Tag: Coventry City

Every signing Mark Robins made from mainland Europe as Coventry manager – where are they now? Part 1

Players who come to the UK from mainland Europe either bring excitement or apprehension. The majority of your club’s fanbase will not have heard of the player unless they’re a football purist who watch even the most obscure leagues. However, it is to be remembered that moving to a different country is difficult, the style of football is different, the physical demands are different and not to mention adjusting to a different culture of being in another country, the same applies to British talent who move to mainland Europe. Some players thrive in this environment, others struggle. In this article, we’re going to look at European signings Mark Robins has made in his time as Coventry City manager and where they are now. This is the first of a two part article. As Gustavo Hamer is still currently a Coventry player and under contract beyond the end of this season, he won’t be in either part 1 or part 2.

Wesley Jobello signs for FC Arges

1. Wesley Jobello – FC Arges

Coventry City career – 14 appearances, 1 goal and 1 assist.

Before Coventry:

Wesley Jobello signed for the Sky Blues for an undisclosed fee on the 14th of June 2019 from Gazelec Ajaccio, following Gazelec Ajaccio’s relegation to the 3rd tier of French football after a play-off defeat to Le Mans. Jobello would score the winner in the first leg, but missed a crucial penalty in the 2nd leg before Le Mans scored their second goal of the game, which saw Gazelec Ajaccio relegated to the 3rd tier of French football after losing 2-3 on aggregate. The decline and death of Gazelec Ajaccio could have an article on its own. Before arriving to Coventry, Jobello was very experienced in the French 2nd tier playing 116 league matches in Ligue 2 scoring 7 times and 6 assists, so Jobello was arriving to the Sky Blues with some solid pedigree being a graduate of Marseille’s academy and playing 116 times in Ligue 2 playing for Clermont Foot and Gazelec Ajaccio.

Coventry City career:

Wesley Jobello would immediately become a starter for Coventry as he started and played the full 90 minutes on the opening day of the 19/20 season in a 1-0 win over Southend United as Jobello played on the right wing of a front 3 of himself, Amadou Bakayoko and Jordy Hiwula. Jobello would start all of the Sky Blues’ opening 10 league games, scoring once against Blackpool in a heroic 3-2 comeback win after being 0-2 down. His assist came earlier in the season as he would assist Jordan Shipley’s opening goal in Coventry’s 2-0 win against Bristol Rovers. However, disaster would strike. On the day of the away game against Rotherham United, it was announced Wesley Jobello would be out with an injury, which was confirmed to be an ACL injury. The news was devastating for Jobello as he begun to settle into a groove as the starting right winger. The team more took a downturn too, and subsequently the Sky Blues were hammered 4-0 in easily the worst performance of the 19/20 season. Jobello’s season was over, after a dip in performances, Coventry stopped playing with wingers and went with a 3 at the back formation which is still used today. When Jobello returned to fitness, Coventry were now promoted to the Championship and playing in a different system which had isolated Jobello. Jobello would make 3 substitute appearances in the Championship before leaving on the 13th of January 2022 making 14 appearances in all competitions.

Where is he now?

You can find Wesley Jobello playing his football in Romania as he currently plays for FC Argeş Piteşti. After a half season with Boulogne which saw him part of a team relegated to the 4th tier of French football, a stark contrast to the days he was a veteran in Ligue 2. Jobello moved to Romanian Liga I side, UTA Arad in the summer of 2022 where Jobello played 17 times, failing to score but assisting a goal on two occasions, before moving to FC Argeş Piteşti on the 9th of February. So far Jobello has played 14 times for Argeş, starting 6 times and scoring once which was in a crucial 3-0 win over Petrolul where Jobello scored the 2nd goal of the game which helped Argeş avoid automatic relegation on the final day of the season. However, they must win a two-legged relegation play-off tie against 2nd tier side, Dinamo Bucureşti in order to retain their top flight status. Ironically, Jobello’s former club UTA Arad also have to do the same against Gloria Buzau to retain their own top flight status.

Fun fact: Wesley Jobello has played for Martinique at international level. A small territory owned by France in the Caribbean, Jobello has earned 3 caps, scoring 1 goal which came in a 1-0 win over Guadeloupe in a CONCACAF Nations League qualifier.

What caused his career to decline? The ACL injury he suffered at Coventry. Once he came back he returned to a new system which didn’t suit him due to Jobello being an out and out winger. Jobello has thankfully begun to play regular football again in Romania, although not at the same levels he was at in Ligue 2 and what he showed glimpses of in his first few games at Coventry.

Gervane Kastaneer in action for Netherlands U21 against England U21 batting with Ben Chilwell for the ball.

2. Gervane Kastaneer – PEC Zwolle (set to leave in the summer)

Before Coventry:

Gervane Kastaneer was part of Feyenoord’s academy, playing for his boyhood club before joining Dordrecht, signing a professional deal in 2012. In 2013 Kastaneer was signed by ADO Den Haag. Kastaneer made his senior debut on the 4th of February 2015 in a 2-0 win over FC Twente, replacing Wilson Eduardo in the 86th minute. In the 2nd half of the 15/16 season, Kastaneer would join FC Eindhoven in the Eerste Divisie where he would impress, helping them reach the play-offs where they fell short against NAC Breda losing 2-1 on aggregate, Kastaneer scored in the first leg. Kastaneer scored 5 times, assisting once in 16 games, a goal contribution every 183 minutes on average. This didn’t go unnoticed by ADO Den Haag as at the start of the 16/17 season Kastaneer became a starter, and would hit the ground running as in the 2nd game of the season Kastaneer would score a brace which saw Den Haag beat Vittese Arnhem 2-1. Kastaneer would continue to impress in the first half of the 16/17 campaign being a key part of Den Haag’s team. However, this is when things would decline for Kastaneer. On the 21st of January 2021, Kastaneer opened the scoring in the 10th minute heading home a goal from a corner in a home tie against PEC Zwolle. However, in the 14th minute Kastaneer had the ball kicked into his eye in a ground duel with Kingsley Ehizibue, a freak accident. Kastaneer was unable to continue, furious and heartbroken he was taken off in the 21st minute. Den Haag went on to lose 2-1. That was the final game Kastaneer would play that season as the eye injury was season ending. In 16 games, Kastaneer had scored 6 times, assisting twice with a goal contribution every 131 minutes. The injury and the psychological effect took a toll, Kastaneer was at age of 20, had a high ceiling and was playing his best football. He was playing for the Dutch U20 and U21 sides, reportedly attracting interest from bigger teams and it’s ripped away, missing months of crucial development time as well as his confidence. However, Kastaneer recovered and signed for Kaiserslautern in 2. Bundesliga. However, his time there was a disaster. After the eye injury, Kastaneer lost the form he was showing at Den Haag. He only made 5 starts in 10 league games, having only one assist. Kastaneer was released one year into a three-year deal where he would join NAC Breda in what was another disaster as he was part of a really poor Breda side who were relegated by finishing rock bottom on just 23 points, scoring just 29 goals, conceding 74. Kastaneer had 2 goals and 1 assist in 21 appearances, only 10 of those games were starts only playing a full 90 on 4 occasions.

