Klaus wrote:
Yeah Eddie has struggled with the step up physically to men's football and that has set him back a bit. All of his forward instincts are bang on though, and technically I think he's champagne. Maybe he doesn't get an opportunity to show his skills often but that confidence on the ball is undeniable. It comes from playing street football in a metal cage like he did.
He looks a lot more grown up this season to me, there's a sturdyness to him that was definitely lacking before, and I think it will be much easier for him to express himself on the pitch with that in mind. Shame about the contract situation being what it is, but the club probably feels that there must be a good chance of extending his contract as long as he gets playing time this season.
Against Wimbledon, Eddie started on the left ahead of Martinelli who had to occupy a more unfamiliar right-sided role, so reckon the former is closer to being a first team option now than the Brazilian. He was looking sharp in pre-season and physically looks ready now. Don't think he can be a CF the way we are set up at the moment, but his instincts in the box are great and he seems more comfortable with one or two touches than when he has a lot of time. If our game consistently enables us to get bodies in the box, he will be a valuable player. If we sit deeper and rely on forwards covering more ground, his skillset will be wasted.
I agree that, there must be some feeling his contract can be extended, or the alternative is that good performances might entice someone to pay for him in January rather than allowing him to leave on a free.
