season.
Grade D-
Jamal Campbell Ryce A player that has always got a lot of unjust criticism at the Lane but in fewer games than many he has made more of an impact I feel. Very frustrating player that I agree with over playing, over dribbling and some poor crosses too. Yet, he often would at least always be positive and always draw defenders/coverage. I felt over the last few years when he has played he has been one of better attacking outlets for all inconsistency of this final ball. He still has quite a bit of pace and some good trickery and knows how to create half a yard or space for a cross. Still he had some very good games and then some poor ones to follow and often seemed better as an impact substitute.
He started 13 games this season. He had begun the season not involved but then gradually got in the side and had some decent games but never quite pinned down a regular start and was in and out and then ended up being on the bench a lot.
His last start was at Bury and then soon after he went out on loan to Chesterfield. He did well there scoring a few goals and helping them stay up. It seems his time at United is coming to an end and he may well move to the Spireites permanently. He had 2 mixed seasons but I would say he has not been the worst player by any stretch of imagination and recall games where he has been excellent and a real threat. A player that will still offer something in the lower league for a few years as long as his pace over a few yards and trickery is sustained but can see why he never played really high up due to frustration of consistency and his final ball/product.
Grade D+ (Last season C)
Florent Cuvelier In three seasons he has started 12 games. So 4 a season. That is simply nowhere near good enough as a contribution. Granted he has had bad luck with injuries but we cannot be sentimental. He came in on a supposedly decent wage after impressing at this level on loan at Walsall but in the 12 games he has played has he had one really good game? He was out again most of this year but then came in and played versus Rochdale, Burton, Fleetwood and Millwall. 3 losses ad 1 defeat. Indeed, outside of the Southampton cup game I doubt he has ever been on the winning side as he played a lot of the rest of his games when Weir was manager. Another slow, weak player whose passing is not that good nor is his touch. I have never seen him dribble past players or create openings or have an effort on goal. I have seen absolutely nothing from him at all since he joined. He came on in the game versus Barnsley and looked unfit, overweight and did nothing right in a twenty minute spell. That was the final sign that this lad may never be fully fit, nor good enough. All the so called promise he had as a kid at Stoke seems a long time ago. A certainty to be released. Will struggle to find another league club based on his track record. Another awful signing that has been a further drain on resources.
Grade F+ (Last season E-)
Louis Reed Remember seeing him in pre-season in 14-15 and thinking we had a player, a rare talent. He had a great eye for a pass and got into great positions. He seemed to be able to pass short and long and just looked a very good footballer. However, he was in and out after initial promise which you would expect for a 17/18 year old player but played well v Southampton/QPR before having some poor games to end this season (recall a stinker at Oldham) and he was hauled off a few times. Still, you felt a season on and with that experience he may push on. We had limited midfield options but he ended up only starting 9 games and again was substituted an awful lot.
I cannot recall him having many good games and his contribution was lacking. His passing was mixed and he also did not do defensive side, switching off at times losing runners. I felt he did not get involved and looked bereft of confidence. His final game at Bury saw him have another poor game and he was not involved at all as a starter after this. Been a wasted season for him. Gone from a player that looked really promising and being supposedly linked with clubs higher up the leagues to someone who now is struggling to even stay at United. He has barely been a bit part player and not even made the match day squad some weeks. Would have benefitted from a loan but sadly even in the u21 games I saw he did not stand out really. His small stature and lack of aggression means he has to stand out in passing, dribbling, goals but again none of these do jump out. He is another that has never scored for United. Only had one more year left and needs now to really step up his game and not be so timid/hidden in games. If he cannot improve quickly then he may be out of the league but as he is not yet 20, I would not give up on him yet but he is running out of time at United. As I have said before this is League One and poor football and if the likes of him and Calvert Lewin cannot even get in as a regular at this standard then you worry about if they will make it at league level.
Grade E ( Last season C)
The rest
Otis Khan had been on the fringes under Clough at the end of the 13-14 season but was not involved at all and ended up on loan in non-league football in 14-15. He did not seem to be any closer to breaking through under Adkins and was released and picked by Barnsley. Surprisingly he has been in and around the bench at Oakwell. Not sure I saw enough to suggest we made a mistake with him.
