Starting from the front Soldado is first. 4 goals in 6 appearances seems like a great return, however half of those were in the premier league and both were penalties. The forward is looking sharp and although he has gone a little quiet I am very confident that he has the capabilities to obtain those 20+ goals a season; he has been managing for the past 4 seasons. La Liga and the Premier League are very different in the style of play (we all know that), but what gets me excited is the positions that he gets himself into. When he truly settles watch out Premier League!
Lamela has managed 2 assists so far and has come close to getting his first goal. Again he is getting into some fantastic positions, but he has not settled in particularly well (IMHO). The winger is subject to a slow introduction (similar to Lloris), but also Townsend has been in his best form to date, which has hindered his inclusion. Once he truly finds his feet we will see exactly what he is capable of and why we broke our transfer record a third time to sign him.
Eriksen is our bargain of the season. I’ve enjoyed watching this youngster on the pitch long before pulling ona Spurs shirt. The midfielder has not missed a step in his big change from the Eredivisie league to the premier League. Only making 3 appearances (to date) I am still confident that we are yet to see his best. He has put in two stellar performances (not including his wonder goal against Tromso off the bench), but once he settles in with his new team mates and has learnt their style and capabilities we will see something special. He already has his first goal for the club one direct assist and a big hand in the another, not bad for three appearances!
Chadli had a small question mark over his head following his purchase (in all honesty). I was not sure whether he was the right man to challenge for a regular first team space, however now I can see he will. A small injury has restricted him to five appearances, but he has been heavily involved in the build up play of numerous games and he has also managed his first goal. He is one to watch as I feel we will soon see what Baldini had in mind when buying him.
Capoue has been unfortunate in that he suffered an injury after just 3 appearances. He had not been deemed the first choice by many fans (feeling that Paulinho and Dembele would be the preferred choice). He has been another great signing and has showed that he was ready for the step up. With a contribution of 3 tackles a game he had found himself in a similar form to Sandro (last year before his injury). Luckily the midfielder is expected back shortly and I for one am looking forward to that.
Paulinho has been a large surprise to me already notching up three goals and one assist in just eight appearances. The midfielder had been introduced to us largely as a holding midfielder that likes to get forward. However we have seen an end to end star that never gives up. He is exactly the sort of player that we needed, however he causes a big problem when all players are fit! Who do we play? Sandro, Paulinho, Capoue, Dembele and not forgetting the the young Carroll and Holtby. There is only space for two, but we have six to consider in the central position.
Chiriches and Fryers we have not seen anywhere near of to really make a comment on, but I am filled with confidence in the two, with numerous clubs fighting for the pairs signatures (if Fergie got that wound up about Fryers leaving he must be a good signing).
Interestingly enough we are still linked with new signings already (despite being over 3 months until the next window opens). Admit-tingly there is one position that is a definite to cover (left back), but on a whole I am very impressed with the additions to the squad. Each player is showing their worth and showing that we have the right intent as a club going forward, which has been shown in our market dealings.
“Gareth who” I hear many fans say and in a way their are right, we haven’t missed him as badly as I or others thought.
Let me know your thoughts. Have I missed anything or anyone? Are you happy with our additions?
Glad to be back though people so feel free to start the barrage of emails and messages (I have missed it).
COYS!!!!!
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