It is hard not to notice David Brooks when he's on the pitch. He stands out not only for his blond hair but also his control and the manner in which he carries himself. His youthful nature to take players on and believe he can get the better of them is great to see and while he takes some knocks, he is fully concentrated on making life difficult for defenders.
It is not easy to see exactly how good Brooks is yet, but he has set a high standard in his first two run outs for AFCB. He attracts defenders to try and dive in and that creates space when he gets past defenders. He looks along the line well and finds runs that get him in behind defences. An intelligent midfielder is what Howe has spotted for sure.
Transfer news
AFCB are reported to have made their second summer signing - defender Diego Rico of Leganes is reports to be on his way to the Cherries for £10.7m, according to the Daily Mail.
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| David Brooks already stands out as a player to watch. |
Eddie Howe moved Brooks further upfield against Levante in what could be a support striker role that Howe wants to look at. It gives Brooks the chance to run at defenders and go to the right or left and opens up much more of the pitch for Brooks than just playing on one wing or the other. I though Brooks made some of the regular AFCB players look a tad sluggish and flat, because Brooks was not only getting forward but was quite prepared to come back and cover when he needed to give the team a hand at the back.
It is not easy to see exactly how good Brooks is yet, but he has set a high standard in his first two run outs for AFCB. He attracts defenders to try and dive in and that creates space when he gets past defenders. He looks along the line well and finds runs that get him in behind defences. An intelligent midfielder is what Howe has spotted for sure.
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I think Brooks is an all-round player that can be something really special. Eddie Howe has captured him at just the right time when he could mould him and work on the less impressive sides of his game. That may be heading and adding some more physicality to his game. Still, the control and running energy that he has are enough to make me think he could fit in to the team quicker than some of the other young recruits that Howe has picked up in the last few seasons.
Transfer news
AFCB are reported to have made their second summer signing - defender Diego Rico of Leganes is reports to be on his way to the Cherries for £10.7m, according to the Daily Mail.
Most young newcomers have had to produce several outstanding performances to keep in the regular squad. It's easy to forget that Ake was probably intended as a back-up option - until he got a chance through injury. The sole exception to this has been Ibe, where management allowed considerable leeway - possibly to justify the price tag, but hopefully because they were aware of exceptional talent.
ReplyDeleteOverall, this is probably a good way to balance continuity with the gradual introduction of new talent. Please note, "continuity" is not the same as "loyalty" and is under-rated by fans and media alike.