Connor Dimaio was a player that Clough gave his bow and he impressed in a few games late in 13-14 but he was never really involved in 14-15 and indeed 15-16 was the same story. He did not even get a loan spell anywhere and was just stuck in the reserves (under 21’s). Some felt he deserved a chance as he always seemed a neat and tidy footballer but to me lacked pace and aggression and was not surprised he was allowed to be moved on. Picked up by home town team Chesterfield, he started well but then was out of the team. Many fans of the Spireites shared my concerns and I am unsure he has enough quality to go on and be a regular at this level. Time will tell.
David Brooks is a diminutive midfielder who was released by Manchester City. Very slight, Brooks did well in a loan spell a Halifax and Adkins and the coaches saw enough in the u21’s to give him another deal. He is still only 18 and thus unlike some of the others above will be given another look but he must press on this season. Not sure his size suits the new big, athletic make up Adkins is looking for in midfield.
Joel Coustrain is another who has been a regular in the under 21’s and from an Irish background like a few others. He has scored a few goals at this level but did not really push on and has been released.
Kler Heh ended up on loan at Scotland with Dumbarton. Very small player who has some skill, but sadly did not quite push on. Originally from Thailand, he will now be looking for a new club.
Jamie McDonagah One who I had been impressed with in the youth/reserve set up. Skilful and always liked to run at men. He also had an eye for a goal and had been prolific on loan at Matlock I believe. Had a few bad injuries and maybe has not kicked on but surprised Brooks got another year and he did not. I felt he has shown more potential in games I saw.
CJ Hamilton was a rapid winger who had shown he could both score and assist for the under 21’s. Had some decent loan spells at both Halifax and Gateshead. He will probably be able to get a deal at Conference level now as he moves on but never really got close to the United first team and has been around for a few seasons and is now 21.
Shea Gordon is a young midfielder that has been impressing at u18 and u21 level and has been given a pro deal and has gained international honours with Northern Ireland.
Nathaniel Crofts also has been given a professional contract. Crofts is a winger who came through the United futures programme.
Next season
An area that we have to improve in. For last few season people have pointed questions at the defence but the midfield is as responsible for us not moving forward (in more ways than one). It has been overrun, outworked, outbattled and out played too many times. We have too many slow, unathletic, goal shy, shot shy players who simply do not influence games enough. We have shifted on some of the small, weak players but now have bigger lads who offer a similar non entity in terms of presence.
Last season we had 19 players in this area and many were under contract. Now inclusive of young players we have 17 but only 7 under contract and 3 of them are young players in Reed, Whiteman and Brooks. The versatile Basham will return as will Paul Coutts. The latter fans are still to be convinced by and he has to do more and show he is not a player that is coming to the end of his career. Still under contract is Woolford and Scougall but unsure there is a future for either. Woolford may return if Adkins remains as a squad type player but Scougall is almost certain to move on if we can find a club to take him. His career has gone backwards and needs a fresh start. To me if we don’t and should not sign Hammond – worryingly I think if Adkins remains it is a foregone conclusion but we cannot have Coutts and Hammond in midfield together. I would have neither.
I think we need 2 or 3 brand new midfielders; pending formation. Not sure Whiteman and Reed are ready or are good enough rather. Whiteman deserves a better look but maybe not if we are serious about promotion. He has been decent but not stand out. Reed looks further off a regular now then he did 3 seasons ago when he made his debut v Bristol City.
So we need players in here and it is key they have legs and are mobile. We have been overrun too much in this area. It would be nice to have some creativity and maybe some goals but to ensure we have more of the ball and can recycle possession quicker and move it quicker is vital. The fact that we have no goals coming from this area is also a concern. We have to address so many off the weaknesses in this area. We have experienced players but ones that do not really offer much. Hammond breaks up things and fouls a lot. Coutts is neat and tidy and can link but is a backwards / sideways type of player. This is not enough.
It is key we address these areas. To sign one young, hungry player who will run all day but with some end product and then maybe a more experienced steady eddy that can keep the ball/break things up and be a leader (a dirty bastard too!). Basically everything we thought Hammond would be but has not been.
