So, further evidence that Kenny was being honest and there's no underlying conspiracy theory here. Probably time to leave it at that until the June games at least.
What rush to hammer Kenny?
Seriously RLP, an aul chill pill wouldn't go amiss for you. Ironically, given you're accusing others of being internet warriors.
When you're dealing with young players, you want to prioritize the long term over the short term. Any reasonable person would acknowledge Obafemi has struggled with injuries and playing consistently. He's on a run now and these friendlies are not vital. Let him establish his club career and get used to the rigours of senior football. We've seen similar struggles with Connolly too. It's a problem with young sprinters, getting used to how much they can push themselves over the course of a season.
I'd prefer to have him with the group, even to watch or lightly participate in the training sessions, as I think there'd be value there. That would be a reasonable compromise and it's disappointing Obafemi has decided not to participate at all.
I like the squad tbf. I would have brought James McCarthy and Liam Scales both in a winning team. Maybe Smallbone and the kid At Brighton. Jimmy Dunne too.
I dont get al this fuss about Obafemi he is just a post teenager ln the learning. We have Knight on his position with Ogbene too
Knight will play out wide on the right
The main thing before names is how the 11 will cope without Barry and the nat team coach.
Ok, everybody to neutral corners and take a breath.
In fairness Stu, Razor pointed out to you twice (before your Pundit Arena research) what SK actually did say. You even quoted him in post #60. He reiterated the point about it being 'before this year' in post #65, but you still continued to fight the fight that wasn't there. Let's not put all the blame on extratime, they only set you on your way.
Last edited by DeLorean; 19/03/2022 at 9:05 AM. Reason: Year, not season.
He has you there Pineapple. He types the truth.
I await your usual micro point deflection hair splitting pedantry combo with anticipation as you navigate from here.
Surprised there's no mention of the lack of League of Ireland players
Who would you suggest? Forrester? McGonigle is the form player and he's from the north. Jack Byrne isn't close to the levels he hit when called up previously. Same for Graham Burke who I don't think was ever good enough for a call up to begin with. Duffy injured.
Don't think anyone eligible in the league now would have enough to make a mark to be honest. Overall quality might be the same but there are no obvious standouts for me. Maybe one will emerge.
I’m biased, obviously, but I don’t think Forrestor would be out of place. I’m not expecting him to be called up, but I think he’s upped his game again this season, and is a class act. I think only personal issues stopped him making a real go of it across the water. I’m delighted he’s back with us though.
Out for a spell, got neglected, lay on the bench unselected.
I’d agree that Jack is probably the best footballer in the league. Michael Duffy probably has the ability to knock on the door of the squad and is in my opinion a better footballer than say Ronan Curtis - but obviously he’s injured. Git Forrester is the other player than is worth considering right now. He’s playing his best football since he came home and he’s fitter than he has been in a while. Anyone who saw him play against Spurs or Chelsea wouldn’t doubt his ability. Totally legitimate not to include him - but if he was in a squad I wouldn’t think it was a bad call.
I’d definitely have McGrath in - but can totally understand Kenny not picking him. I think I’d have Shane Long in the squad, considering there’s no Idah, Obafemi or Connolly. He’s obviously playing **** all for Southampton but he’s playing well whenever he gets the chance. Once again, can’t really argue with Long not being included.
Haven’t really seen Manning do it - Christie has looked the more impressive player when I’ve seen Swansea play this season. But Scales hasn’t been involved for Celtic in ages I think since they got knocked out of the Europa league and there are few alternatives: Enda Stevens is still injured, not sure if Derrick Williams is playing for LA Galaxy since their season started - I think Robbie Brady could do a job at left back but he can’t stay fit either. Bagan is an option but I don’t think he’s quite there yet either, so no real complaints about Manning.
Good to see Ronan get a call-up, he’s a pretty unique footballer in an irish context. And Sykes, I’ve not really seen enough of, but I like the fact that he’s made it to the squad. I always feel sorry for guys like Michael Duffy or Aaron McEneff who pick us and then never make a squad, it’s understandable but I always feel a bit disappointed for them…
Bookmarks