Unknown_Genius said:
To me, it seems like a Hughes "safe bet" sort of signing; experienced but with time on his side, knows the Premier League, won't need to settle, etc. Now there is absolutly nothing wrong with that, Milner is a very good player, and would be great in the centre of midfield an area we're lacking in, so a fine acquisition (if it happens), but its the kind of signing the previous manager got a lot of unfair stick for.
Milners a bit different to the signings Hughes made though isnt he?
A couple of years still to reach his peak, just took the young PFA award, just broke into England squad and earning top plaudits all round.
The nearest comparison is Gareth Barry, no one gave him stick for signing barry did they, despite a largley underwhelming first season with us.
Cant really compare him to Adebayor, RSC and Bellamy were signed because he knew them, Bridge at the time looked a decent punt, supposedly 2nd best English left back, probably still is, its just happens as a country we have a dearth of talent there.
The jurys still out on Lescott, was starting to look a decent addition, disregarding price tag.
Toure was miss but you cant win them all.
I think Milners much more in the mould of an Adam Johnson type buy, and he can play a few positions as everyone knows, ok Johnson wasnt Mancinis buy, whos to say Marwood isnt running the show to an extent anyway with Mancini having final say.
Plus it will weaken a competitor.
Id be happy with Milner, two full backs, a powerful box to box mid in shape of a fit Johnson and a more creative mid, and Torres.
I wont hold my breath.