We also probably need a wide threat of some sort for if we change formation or need width. With Campbell Ryce moving on I do not see any wide threats in the squad at all (don’t say Woolford!) even from young players (maybe Adams or Done could do a job here). So a lot of gaps to fill here!
Player / Position Years remaining (contract expires)
Midfielders
Chris Basham 1 year (2017)
Paul Coutts 1 year (2017)
Martyn Woolford 1 year (2017)
Stephan Scougall 1 year (2017)
Louis Reed 1 year (2017)
Ben Whiteman 1 year (2017)
David Brooks 1 year (2017)
Shea Gordon 1 year (2017)
Nathaniel Crofts 1 year (2017)
James Wallace Out of contract – option year (2016/17)
Jamal Campbell Ryce Out of contract (2016)
Ryan Flynn Out of contract (2016)
Florent Cuvelier Out of contract (2016)
Jose Baxter Out of contract (2016)
Jamie McDonagh Out of contract (2016)
Kler Heh Out of contract (2016)
Joel Coustrain Out of contract (2016)
CJ Hamilton Out of contract (2016)
Loan returnees
Dean Hammond to Leicester (out of contract)
Jose Baxter
To be honest his grade really should be F- based on his decisions and conduct off the field but tried to reflect his actual performances towards his grade as well as off field stuff. It is incredible to think the club stuck by him after he failed a drugs test in the summer and then though an alleged assault in Ireland early on in the season. For him to fail another drugs test is simply staggering
On the field we saw some good displays and he started the season quite well. I have actually been one of his staunches defenders at time but even I recognise what he cannot do. He is lazy and another like so many that does not run or do the defensive side. He is a liability when tracking back or chasing (he cannot chase) and United so often have had to play others to compensate for this weakness (doing same with Hammond and Coutts now!).
For all the criticism of him, he did always look a goal and assist threat. At times he was obsessed with the Hollywood ball but at least tried things in terms of passing forward or through balls. The ball at Bradford and a few others showed his ability on the ball. He also scored some decent goals and in midfield that seemed incapable of direct assists/through balls to strikers to set up chances and/or goals; he did offer something different with 7 goals and 6 assists still more than Coutts/Hammond combined and they have played a lot more. Still his performances generally were patchy. He infuriated at times with his lack of work ethic and for simply only doing it in the odd game. Occasionally he looked determined and put a real shift in but these times were few and far between. What was most annoying is that there is talent in there but he would coast though games and the great pass he would play now and again was mixed with some poor passing and blind balls to no one. He would set teams on the attack quite often and then not chase back.
After the Bury game he gave a strange interview where he said they all were not good enough and then days later the news of the drugs test came in. I can only think United have not sacked him as they are being guided by the FA. It was unlikely he would return due to his patch performances but now due to this latest indiscretion his immediate future as a professional for any club are remote. The ban is likely to be anything between 12 to 24 months and some say it could even be harsher. The guy clearly had ‘issues’ but like many footballers, seems to lack the intelligence to deal with being in a very privileged position. Just thrown his career down the drain and now will be very hard for him to get back to any kind of decent level (by that I mean league football).
Grade E (Last season C-)
Dean Hammond Hammond was linked with United ever since Adkins took charge and eventually and he finally signed on loan; a deal that would be converted into a season long loan. He made his debut against Fleetwood but it quickly emerged that he not the answer. His legs seem to have gone and he was quite limited in what he offered. His passing was mixed and he could not get around the pitch. He fouled a lot without being that intimidating and picked up so many bookings. He rarely lasted 90 minutes and even by the end of the season looked no fitter or more mobile than when he began at the Lane. This suggests as I said that he simply does not have the mobility/stamina and athleticism that is needed even at this level. He scored a few headed goals and had the odd decent game where he broke bits and pieces up and was quietly effective but had many more poor games.
