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I actually agree, my only claim is that Milner isn't currently used to playing the quick passing game that we are talking about. Maybe with a run in the side, he will. As of now, his short passing isn't quite there, though, as you point out, he, more than most, needs time to gel. He's never been asked to play like this before, certainly not by MON anyway.
Michael Johnson is perfect for this role, if when he comes back he still has his pace and agility. Carrick and Scholes, sure, Adams is inconsistent, and maybe to risky with the killer ball for our setup (maybe not, just my hunch), Barton (yeah, but he's nuts), Arteta (sure, always seem to forget about him), the kid (Ramsey or Wilshere) and Henderson are good, but are more promise than product yet (again, my opinion, others disagree). Passing and moving quickly into the RIGHT space requires a lot of people on the same wavelength, and can make someone go from World Class to pedestrian when the scenery changes (see Gourcouff).
As it stands, you make a good point, there are plenty of serviceable players to fill the role, but few are truly exceptional in multiple teams with multiple chemistries.
I don't think we have seen enough of Milner to make this claim. I for one would like to see him get an extended run in that role.
I actually agree, my only claim is that Milner isn't currently used to playing the quick passing game that we are talking about. Maybe with a run in the side, he will. As of now, his short passing isn't quite there, though, as you point out, he, more than most, needs time to gel. He's never been asked to play like this before, certainly not by MON anyway.
There are many players who can satisfy the role in my opinion, and a lot of them are already in our ranks. It is more of a practice thing than skill. They are all not gonna be Silvaesque. Just hard running and easy playing role players. Of my head, Carrick and the other dude at ManU, Herderson at sunderland, Adams from Blackpool, Everton has about 3 guys who do this well (Cahill, Arteta and Feliani), Huddlestone at Spurs, The Kid at Arsenal, The ex-City at Newcastle, Micheal Johnson, and Milner at City. This is more of a mentality and practice role, rather than one of talent. you pass simply and move quickly. Lots of players do this well.
Michael Johnson is perfect for this role, if when he comes back he still has his pace and agility. Carrick and Scholes, sure, Adams is inconsistent, and maybe to risky with the killer ball for our setup (maybe not, just my hunch), Barton (yeah, but he's nuts), Arteta (sure, always seem to forget about him), the kid (Ramsey or Wilshere) and Henderson are good, but are more promise than product yet (again, my opinion, others disagree). Passing and moving quickly into the RIGHT space requires a lot of people on the same wavelength, and can make someone go from World Class to pedestrian when the scenery changes (see Gourcouff).
As it stands, you make a good point, there are plenty of serviceable players to fill the role, but few are truly exceptional in multiple teams with multiple chemistries.
