Headline in today's Chronicle is " Experience and 'specific' signings hunted by Reds." It goes on to say we are looking to recruit a left back, as we've only got Ben Williams and Dani Pinilos in that position and Dani will miss the first month of the season due to injury. We could also add others before the campaign begins. It looks as though the basic quality they are looking for is an experienced Championship level player or a higher level from abroad. As well as Pinilos, it says that because he's behind the others fitness wise, Kieffer Moore will probably not feature at the start of the season, but might be given a run out in tomorrow's friendly against the Blades.
Oh wow ...didn't realise pinnilos was out for a month.....mmmm not that i dont like a lot of aspects to Williams game....but we need some cover in as suggested.
Senior moment. it's Kenny Dougall who will miss the first month. Jacob Brown also likely to miss the Fulham game.
It looks as though the basic quality they are looking for is an experienced Championship level player or a higher level from abroad. Experienced in terms of games played rather than age though? If the criteria is that they have to a) be young and b) with championship games under their belt (say 50 games) then I did a bit of research and came up with a few names. For the avoidance of doubt I haven't heard any rumours - this is just for fun. Matty Cash from Forest. Fits both criteria but would probably cost £3/4m Joe Williams who we already know about. Is still at Everton and doesn't appear to be any nearer making first team appearances Ryan Manning from QPR. Was at Rotherham last season I think. Has played 60+ championship games and much more affordable. On the basis that they loaned him out last season may not be in the frame at QPR but if that's the case would he improve us? Sam Field - WBA. Were we linked with him a couple of years ago? Fits on age but less than 30 championship appearances. Harrison Reed - Southampton. Age 24 and has 70+ appearances on loan for Norwich and Blackburn. He was highly rated at both. There's been speculation that he will leave Southampton this summer and various rumours that Norwich, Burnley and Blackburn were interested but nothing's happened so far. Fee might be within our budget too. Anyone think of any others?
Joe Williams won't get in our starting 11 and he's not as good as Dougall. Scrap that idea. Ryan Manning might be a good shout though. Reed as well although i suspect he might cost too much
Pinnillos is a great footballer who can't run. Last time we were in the Championship any player who kicked the ball round him just glided past him. They will this time too. Irrespective of injury, we need a left back.