The fact he was cheered off quite often when subbed summed it up. We needed some bite, some experience and leadership but he did not do any of these things (maybe did behind the scenes) and was ineffectual as we got overrun in many games in midfield. We could not play him in a two and had to switch to a three to compensate for his lack of pace/mobility. He picked up 12 bookings but his fouls were just clumsy or cynical. He did not win many tackles or really impose himself. I struggled to see his qualities. Even with the ball he shuffled it off to the side or behind and never really moved forward with the ball and often needed numerous touches to do a basic square pass, often slowing us down.
His final day performance in the first half against Scunthorpe was simply abysmal. He did nothing right. Adkins kept defending him and maybe off the park he was a motivator or leader but saw nothing on the pitch where he led by example. He was not able to really stamp himself on games and often other sides midfielders just ran beyond him. He is exactly the sort of player we should be running a million miles from signing but you know if Adkins remains, he will want to keep him. Not seen anything to suggest why? The technical board ought to put their foot down and say he is the wrong age and is going to get worse not better. We need to learn from past mistakes and look elsewhere. Players will be available that have potential to improve and also can add energy and running to this key area. They will also be on lesser wages than Hammond would command. If he re-signs this could be a real question mark over Adkins’ judgement and put further pressure on him come August.
Grade E-
Chris Basham Basham has moved between central midfield, to centre back, to right back, to central midfield and then to right wing back in his 2 seasons at the club. Basham is an odd case. Always puts a real shift in and never hides. He is a battler and seems to really care. He will play any position but sadly I am not sure there is one he really stands out. He continues to be a regular but this says more about the rest. He knows he will get a spot. His ability to play several positions in a plus but sadly questions remain over him in all long term for a side going for promotion but with so many other problems, he will probably get a start somewhere next season.
At the back he has been ok at centre back but does not really dominate and has not totally convinced. In midfield it is a similar story. His touch is not great and is not the most technical player often being on the stretch after his control. Played 43 games and that is a sign that he has been one of few you can count on. Does not get injured much and one of our fitter players but he is in truth quite ordinary and is extremely slow. He lacks guile and invention and whilst scored odd goal or assisted occasionally not sure he will create/score many and another midfielder that lacks this invention. A big lad that can cause some problems with his height (did well in right wing back but not sure he will remain there long term) and is all arms and legs.
A player that seems to escape criticism at least compared to others (Edgar, Collins, Coutts, Hammond, Flynn) but not sure he has been that much better than many of those. He has just been more reliable in terms of starting games and quite consistent with his effort/work ethic but actual contributions and qualities, does he offer that much rather than an honest pro who runs around a lot? Sadly I think for us to progress we need to do better than average players like him but as I say with so many holes he will probably start somewhere next season rather than be a utility sub/squad man that can be plugged in when we need him.
Grade C- (Last season B-)
Paul Coutts Another that divides opinion. He is a decent ball player who can show great feet and close control. He is technically one of better players at the club and can link play nicely at times but a lot of questions remain. Another limited player in terms of running/ability to cover ground. He cannot carry the ball much and rarely beats a man. He is very slow and lacks aggression/physicality to worry other players. He is not a dribbler and nor does he get on the ball and demand it and make us tick.
He is another that goes sideways and backwards way too much. He rarely gets assists on goals and has not scored a goal for 3 seasons and rarely looks like breaking this duck. Too often he runs out of gas after decent starts to games and another he struggled to last 90 minutes. You can see 4 or 5 years ago why he was rated at Preston and Derby. He is a proper footballer in his touch and passing but again does not affect games enough for me. We have to have runners/legs around him and when he is not scoring/setting up but not a defensive shield it means we have holes in midfield in essential characteristics any midfield needs. At times like Baxter he seems to just give up ghost and disappeared in many games as players just ran beyond him. Another pointer who seems to like passing on responsibility of doing the nitty/gritty and defensive side.
He has only played 26 games and after the previous seasons; unsure he will ever be able to play 35-45 games again. Does he offer enough really to compensate for not being able to get around the pitch as many modern day midfielders need to do? Not sure he does. Has another year but barring a miraculous change in his fitness/running then same questions will remain. Like Basham, should be a backup but then he is not a player that will come on and change games. If he was scoring goals, or making assists or playing several defence splitting passes or prompting and probing to set us up; you could live with no tackling, barely any running back and no defensive play. The fact is he does not do anything that well. A player I would personally look to move on. We have had a good look at him now but he is not someone that I would see as a starter in a team that is winning week after week and going for promotion? Not the worst player in the world but one who simply cannot cover the ground you need at this level and very average in most things he does. A poor signing based on his record so far and considering his injury record previously.