Coventry City career:

On the 20th of June 2019, Gervane Kastaneer signed for an undisclosed fee agreeing a three-year deal. Kastaneer had endured two very difficult seasons, so was coming to Coventry with the aim to revive his career while hoping to help the Sky Blues achieve promotion to the Championship. Revive his career, Kastaneer did not but is remembered for a slide tackle. Mark Robins was quoted saying. “We’re very pleased to have sealed the signing of Gervane. He is an exciting winger who has pace, power and creative ability, and is a player who will be able to get our fans excited.” In his days at Den Haag that proved to be true. Before the season would start, while looking very sharp in pre-season Kastaneer would suffer a minor setback, receiving a knock which caused him to miss the opening 2 league matches. However, Kastaneer would be introduced in the 81st minute in a “home” game against Bristol Rovers replacing Wesley Jobello and literally seconds later, scored a brilliant goal from around 25 yards out making it 2-0 to Coventry. Surely a new hero had arrived. Kastaneer was indeed an enigma, he was quite difficult to understand but the unpredictability was also a detriment. The next game away to Portsmouth, Kastaneer was brought on to replace Wesley Jobello but would only be on the pitch for 11 minutes as a reckless slide tackle which is still talked about today saw Kastaneer recieve a second yellow card reducing Coventry to 9 men. Miraculously the Sky Blues still managed to come back to draw 3-3. In the league Kastaneer would only make one start in the disastrous 4-0 hammering away to Rotherham United before being taken off in the 56th minute being replaced by Amadou Bakayoko. Another infamous moment was when Kastaneer was booked in a home tie against Ipswich despite not being on the pitch for getting involved in a touchline squabble between Coventry and Ipswich players which resulted in both clubs being fined. Gervane Kastaneer would make his final appearance for Coventry in a Championship tie in a 10 defeat away to Sheffield Wednesday when he was brought on in the 83rd minute, replacing Ben Sheaf. After a failed loan stint at Hearts in the Scottish Championship where Kastaneer only made 6 league appearances, starting 3 times and assisting once. Kastaneer would leave Coventry City on the 6th of July 2021, agreeing to leave a year early before his contract expires in the summer of 2022. Gervane Kastaneer made 18 appearances in all competitions, scoring only 1 goal.

Where is he now?

Gervane Kastaneer is currently at PEC Zwolle. PEC Zwolle have been promoted back to the Eredivisie at the first of asking. However, Kastaneer is set to become a free agent when his contract expires. In his first season, Kastaneer played 31 out of the 34 league matches, making 17 starts in a season where Kastaneer played 1,550 minutes, he’s most he’s played in a season. Kastaneer would show glimpses of brilliance in the odd game, including a man of the match display against Sparta Rotterdam as well as scoring against two of the Dutch big boys in AZ Alkmaar and PSV Eindhoven. Kastaneer recieved his second man of the match award of the season against AZ Alkmaar. However, as a result of losing multiple key players on free transfers, and replacing the departing players inadequately, PEC Zwolle struggled, Kastaneer included. They finished bottom with 27 points, scoring only 26 goals as a team. The top scorer only got 5. After a successful team rebuild PEC Zwolle got promoted back to the Eredivisie at the first time of asking. However, Kastaneer’s game time significantly reduced only making 2 starts all season in 23 league games. Apart from a great performance against Heracles Almelo in a game where Kastaneer scored and assisted a goal in a 3-2 win, Kastaneer wouldn’t get another goal contribution in the league all season. This summer, Kastaneer will have to find a new club as he’ll be leaving PEC Zwolle as they look to evolve the squad in order to survive in the Eredivisie next season. Wherever Kastaneer goes, hopefully he finds success and gets his career on an upward trajectory again.

Fun fact: Gervane Kastaneer in the 2016/17 season was teammates with current Union Berlin forward Sheraldo Becker at ADO Den Haag. Sheraldo Becker currently plays for Union Berlin enjoying his most prolific season scoring 11 goals, assisting 7 times in 33 league games as he hopes to help The Iron Ones qualify for the Champions League as Union Berlin host Werder Bremen on the final day of the Bundesliga season after Union Berlin defied the odds being an unlikely title contender for the majority of the season.

What caused his career to decline:

The eye injury he suffered in the ADO Den Haag vs PEC Zwolle game in 2017 was the start of the decline. In the first half of the 2016/17 campaign, Kastaneer was very good and playing some great stuff. The injury ended his season, and it cost him crucial months of development at an important time where he was playing really well and was full of confidence, at the age of 20 at the time, Kastaneer was in a great place, thriving for ADO Den Haag while also playing for the Dutch U20 and U21 teams. The injury had bigger psychological consequences as once he left ADO Den Haag, he also lost his form and never recovered, even regressing. Kastaneer is still only 26, soon turning 27 so he has time to get his career on track and hopefully he does. While I think it’s very unlikely he’ll reach the levels he was at in Den Haag, I hope he finds a club where he can settle and thrive on a consistent basis.

Six Coventry City Players From The 2005-2006 Season – Where Are They Now?

Introduction:

The 2005-2006 campaign was a big season for the Sky Blues. After 106 years at Highfield Road which came to an end after Coventry’s 6-2 win over Derby County on the 30th of April 2005, the Sky Blues were set to move into a new home, the Ricoh Arena. It was certainly a huge transition period for Coventry, a season they were looking to progress after a rough 2004-2005 campaign which only saw them survive by a narrow two points. Progress is what they did, finishing in a more respectable 8th place with 63 points, 12 points off the play-offs. The question marks being what if Coventry had a better start or if they were better defensively as despite the 8th place finish, they ended the campaign on -3 goal difference, 62 goals scored and 65 goals against. They were also let down by their away form.

Dennis Wise celebrates for Coventry City

1. Dennis Wise – Chief Executive Officer of Como 1907.

2005-2006 Championship stats: 13 appearances, 6 goals.

