What you have to realise is that sadly the vast majority of people who follow the Wolves are thick as 5hite. This is an area that has been been in industrial decline since the 70's, has high immigration levels causing tension and is "stuck in the 70s" when it comes to hooliganism. Half of the fans just go down there to vent the frustrations of their crap day to day lives - which sadly overshadow the rest of the real supporters (I know it sound pompous - and of course I see myself in the latter).
In all honesty, I have only been down a couple of times this season as I'd prefer to spend my money on following Ireland than putting up with thick ar5eholes getting on the players backs, leading to some anti-irish comments by the less-educated scumbags which I simply can't tolerate (last time I kicked off on one wannabe hardman, he backed down and tried to justify it by saying that his uncle was in the Birmingham Bombings - course he was, Sunshine). However, from the games I have seen and heard on radio, the assessment that I would make is:
Kevin Foley - Has been an absolute revelation at Right Back and looks like he could be developing int o the perfect successor to Finnan. Has filled out since his U21 days and gets up the line well. Also has very good passing range, generally keeping it short & building from the back, however has a great eye for a pinpoint long ball and has been key to our counter attacking style this season. Below is a quote from teamtalk after Sundays draw with WBA.
"Kevin Foley was superb today. Whilst Hennessey should get some credit for his penalty save, Foley''s workrate, strength and vision down the right was first class. Its been a long time since I''ve seen such a promising fullback wearing old gold."
Andy Keogh - Has been full of running as ever and is definitely our most creative striker, however frustratingly doesn't score enough goals. He has been carrying an injury of late, so he may come back stronger, however think he suffers a bit from confidence in front of goal (a bit like Robbie Keane in his earlier years). His confidence probably hasn't beem helped by the moaning fans who have been eager to see the dropped Eastwood on the field. There are a lot of calls to play him behind the front two in a Scholes role, which could be a more effective position.
Darren Potter - Has been a massive victim of a confidence crisis, once again largely down to the fans getting on his back. Has a great range of passing, however maybe tries to play the killer ball too much. Needs to just get his head down and get running, as games sometimes pass him by, probably to avoid the fans moans.
Stephen Ward - Is a victim of McCarthy's tactics, as he is never a winger. Has shown some nice footwork when I've seen him and trys hard (a McCarthy Must), however is playing out of position, so will never be as effective as he could up front. When he's played up front he has looked good, if not a bit raw, and holds the ball up well. Could maybe do with a rest from the team and maybe even a loan move to get him scoring goals. Would be happy to see him upfront, although think he needs to round off his skills as he's a bit of a rough diamond, and wouldn't want his confidence denigrated any further. Definitely got potential though.
Stephen Elliott - Same old, Same old. Full of running, scores, gets injured. Hopefully we will see him get a good run, but you have to fear for him. Good to see him score yesterday - apparently played well. Despite being a bit lightweight, think he will do well for us this season, if only he can stay fit. Not sure if he will be able to adapt if we get to the Prem, as injuries and his lack of stature may well see him being ousted.
Darron Gibson - Only played a couple of games and has apparently done OK - was played out of position on the right wing yesterday, so can't be knocked. A few groans by the thick bigots in the ranks at being another "irish" player - until you throw the fact that he was voted young player of the season at United at them and they soon pipe down. Has only played 4 games, in which which we've won 3 and drew 1, so can't have done too bad.
Stephen Gleeson - The potential jewel is seen as rising star of the youth team having been watched by Barcalona & Liverpool among others. Only just 19, he was injured earlier in the season, however has been adapting to the Mens game as the captain of the reserves. Should see him come through in December a bit more with Olifinjana going to the African Nations.
Mark Sammon - Youth team player who has gone out on loan to Port Vale. Meant to be a decent midfielder, however was apparently quoted on Bebo saying how he's "not going back to live in that 5hithole". Probably not going to be a fans favourite.
At the end of the day we are fourth in the league with a young squad with lots of potential. I personally don't see what there is to complain about.
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