Grade D- (Last season D-)
Ryan Flynn Like Collins, seems to have been here for ever and as we finish our 5th campaign at this level; he remains. A frustrating player who has good games but mostly against poorer sides and those I would consider to be a soft touch. He has a poor record this season with injuries and did not even start 20 games. He had an injury to start the season and then when he came back was moved about a bit positionally. He had a spell right wing but then ended up in a three in central midfield and did well v Crewe/Oldham but then disappeared in other games such as Southend/Millwall/Barnsley where we needed results. Another neat and today footballer who has some decent skill and ability but too often games just pass him by. Always been a decent finishes and to me should score more goals as he does get in good areas at times and can be calm when given a chance but he has hardly been prolific (2 goals this season).
A player that goes to the floor constantly and does not need much of a challenge to be put out of the game. Remarkable that such an average player has remained so long. Never really been a total regular in the side; remember when we had Quinn/Williamson first season down; and a brief good spell (with Brayford when we got to the FA Cup semi) apart he has never really nailed himself down as a definite starter in his whole time at the club. Very inconsistent sadly and this has seen him moved around the team, be in and out and never totally convinced that he is answer in any position.
His performances improved when he came to the end of his last contract and it happened again to some extent but surely he will not be kept. Even as a squad player I am unsure whether you would want to keep him. We have some young lads coming through and I think he has had his chance here at the Lane and never really proved he is good enough. Another very average player that lacks many outstanding qualities and has been woefully inconsistent and in/out of the team in his spell here. Expect he may get another League One side or go back to Scotland.
Grade D+ (Last season C)
Jamie Murphy Murphy was our player of the season for 14-15 and seen to be a key man under Adkins but rumours of teams being interested with only a year left on his contract did not go away. He had a poor game at Gillingham and then the next week Brighton came in and he was off. The board got a lot of criticism but not sure there was too much they could do. It all depends whether Murphy wanted to go – we will never really know but he has got a chance to go to a side that was in a promotion race, probably doubled his wage and got in the Scotland squad. It has been a great move for him. For United we really missed him. Whilst Sharp came in and got goals; Murphy’s running and ability to draw two or three defenders saw us get several goals and chances. We really missed his penetration and ability to ease any pressure on the back line by simply running at opponents. This season we were too predictable. It is funny how some fans have found faults with likes of him, McDonald, Quinn etc. When they have gone you realise what you have missed.
Grade E (Last season B+)
Martyn Woolford Came same time as Sharp and had been an Adkins favourite before but this was some time ago and Millwall a team that went down released him. Still you felt Adkins wanted some trusted players around him to help him but as Murphy went you felt it was a massive downgrade in this area. He started the season but was then out of the side and only came back regularly for a brief spell in September. He got one goal v Colchester but only ended up starting 12 games. He was mostly used in some of the cup games.
He got back in for the games against Port Vale and Rochdale and was steady but another that you were unsure what he offered. Another very slow midfielder and not someone who was going to offer much going forward in a wing position due to lack of pace/drive. He was often pitched in either at left wing or left back/wing back when we were coming to the end of games. He was used as extra defensive protection.
When he has played his crossing has not been great and rarely has he been able to penetrate. His control/touch has not been the best either! In short another player that looks like his legs have gone and does not offer much at all. Another year to go and will remain as a squad type player as no one will want him now and if Adkins remains he will probably keep him due to previous experiences working with him. A poor, poor signing that clogs up the wage bill further. Adkins moaned about the size of the squad but then signed likes of him that offered nothing more than we already had.
