I was specifically addressing the common argument that he couldn't play or hadn't played in midfield, or that it wouldn't be something he or Pep would be considering.A long winded way of saying he's been shite so far, certainly gone out of your way to make excuses for him.
I'm making no excuses. I think he's been decent. I think he has more to come.
I don't see the value in judging him purely on goals and assists because he's never been prolific at either and the club still wanted him badly anyway. That said, I think he can improve those numbers and from what he's said he's trying to do that.
I think he gives us space and control. I see people complaining that he doesn't fit into our team, but often when he's on the pitch it seems to me that the team plays better than when he's not there.
I think he's playing within himself a lot of the time, as if he's scared of making mistakes. But I can understand that if what's said here is representative of any kind of feedback he hears, because there are plenty in this thread who'll say he's shit because he doesn't take enough risks, then rip him if he loses the ball. The confidence will come with time.