Jimmy Bullard
Undoubtedly one of the most important members of the Latics squad last season playing a total of 46 games plus one as a substitute, bettered only by goalkeeper John Filan.
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Jimmy would be the tip from many Latics supporters to be a success in the Premiership. He possesses a terrific engine, loves to be in possession of the ball and has a good range of passing.
A weakness in his game would be his goal scoring. A total of just three goals from last season was not enough. Goals are hard to come by in the Premiership and a few more from central midfield would be much appreciated.
Despite this, Bullard will be a massive success for the Latics next season.
Rating: 4.5/5.
Andreas Johansson
At the moment Latics fans have very little to go on with regard to Johansson.
There are two main schools of thought. The main consensus seems to be that he is a useless pile of **** and will soon be shipped back to Sweden from where he came.
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These supporters just cannot understand Jewell wasting over half a million on one player when he got bargain’s such as Bullard and Mahon for much less.
Johansson is a Swedish international and so cannot be a fool, although it is unlikely that he is a Freddie Ljungberg either!
Rating: 1/5.
Graham Kavanagh
Had Kav been signed after the season’s close, not only is it likely that the Latics would still be in the championship but many fans would not be so restless about the lack of signings.
The purchase of Kavanagh by Jewell was timed superbly. He gave the squad the impetus to push for the Premiership at the right time, and has been tipped by many to take over the captains armband at the club despite his relatively short stay so far.
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He is a superb defensive midfielder, has a sublime touch of skill and possesses vital experience at international level that could prove so vital to the Latics next season.
Rating: 4.5/5.
Alan Mahon
He didn’t have what it takes to make it at Blackburn in the Premiership and also flopped at Sporting Lisbon in the Portuguese top flight. However he remains popular amongst Latics fans who are impressed with skill and the recently developed work-rate and tackling ability.
Paul Jewell has improved Alan’s game no end. Upon arrival at the JJB, Mahon was just another skilful midfielder with the ability to play a killer pass. However he is no a much more complete player and thus is capable in the centre of the field, as well as out on the left flank.
A recent, unexplained drop from the first team has led to rumours of a rift between the Irishman and his manager. These rumours have been played down and hopefully Mahon will play a big part in the Latics fight for survival next season.
Rating: 3/5.
Lee McCulloch
Fourteen goals from the left flank last season have led to a deserved international call-up and a part of the strike force for the two recent games with Moldova and Belarus.
I’m not sure if he has what it takes to be a success on the left flank in the Premiership, although it would be interesting to see him challenge Ashley Cole at the back post for a header…
The main reason for big Lee’s success out on the flank is his aerial ability. He is a target for Filan’s goal kicks, is a threat at the back post from open play and adds height for the set pieces.
There is much more to McCulloch game than his physical presence however, and he can play a bit too. This will be a big season for Lee.
Rating: 3/5.
Gary Teale
Teale drives a wedge between many Latics fans. Love him or hate him, he could prove vital in the Premiership.
A new two year deal has recently been agreed and Teale should start the season with a fresh burst of confidence. And confidence is the real buzz word when it comes to Teale. A Gary Teale who is playing with confidence can be lethal as we saw in the 2003/04 season before his broken collar bone.
After this injury, he hasn’t quite been the same player and patience is running out in certain quarters. Hopefully he’ll be able to test out Del Horno on the opening day.
Rating 2.5/5.
Conclusion
Six midfielders. Even Paul Jewell must think that having just six midfielders is cutting it fine, especially when one could be considered a striker and another is unknown!
Centre of midfield is the strong point. Bullard and Kavanagh have what it takes whilst Alan Mahon is a more than able deputy. And then throwing Johansson into the equation could seriously help things should he prove to be a hit.
It is a shame that Jarrett left, but that was his choice and now it is up to PJ to bring in a replacement. Jarrett’s battling style is what the Latics could do with.
On the right flank, perhaps the addition of a more defensive wide man would be advisable. Teale, whilst possessing a threat going forward is not the best defensively and will be a liability against the better sides.
Whilst an orthodox left winger is worth a thought. Whatever the manager is planning it has got to be additions. Six is simply not enough.
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