SUFC Season Review/School Report 14-15 Part Four - Midfield

[Deadbat]

Midfielders


Michael Doyle Doyle had been much maligned by many since he joined United and whilst it is true to say his arrival has coincided with a poor spell in the Blades recent history, has he been that bad? No is the short answer. He has his limitation, lacking mobility and pace and at times this contributes to our lack of options of other players around him and can slow our play down. However how many really bad games has he had for United this season? Not many. He has been a 7/10 most weeks and been one of our better players in a lot of games. He started the season on the bench but was back in soon enough as the side lacked bite and scored the winning spot kick at West Ham complete with Cockney mocking celebration. The side were woefully inconsistent but he was one of our better players and if you go through my reports many of my ratings/marks for him are remarkably similar. He was one of few who could actually come out of decent and say he kept decent standard most weeks. He maybe ran out of gas as the season went on; as he was rested/did not start for quite a bit of the run in .Some cynics may say our best two performances of 2015 v Barnsley and Scunthorpe came when he was not in the side as we had more ‘legs’ in midfield but I could also point to some excellent displays in other games this season; Southampton comes to mind. He may have given us some much needed byte when it mattered in the Swindon games. His contract was up and he has been released. He has always cared about the club (his teary interview post Charlton) and I think he is gutted to have never led the team back up but ultimately we probably need a different type of player to progress. However there are a quite a lot of other players more responsible for us not going up the last few years than him. It is just circumstance with his contract ending/age and us needing to get more height and mobility that has seen him depart. Still probably fit enough to do a job at this level though and would expect him to turn up with another side at the Lane next season (Port Vale maybe?)

Grade C


Chris Basham Basham came from Blackpool and I must admit I did not know much about him. He had been at Bolton and then Bloomfield Road and was seen as a versatile player that could play right back, centre midfield or centre back. Quite a tall player, he started the season in central midfield but did not impress and was anonymous in many of the games. He was sloppy on the ball and his passing was poor. He was not very physical when in the challenge and for a tall man, his heading was poor. He also missed a number of goal scoring chances; which was to become a feature over the season. He seemed one of a number of poor signings as United struggled to start the season. He ended up on the bench before playing well when he returned at Bradford (his best game so far) on SKY and then a few injuries saw him go to centre back against Yeovil. He was excellent here and it seemed his best position and a series of really strong performances culminating in an inspirational display v Southampton saw him change the fans opinion. He remained at centre back much of the season and whilst his standards were not quite as high as earlier; he still was one of our better players. Not having a regular partner did not help and at times he did have some iffy games as we conceded a lot of aerial goals or on set plays. He had a few games back in midfield and actually did well there and many fans felt now that was his best position too! He ended up being needed in both areas but unfortunately ended up more at centre back so the height and strength we needed in central midfield was solely missing. Evidently he was excellent at Barnsley but then went back to centre back. Played midfield and did well v Swindon at the Lane but then ended up back at centre back. Overall after a shaky start he became one of our more consistent players. Not bad on the ball, competitive and a decent size, Basham was one of the few who could be happy with his season. The one knock was that he lacks pace…another ingredient we badly lack. Oh and he seemingly is destined to never score for the club. He missed a number of good chances, hit the woodwork numerous times and did everything but find the net. After Howard, Doyle and Murphy, played the most games this season and if he can nail down a regular positon; hopefully will be one we can count on next season.


Grade B-



Paul Coutts A player that Clough had chased for a while and it seemed he would never get back to the Derby first team after a number of injuries. He signed on a free on a 2 and a half year deal which seemed a little long considering his injury problems. He made his debut v Swindon and showed he was a mobile, neat and tidy sort of player but then after this I must say I was quite disappointed with him to say the least. He played central and wide but never convinced (admittedly I was not at Barnsley when he was apparently good). I recall him being decent v Oldham as a sub but struggling to name many stand out performances. He did ok for the second half of Swindon and was one of our better players but to see fit, athletic and fast players in opposition against him and our other midfielders was difficult to watch. Games passed him by and he looked slow (maybe never fully fit) with a poor touch and lacked strength, power or pace to go past players. He was billed as technically being very good but I never saw much of it. He was more mobile than maybe Baxter and a few others but that was about biggest compliment I could give him. Another slow, limited player for midfield who did not really offer much at all. Needs to get fully fit for next season and show us the player he has been when decent at PNE and also Derby.