Before Joe Cole to Coventry, we had Dennis Wise to Coventry. Dennis Wise signed for Coventry City on the 19th of January 2006 in which would be his last dance as a footballer. The Wimbledon and Chelsea legend would end his footballing career in style as he would be an integral part of Coventry City’s strong second half of the season. Dennis Wise would score 6 goals in 13 appearances in which he scored a goal every 165, a stat most strikers would be proud of. One of those goals included a sensational overhead kick in a 2-1 win away to Hull City. The Sky Blues would offer Dennis Wise a one-year extension. However, Dennis Wise would retire from football to become manager at Swindon Town, before a management role at Leeds United before surprisingly leaving Leeds to take up an executive role at Newcastle United which he would end up leaving on the 31st of March 2009.

Where is he now?

Dennis Wise is now the CEO at Serie B side, Como 1907. Como is a city in the Lombardy region of Italy, 31 miles north of Milan. A club who’ve recently made headlines across Europe for the surprise signing of Spain legend, Cesc Fabregas who has also invested into the club’s future. Becoming a part-owner as well as player. Dennis Wise became CEO on the 12th of February 2021 as Como were set to win promotion to Serie B from Serie C. Their second promotion since reforming in 2017 following their second liquidation. Owned by Indonesian Tobacco company, Djarum. Como 1907 has large ambitions to keep growing with aspirations to be promoted to Serie A. Dennis Wise is still CEO.

Rob Page as Wales manager

2. Robert Page – Manager of the Wales National Team *caretaker*.

2005-2006 Championship stats: 32 appearances, 1 goal, 9 clean sheets.

Robert Page went on to make 79 appearances for the Sky Blues from 2005-2008. The former Wales international for the most part was a focal point of the Coventry City defence during the 2005-2006 season. Entering his 30s at this stage, his career was beginning to wind down. However, Page proved to be a solid centre half during his stint with the Sky Blues in which included an incident where he knocked out Michael Doyle in a training ground fight during the 2006-2007 season which was instigated by a hard tackle on fellow Coventry player, Chris Birchall. As a consequence Page was frozen out of the side by Iain Dowie. In January of 2008, Page left Coventry City to go to Huddersfield before ending his footballing career at Chesterfield on the 23rd of March 2011 retiring after an Achilles Tendon injury. In July of 2011 he would begin his career as a coach as he was offered a coaching role by Micky Adams at Port Vale which in September 2014 saw him promoted as manager, Page would remain at the Valiants until the end of the 2015-2016 which saw Vale finish 12th in League One. A move to Northampton to succeed Chris Wilder as manager followed.

Where is he now?

Since March of 2017, Page has been part of the Wales national team, initially in charge of Wales’ Under 17 and Under 19 squads, he would become the assistant manager to Ryan Giggs in August of 2019, a reward of impressing with the youth sides. Page’s organisation skills were credited as a huge part in Wales’ improved defensive performances. However, on the 3rd of November 2020, Rob Page became the caretaker manager of Wales as Ryan Giggs was arrested on two counts of assault. Rob Page has inherited a Wales side in which he guided to a last-16 berth as the Dragons were knocked out in a 0-4 defeat to Denmark. However, it wasn’t all doom and gloom as Wales on the 5th of June 2022 qualified for their first world cup in 64 years, since 1958 after defeating a highly-motivated Ukraine side 1-0. Wales are in Group B of World Cup with 2018 World Cup semi-finalists England, USA and Iran. Rob Page remains caretaker manager for now, but that could easily become permanent if Wales decide to part ways with Ryan Giggs following his court trial which is currently ongoing.

Andy Whing celebrates the final ever Coventry City goal at Highfield Road.

3. Andy Whing – Banbury United Manager.

2005-2006 Championship stats: 32 appearances, 7 clean sheets.

Andy Whing will forever go down in history as the last player to score a goal at Highfield Road following Coventry City’s 6-2 win over Derby County. He would end up playing a regular role the following season as he would make 32 appearances for the club. However, that would unfortunately prove to be his peak at the Sky Blues. At the start of the 2006-07 season, Whing would struggle which subsequently saw him loaned out to Brighton from October to December of 2006 before returning to Coventry to play in the reserves until his release which saw him return to Brighton on a permanent basis where he would then have a loan spell at Chesterfield before a brief stint at Leyton Orient before joining Oxford United in the summer of 2011, which would be his final club as he stayed there until retiring at the end of the 2014-2015 season aged just 30. Since retirement as a player Andy Whing has had coaching roles at Kidderminster Harriers as the U23 coach before a spell with Hereford when they were managed by Russell Slade. However, on the 12th of May 2020, Andy Whing would become manager of Banbury United.

Where is he now?

Andy Whing still remains Banbury United manager, his stint with the Puritans has been a major success as Banbury ended the 2021-2022 campaign winning the Southern League Central Division in dominant fashion, only losing twice as they picked up 102 points, 23 ahead of second placed Peterborough Sports who also got promoted to the National League North with Banbury. Banbury have had an encouraging start to life in the National League North as they look to have a strong campaign once again. Who knows, with how unpredictable the non-league could be, Andy Whing’s men could possibly enjoy back-to-back promotions. A young promising squad with more potential. A certain Jak Hickman is part of Banbury side. Banbury sit in second place after 4 games, while there is a very long way to go in the season yet, they’ve had a great start. Football League clubs should definitely look at Andy Whing, a promising upcoming manager who’s done a superb job with Banbury United since taking charge in May 2020.

Dele Adebola in action for Coventry City during the 2005-2006 season.

4. Dele Adebola – Founder of Strike9 Training.

2005-2006 Championship stats: 44 appearances, 12 goals.

If you ask a Coventry fan to name a cult hero, there’s a good chance Dele Adebola will be somebody they’ll mention. With the Sky Blues from 2003-2008, Adebola scored 36 goals in 181 appearances. His most prolific season for Coventry came in the 2005-2006 season as Adebola would score 12 goals in 44 league appearances, which included a brace in a 3-0 win over QPR in the first ever competitive game at the Ricoh Arena. Micky Adams being able to get the best out of the Nigerian Centre Forward playing alongside Gary McSheffery and Stern John. While Dele Adebola had a fairly modest goal record, he was a constant problem for defenders and he was always a solid strike partner for prolific goalscorers. Dele Adebola would leave Coventry City in January of 2008 joining Bristol City for an undisclosed fee after rejecting a contract offer as his deal was expiring at the end of the season. Dele Adebola would enjoy a strong spell at Bristol City initially being key to the side in the second half of the season which almost saw the Robins earn promotion to the Premier League until they fell short to Hull City in the playoff final. Adebola scored 6 goals in 20 games. He then followed that with 10 goals in 39 appearances in the 2008-2009 season in which Adebola won Bristol City’s player of the year award. From 2009-2011 Adebola would play for Nottingham Forest being part of two play-off campaigns, although at Forest his game time as more limited as he was usually the backup option to Dexter Blackstock and Robert Earnshaw. His time at Nottingham Forest came to an end at the end of the 2010-2011 season. Brief stints at Hull City, Notts County, Rochdale and Wrexham before retiring as a professional.

