What To Expect From McDermott In January
Article by Alex Schroeter
The area where we need the most investment is in attack. Despite the impressive form of McCormack and Smith, thus far, there are very few additional options to have made any real impact for us and since the departure of Dexter Blackstock, after a supposed season-ending injury, our need for a striker in January has been highlighted further.
The inevitable rumours of returns for Becchio and Gradel have appeared again; however, as nice as that thought might be, the more likely option for McDermott is to follow his own, proven transfer policy to sign young players from the lower leagues. With several impressive, young strikers on show in League One this season this appears to be the most likely option. I, myself, would not turn my nose up at the chance to sign any of Callum Wilson, Nahki Wells or Britt Assombalonga. With the latter currently at Peterborough, they would surely command an astronomic fee which would probably take us out of the running, even if we did have the budget as we have been more than careful with how we have spent money, if at all, over the last few years. So, that leaves us with Callum Wilson, of Coventry City, and Nahki Wells, of Bradford City.
Callum Wilson’s form has come, somewhat, out of the blue as he managed just one goal in only three appearances for Tamworth last season, whilst on loan. With 13 goals in 22 appearances this season, Wilson has quickly become one of the most sought after strikers in the football league. In terms of Leeds’ interests, the 21 year old would add much needed pace to our front line and a more than suitable replacement for Blackstock. I would expect that with Coventry’s financial troubles, every player would have a price and as we did with cash-stricken Portsmouth, I am sure we would get a very reasonable price.
On the other hand, Nahki Wells’ good form has continued on from the last season, where he was instrumental in their promotion and charge to the Capital One Cup Final. With 15 goals in 18 appearances so far this season, the 23 year old has been one of the stand out performers in the league so far this season and despite the fact he would not be a direct replacement for Blackstock, he could pace and width to a potential front three with McCormack and Smith. However, we would face strong competition for his signature, with QPR reportedly interested, and with Bradford claiming that he “will not leave on the cheap”, but he would surely be worth it.
Whoever McDermott decides to go for, he has the track record for crucial January signings, most notably Adam Le Fondre whilst with Reading, and seems to have clear idea of where he wants to take us.
© e-Football 2013 All rights reserved no part of this document or this website may be reproduced without consent of e-Football
No comments: