andym1988 wrote:I think so, there is still a lot of crap in that squad. We can't afford that many but its what we need.
Lovenkranks isn't PL standard. Routledge has pace but his crossing is largely terrible. Can't see Ranger ever being good enough. Leon Best is a Championship player. I would start with those four, and if Taylor goes that would be five. Our squad isn't laden with quality to start with, so new signings are needed. Add Alan Smith, who gives his all but has all but lost his mobility.
Looking at our centre backs a fit Taylor is better than any of the others, fact. Coloccini still looks like a liability. Campbell isn't the player he was. Williamson looks a solid defender but very poor with the ball at feet.
I think you're expecting far too much. It's not as if we're going to be selling all of those players either. There is still crap in the squad but there is also some promise.
Lovenkrands was fine in the PL last time and performed very well in the Championship. Not a world beater but a decent option and very much needed in our squad as he's the only striker we have with genuine pace. Routledge doesn't have as much pace as people make out but uses his good footwork to get away from defenders. Again not a world beater but is another decent option. How many times have you seen Ranger play? I agree that Best and Smith aren't good enough.
You said defenders first off, which is why I questioned it. Enrique is the best player in our squad, nevermind just our best defender. Coloccini is also better than Taylor. It could also be questioned whether Campbell is better than Taylor, same for Williamson. Like I've said, I like Taylor - he's one of my favourite players and I'd like him to stay - but he isn't our best centre-back. Coloccini was a rock last season and has started this season well. Both he and Williamson had a couple of slightly dodgy moments at Old Trafford but both still came out with a lot of credit. They were both awesome on Sunday too.