Where is he now?

Dele Adebola since 2016 Dele Adebola has ran Strike9 Training, a company which specialises in running corporate football events as well as holiday camps within grassroots football and schools. Strike9 are a community lead organisation who provide sport activities in disadvantaged communities in Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell. Primary targets being disabled children, children of the BAME community and children at risk of falling into the criminal justice system. A low cost alternative to breakfast clubs with the aim of supporting families, giving them access to community-focused activities through sport during the school holidays. Adebola has done coaching within academies, commentated football matches analysing games for Blues TV, BBC West Midlands, BBC Coventry & Warwickshire, Birmingham Free Radio and Viking Radio. Dele Adebola is a fan of cycling, and is also a Director for an eletric cycling company called EbikeBrum who provide services to businesses and communities as a non-profit organisation.

Gary McSheffery celebrates scoring for Coventry City.

5. Gary McSheffery – Doncaster Rovers Manager.

2005-2006 Championship stats: 43 appearances, 15 goals.

Coventry born and a graduate of Coventry City’s academy. McSheffery became the youngest player to play in the Premier League as he made his debut in a 4-1 win over Aston Villa, a record he held for 4 years until it was broken by Aaron Lennon. McSheffery had become an extremely important part of the Coventry City side once the 2005-2006 season rolled around, McSheffery was the main goalscorer for the Sky Blues and that continued on into the 2005-2006 season as he netted 15 goals in 43 league appearances as the Sly Blues finished 8th. The Sky Blues were keen to go one further to break into the top 6 in the 2006-2007 season until those hopes were dealt a fatal blow as on the 16th of August 2006, Coventry reluctantly accepted a bid of £3.6m for Gary McSheffery from local rivals Birmingham City. £2.3m upfront with a further £1.3m after Birmingham were promoted back to the Premier League. McSheffery would play a vital role being Birmingham’s top scorer, scoring 13 goals in 40 appearances as Birmingham were promoted to the Premier League. However, McSheffery wouldn’t make the same impact in the Premier League as Birmingham go straight back down. The rest of his Birmingham stint saw him nurse injury issues and falling out if favour, even going out on loan twice to Forest and Leeds respectively, which the latter saw him help Leeds to promotion back to the Championship after a 3 year absence. This saw him return to Coventry in the summer of 2010. However, the spark wasn’t there anymore and it didn’t meet the same expectations as McSheffery wasn’t the same exciting young forward in his first stint at Coventry. McSheffery would then have stints at Chesterfield, Scunthorpe, Doncaster, Eastleigh and Grimsby. McSheffery would end his football career after stints with Frickley Athletic and Rossington Main. Gary McSheffery was the last player for Coventry City to score 15+ league goals in a Championship season until Sweden international Viktor Gyökeres scored 17 league goals for Coventry in the 2021-2022 season.

Where is he now?

Since 2018, Gary McSheffery has been part of the Doncaster Rovers coaching staff as a coach for Doncaster’s under 23 side which then saw him become the manager of the under 18 side in June of 2021. However, that stint would be short lived as following the sacking of Richie Wellens. Gary McSheffery would be appointed Caretaker Manager for Doncaster Rovers’ first team which after 4 games would become permanent. McSheffery couldn’t save Doncaster from relegation as they finished 22nd with only 38 points. McSheffery would be kept on, trusted with the duty of rebuilding Doncaster so they can instantly get promoted back to League One. After 5 games, Doncaster sit 5th in League Two with 11 points. A long way to go, but they’ve had a good start and if Doncaster’s recruitment suggests anything. There is an emphasis on developing young players with potential. However, there are plenty of experience in the Doncaster side to keep the balance of youth and experience.

Michael Doyle lifts the League Two play-off final trophy as Coventry are promoted to League One.

6. Michael Doyle – Forest Green Rovers Assistant Head Coach.

2005-2006 Championship stats: 44 appearances, 0 goals.

A modern-day Coventry City legend and also Robert Page’s training ground opponent. Michael Doyle’s first stint at Coventry City started in 2003 after signing for the Sky Blues upon his departure from Celtic, remaining at the club until 2011 making 297 appearances in his first run, could have been 300+ had it not been for a loan spell at Leeds United for the 2009-2010 season helping Leeds win promotion to the Championship. However, for many years Michael Doyle was an integral part of Coventry City’s midfield. Doyle would play 44 league matches, while he didn’t score a single goal, he was integral to a midfield that helped Coventry finish 8th. Doyle’s most prolific campaign for Coventry came in the 2007-2008 season where he scored 7 goals in 42 games. Following his departure in 2011, Doyle had a 4 year stint with Sheffield United, while he couldn’t save the Blades from relegation to League One, Doyle was always a solid hand in their battles to return to the Championship. Doyle would then join Portsmouth in League Two, which culminated in with Doyle leading Portsmouth to a final day title win in a 6-1 thrashing of Cheltenham Town. It would come full circle as Michael Doyle would join a struggling Coventry City side who had been relegated to League Two. At the first time of asking, the Sky Blues were promoted back to League One after beating Exeter City 3-1, a promotion which cemented Michael Doyle’s legendary status at the club. Doyle would stay at Coventry until January 2019 where he would sign with Notts County, a club where he would stay at until his retirement was official in the summer of 2022 when he became the Assistant Head Coach at Forest Green after a season being assistant coach at Notts County. His last playing season was in the 2020-2021 campaign.

Where is he now?

On the 27th of May 2022, Michael Doyle would join Ian Burchnall in joining Forest Green from Notts County, again adopting the role as assistant coach. Forest Green are starting life in League One for the first time ever. They currently sit in 20th after 4 games. But it’s very early days and Forest Green will certainly be a team to keep an eye on as the small but ambitious club look to consolidate their league one status while going through a transition period following Rob Edwards’ departure to take the job at Championship side, Watford. It’ll be interesting to see if in the future Michael Doyle will ever take the hot seat as a manager. He became a legend at Coventry City as a player. Will he do the same for another club? But as a manager? Time will tell.

Marcel Hilßner – Bremen prospect to forgotten Coventry winger.

Born in Leipzig, Germany on the 30th of January 1995. Marcel Hilßner has had a rather interesting football career. Marcel started his professional career with Werder Bremen, and is currently at Coventry City. Once a hot prospect in Bremen, followed serious injury, a baffling career move, followed by another baffling career move. Signing for Coventry City on the 16th of July 2020, it was a very surprising move, given Marcel Hilßner was established in Germany’s 3rd division. Marcel hasn’t played a senior game for the Sky Blues since, but the setbacks, they were already in motion before he made the move to England to play for Coventry City. We dive into the career of a player, who had impressed in both Germany’s and Bremen’s youth ranks, to being a forgotten man, who’s last dose of senior football was during a failed loan stint with Oldham Athletic.

