Sammy
Posted: Mon Nov 17, 2008 2:16 pmAs regulars will know I've been one of Sammy's critics over the last month or so. It's worth saying why before I continue to my main point.
Like everyone I'll be eternally grateful to Sammy for getting us promoted to the Football League and for the amazing start we had at this level. However since we were assured safety performances began to fall away. This was completely understandable and was arguably exacerbated by poor performances from players destined to leave the club. However following Sammy's comments at the end of the season about existing players and the need for an overhaul I was expecting something more from our new players. The loss of Thommo and Carl Baker was inevitable but they weren't replaced and, in my view, it raised a lot of concerns particular once the season began in earnest. Many of these I've commented on but included a lack of pace, uncertainty over the best side, quality of players brought in etc.
Initially I think Sammy's shared similar concerns, and here's my main point, I think it's taken time but he's reacted brilliantly to it.
Firstly, faced with a lack of pace and attacking options he's switched our formation to a 5-3-2 cum 3-5-2, which has worked really well in injecting pace down the flanks, giving our midfield more options and time, and also allowed strikers to come into the game.
Secondly, he's been man enough to realise his mistakes or to bite the bullet on certain decisions. He's brought Craig Stanley back into the fold, which has really made us look a better side as much for his effort as anything. I'm sure they haven't kissed and made up but I employ some people I don't like but if their good at their job and making money I ain't complaining. The same goes for Drummy and Adam Yates.
Next, after a wobble with Dan Smith, he's taken full advantage of the loan market. I'm not a massive fan of Rene Howe but he's a decent player; Ryan McGivern looks quality, has given us real attacking options and is enjoying himself; and, of course, Danny Carlton, who worked phenomenally well on Saturday and helped create both goals.
Finally, he could have got upset with the criticism directed at him from the Main Stand and with the problems on the pitch and decided maybe his future was better off elsewhere. Instead he's decided to extend his contract because he believes we've got a great future and he's the man to take us there.
In our present circumstances, in my view, he's the best man for the job.
Good luck Sammy - and Mark of course.
Like everyone I'll be eternally grateful to Sammy for getting us promoted to the Football League and for the amazing start we had at this level. However since we were assured safety performances began to fall away. This was completely understandable and was arguably exacerbated by poor performances from players destined to leave the club. However following Sammy's comments at the end of the season about existing players and the need for an overhaul I was expecting something more from our new players. The loss of Thommo and Carl Baker was inevitable but they weren't replaced and, in my view, it raised a lot of concerns particular once the season began in earnest. Many of these I've commented on but included a lack of pace, uncertainty over the best side, quality of players brought in etc.
Initially I think Sammy's shared similar concerns, and here's my main point, I think it's taken time but he's reacted brilliantly to it.
Firstly, faced with a lack of pace and attacking options he's switched our formation to a 5-3-2 cum 3-5-2, which has worked really well in injecting pace down the flanks, giving our midfield more options and time, and also allowed strikers to come into the game.
Secondly, he's been man enough to realise his mistakes or to bite the bullet on certain decisions. He's brought Craig Stanley back into the fold, which has really made us look a better side as much for his effort as anything. I'm sure they haven't kissed and made up but I employ some people I don't like but if their good at their job and making money I ain't complaining. The same goes for Drummy and Adam Yates.
Next, after a wobble with Dan Smith, he's taken full advantage of the loan market. I'm not a massive fan of Rene Howe but he's a decent player; Ryan McGivern looks quality, has given us real attacking options and is enjoying himself; and, of course, Danny Carlton, who worked phenomenally well on Saturday and helped create both goals.
Finally, he could have got upset with the criticism directed at him from the Main Stand and with the problems on the pitch and decided maybe his future was better off elsewhere. Instead he's decided to extend his contract because he believes we've got a great future and he's the man to take us there.
In our present circumstances, in my view, he's the best man for the job.
Good luck Sammy - and Mark of course.
