NKP

His 100th game today

 

It's no coincidence the central defenders look much better players now they are getting protection off of the midfield.

 

Yeah, I'd go with that and possibly at this point in Mcmahon's sojourn at city he was pretty much viewed the same. I guess as time went on he became more diversive to people. Cadiss to me just looks and acts like a leader, and when required a manager. Only my opinion of course...

 

Caddis could write the 'full back textbook'.

 

I agree my MOTM today

 

In fairness he was pretty consistent in that (now) great 2015/16 season and for me was only second to Marshall and Cullen for consistency

I think he's a player who needs a good man-manager, as I get the impression he can lose confidence and let things affect him. Speaks very well and has always seemed to enjoy his time with us - even his 2018, which in fairness typified the clubs

There's also an argument that when he plays well, the team does and vice-versa. I get the impression he's seen as a key team member, simply because when he's on his game he oozes confidence and that of course has a great affect on the team. Of course when he's terrible (perm any match last winter!!) it also affects us badly

I see no reason for another centre-half now, provided we've got cover in midfield so O'Connor doesn't have to play there a lot

 

He was that good I didn't even notice him...

 

I think the key is definitely the overall fitness of the team but equally important is they are playing for EACH OTHER - this attitude is essential in all successful teams and DH has really worked on galvanising this aspect. They were in his words 'strangers' when he came in and there appeared to have been very little social bonding between the players.
NKP is not a bad footballer but when the team is not bonding in any way those in defence often have most to lose as their mistakes are often individual and highlighted even more - you now feel if this happens there will be someone covering for them and also giving them a gee up not to worry