Ankergren ? Two L1 player of the month awards, a hand (or two) in the 2nd meanest defence in the division, and a VITAL cog in the style of play which Gus has imposed on this team. You think EVERY keeper is as comfortable receiving the ball at his feet and playing it round the back like a 5th outfield defender as Ankergren ? Just check out some other keepers in this division (and above) to see how they cope with the ball at their feet - if they don't hump it up the park, they're all over the shop. As for glaring errors, in 44 league games you've probably got about 3, tops. A very acceptable return..
f*** me, some of the views on this thread are absolutely frightening.
Ankergren ? Two L1 player of the month awards, a hand (or two) in the 2nd meanest defence in the division, and a VITAL cog in the style of play which Gus has imposed on this team. You think EVERY keeper is as comfortable receiving the ball at his feet and playing it round the back like a 5th outfield defender as Ankergren ? Just check out some other keepers in this division (and above) to see how they cope with the ball at their feet - if they don't hump it up the park, they're all over the shop. As for glaring errors, in 44 league games you've probably got about 3, tops. A very acceptable return.
El Abd ? Coming off the back of the season of his life, where he has blossomed under Gus into one of the best centrebacks in the division. Tough, uncompromising, terrific positional sense and anticipation, powerful in the air even against taller opponents, reliable, has cut out the errors, composed, comfortable bringing the ball out and adapting to our style of play. What more do you want FFS ?
Painter ? I have not the words. How ANYONE thinks this guy isn't up to the Championship is completely beyond me. He is consistency personified, never gets skinned, supports coming forward and oozes class week in, week out.
As for the notion that we must retain players based on their knowledge of the clubs history and playing at Withdean - bonkers. You would ACTUALLY rather see us relegated on that basis than see us push forward by strengthening and adding to what we have with a better class of player, because they haven't "slummed it" with us at the athletics track these last few years ??
Scary.
Not saying he is shit, but if we are gonna move up a level we need a keeper who does all that AND commands his area
Gary "lose the ball cheaply" Dicker
I'm amazed to find myself typing this, but I think Calderon will struggle defensively.
Well, you have me there! I must admit to wanting to avoid being like Arsenal.