[quote author=Whaddapie link=topic=44105.msg1280598#msg1280598 date=1297049172]
I think that this season's two matches against the chavs have highlighted just how much he's improved over the past 18 months or so...
I remember watching him play against this same team as recently as two seasons ago, and dispairing at how, despite his best efforts, he simply wasn't deserving to be on the same field as the likes of Lampard, Essien, Ballack, etc... It was like watching grown men swat away little schoolboys every time he challanged them.
This season, he has been extremely effective in both matches against a team that used to make him look leagues out of his depth - He played a major role in both our wins against them this year, and good luck to the lad.
Much improved, and as long as he's not who we look to to actually carry the match, he's got a spot in this team.
[/quote]
Yes, a squaddie moving forward, when other players come in, but definite improvement