Corry Evans has finally returned to full training after tearing his knee’s anterior cruciate ligament, and his comeback is a major boost after thirteen months and fifty-eight games off.
We won’t see him for a few weeks, but it’s wonderful news for a young set of players who lack confidence and experience when faced with difficult situations.
When we talk about football, we usually think about attacking players who score goals, make assists, and create magical moments, but the players who can accomplish the simple things are frequently overlooked.
Evans, at thirty-three, is an elder statesman who brings the kind of in-game management and experience that we currently lack.
With more teams opting for a 4-3-3 shape, having a player who can win the ball back, occupy solid defensive positions, and bring calmness to the side when things get rough is critical for a winning team.
We have a youthful and lively team whose philosophy is to go out from the back and play possession football, but one thing is clear when Evans isn’t available: we lack a natural holding midfielder.
Since Dan Neil’s injury, he and Pierre Ekwah have been our preferred midfield duo when they’re fit. Edouard Michut and Alex Pritchard also filled this role during their tenure at the club.
While they excel with the ball, their defensive capabilities are lacking, allowing opponents to exploit the space between our defense and midfield, leaving us vulnerable at the back.
The absence of a solid holding midfielder leaves us exposed, especially with the trend of full backs pushing into midfield.
Having Evans back would not only provide cover in front of the defense but could also allow Neil and Ekwah to focus on their strengths: creating attacking opportunities.
I believe both Neil and Ekwah will contribute more goals, given their striking abilities.
The club’s transfer policy is often questioned by fans, and rightfully so.
Kristjaan Speakman has signed a number of talented young players, but one position that has yet to be addressed is that of a holding midfielder.
The team has signed seventeen players in the last three transfer windows, with only Jobe Bellingham and Ekwah establishing themselves as regular starts.
This summer, whether the club signs Evans to a new contract or wants to transfer him on, the recruitment team must address the situation.
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