Marcel Hilßner in action for Werder Bremen II.

Early promise in Bremen:

Marcel Hilßner graduated from Werder Bremen’s academy, a big deal with Bremen historically being one of the most successful clubs in German football. While being part of Werder Bremen II, the reserve team. Marcel was progressing nicely in the Bremen reserves. The 2014/15 season was Marcel Hilßner’s most prolific season in senior football. Marcel Hilßner scored 10 goals, racking up 8 assists in 27 games for the Werder Bremen reserves, playing a huge part in the second team earning promotion to 3. Liga. Similar to Spain, Germany have their reserve teams part of the football league pyramid, rather than a separate reserve league. Something that definitely wouldn’t go down well, if it was implemented in England. The following season, Marcel Hilßner would have a great season again. In the league above, Marcel had scored 7 goals, claiming 2 assists in 26 games, he had also missed a fair bit of action due to a ligament injury in the knee. Marcel Hilßner would also make his first and only appearance for the Werder Bremen first team, coming off the bench in a 0-3 loss to Bayer Leverkusen. Marcel was the final day hero, as he scored a brace to help Werder Bremen II defeat VFR Aalen 2-1, Hilßner’s goals were enough secured Werder Bremen’s second team their status part of 3. Liga. However, Marcel would leave the club he graduated from, returning to the eastern part of Germany.

Marcel Hilßner in action for Dynamo Dresden.

Marcel signs for Dresden:

While Marcel’s time at Werder Bremen had come to an end, failing to break into the first team on a more regular basis. His efforts were still rewarded. Dynamo Dresden had been promoted to Bundesliga 2 after winning 3. Liga. Marcel signed a three-year deal with Dynamo. After an impressive year in the 3rd tier, now was his chance to impress in the 2nd tier. However, Marcel only had made 8 appearances, only claiming one assist as he ended the campaign, goalless. A season full of constant injury issues, and when he was fit struggled to get into a Dresden side who were exceeding expectations, as they finished an impressive 5th, after being promoted the season before. Marcel Hilßner’s time in Dresden would only last a single season, as Dresden looked to improve their squad further to potentially sustain a promotion push, which ended up backfiring. However, it meant if Marcel wanted game time, he had to leave Dynamo Dresden. Game is what he found, 262 miles away in Rostock. However, it meant dropping back down to 3. Liga.

Marcel Hilßner celebrates a goal for Hansa Rostock.

From Dresden, to Rostock:

On the 7th of August, 2017. Marcel Hilßner signed for Hansa Rostock for an undisclosed fee, agreeing a two-year deal. A club who were a mainstay in the iron curtain days of the East German top flight, being the final winners of the NOFV-Oberliga, the old top flight of East Germany, before Germany reunited. Marcel Hilßner signed and proved to be an integral part of the Rostock side, as they were pushing to achieve promotion to Bundesliga 2. Marcel Hilßner’s best game in Rostock came in an epic 8 goal thriller between Rostock and Fortuna Koln, as Marcel Hilßner scored a hat-trick to help Rostock beat Fortuna Koln 5-3. Hansa Rostock were sitting 4th in the table, Hilßner had 4 goals, 6 assists in 18 games before a cruciate ligament rupture ended his season prematurely. At this moment, was where Marcel’s career started to take an unfortunate downward spiral. Rostock would finish in a disappointing 6th, 9 points behind Karlsruher who occupied the promotion play-off slot.

Return from injury and departure from Rostock:

As a consequence of suffering a cruciate ligament injury. Marcel Hilßner would miss the first 9 league games of the 2018/19 season. Marcel would return to league action coming off the bench in a 1-0 win against Karlsruher. His first league start of the season, Hilßner scored his first goal of the season as Rostock ended up drawing 2-2 against FSV Zwickau. Hilßner looked to have kept the form he had the season before, as Hilßner ended up having 5 assists in his first 7 league games of the season. However, game time would progressively reduce, as Hilßner would rarely complete a full 90, with starts becoming less common too. Hilßner would score another goal, as well as another assist as he ended the campaign with 2 goals, 6 assists in 21 appearances. However, his time at Rostock was up, as Hilßner would end up signing for a club in a higher division. Marcel would sign for Paderborn. Little did he know it would be a disastrous career choice.

Marcel Hilßner in action for Paderborn II.

Marcel Hilßner signs for Paderborn:

At the start of the 2019/20 season, Marcel Hilßner signed for SC Paderborn following two seasons at Hansa Rostock. However, there’s a chance Marcel Hilßner signed, expecting to be playing football in 2. Bundesliga. Towards the end of the 18/19 campaign, Paderborn went on an amazing run of form, winning 6 of their last 10 games to jump ahead of Union Berlin, Hamburg and Heidenheim to claim automatic promotion behind champions FC Koln. Union Berlin would also be promoted. However, with Paderborn now in the Bundesliga, it instantly became harder for Marcel. Paderborn then went on to sign more players in the positions Marcel Hilßner plays, Marcel was already demoted to the reserves before his career in Paderborn could even get going. Paderborn II were playing in Oberliga Westfalen, which is a league at the 5th tier in Germany. He would score 3 goals in 10 appearances, assisting once, but never came close to troubling the first team. This was alarming because Paderborn were sitting rock bottom of the Bundesliga, with little to no hope of avoiding relegation as Paderborn looked out of their depth.

Marcel Hilßner in action for Hallescher.

Marcel returns to 3. Liga to sign for Hallescher on loan:

The January transfer window came, with Paderborn bringing in Dennis Srbeny from Norwich and Antony Evans from Everton. Marcel Hilßner was moved out to go to Hallescher on loan for the rest of the season. However, Marcel would end up joining Hallescher on loan until the rest of the 19/20 season. A good move for Hilßner as Halle is only 27 miles from his hometown of Leipzig. Hallescher were 6th in the table, so Marcel Hilßner was brought in to help them reach promotion to 2. Bundesliga. However, the opposite happened as Hallescher completely capitulated in the second half of the season, having spent a fair bit of the early campaign at the very top of the league. Hallescher went from promotion contenders to relegation candidates very quickly. Marcel struggled to have the same effect on 3. Liga due to being part of a team who were in a very poor run of form. Game time was also inconsistent being in and out of the starting 11. However, his first goal came after he came off the bench, as he scored a late equaliser in added time to earn Hallescher a point against FC Ingolstadt. Marcel would score again in the first game back from a break due to COVID stopping football from being played. He scored in a 4-2 defeat to Preußen Münster. Marcel Hilßner would end the season with 2 goals, 2 assists in 24 games. Hallescher avoided relegation by just two points. However, his days at Paderborn were also done, as a club from the heart of England who were on the up were surprisingly ready to sign the German.