Grade E-
Stephan Scougall A player that Clough liked and had done so well when he started his United career with non stop energy and a no fear approach. He scored at Wembley and looked a player that could go on and develop. Last season was a poor one and he lost his place in the side. Adkins came in and he never really took to him and never played him. Had a series of knocks but did not help but in odd cameo he did not impress with his headless chicken act now not even seeing him offering a goal threat or surprise element. He is another that spent so much time on the deck and/or receiving treatment off the physio.
Only played 4 games and was not involved in many match day squads and rumours surfaced that loan moves had not happened for one reason or another. Ended up at Fleetwood but was in and out of their side as they battled relegation. I saw one game at Walsall on Sky and he looked exactly same as at United. Running around a lot but not really affecting anything. He lost the ball too often when he had it and the trademark lung bursting runs with the ball when he first came to the Lane, were nowhere to be seen. A player that has simply not kicked on and one that will almost certainly be leaving. He has another year left on his contract but not sure both parties will want him stuck in the reserves and expect some kind of deal to be done to allow him to move on. Certainly be surprised if he is still here at the start of the season.
Grade E-[ (Last season D-)
James Wallace Another complete and utterly waste of a season. He was actually almost fit at the start of the season and played a few games from the bench along with some in the cup. However, he got injured again! We did not see him for a long period and then he was ready to come back but then got injured again. It was all sorts of different injuries and never one particular problem. He claimed he was fit after a further spell out but was not considered and ended up on loan at Shrewsbury. Where guess what? He got injured again. Even the fans over there were not convinced when he did play. A player that showed some ability in the few games he did play over his United career but in 2 seasons he really was a major disappointment and a further drain on already limited resources. It seems the club has an option on his contract. Guess we won’t be taking this option! Not sure what his future holds and he may have to consider whether he can carry on. I am unsure how any club will offer him anything more than a week to week contract at best.
Grade E- (Last season C-)
Ben Whiteman A player who had made one appearance in the FA Cup in 14-15 but as the season progressed in 15-16 ended up on the bench for a few games and was talked up by Adkins. He came on against Burton and then started against Oldham. He had a reasonable debut. He kept it simple but also moved ball on quicker than many of the more experienced players and had a decent range of passing. Tall lad who also seemed to have a bit more mobility as you would expect for a younger player than others. He was harshly dropped at Millwall as Adkins went back with more a so called more solid, experienced midfield (did not work!) and then was put in at right wing back against Southend on TV and had a difficult evening. After this we saw glimpses of him but he was back on periphery as Adkins preferred Flynn, Coutts and Hammond.
He came back in at Coventry but had another poor game but criticism by Adkins of a young lad was poor I felt. Still despite this Adkins does seem to see a player in him. Unsure he has got any real quality but then I remember thinking same of someone like Phil Jagielka or Matt Lowton so you sometimes don’t know in terms of development. He looks a neat and tidy sort of player but does lack pace and physical strength at this stage despite size. May be a squad player as we move into next season but feel he may benefit from some time maybe at League Two to toughen him up. He has another year I believe so will look to push on from the cameo role this season.
Grade D-
Jamal Campbell Ryce A player that has always got a lot of unjust criticism at the Lane but in fewer games than many he has made more of an impact I feel. Very frustrating player that I agree with over playing, over dribbling and some poor crosses too. Yet, he often would at least always be positive and always draw defenders/coverage. I felt over the last few years when he has played he has been one of better attacking outlets for all inconsistency of this final ball. He still has quite a bit of pace and some good trickery and knows how to create half a yard or space for a cross. Still he had some very good games and then some poor ones to follow and often seemed better as an impact substitute.
He started 13 games this season. He had begun the season not involved but then gradually got in the side and had some decent games but never quite pinned down a regular start and was in and out and then ended up being on the bench a lot.
His last start was at Bury and then soon after he went out on loan to Chesterfield. He did well there scoring a few goals and helping them stay up. It seems his time at United is coming to an end and he may well move to the Spireites permanently. He had 2 mixed seasons but I would say he has not been the worst player by any stretch of imagination and recall games where he has been excellent and a real threat. A player that will still offer something in the lower league for a few years as long as his pace over a few yards and trickery is sustained but can see why he never played really high up due to frustration of consistency and his final ball/product.