Grade D-



Ryan Flynn Flynn was one of the players who seemed to turn his form around when Clough arrived. Teaming up with Brayford he was an integral part of our run to Wembley and climb up the league. Suddenly he had aggression, forward running and seemed to acquire some pace from somewhere. His confidence soared and it was seen as imperative we re-signed him. We did just before the end of the season. He did not start the season in quite the same vain and was dropped after a few games. He alternated between starting and on the bench as Campbell Ryce found himself in favour at times. Neither was consistent though and ended up alternating much of the time. Flynn did not have the same player behind him with Alcock rarely going forward. Ironically Flynn ended up at right back when we had a number of injuries. He did really well and some suggested that may be his best position. He did play well, mostly defending sensibly, getting forward when he could and certainly improved from his early season form. Positionally he got caught out a few times (Spurs equaliser) and he picked up an injury soon after. Brayford then came in, Campbell Ryce departed and we ended up with likes of Coutts and Baxter wide right before he came back in but was in and out due seemingly never staying fit. Did play well v Swindon at the Lane. It has been a bit of a stop start season and he certainly has not got back to form of end of last season (can say same about a few) but he did well at right back and you still feel he is the best we have in that right wing position when he does play. Hopefully he can get back to some more consistent form when teamed up regularly with Brayford and we have a more settled backline too to help both of them.

Grade C



Jamie MurphyLike Flynn finished the season flying, looking a goal threat, showing pace, trickery and always seemingly going at defenders putting them on the back foot. He was a revelation in the final few months. He signed an extended contract but actually had a slow start to the season and even he had a few games on the bench. Slowly got going and scored a wonderful winner against Gillingham at the death before scoring a few more individual goals, v Yeovil and then a stunner (eventually voted the goal of the season) at Doncaster. His form gradually picked up and he again looked our most impressive players causing major problems versus Premier League players in the games v Southampton and Spurs. He gave Kyle Walker a sorry time over two legs and was our man of the match in the home leg helping turn it around. Sadly teams knew he was our main threat and started to double up on him or force inside. However he still was a threat and scored some lovely finishes v Swindon, Bristol City and Notts County. He showed he was so cool when one on one often waiting for the keeper to go to ground and then dinking it over him. You had every confidence he would score when faced with such situations. Always looking to go at defenders the only time he struggled is when teams would double up or we did not get him the ball enough. Was rested a bit in the run in but came back for the playoffs. If we had more goal threats and better players round the team, then opponents could not just focus on him but at the moment they know he is our main threat. Lovely body control, glides over the pitch and a goal threat; it is sure if we do not go up next season then Murphy may move on regardless of his contract. He is definitely capable of playing a league above at least and I would not be surprised if the club has to field offers for him this summer. Rightly our player of the season. One of the few United players I really enjoyed watching and one of the few who was fairly consistent for the most part. Shame many others got nowhere near his standard.


Grade B+


Stephen McGinn a player Clough always says never moaned and was a good club man but he was well of the first team. He played four cup games but was less than impressive in all of those. He was always seen as a passer but was quite poor in retention. Slow and lacking mobility; he was a signing from the Weir era that played his best game in his first game (v Notts County) and was never close to being a regular. Joined Dundee, at first on loan but then permanently. Was not even a regular up there as he joined his brother Paul at Dens Park.


Grade E


Stephan Scougall one of the players who embodied the run to end the last season. Bright, positive and energetic. He was one of the key players scoring some vital goals and showing great pace and running with some lung bursting runs and dribbles from midfield. Still hard to see if he would be central midfield or off the striker but there was enough to suggest we had picked up a gem. This season sadly was a different story. He started the season poorly and many fans felt he should have been taken out of the firing line. It was felt he and Baxter were one too many small players. Scougall lacked the drive and goal threat of last season. He was eventually taken out of the side and was in and out as the team selections fluctuated week to week. He did finally score v Crewe, the winner, but assists and goals did not happen and games passed him by when he did play. He picked up an injury and was out for a few months after getting a kick against Preston in the cup. I cannot say we missed him as his impact in the second season was minimal. He did ok in a few substitute appearances towards the end of the season but then got injured after an ineffectual spell v Swindon and was done. It has been a wasted season and he has to improve massively if he wants to be a first team regular. Still has time on his side in terms of his age and 2 more years on United’s contract but sadly over the longer spell of this season compared to the last few months of the previous; he looked more like a Scottish Division One player than one who was capable of playing in the second tier of the English league.

Grade D-



James Wallace His mark may seem high for the few games he played but I am marking him on the games he did play rather than the injuries and waste of time he was much of the campaign. We signed him from Tranmere and a work colleague from Birkenhead said he was a crock and would never play. I thought there may have been some bitterness they had lost one of their best players but my mate was spot on. He played 7 league games. SEVEN. Actually in most of these games he was really good. He got up and down, liked a tackle, was an organiser and decent on the ball with a range of passes. He seemed a top player but often he never lasted 90 minutes and would regularly be seen limping off holding his hip, back, knee or thigh. He would play in the reserves and get injured and it seemed he would never be fit. A final injury when he seemed he may be on the way back in such a game saw his season effectively finished. There was talk he may return and had been training before game but he never did return. I hope he can come back and play as he does look a good player but history over last 3 seasons suggests not. He has made less than 20 starts in two seasons and the most appearances (not even starts) he has had in his whole career is 19. It is a gamble that has not come off sadly. Has another year on his contract and will be probably be given the summer to try and return but if he does not then it may be best for both parties to amicable separate.