Marcel Hilßner playing for Coventry City during pre-season.

Marcel Hilßner joins the Sky Blues:

On the 16th of July 2020, Marcel Hilßner signed with the Sky Blues for an undisclosed fee from SC Paderborn. Coventry City were scouting a few players from mainland Europe, so there was every chance Coventry were scouting Hilßner for a fair few years. However, again the timing proved to be very poor as the Championship was too much of a step up, if Coventry were in League One, there’s a possibility Marcel would have had more if a chance. There were other problems, Marcel had developed a health issue shortly after arriving to England, it was a lung problem which sidelined Marcel and undoubtedly halted his settling in process. Marcel would feature for the U23 squad, despite being being 25 at the time, occasionally scoring the odd goal. He never seemed to trouble the first team, deja vu of his time at Paderborn. Marcel would occasionally make the subs bench, but was never used. A young Will Bapaga and the incredibly unfancied Gervane Kastaneer were ahead of him in the pecking order. It wouldn’t be long until he was send out on loan.

Marcel Hilßner in action for Oldham Athletic.

Marcel joins Oldham Athletic on loan:

On the 13th of January 2021, Marcel Hilßner ended up joining Oldham Athletic on loan until the end of the season, in order to improve his fitness, and to get regular game time. Marcel’s time at Oldham actually started off very well, having a strong debut against Walsall. His first assist would be in a 4-3 defeat to Forest Green as Hilßner setup Conor McAleny for the first of two goals McAleny scored. Hilßner’s first and only goal for Oldham came when Marcel scored a penalty in the 71st minute as Oldham beat Carlisle 3-1 at Brunton Park. Unfortunately it was as good as it got for Marcel. His game time would begin to decrease as he would play less as his fitness was also questioned. He would get one more assist in a defeat against Morecambe. After a good start to the loan spell, Marcel’s game time kept decreasing before ended the season outside of the matchday squad. It looked like Marcel Hilßner’s Coventry career was over before he could even play a game for the Sky Blues. A low-risk gamble that unfortunately ended up failing to work out.

What next for Marcel?

There is no denying that Marcel has displayed promise and talent in the past. However, the last few years have been riddled with bad luck and bad career moves. To put it bluntly, Hilßner’s time at Coventry has been a disaster. There might be a good player in Hilßner. However, it certainly won’t be at Coventry as the Sky Blues keep developing. It might not be in England, as it’s suggested that Hilßner wants to return home to Germany which is understandable. It’s very difficult to settle into a different country to play football, hence most footballers struggle to make that adjustment. The same happens when English players go to different European countries. In Marcel’s case, his career started to decline before he even joined Coventry City. The first setback was when he injured his cruciate ligament while being an integral part of the Hansa Rostock side. While he recovered from that. The ill-fated move to Paderborn proved to be the real start of his decline, as Paderborn’s shock promotion to the Bundesliga ended up being a fatal detriment to his time there before he even started. His time at Coventry City has more or less been deja vu of his time in Paderborn. He didn’t really do anything wrong ar Coventry. It was just a poor career move as he was never good enough to be given a chance at the Sky Blues. However, if or when Marcel Hilßner returns to Germany. Hopefully he can revive his career, as there he has a proven record in 3. Liga, and could certainly be a major asset for many of teams at that level. Marcel would be playing with a major point to prove. If he can put his injury and fitness woes behind him. He certainly has the ability to revive his career, to become a success in the German lower leagues.

Coventry City’s U23s Who Might Benefit From Going Out On Loan

While the first team have been defying the odds in the Championship despite massive financial limitations, relative to most of the league. The Under-23s have been enjoying a fruitful campaign of their own. They sit top of the northern section of the Professional Development League, 8 points clear of Sheffield United. However, there are plenty of players in the U23 setup, who might benefit from a loan spell. In this article, I discuss who those players might be.

Fabio Tavares in action for Coventry City U23s at the CBS Arena

1. Fabio Tavares

The star man for the U23s this season has undoubtedly been Fabio Tavares. Since settling in with the Sky Blues after signing from Rochdale. Tavares hasn’t stopped scoring for the U23s, currently boasting a record of 13 goals in 12 appearances this season. Tavares looks a level above the league the U23 squad play in, hence a potential loan spell should possibly be the next move for the pacey striker. Tavares has had a handful of games in League One, with 2 goals in 26 league appearances for Rochdale. Although most of which were substitute cameos. League Two might be the best possible league for Tavares, with League Two being known for its physicality, it’s the perfect league for Fabio to develop. Port Vale are currently without two of their main strikers, James Wilson and Jamie Proctor through injury, and are in need for reinforcements in January, with Vale playing a similar style of football to Coventry, it seems like a good fit. Undoubtedly, there are other possible clubs in the same league Tavares could go to, as well.

Possible level: League Two.

Declan Drysdale in action for Cambridge United

2. Declan Drysdale

Declan Drysdale is a centre half who was potentially a successor for Kyle McFadzean. However, the increased importance of Kyle McFadzean and the fast upward trajectory of the club are two things he’s fell victim to. Missing a fair bit of this season through injury in which he likely would have gone out on loan again, and since returning has been outperformed in the U23s by a young George Burroughs. Maybe time is borrowed for the Birkenhead born Centre Half. A talented Centre Half who is certainly a good player to have in League One and League Two. There is every chance this loan could be his last, as there’s every chance Declan Drysdale could be leaving Coventry City on a permanent basis in the summer. There is currently too much quality ahead of him in the pecking order, also at the age of 22 he needs to be playing regular senior football. Something he’s unlikely to get at Coventry City. While he might go out on loan in January, it could easily be with an option to buy. Coventry have younger defenders where they need to bring up into their U23 side with the likes of Jay McGrath and Fionn O’Brien needing a clear path. Drysdale’s time is limited. But there is no reason why he can’t be a great signing for a League One or Two club.

Possible level: League One or League Two.

Jonny Ngandu in action against Cheltenham.

3. Jonny Ngandu

Another young prospect who has fallen victim of the club’s own success. To be clear, Jonny Ngandu is a very talented midfielder, a midfielder who has also displayed strong leadership skills, succeeding Josh Eccles as U23 captain. Ngandu falls into the same category as Declan Drysdale and Morgan Williams. Talented players who subsequently became victims of the club’s success where in League One, they’d likely have been around the first team picture by now. Jonny Ngandu was tipped as one of Coventry City’s hottest prospects and was tipped for big things. That isn’t a knock on Ngandu though, it’s just the dangers of giving a young player too much hype, too soon which came from the fast Ngandu was promoted to the U23 side at the age of 16. However, Ngandu for a combination of factors has been in the U23 setup for 4 seasons now. Now aged 20, Ngandu needs to spread his wings. Possibly Ngandu could go out on loan, then Coventry could review him from there. Although it’s likely he’ll be let go, in order to spread his wings. He certainly has the potential to go far, but won’t reach that potential stuck in Coventry City’s U23s. There are plenty of leagues Ngandu could slot into.