Grade D+ (Last season C)
Florent Cuvelier In three seasons he has started 12 games. So 4 a season. That is simply nowhere near good enough as a contribution. Granted he has had bad luck with injuries but we cannot be sentimental. He came in on a supposedly decent wage after impressing at this level on loan at Walsall but in the 12 games he has played has he had one really good game? He was out again most of this year but then came in and played versus Rochdale, Burton, Fleetwood and Millwall. 3 losses ad 1 defeat. Indeed, outside of the Southampton cup game I doubt he has ever been on the winning side as he played a lot of the rest of his games when Weir was manager. Another slow, weak player whose passing is not that good nor is his touch. I have never seen him dribble past players or create openings or have an effort on goal. I have seen absolutely nothing from him at all since he joined. He came on in the game versus Barnsley and looked unfit, overweight and did nothing right in a twenty minute spell. That was the final sign that this lad may never be fully fit, nor good enough. All the so called promise he had as a kid at Stoke seems a long time ago. A certainty to be released. Will struggle to find another league club based on his track record. Another awful signing that has been a further drain on resources.
Grade F+ (Last season E-)
Louis Reed Remember seeing him in pre-season in 14-15 and thinking we had a player, a rare talent. He had a great eye for a pass and got into great positions. He seemed to be able to pass short and long and just looked a very good footballer. However, he was in and out after initial promise which you would expect for a 17/18 year old player but played well v Southampton/QPR before having some poor games to end this season (recall a stinker at Oldham) and he was hauled off a few times. Still, you felt a season on and with that experience he may push on. We had limited midfield options but he ended up only starting 9 games and again was substituted an awful lot.
I cannot recall him having many good games and his contribution was lacking. His passing was mixed and he also did not do defensive side, switching off at times losing runners. I felt he did not get involved and looked bereft of confidence. His final game at Bury saw him have another poor game and he was not involved at all as a starter after this. Been a wasted season for him. Gone from a player that looked really promising and being supposedly linked with clubs higher up the leagues to someone who now is struggling to even stay at United. He has barely been a bit part player and not even made the match day squad some weeks. Would have benefitted from a loan but sadly even in the u21 games I saw he did not stand out really. His small stature and lack of aggression means he has to stand out in passing, dribbling, goals but again none of these do jump out. He is another that has never scored for United. Only had one more year left and needs now to really step up his game and not be so timid/hidden in games. If he cannot improve quickly then he may be out of the league but as he is not yet 20, I would not give up on him yet but he is running out of time at United. As I have said before this is League One and poor football and if the likes of him and Calvert Lewin cannot even get in as a regular at this standard then you worry about if they will make it at league level.
Grade E ( Last season C)
The rest
Otis Khan had been on the fringes under Clough at the end of the 13-14 season but was not involved at all and ended up on loan in non-league football in 14-15. He did not seem to be any closer to breaking through under Adkins and was released and picked by Barnsley. Surprisingly he has been in and around the bench at Oakwell. Not sure I saw enough to suggest we made a mistake with him.
Connor Dimaio was a player that Clough gave his bow and he impressed in a few games late in 13-14 but he was never really involved in 14-15 and indeed 15-16 was the same story. He did not even get a loan spell anywhere and was just stuck in the reserves (under 21’s). Some felt he deserved a chance as he always seemed a neat and tidy footballer but to me lacked pace and aggression and was not surprised he was allowed to be moved on. Picked up by home town team Chesterfield, he started well but then was out of the team. Many fans of the Spireites shared my concerns and I am unsure he has enough quality to go on and be a regular at this level. Time will tell.
David Brooks is a diminutive midfielder who was released by Manchester City. Very slight, Brooks did well in a loan spell a Halifax and Adkins and the coaches saw enough in the u21’s to give him another deal. He is still only 18 and thus unlike some of the others above will be given another look but he must press on this season. Not sure his size suits the new big, athletic make up Adkins is looking for in midfield.
Joel Coustrain is another who has been a regular in the under 21’s and from an Irish background like a few others. He has scored a few goals at this level but did not really push on and has been released.
Kler Heh ended up on loan at Scotland with Dumbarton. Very small player who has some skill, but sadly did not quite push on. Originally from Thailand, he will now be looking for a new club.