Grade C-



Kieron Wallace Signed just after Che Adams signed from the same club Ilkeston. Soon after he was involved in the Spurs cup games and then started at Fleetwood. He was involved on and off around Xmas but I did not see anything better than what we had. I felt he looked quite slow, lacking technical ability and unsure what Clough had seen. An awful free kick and then telegraphed pass in a game he came on as substitute was the last we saw of him. Ended the season at non league Lincoln and even the fans there did not seem that impressed. Completely baffling decision to retain him for another year for me. Another that looks miles off being a regular at league level.

Grade E



Jason Holt I must admit I do not watch Scottish football and had never heard of Holt. I was even less impressed when I realised he was not even in the first team at Hearts. What concerned me as much was his stature. He was another tiny player adding to the set of them already at the club when this division and its recent history suggests height and brawn sadly does go a long way. He had a few ineffective sub appearances before playing well at Bristol City and assisting on the equaliser. He then got into the team a month or so later as poor form and injuries gave him a chance. He played in central midfield but a more advanced position than defensive. He scored a lovely curled effort v Scunthorpe and then scored again v Crewe too. He carried on such from with a great goal to seal the game at Oakwell and another ‘Johnny on the spot’ goal at Oldham and this was repeated v Bradford. He provided a real lift in that he would get beyond the strikers and also get into the box in Frank Lampard style of deep lying runs. He could also finish. However despite all these goals and this skill; I have to say in general play he was anonymous much of the time and many games (until he scored in some) I did not even know he was playing! It is an odd one as he has scored some important goals but I look at Baxter, Scougall, Coutts and others and they are all much of a muchness. I would even go as far to say that all those mentioned offer more than him. I personally would not sign him in the summer and it seems Clough has agreed as it seems he is now a free agent.

Grade C

 

[Deadbat]

Ben Davies Davies was always going to come back after doing well as cover and utility man to end the last season. He signed a one year deal and was expected to do the same again and cover in so many positions from right back, to right side, to even centre midfield or left hand side. He started the season at right back due to injuries and Clough having players in unfamiliar positions. He was our stand out player to open the first few games. He was a regular at both positions down the right hand side and was our leading scorer early on scoring a crucial winner at Peterborough and two key goals including a winning spot kick at the death at Colchester. Still despite this it was hard to see what his position was really? He was steady in both but lacked pace and stamina to get up and down the flank. However his dead ball delivery was one of few stand outs in a really inconsistent start for United. He lost his place and was on the bench for a spell before picking up a number of niggling injuries and we saw nothing of him for a good few months. He came back and was on the bench but had a horrible game against Crewe when everything went wrong after he was introduced. After this he was back to being a fringe player. Believe he is out of contract. A decent club man type but he would only play in an emergency and am not surprised he was released as no real promise of him getting any better at his age and body condition (another who seems overweight and out of shape to me).


Grade D+


Jamal Campbell Ryce was a signing that had my scratching my head in the summer. Another ageing journeyman that had been up and down even at Notts County. A player that always seemed to do well against United but not someone you felt we would sign; especially in terms of trying to improve the squad at League One level. He seemed to be in a quest to sign for every club in South Yorkshire and now only has Wednesday left! Barnsley and Rotherham fans had cited their frustration that he could have a great game but all too often his final ball and contribution was not good enough. I thought he would at least just be cover but after a few lively introductions from the bench got into the side with Flynn being off form. He scored the winner v Rochdale and actually did well in many games looking like a real threat. He got down the right, made space and got the ball over. He managed to get to the by line which many had struggled with all season and was one of few to give us penetration. Amongst all this was some dreadfully frustrating bits of play and a lot of poor crossing too but I think it is fair to say he was one of our main threats early season. He was in and out alternated with Flynn much of the time as neither was particularly consistent. He at times went from dreadful to really good. I felt he was an excellent impact sub when we needed that lift and could draw and beat a full back who were tiring at the end of games. He probably played too many games for his age/inconsistency. He had a real purple patch as he was excellent v Port Vale, QPR away and then Preston, scoring four goals in the process including a cheeky effort at Loftus Road. He was in and out again soon as his form continued to be mixed but after being subbed v Coventry at half time; we never saw him again which was odd. Maybe Clough had another fall out but despite his up and down play; I still felt despite my reservations when we signed him that he could give us something, from the bench at least. He ended up back at Notts. County which was mystifying when we had lack of creativity. He had a few injuries there as they battled relegation. I thought he may bring him back for the play offs but it never happened (maybe he was still injured) but I reckon he could have offered more than say Holt or Coutts if we needed a late lift in games. He has another year to go but like with Collins, Butler and some of others it seems fell out of favour be surprised if he starts season with SUFC. I don’t think he did bad at all and was sometimes ridiculously singled out for criticism by fans when he was one of main and only outlets.


