After a fantastic summer window Sam Allardyce has certainly got some depth in what was in truth a small squad. Now I’m not saying we’re going to be competing for the top prizes, but you only have to look to the game against Fulham to see what a strong position we are in squad wise. With record signing Matthew Jarvis out injured with a slight thigh strain in came back up man and name sake Matthew Taylor to give Big Sam a timely reminder of his ability with an assist and the third goal.
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With strength in depth being so important the signings of Jarvis, Yossi Benayoun and Andy Carroll are looking vital this season. Benayoun in particular who can cover for both Kevin Nolan and Ricardo Vaz Te will prove to be a fantastic signing as he brings class and experience to the side as well as versatility.
We all know what Jarvis can bring he is one of the best crossers of the ball and a real creator of havoc with his speed and passing range, another advantage of his style is that he is equally as good on his left foot as he is on his right. So he can act as cover for Vaz Te as well, with Taylor in the side who can play left back as well as on the wing the wide positions look set.
As for upfront when you look at the bench and see a England international sitting there it makes you feel a little bit more comfortable and the signing of Carroll allows Carlton Cole to have competition as well as a load of pressure of his shoulders. And with Carroll limping off the crowds worries were immediately eased when the big man Cole strolled on. With Modibo Maiga also sitting on the bench Big Sam has strengthened no end up top.
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When the man of the match of the play off final and firm fans favourite James Tomkins is sitting on the bench next to Carlton it shows how well the board and Big Sam have done this summer, if there was a terms of football book “strength in depth” would be on page one and players and managers know that. Competition for place means players are force to perform at their best at all times or risk being replaced by a team mate chomping at the bit for their place which can’t be a bad thing can it.
Tactics have always played a massive role in football but nowadays with video analysis every week at every game and with managers knowing their rival managers like the back of their hand and certain team’s style of play. By having different players with differing styles it allows Sam Allardyce to name his team with players who can maximise the opposition’s weakness giving his team’s chances of winning a boost.
The close season purchases has made this squad stronger and with players covering in nearly every position this squad could do big things, so believe in Big Sam.
Come on you Irons!
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