Jamie McDonagah One who I had been impressed with in the youth/reserve set up. Skilful and always liked to run at men. He also had an eye for a goal and had been prolific on loan at Matlock I believe. Had a few bad injuries and maybe has not kicked on but surprised Brooks got another year and he did not. I felt he has shown more potential in games I saw.
CJ Hamilton was a rapid winger who had shown he could both score and assist for the under 21’s. Had some decent loan spells at both Halifax and Gateshead. He will probably be able to get a deal at Conference level now as he moves on but never really got close to the United first team and has been around for a few seasons and is now 21.
Shea Gordon is a young midfielder that has been impressing at u18 and u21 level and has been given a pro deal and has gained international honours with Northern Ireland.
Nathaniel Crofts also has been given a professional contract. Crofts is a winger who came through the United futures programme.
Next season
An area that we have to improve in. For last few season people have pointed questions at the defence but the midfield is as responsible for us not moving forward (in more ways than one). It has been overrun, outworked, outbattled and out played too many times. We have too many slow, unathletic, goal shy, shot shy players who simply do not influence games enough. We have shifted on some of the small, weak players but now have bigger lads who offer a similar non entity in terms of presence.
Last season we had 19 players in this area and many were under contract. Now inclusive of young players we have 17 but only 7 under contract and 3 of them are young players in Reed, Whiteman and Brooks. The versatile Basham will return as will Paul Coutts. The latter fans are still to be convinced by and he has to do more and show he is not a player that is coming to the end of his career. Still under contract is Woolford and Scougall but unsure there is a future for either. Woolford may return if Adkins remains as a squad type player but Scougall is almost certain to move on if we can find a club to take him. His career has gone backwards and needs a fresh start. To me if we don’t and should not sign Hammond – worryingly I think if Adkins remains it is a foregone conclusion but we cannot have Coutts and Hammond in midfield together. I would have neither.
I think we need 2 or 3 brand new midfielders; pending formation. Not sure Whiteman and Reed are ready or are good enough rather. Whiteman deserves a better look but maybe not if we are serious about promotion. He has been decent but not stand out. Reed looks further off a regular now then he did 3 seasons ago when he made his debut v Bristol City.
So we need players in here and it is key they have legs and are mobile. We have been overrun too much in this area. It would be nice to have some creativity and maybe some goals but to ensure we have more of the ball and can recycle possession quicker and move it quicker is vital. The fact that we have no goals coming from this area is also a concern. We have to address so many off the weaknesses in this area. We have experienced players but ones that do not really offer much. Hammond breaks up things and fouls a lot. Coutts is neat and tidy and can link but is a backwards / sideways type of player. This is not enough.
It is key we address these areas. To sign one young, hungry player who will run all day but with some end product and then maybe a more experienced steady eddy that can keep the ball/break things up and be a leader (a dirty bastard too!). Basically everything we thought Hammond would be but has not been.
We also probably need a wide threat of some sort for if we change formation or need width. With Campbell Ryce moving on I do not see any wide threats in the squad at all (don’t say Woolford!) even from young players (maybe Adams or Done could do a job here). So a lot of gaps to fill here!
Player / Position Years remaining (contract expires)
Midfielders
Chris Basham 1 year (2017)
Paul Coutts 1 year (2017)
Martyn Woolford 1 year (2017)
Stephan Scougall 1 year (2017)
Louis Reed 1 year (2017)
Ben Whiteman 1 year (2017)
David Brooks 1 year (2017)
Shea Gordon 1 year (2017)
Nathaniel Crofts 1 year (2017)
James Wallace Out of contract – option year (2016/17)
Jamal Campbell Ryce Out of contract (2016)
Ryan Flynn Out of contract (2016)
Florent Cuvelier Out of contract (2016)
Jose Baxter Out of contract (2016)
Jamie McDonagh Out of contract (2016)
Kler Heh Out of contract (2016)
Joel Coustrain Out of contract (2016)
CJ Hamilton Out of contract (2016)
Loan returnees
Dean Hammond to Leicester (out of contract)