Grade C


Che Adams Apparently he had been scouted by most of the Football League at some point at Ilkeston where he was getting man of the match most weeks and really impressing with hid dribbling and knack for scoring goals. Clough was the one who secured his services and the 18 year old headed up to Sheffield. He was seen as one more for next season but was on the bench straight after signing at Doncaster. He then had a few more occasions on the bench before replacing Campbell Ryce in the excellent win versus Southampton. Playing the entire second half he did well and did not look out of his depth. After this he started v Walsall but was quiet in this game. He was in and around the side before coming on for the second leg and having a phenomenal impact scoring two opportunistic goals. The first was taken like a veteran; an excellent cushioned side foot finish. He then did well in the next game against Swindon but was poor at Gillingham (as many were). He was left out for a while and Clough said he was well off the first team; which was strange as a few weeks earlier was tagged as a real star in the making! After being out of the limelight and playing just in the under 21’s; he was given his route back in the side when he came on at Bradford and was involved in the run in starting at Orient. Scored a beauty v Swindon and to me should have played more. Who would defenders rather face? Him or Baxter, Flynn, Scougall, Coutts, Holt etc? A player that has a strong upper body and pace. I think he may be a striker rather than wide left long term and clearly is a decent finisher when he gets a chance. Think there is a real prospect there but he may be a bit off being a regular but definitely a building block and for once our scouts may have found one.

Grade B-


Florent Cuvelier came back into the squad after what seemed an age out and stated again versus Southampton doing ok and being sub a few other games. He assisted in a goal against Plymouth but then seemed to pick up a few knocks and was out of the first team squad again. He ended up on loan at high flying Burton and scored the winner on his debut but then was injured again and did not play again. Seemingly never fit, he does not seem a game changer when he is fit. A player I would not be surprised if he moves on. Been here nearly two years and does not look good or fit enough to be a factor. Has another year but be surprised if he sees it out. A major disappointment (in a long line of poor signings) as harsh as that seems. We cannot carry passengers on decent wages for 2 or 3 year contracts.

Grade E-



Louis Reed

After impressing in pre season he was thrust into the first team from the off. He has had as many games off the bench as from the start but has been involved in some capacity much of the season. Began against Bristol City but found it hard against some physical players and was taken out of the side after the defeat at Coventry. He played in a few of the cup games and then played well in wins v Yeovil and also Crewe in the cup showing his range of passing and ability to find space. Against Southampton he was excellent and then played well at QPR assisting on the opener for McNulty. A few weeks later he was inches away from the dream winner (overall) versus Spurs that could have seen us at Wembley and played well in both games. Showed real flashes of promise with his control, passing and calmness. Another small player but unlike some of others seems to have a real football brain and I can see him getting better and better. At times he was very good often against the better and maybe less physical opposition. At other times he struggled physically; the game at Oldham he was really poor and ended the season not great v Chesterfield. However like Adams and Calvert Lewin, a player we can hopefully bring through gradually and be a really good player for this club. My concern is his coolness and ability we have seen means bigger clubs will take an even harder look when he inevitably plays even more games next season. At the moment he is a bit inconsistent though and needs to settle down and play a run of good games consistently.

Grade C



The rest


Otis Khan was a player who had a few cameos at the end of the 13-14 and seemed one set to push on. An energetic wide player, Khan was reckoned to have a decent future but those who have watched the u21’s say he has regressed this season. Ended up at Matlock after having previous spell at Buxton. He seemed a long way off the first team although he did get picked in some of the Pakistan national team squads towards the end of the season. One who I am unsure will remain but I believe has another year.

Connor Dimaio believe he also has another year on his contract but after doing well v Rotherham and then looking like he was on the fringes of the first team; he was not really around this season. I felt that he did not have any outstanding quality from watching him even though he showed some promise but expected him at very least to go on loan somewhere rather than spend whole season in reserves. Did play a bit for young Ireland squads but nowhere near the United first team. Maybe he did not impress Clough as much as before or not push on but must have been disparaging when likes of Kieron Wallace was brought in who seemed no better. A big season as if he wants to have a future at United he has to push on now.

Callum McFadzean Strange that he is still around as he had bounced back and forth between Burton but now 2 years later; after scoring and impressing in the playoffs v Yeovil; seems as far off the first team as ever. Showed some promise but he has not gone on at all. He was not even a regular at Burton. Not had any more issues with the law after the incident a while ago but he has not really progressed and I think he will be heading for non-league football when he is almost definitely released at the end of the season. Hoping he can start again like his brother but not sure he has the application or ability at current time sadly.

Ben Whiteman Whiteman is a player who was given his bow in the FA Cup replay with Crewe giving him a taste of it. Another who has been a regular in the under 21’s and they will hope he can maybe get some loan time down the pyramid and push on next season but in a crowded midfield it will be difficult.

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 as above probably will benefit from some loan games at a more competitive level

Kler Heh signed a one year deal recently and will look to establish himself in the under 21 side next season. He ended the season at Stocksbridge.

