I dont think it will be long before that happens mate. He won't take any shit either as captain.
It shut the Stones doubters up for the time being anyway.
Having been a big critic of his defensive frailties it was nice to see him pre-season notching a few goals. That and the better defensive framework ,better fullbacks ,coaching by Pep etc seems to have given him a huge boost so I have to say he's shaping up very well this Season and is beginning to grow into the prospect we'd hoped for.
I think things have clicked for him in certain respects. I feel last year, he was very much trying to impress the manager by following the directive to play out from the back to the letter, and this season he's much better at situational decisions as to when to play out from the back and when to simply clear the ball. I'm really happy for him because he looks far more comfortable.His menality has been very different this season & it's as if he has recognised that his job description says 'defender'.
It's early & he isn't mistake free (nobody ever is) but he's showing a lot of character, especially considering what has been going on next to him, & taking responsibility for solving problems, rather than leaving it for others.
I think things have clicked for him in certain respects. I feel last year, he was very much trying to impress the manager by following the directive to play out from the back to the letter, and this season he's much better at situational decisions as to when to play out from the back and when to simply clear the ball. I'm really happy for him because he looks far more comfortable.
I admit I'm wondering if lining up in a back three is helping him, too, and if his confidence will translate to a more traditional back four.
His menality has been very different this season & it's as if he has recognised that his job description says 'defender'.
It's early & he isn't mistake free (nobody ever is) but he's showing a lot of character, especially considering what has been going on next to him, & taking responsibility for solving problems, rather than leaving it for others.
Noticed that. Once the old guys are gone, I think it will be him and Debryune next. Are a m he how Debryune was the oldest serving player left when Dihno exited. That shocked me. It felt like we just signed Debryune yesterday.... I remember Allof like it was last night. :(Dino went to give him the armband tonight, wont be long..