Possible level: League Two, National League or Scottish Championship.

Blaine Rowe in action against Southampton in pre-season of 2020.

4. Blaine Rowe

Blaine Rowe isn’t a player I regularly see as somebody tipped to make it at Coventry City, and I think that’s harsh. While Coventry City fans seem to pin their hopes on the highly rated Jack Burroughs to make the grade, Blaine Rowe has just as much as a chance to. Last season in pre-season, Rowe and Burroughs were essentially having a shootout to see who might play in place of the injured Fankaty Dabo in the Championship, before Robins decided with Josh Pask. Rowe impressed many in that pre-season campaign. Rowe did manage to make the bench in the league on two occasions last season though. Signing a professional deal in 2020. Rowe hasn’t looked back. Rowe has been an important fixture in Coventry City’s U23 side. Blaine Rowe is predominantly a Right Back/Wing Back who can also play as a Centre Back if required. Rowe reads the game very well, knowing when to make the tackle. Rowe has the ability to quickly turn defence into attack, using his power and pace to start counter attacks, Rowe has plenty of technical ability to boot. The time has come for Blaine Rowe to go out on loan to get some much needed senior experience. Rowe possibly has the ability to be loaned out to League Two. But realistically, non-league is more likely for Rowe. Non-league should be perfect to get Rowe’s foot into the door of senior football. A much tougher test than what the average fan thinks it is.

Possible level: National League or National League North/South.

Josh Eccles in action for Gillingham.

Honourable Mention: Josh Eccles

Josh Eccles is more of an honourable mention because he’s a player who could massively benefit from a loan spell, but there’s an argument that Josh Eccles is already ready for Coventry City’s first team. An integral player for the U23s, Josh Eccles had an impressive loan spell for Gillingham until January last season, before returning to Coventry. Josh Eccles would end the season very much part of Coventry City’s first team plans, even starting a couple of games putting in some strong showings. Eccles was also with the first team in pre-season and it looked like he would very much be in the plans, until he got injured. Eccles has recently returned from injury, but with Hamer being as good as he is, the large improvement in both Ben Sheaf and Jamie Allen as well as Kelly staying fit. It won’t be easy for him to just insert himself into the team. While he arguably is ready for the first team and is deserving of a chance. You can understand the other side of the argument of him needing to go out on loan. There is a league that might be perfect for him for the rest of the season. A loan to north of the border could be the perfect place for Josh Eccles, should Robins choose to loan him out. Jack Burroughs is also competing in the Scottish Premier League. It’s a tough division to be part of, so it’s a league that should be a great test for Eccles. A test that should massively help his development to the point he becomes an important first team player once he returns. Could see Eccles adding alot to a side, say Motherwell, who are currently in a battle to qualify for Europe. This would be welcome news, as both Sheaf and Eccles have been seen as future Liam Kelly successors.

Possible level: Scottish Premier League

5 Surprise Striker Gems In The EFL after 10+ Games.

What makes the EFL leagues, the Championship, League One and League Two so popular is the consistent element of surprise. The leagues always have you on the edge of your seat, providing a massive dose of catharsis. You sometimes get surprise top scorers at the early stages of a new season. There’s always this question whether these players can retain their form throughout the season, or whether it’s an early flash on the pan, similar to how a striker can start off slowly, before scoring their goals later on. However, we’re looking at who are my 5 surprising strikers across the Championship, League One and League Two who’ve started the campaign extremely well.

Viktor Gyökeres celebrates his goal against Fulham.

1. Viktor Gyökeres – Coventry City

Probably the biggest surprise in all the football league. 12 months ago, Viktor Gyökeres had been enduring a forgettable loan spell at Swansea City where confidence appeared to be rock bottom. Fast forward those 12 months Viktor Gyökeres has scored 9 goals in 11 games, scoring a goal every 103 minutes. Since signing permanently, Gyökeres has looked a different beast. He’s looked even bigger, stronger, and faster. He’s bullied players with his strength, he’s done them on pace, and has excellent dribbling qualities. Gyökeres has arguably been the best striker in the Championship, certainly up there with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Ben Brereton Diaz. Gyökeres has blossomed in a strike partnership with Martyn Waghorn, showing he can work well with Matty Godden as well. Last time out, Matty Godden performed the “necessary evil” while Gyökeres was the hero in Coventry’s 4-1 mauling of promotion favourites, Fulham. As a result of Gyökeres’ sensational start to the new campaign, Viktor Gyökeres will be making his return to the Sweden squad for the first time in over 2 years after Zlatan Ibrahimovic had to pull out of the Sweden squad. Sweden prepare to face Kosovo and Greece as they look to put themselves to the top of Group B, ahead of current leaders, Spain. Coventry have been sensational to watch, and Gyökeres is a massive reason why. No manager in the football league has done a better job with their club than what Mark Robins has done. Four years ago, Coventry were losing at home to Forest Green Rovers, now their star striker is part Sweden’s national team. Any Coventry City fans dare to dream the impossible?

Ryan Hardie celebrates his goal against Portsmouth.

2. Ryan Hardie – Plymouth Argyle

Next up is Rangers academy graduate, Ryan Hardie. Before coming to England, Hardie was playing his trade in Scotland. Although Hardie didn’t fully make the grade at Ibrox; he did enjoy plenty of successful loan spells in the Scottish second division. Finding his best success during two different loan stints at Livingston where he scored 15 goals in 37 appearances for the lions in those combined loan spells. A move to Blackpool didn’t quite work, but it’s Plymouth where Hardie has been allowed to develop as a footballer where he has had two and a half seasons to form a very effective partnership with teammate, Luke Jephcott. Last season, Hardie had 5 goals, 6 assists in 43 games. To my surprise, Hardie has started the campaign as the main talisman with 8 goals in 11 games, while Jephcott has still scored a good 4 goals in 11. A strike partnership which has helped Plymouth climb to the sharon end of League One, two points off Wigan and Sunderland who sit in the automatic promotion places. Hardie has always been a talented player. However, he’s on this list, as I was expecting Luke Jephcott to be the main talisman for the Pilgrims while Hardie is the reliable backup. However, the roles have been the opposite so far, and massive credit for Hardie. If this carries over all the way through the season, Championship football could be knocking on the door of the impressive 24 year old Scot.

