Interesting to read some of the views on my beloved Wanderers, as well as the regular misinformed sh**e from the usual quarters (Ciaran, Young Irish & Umberside - do remind me how many times you have watched the Wolves this season to formulate such detailed opinions?).
Absolutely buzzing about the result today and overjoyed for Keogh, who has finally got the goals that his performances have deserved. Details of our sizeable Irish contingent below:
Andy Keogh - With our 3 top scorers out the pressure was on and the Kid has delivered. Clinical strikes today and resounding Man of the Match, after a good performance on Friday. Greatest attribute is his intellingent runs and link up play (often not seen on TV) coupled with his Pace (which he has got) and control. Was a fans favourite when he first came with some immense performances, however his lack of goals (and possibly nationality) made him the subject of the boo boys. His strength and braveness has improved across the season and will increase further as he fills out. Totally agree with Richieos that he will probably fare better in the Premiership as any one who saw the Birmingham game can see how frantic and ugly it is - which is something which Nigel Quashie said recently and a likely reason why Trap has shown so much faith in him. In summary a very good footballer who has every chance of going all the way of he bulks up and believes in himself and his goalscoring ability a bit more.
Kevin Foley - Absolute quality - Next Dennis Irwin - Should have been capped a lot earlier. Known as Mr Consistent for his persistently strong performances (not just in spells, Ciaran). Great tackling, distribution, attacking ability, engine and composure under pressure. The fact that he is regularly touted as Player of the Season against the 24 goal highest scorer in the division speaks volumes as can be seen on the link attached (which also features Ward a few times). Can't wait to see him playing regularly in an Ireland Shirt which is only a matter of time.
http://www.molineuxmix.co.uk/vb/showthread.php?t=38229
Stephen Ward - Without a doubt our most improved player of the year. Recently reverted to Left Back after a transition from Striker then left wing. Strong, good passing and attacks well, slightly lacking in confidence recently which has resulted in his demotion to the bench to steady the ship. Came on and helped change the game today and while still has a bit to learn defensively still has a chance if his progression this year is anything to go by. Certainly no worse than Kilbane or Delaney.
Stephen Gleeson - Year left on his contract and loaned out to MK Dons. Ability to find space in the middle of the park is instantly striking. Good passing and cocky enough, but worry about his lack of stature which might hamper him in the land of the giants that is the Premiership. McCarthy recommended him to Staunton for his call up so has faith in him - so it remains to be seen.
John Dunleavy - Ireland U17 Centre Half and Captain and tipped to be the next big thing on the Molineux production line. Meant to be highly intelligent and reads the game well. Turned down Man U and Celtic to join us and recently voted the Academy player of the Season. Would expect to see him loaned out next season and vying for contantion in a couple of years time.
Other Academy Players - Mark Connolly is Dunleavys defensive partner for Ireland and the Wolves academy and meant to be a solid defender - also we have also just signed up a Young Irish Lad on next years YTS who all the big clubs were chasing.
Finally, Mick - Has done an astounding job in assembling a young and hungry bunch of promising footballers from the lower leagues who are now on the verge of promotion. We were tipped for relegation in some quarters when he first came a couple of seasons ago before over-achieving with a range of free-transfers and cheap buys (Kightly £20K, Foley £250K and Keogh £600K). After missing out on the play-offs after the Freddie Eastwood Saga we have been top nearly all season and with the grace of God will be promoted next Saturday. Frustrating at times, his team selection and substitutions of late have been top quality and you can see that his experience is beginning to take shape as he is continually learning. Would definitely not be averse to him managing Ireland again in the future as he is still developing as a manager. Few opinions from the fans attached:
http://www.molineuxmix.co.uk/vb/showthread.php?t=38267
The Future - Whereas, we are by no means the finished article or the perfect team, the players, along with the manager are developing and with £400 million of Steve Morgan's Wealth behind him there is no reason why McCarthy can't use his biggest talent in buying astutely and keep us up. We have already been linked to James McCarthy & JJ O'Toole and I would be overjoyed if he maintains his Irish recuitment policy by adding Doyle, Hunt, O'Dea, McCann and Garvan to the ranks (all of whom would not be unfeasible targets).
On another note, I can't believe that some would not want us to get there (Umberside) - Irrespective of any other teams Irish Players, Wolves have an Irish manager and the most Irish players which would surely benefit us as a whole. Forget the fallout with the first egotistical Mr Manchester, McCarthy was always a player and manager who displayed heart for Ireland and took us to one penalty kick from the Quarter Finals of the World Cup, which would have equalled our greatest feat to date. Personally, I think the least he deserves is our support.
Up the Wolves!
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