Then i would argue CMS, Sparrow, and maybe Croft for a NO.
Given what Gus asks of our players do you think those who have spent time here in general, are shaped into better footballers?
Crofts had been languishing in League 2 when Slade got him here. After Gus had him playing for us, he went straight into the Championship with Norwich, was made skipper and played a few games in the Prem. I would argue that Gus did make him better.
I know the history but it hasn't happened this time he's a shadow of his former self, is Gus asking to much of some players with are style? For me the much me-lined Ashley Barnes has been shaped into what Gus wanted him to be a very adaptable player intelligent in many positions, some seem less able.
Brezovan was unwanted by Swindon after they nearly got relegated to league 2. The fans called him Flapper and mocked him, he was released and had trials with Hartlepool and another middling nothing club. He was without a club for 6 months and even went to see Swindon play a few times.
Today he is with a top 10 Championship club, having earnt his right to be here with his performances last season (on the whole!). He is deffinitely in the improved column. Almost unrecognisable in certain respects...
Oh come on i like Gus as much as next man but what could he add to his keeping apart from distribution choices, the rest is down to the goalkeeper coach!
Noone is the odd one for me, and part of the reason I no longer wear the rosy specs, although still firmly on the bus.
He was what he was, we all knew his play and it never changed.
So when he left, irrespective what posters say now, nobody was too bothered and we were happy for the cash.
But the complete revelation that is Nooney, him now being the player he should have been but never was for Gus, doesn't sit right.
Gutted when Noone left and said it at the time.
Don't recall nsc'ers thinking Cardiff were fools paying £1.5m.