David Brooks came in from Man City’s Academy and was given a deal after only a short spell with the club.

Jamie McDonagah is one that has been highly rated for some time but injuries have led to him being restricted but he ended up having a very prolific spell on loan at Matlock. Unsure if he has another season on his contract but he may be given that option after impressing on loan down at the Gladiators. Might be worth seeing if he can get some football at Conference level next season if retained.

CJ Hamilton is another I believe who may be out of contract. Had some football on loan at Gainsborough and scored a few goals. A quick winger but with such a crowded squad I am unsure if he has a future at the Lane; but has been given another year.



Next season


The area of the side where we are or have been loaded with players. A look above reveals 19 (NINETEEN) players and that is not including Baxter who I have listed as a striker; that have featured in and around the 1st team at some point. Sadly so many are distinctly average. Nobody outside of Murphy stands out and we are saddled with a lot of ordinary players without much quality and many still under contract. I would like to think of those that remain we have 4 or 5 that could still be influential. Namely Murphy (if he remains – would not surprise me if bids come in), Basham, Flynn and the youngsters Reed and Adams. If we can surround these 5 with another 3 or 4 players of their ilk but different type of players we can improve in this area. Other than a few of the youngsters such as Whiteman and Dimaio that may get longer; I could not care less if the other dozen or so were moved on.


Of the expected departees; Doyle has been a good servant and whilst oft criticised he has been one of our more consistent players. It is harsh in some respect then him going but we have to move on and he will have been on decent wages. We need to look for more pace, height and mobility. McFadzean will be released too I expect and of course Davies was released. Surprised Wallace (K) has been kept. Two of those are youngsters that are nowhere near first team regulars even at League One level. Davies was signed as a utility player but has barely played since the opening weeks and is the wrong side of 30. As for the rest, I honestly cannot see a future for the likes of Cuvelier and Campbell Ryce. Both spent the end of the season on loan elsewhere. Clough clearly does not fancy either of them. The former was seen as a coup when we signed him but sadly due to injuries it has not worked out and it will be best if an agreement is reached to end his contract. Campbell Ryce could still be useful as an impact sub (still seems quite fit and fast for his age) but when you fall out with Clough you are usually done. I expect neither to be here to start the season. Holt will depart I am unsure.


The lads Dimaio and Khan have not pushed on either. Dimaio needs some loan games somewhere and may still be given a bit more time. Not sure that Khan will be here much longer. Whiteman is a bit younger and will also need some time on loan.


Scougall is a player that did well when he came but had a really poor season for me. He faces a fight for his future. I cannot see him being a regular next season unless he massively improves. Sadly as with others, his lack of height/presence means he has to be really good at other aspects of his game. That is not really the case. Has another year but can’t see him being more than a bit part player unless he makes that big jump and can also stay fit (which he has not been able to).


Coutts came in and was seen a player with technical abilities and range of passing. He has looked slow, unfit and lacking in ability to me. Games have just passed him by. Sadly he is under contract another two years. We won’t be able to offload him so he needs to get fit and somehow improve.


James Wallace has another year. He looked decent when he did play but he never played. Would not be surprised like Kennedy if he does not last much longer as sad as that it is. Wallace simply cannot stay fit.


Coutts and Wallace’s signings have been more drain on SUFC’s resources. I think the club would like to pay both off if they could.


So the ones I actually rate and would like to stay:


Adams is a player I really liked and feel can go on and be a really good player. He too may benefit from some games maybe at League Two level if we can get such a loan. It is such a big jump from Ilkeston to League One. However the other side of me says he actually could really progress if given chances here. The lad definitely had potential.


Murphy and Flynn are still two of our better players and both under contract. Murphy is our best player and often our main threat. Flynn needs to be more consistent and has had injuries. However if we started the season with these two on the flanks, I would be more than happy and is the two positions in the side that may be ok to start the season. Certainly we have other areas we need to improve on more than these.


Basham is a player who is decent on the ball, fairly mobile and solid at most things. He lacks pace and is not that great at heading but he offers us a presence. He cannot score of course but that may come next season if he plays in this area more. Reed is a talent who finds space and can pass the ball. He had a poor end to the season but will come again.


We need to bring in at least two more central midfielders to add to these two. We need height and power and some defensive protection. Basham may be able to do this but we need another and then we need some creativity and goals in this area too. Like at the back we need key players in this area who will be integral to any promotion push. Added to the two new centre backs, we will need at least one key man in here to supplant Basham and Reed, maybe two. Coutts and Scougall will still be around (can’t see any suitors for these) but these to be are subs at best. As I say the rest will/should probably move on. We do need to move from having 18 or 19 in this area to around 8 or 9 at most.




