I have heard the same, what frustrates me is that with the league so close to being sewn up there is a real opportunity to bring him off the bench in some of the remaining league games to have a good look at him.
Why not both?
He’s far from the finished article.
He clearly has some natural ability, but that’s simply not enough at the top level. The step up in knowledge, speed and speed of thought (“nous”), tactical awareness and understanding of your role take YEARS for most players. In an ALL OR NOTHING team concept like we have under Pep, where it breaks down quickly if one cog isn’t operating correctly, it is imperative.
If you watch the Foden of today with the Foden of last year, the growth is astounding. He managed to do that while staying here, because his position wasn’t all about getting on the end of a chance snd scoring...which is the hardest thing in football.
Strikers need to be bloodied in games where they can score, grow in confidence and stature, and learn the game WHILE SCORING. If Pep and the staff believe that’s somewhere else for Delap, I’ll bow to their knowledge on the matter.
I’m less interested in him “coming good” next season than I am in seeing him spend 5-6 years at City in the first team squad, banging in goals, when he is in his prime. He is a big lad, with a Dad who understands the game. Those two things will help him understand what he needs to do and how a stint away could do him the world of good, no matter if he ever plays for City again or not!
Good luck to the lad! I hope he becomes a top class striker for us. But, if not us, I hope he has a decent career, makes a few quid to enjoy the rest of his life, and doesn’t come back to haunt us!
