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Wednesday, July 4, 2007
The last two seasons have seen McGoldrick, Crainie, Best and Jones go out on loan, among others. And while this has had undoubted benefits for some, there is doubt as to whether this has helped players establish themselves at Saints - Crainie being a good example last season.
Now there's news that Nathan Dyer may go out on loan next season. Says Burley: "We'll look at it for next season and whether we feel playing regular somewhere would progress his development better."
The 19 year old, another player to come from the Saints academy production line, only made 9 starts last season. He told the Daily Echo that "I know if I play my heart out, I will get my reward."
But is it right, when we've lost good young players, to make them feel they have to prove themselves to get in the team? Do we have that luxury, do we have that number of players forcing their way into the spotlight?
The Burley tough-love speak is particluarly worrying when it comes to Chris Baird, probably the player that (after Bale) Saints would miss most next season. Baird has put in a transfer request but says: "If things don't materialise, I am happy here and I will always give 100 per cent."
It may be public posturing but Burley - and he does says "we love the boy" - isn't saying all the right things - he's vital, irreplaceable in our position, crucial role, skipper etc., It's this: "The defender will only be allowed to leave if 'we feel it's right.'"
At least Claus is saying the right things - if we keep hold of players, we can go top six etc., What is surely what we want - stay Crhis, you're in the team Nathan - now let's go for it. Less of the mind games please George, and more forthright home truths.
