by Leonmc0708 » Wed May 05, 2004 6:17 pm
In my opinion, Upson is an excellent player, lets not forget that the lad is only 24 years of age and he learnt his trade under arguably some of the best defenders, (Adams, Keown, Dixon, Winterburn, Bould) and therefore the best defensive coaches in the business. Wenger did not get rid of him, Upson requested a transfer after not in his opinion being given a fair crack of the whip. Prior to the unearthing of Kolo Toure, Wenger would have given his right arm to bring the lad back in exchange for that dodgey franch baldy guy.(name escapes me).
What have let Gerard houllier down in the past in regards to signings is the fact that he has signed players who looked good in other (possibly weaker) leagues and they have simply failed to adapt or not been good enough for the Premeir League. In Upson you have a lad who is proven english league quality, and is young enough to be able to improve with the right coaching and also by playing next to someone of proven quality in Sami. (apologies Kenny Cunningham)
Whilst I have seen only limited bits of Mexes, and he did look good and pacey, it is never a sure thing that his style and quality will translate into a good defender in this league.
I beleive that Houllier would try to sign Mexes before Upson, as he has proven in the past he likes to surround himself with plenty of yes men from back home, but I think that Mexes is a little full of himself, and maybe on the look out for a Juve or Barca type of move rather than into the Premeirship.
If it was upto me I would go for Upson, reason being there is no worry about him "needing a season to adapt."
JUSTICE FOR THE 96