Player / Position Years remaining (contract expires)



Midfielders

Michael Doyle Out of contract (2015) - Released

Callum McFadzean Out of contract (2015)

Ben Davies Out of contract (2015) - Released

Kieron Wallace Out of contract (2015) - Given extension

James Wallace 1 year (2016)

Otis Khan 1 year (2016)

Jamal Campbell Ryce 1 year (2016)

Ryan Flynn 1 year (2016)

Florent Cuvelier 1 year (2016)

Connor Dimaio 1 year (2016)

Ben Whiteman 1 year (2016)

Chris Basham 2 years (2017)

Paul Coutts 2 years (2017)

Stephan Scougall 2 years (2017)

Jamie Murphy 2 years (2017)

Louis Reed 2 years (2017)

Che Adams 2 years (2017)


Jason Holt Returns to parent club Heart of Midlothian

 

[Silent Blade]

Paul Coutts A player that Clough had chased for a while and it seemed he would never get back to the Derby first team after a number of injuries. He signed on a free on a 2 and a half year deal which seemed a little long considering his injury problems. He made his debut v Swindon and showed he was a mobile, neat and tidy sort of player but then after this I must say I was quite disappointed with him to say the least. He played central and wide but never convinced (admittedly I was not at Barnsley when he was apparently good). I recall him being decent v Oldham as a sub but struggling to name many stand out performances. He did ok for the second half of Swindon and was one of our better players but to see fit, athletic and fast players in opposition against him and our other midfielders was difficult to watch. Games passed him by and he looked slow (maybe never fully fit) with a poor touch and lacked strength, power or pace to go past players. He was billed as technically being very good but I never saw much of it. He was more mobile than maybe Baxter and a few others but that was about biggest compliment I could give him. Another slow, limited player for midfield who did not really offer much at all. Needs to get fully fit for next season and show us the player he has been when decent at PNE and also Derby.


Grade D-

Poor touch and lacks strength? He is strong on the ball, hard to knock off and has good vision. Am looking forward to him proving you wrong next season (hope he has an injury free season)

 

[wardonia_blade]

One of our few individual successes for me was Basham at centre back and, IMO, must play there next season.

 

[wardonia_blade]

Poor touch and lacks strength? He is strong on the ball, hard to knock off and has good vision. Am looking forward to him proving you wrong next season (hope he has an injury free season)

Agree. Will benefit from a full pre-season and a settled role in a settled team.

 

[wardonia_blade]

Last one from me - Thanks Deadbat for taking the time to write the match reports and summaries. They are a "must-read" and really are appreciated by me.

 

[boo radley]

Last one from me - Thanks Deadbat for taking the time to write the match reports and summaries. They are a "must-read" and really are appreciated by me.

I do not think they are a "must read". They may help those who do not get to see the Blades but even then some may put Too much belief in his scores and markings. Whilst I agree on some points, I read little of his because I rarely agree with his markings. 7/10 for Doyle most weeks would be a case in point.

 

[Selly]

Chris Basham Basham came from Blackpool and I must admit I did not know much about him.
<snip>

Oh and he seemingly is destined to never score for the club. He missed a number of good chances, hit the woodwork numerous times and did everything but find the net. After Howard, Doyle and Murphy, played the most games this season and if he can nail down a regular positon; hopefully will be one we can count on next season.


Grade B-

Did we write this before Thirsday night Deadbat

 

[Deadbat]

Did we write this before Thirsday night Deadbat

Yes. Oops! Sods law

 

[Shalalalafenoughty]

"Adams is a player I really liked and feel can go on and be a really good player. He too may benefit from some games maybe at League Two level if we can get such a loan. It is such a big jump from Ilkeston to League One. However the other side of me says he actually could really progress if given chances here. The lad definitely had potential."


I like Adams too but I'd be opposed to any suggestion that he be farmed out somewhere on loan. There's far too much "minding" of promising youngsters nowadays either by loaning them out or only introducing them gradually to first-team football. The stars when I started watching were Badger, Jones and Birchenall and they were all chucked into top flight football, sink or swim, at the age of 18. Woodward was handed his debut at the same age the month after I started going and he soon became the first-choice right winger. Currie was 17 when Watford started him off and only just 18 when John Harris signed him and stuck him straight in the team. I live in Barnsley and saw quite a bit of David Hirst in the mid-eighties when he became a first-team regular at Oakwell at 17.

Adams is 18. What he needs is to start games on a consistent basis. I don't actually expect him to be loaned out anywhere but there's a danger that because of his history he's going to be regarded as an "impact" player and used sparingly as a substitute. Stuff that - he's got the potential to score a hatful of goals for us next season and be one of the stars of the division.

 

[Deadbat]

I do not think they are a "must read". They may help those who do not get to see the Blades but even then some may put Too much belief in his scores and markings. Whilst I agree on some points, I read little of his because I rarely agree with his markings. 7/10 for Doyle most weeks would be a case in point.

I don't think they are a must read. If some people have enjoyed them good, if some people don't agree with them that is equally fine. Hope they provoke some though and discussion as with the Goalkeeping thread etc. Other than just say you disagree provide some counter argument maybe?

