Even if you go with the argument that the standards are different, it doesn't hold up. The standard, say, of the League of Ireland didn't stop James McClean from impressing people and earning a move to Sunderland, for example.
And, sure Darron Gibson played for Man United, but he has 'looked' much better at Everton.
End Apartheid Now! One Team in Ireland!
There is an exception to every rule DI, and thats a fair example. But has he really done an awful lot for liverpool? Definitely a PL player though.
Its not to do with standards though, I think its just a general attitude towards the First division in England, and I imagine its not an elitist one, rather based on merit.
I do actually believe that the LOI is probably a better recruiting ground at the minute than the First Division, because lots of managers have become aware of the bargains to be had here, and are actively scouting talent here. Its not seen as a loss, more of an investment to pay between 100-350k for a young prospect from the LOI, than it is in a mid 20s for 1+ mil in the First division. It makes business sense, as much as a footballing one.
Last edited by paul_oshea; 09/07/2012 at 9:23 AM.
I'm a bloke,I'm an ocker
And I really love your knockers,I'm a labourer by day,
I **** up all me pay,Watching footy on TV,
Just feed me more VB,Just pour my beer,And get my smokes, And go away
Yes certainly, bargain is more likely to be had in the LOI simply because there will be less scouts watching,
didn't the ex-Reading manager pick up Doyle Hunt and Long from Cork City, Doyle cost £78,000, Long
probably less?
That is a good bit of business considering what you could get for them now, probably around 50+ times
the initial outlay!!
Stephen Hunt came from Brentford I think, Noel Hunt from Dundee United having played for Shamrock Rovers.
http://www.otib.co.uk/index.php?/top...eg-cunningham/
Looks like Cunningham's made an impression for Bristol City. Playing at a similar level to Ward and St. Ledger, and any time I've seen him play for the U-21s, he's been excellent. Also looked quite assured against Algeria and Norway. A left-footed left-back with no obvious weaknesses, a good schooling in the game from Man City, having trained alongside world-class players for much of the last couple of years. 6' tall too, so not lacking in physical presence. With Ward being generally awful positionally, Wilson not being a natural left-back, Harte 34 years of age and a liability even in his prime, and with Clark, O'Shea and Kelly uncomfortable at left-back, I'm officially on the 'Cunningham for Ireland' bandwagon. Would be very happy if he gets called up today, unlikely as it may be.
Even if he's not totally ready yet, at least he's young, with room for improvement, unlike some other options.
I think he'd have been given a go in Serbia had it not been for the U21 game, so in a way he's kind of a victim of his own success at that level. I think he'd be well worth a go in the next friendly since we know what Ward can do. I'd prefer Cunningham to be given a run than Wilson for sure.
Great news! I think he is going to turn out a top class player, hope I'm right (usually am )
Last edited by tricky_colour; 25/08/2012 at 10:57 PM.
Now you've Tempted Fate.
And left Cunningham destined to become a journeyman Division 3 player in the English league...
Did great for the 4th goal won a good challenge in his half and slid a gibsonesque pass through for the forward.
Wasn't he friends with the Fonz growing up?
No Somos muchos pero estamos locos.
Well it will be Happy Days if he makes the squad.....
Last edited by tricky_colour; 26/08/2012 at 3:06 PM.
Aaaayyyyy!
Stretchered off after a dangerous challenge tonight as the toys start to come out of the Peterborough pram by the sounds of it. Nul Point indeed.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19554005
Out for two months.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/19647458
All of our young players have to have a somewhat serious injury at some point. Mandatory.
No Somos muchos pero estamos locos.
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