The author is cross and frustrated

As are we all after basically two months of set backs and missed opportunities. Football brings me nothing but misery at the moment, and the author too apparently. But as ever it's not as straightforward as the author makes out.

Yes, Jerome's goal scoring record at this level is poor. Always has been and this season is basically bang in line with his premier league average. But he works very hard from the front, makes selfless runs for others and chases the ball tirelessly. He is bringing a lot to the team. But what does that count for if he isnt adding goals?

Mbok is nowhere near as mobile and doesn't work as hard. But his finishing is much much better if (IF) we can generate chances for him. Hypothetical of course, but he would have scored with the header that Jerome missed. But probably wouldn't have had the pace to break through and have the chance that Jerome missed when he ran it through to the keeper. Would we have looked so solid without Jerome chasing from the front? Well, who knows. Would we have had the same threat going forward (such as it was) without a bit of pace up top? There's a reason why he's reached the age he has and never played in a top league until now. His lack of pace is a big problem at the highest level. But he does have a lot of other assets.

Hooper just never made the grade, so that point is ridiculous. How many chances did Hooper take during the Hoots relagation season? I can remember him fluffing a couple of excellent chances vs West Ham away that season, while it was still 0-0, before we leaked a couple late on. And Hooper didn't do enough outside the box either. There's a reason why he's gone, and why he went to Sheff Wed.

So does AN play Jerome or Mbok? I can see why he will choose differently from game to game, depending on what his plan is and what he expects from the oppo. And I suspect that during a run like this whoever is not playing will probably grow a bit better in our imaginations, while the one who is will be perceived to be a bit worse.

Posted By: Under soil heating, Feb 28, 23:15:03