As with Doyle. If ever a player was a 7/10 most weeks and this season; it was him for me. Do you think he was better or worse? I cant remember too many superb games (Southampton apart maybe) but then cant remember too many howlers. He was steady most weeks and thus did get a similar mark most games.

 

[Deadbat]

"Adams is a player I really liked and feel can go on and be a really good player. He too may benefit from some games maybe at League Two level if we can get such a loan. It is such a big jump from Ilkeston to League One. However the other side of me says he actually could really progress if given chances here. The lad definitely had potential."


I like Adams too but I'd be opposed to any suggestion that he be farmed out somewhere on loan. There's far too much "minding" of promising youngsters nowadays either by loaning them out or only introducing them gradually to first-team football. The stars when I started watching were Badger, Jones and Birchenall and they were all chucked into top flight football, sink or swim, at the age of 18. Woodward was handed his debut at the same age the month after I started going and he soon became the first-choice right winger. Currie was 17 when Watford started him off and only just 18 when John Harris signed him and stuck him straight in the team. I live in Barnsley and saw quite a bit of David Hirst in the mid-eighties when he became a first-team regular at Oakwell at 17.

Adams is 18. What he needs is to start games on a consistent basis. I don't actually expect him to be loaned out anywhere but there's a danger that because of his history he's going to be regarded as an "impact" player and used sparingly as a substitute. Stuff that - he's got the potential to score a hatful of goals for us next season and be one of the stars of the division.

I suppose what I am saying is if he not start the season and given regular games; being a bit part sub is not going to progress him.

I would rather him get 6 or 7 90 minute games under his belt.

For what it is worth I really like him and would have him starting next season to try and qualify my commentary of him. I post the question; 'Who would you rather face?' Baxter, Flynn, Scougall, Coutts or Adams. I am guessing defenders would be more worried by Che than the rest in a wide area. Eventually he may make a central striker too.

 

[Deadbat]

Poor touch and lacks strength? He is strong on the ball, hard to knock off and has good vision. Am looking forward to him proving you wrong next season (hope he has an injury free season)

I saw him get outmuscled a number of times when running alongside other midfielders/full backs and his touch was not the best (lost count of number of times it pinged off him). Maybe he can get stronger, fitter and be a decent player next season but on his performances so far he was a major disappointment as most fans would agree with. He did ok v Swindon after we were 3-0 down (game had amost gone then - as he and Basham were statuesque v quicker, better players) Do hope he does prove me wrong as you say but not sure what this potential some have seen in him.

 

[Silent Blade]

I saw him get outmuscled a number of times when running alongside other midfielders/full backs and his touch was not the best (lost count of number of times it pinged off him). Maybe he can get stronger, fitter and be a decent player next season but on his performances so far he was a major disappointment as most fans would agree with. He did ok v Swindon after we were 3-0 down (game had amost gone then - as he and Basham were statuesque v quicker, better players) Do hope he does prove me wrong as you say but not sure what this potential some have seen in him.

Coutts is strong ( ask the Barnsley and Oldham players) but I agree with you that he needs to be fitter (he had a long lay off and the flexibility in one of his knees looks limited when sprinting and it is the same for Diego)

 

[Deadbat]

Coutts is strong ( ask the Barnsley and Oldham players) but I agree with you that he needs to be fitter (he had a long lay off and the flexibility in one of his knees looks limited when sprinting and it is the same for Diego)

That's the thing; he looks knackered after 15 minutes and does not look capable of playing a series of games; let alone consistently. Signing players like him, Wallace and Higdon that are in affect sick notes is a further waste of resources. We need to move away from this journeyman/crock type and sign young fast, hungry players (Adams a good start). Bristol did it with Smith, Freeman, Agard etc. Mk and Swindon the same.

 

[Silent Blade]

That's the thing; he looks knackered after 15 minutes and does not look capable of playing a series of games; let alone consistently. Signing players like him, Wallace and Higdon that are in affect sick notes is a further waste of resources. We need to move away from this journeyman/crock type and sign young fast, hungry players (Adams a good start). Bristol did it with Smith, Freeman, Agard etc. Mk and Swindon the same.

Yes, agree that in 2014-15, we have been signing too many who have an injury record and to be honest I am not keen on the idea of signing Shaun Barker

 

[Sirius]

I don't think they are a must read. If some people have enjoyed them good, if some people don't agree with them that is equally fine. Hope they provoke some though and discussion as with the Goalkeeping thread etc. Other than just say you disagree provide some counter argument maybe?

As with Doyle. If ever a player was a 7/10 most weeks and this season; it was him for me. Do you think he was better or worse? I cant remember too many superb games (Southampton apart maybe) but then cant remember too many howlers. He was steady most weeks and thus did get a similar mark most games.

I for one appreciate the DB reports. Thanks DB on behalf of exiled Blades. Enjoy the summer.

 

[boo radley]

I don't think they are a must read. If some people have enjoyed them good, if some people don't agree with them that is equally fine. Hope they provoke some though and discussion as with the Goalkeeping thread etc. Other than just say you disagree provide some counter argument maybe?

As with Doyle. If ever a player was a 7/10 most weeks and this season; it was him for me. Do you think he was better or worse? I cant remember too many superb games (Southampton apart maybe) but then cant remember too many howlers. He was steady most weeks and thus did get a similar mark most games.

When I used to read your reports, I regularly questioned your marks for players. So as to roviding a counter argument I already have. It seems however that you provided your own counter argument to your marks on Doyle.
He's been Steady most weeks, you say.
Well in your book steady is 7, in mine it is 5.
7 for me would be someone who played better than steady. Are we now going on to a debate about the definition of Steady and Average?

 

[super_pig]

When I used to read your reports, I regularly questioned your marks for players. So as to roviding a counter argument I already have. It seems however that you provided your own counter argument to your marks on Doyle.
He's been Steady most weeks, you say.
Well in your book steady is 7, in mine it is 5.
7 for me would be someone who played better than steady. Are we now going on to a debate about the definition of Steady and Average?

please don't can we agreee on 6

 

[Woodwardfan]

I agree with almost every word Deadbat, well done indeed.

We missed Doyle in the run-in, why he was not playing goodness knows, maybe another of Clough's "situations" or maybe forward planning when we needed things there and then. We'll miss Doyle as a leader, organiser, fighter and ball winner and a top Blade to boot. It was hard on him to end his time with us unfairly stuck on the bench when the team were all over the place without him. We missed him filling the gaps and working the brainless players into position. Suddenly the defence crumbled and everybody blamed the defenders.

Coutts looks to have a permanent condition which restricts his mobility and even his fitness and had a very poor intial period with us when he was over-used.

Flynn, Scougall and Baxter nowhere near reached last season's standards though Flynn did at least flicker on occasions, what an honest player he is.

I love watching Reed and think he's as good as we've had at his age. Consistency will develop as will incisiveness and confidence.

The Campbell-Ryce departure was as bizarre as any of Clough's "situations" and at completely the wrong stage of the season.

Holt's goals covered over a frightened player who hid and dealt with the ball like a hot potato.

Adams, so promising and so under-utilised.

Ben Davies had a good early season and I too detected that he was dropped before he got injured, probably another "situation".

I'd include Baxter in this section and after a poor season by his standards, during which it has to be said he played everywhere except his best position, he has got himself into a career threatening situation, shame in more than one sense of the word.

Murphy never looks as confident as he should. I thought he rarely looked to be enjoying his football but did well without playing as well as he did last season. Our best player definitely.

Basham added something to our appalling midfield in late season. In early season he was one of the worst performers there. Personally I think he is only right for midfield next season if we get the blend/ partnerships right around him. I think he lacks touch, speed of foot, speed of thought and composure in midfield. However he is a good athlete and has presence. IMO Basham partnered with Coutts is nowhere near good enough for a promotion season and I think they are already first choice!

 

[JohnDenver]

When I used to read your reports, I regularly questioned your marks for players. So as to roviding a counter argument I already have. It seems however that you provided your own counter argument to your marks on Doyle.
He's been Steady most weeks, you say.
Well in your book steady is 7, in mine it is 5.
7 for me would be someone who played better than steady. Are we now going on to a debate about the definition of Steady and Average?

7/10 is an A at GCSE or A-level, a 1st at degree level, but a limited midfield plod at Bramall Lane.

 

[Webding]

Yes, because university markings - which effectively render about 70% of all possible grades redundant - are well known for their effective use of the full scale.

Opinions are like arseholes, etc... but it amazes me that anyone can think Doyle hasn't been decent this season. Apart from a couple of off days, he's been the nearest thing we've had to a consistent performer (admittedly only consistently a bit above average), and has pretty much been our best option in the middle. Which says it all really.

 

[boo radley]

7/10 is an A at GCSE or A-level, a 1st at degree level, but a limited midfield plod at Bramall Lane.

So a Grade C would be what marks out of 10? Certainly not 7 and more like my 5?

 

[Woodwardfan]

So a Grade C would be what marks out of 10? Certainly not 7 and more like my 5?

Out of ten:

A of which there are none -9/10
B -7/8
C - 5/6 ( C plus 6 C5.5 C minus 5?)
D - 3/4
E -1/2

Seems to look about right.

A month ago I did an "out of ten" rating of each signing and came up with an average of 5.6 or thereabouts.

 

[wizadry]

Yes, because university markings - which effectively render about 70% of all possible grades redundant - are well known for their effective use of the full scale.

Opinions are like arseholes, etc... but it amazes me that anyone can think Doyle hasn't been decent this season. Apart from a couple of off days, he's been the nearest thing we've had to a consistent performer (admittedly only consistently a bit above average), and has pretty much been our best option in the middle. Which says it all really.

Doyle has done that well this season he's been released and we're still in the same league.