Jamie Proctor celebrates Port Vale’s win over league leaders, Forest Green.

3. Jamie Proctor – Port Vale

Jamie Proctor endured a difficult stint at Rotherham United. In his last two seasons, he had 4 loan spells at 4 different clubs where he scored a lowly 5 goals in 46 games. Port Vale had a massive clear out in the summer, including the departure of club legend, Tom Pope. Darrell Clarke felt he needed to take some risks in order to bolster his squad for this season. Jamie Proctor was signed to a one-year deal. A gamble considering the last few years were very forgettable. However, Jamie Proctor has had spark lit inside of him since signing with the Valiants. His career seemed like it was smouldering ashes, but now it’s been turned into a raging inferno. In his first 10 games, Proctor has scored 5 goals, matching his combined tally from those forgettable loan spells, and Proctor could even have a few more, still. Port Vale moving to two up top has worked, and it suits Proctor perfectly, as Proctor works better with a strike partner. Usually Proctor’s job is to be the target man who holds up play to bring others to the game, the Emile Heskey to the strike partner’s Michael Owen. However, Proctor hasn’t minded doing the job of Owen, scoring goals. He scored a very crucial goal at the weekend when Port Vale scored two late goals to beat Leyton Orient 3-2 to climb into the automatic promotion places. Darrell Clarke took a gamble on Proctor and it’s been paying off. Proctor has gone from washed up journeyman, to Vale’s Grim Reaper. Nobody would blame Darrell Clarke if he’s trying to sign Proctor to a longer contract, I’m sure Vale fans will agree with that sentiment. Having survived the reign of terror of Norman Smurthwaite, now in good hands under Carol Shanahan. Port Vale and their fans deserve something to celebrate, is promotion on the cards? Is Jamie Proctor the man to lead his Valiant comrades to League One with his goals?

Cole Stockton celebrates for Morecambe.

4. Cole Stockton – Morecambe

Morecambe have had a good start to life in League One, it’s an incredible achievement for a club the size of Morecambe and top credit to them, it’s well deserved. Morecambe have added plenty of excitement to League One, with 38 goals already scored in their first 11 games. Morecambe have scored 20, and conceded 18. Morecambe could very well be in the play-offs had they not been on the receiving end of 3-4 defeats to Wimbledon and Wycombe in the two seven-goal thrillers. Cole Stockton hasn’t really been prolific in his career. However, Morecambe has turned that around. Scoring 13 goals in 43 games while The Shrimps were promoted to League One, and now Stockton has taken League One by storm, scoring 9 goals already in 11 games. Signing a new two-year deal has only galvanised Stockton. Last season, Paul Mullin ended up having a 30+ goal campaign for Cambridge in League Two, despite never being prolific. Could Cole Stockton have a similar success story? There’s definitely no reason why he can’t aim to hit the magic 20 goal mark, at least. Especially if Morecambe keep having exciting matches with high scoring thrillers!

Shayne Lavery celebrates his goal against Millwall.

5. Shayne Lavery – Blackpool.

Shayne Lavery is a prime example of Blackpool manager, Neil Critchley knowing a young talent when he sees one, going back to his days as a coach in Liverpool’s youth setup. A graduate in Everton’s academy, Lavery struggled to make the grade with the Toffees. However, he made Linfield his playground in the two seasons he was in Northern Ireland. Lavery scored a staggering 44 goals in 73 games for Linfield, he was getting call ups for the Northern Ireland, as well. Blackpool knowing they don’t have the budget to sign ready made Championship strikers, they took a gamble on Lavery, especially as he was a free transfer. It’s paying off, Lavery has scored 5 goals in 11 league games, 7 in all competitions, surprisingly being Blackpool’s early talisman while last season’s star man, Jerry Yates is finding his feet in the Championship.The Northern Ireland international has 9 caps to his name, with 1 goal. If he keeps impressing for the Tangerines, more will certainly be coming his way. Factoring in how huge the step up the Championship is, relative to the Northern Irish top flight, Shayne Lavery has done a sensational job, and it should not go unnoticed. Blackpool have comfortably been the stand out newly promoted side, as they sit in an impressive 12th position after 11 games, just 3 points off the play-offs. There is an awful long way to go yet. But it can’t be denied that Neil Critchley is doing a magnificent job with the Tangerines. Blackpool could still fall into that relegation dogfight, but I think they have enough to stay up, I think they’ll finish lower mid table. Lavery I think will end the season with around 10-14 goals, and could push for 15+, if he gets a bit of luck.

10+ Games In – Coventry City 8 Summer Signings Graded

11 games have gone, Coventry City are absolutely flying! 7 wins from 11 games, including a superb 100% home record as Coventry City have won 6 out of a possible 6 home games, following their return to the Ricoh (now Coventry Building Society) Arena. In this article, I’m going to grade the signings so far.

Viktor Gyökeres celebrates his goal against Fulham.

1. Viktor Gyökeres

Usually the main event is the last on the card, but on this occasion I’m too excited to dive in. The signing of Viktor Gyökeres, it divided opinion. However, the “12 million” signing. Swedish Krona that is, £1 million in sterling, has proven to be a bargain. Viktor Gyökeres has been an absolutely revelation, considering where he was last year, it’s a wonderful turnaround. Gyökeres has formed an excellent strike partnership with Martyn Waghorn in the early stages, he’s shown he can also work with Matty Godden and Tyler Walker, also. He’s looked stronger, and faster. He’ll bully you with his strength, outpace you as well, then dribble past you like a tricky winger, Gyökeres has the 5th highest 1 vs 1 dribble success tally, only 3 behind teammate, Callum O’Hare.

I don’t think many expected Viktor Gyökeres to bring back the goal scoring form he had in his locker when tearing apart the Swedish 2nd division, though. His most prolific campaign was in the 16/17 season where he netted 13 goals, assisted 8 times in 29 games for Brommapojkama. Gyökeres is already only 4 goals away from matching his best professional league goal tally, having already matched his goal involvement total from his loan at St Pauli. Gyökeres insane form has earnt him a return to the Sweden squad, as the Blågult look to secure a place in the 2022 World Cup. Gyökeres is a last minute call up, after Zlatan Ibrahimovic withdrew from the squad. It begs the question if Gyökeres will feature in any of the qualifiers. However, it can’t be denied that training with one of the most exciting young strikers in Spanish Football, Alexander Isak will help Viktor learn a few tips.

Final Grade – A+ – first name on the Coventry City teamsheet, and has returned to the Sweden national team.

Simon Moore celebrates victory vs Middlesbrough.

2. Simon Moore

After parting ways from Sheffield United, having spent his final years as understudy to England International, Dean Henderson, and the promising Aaron Ramsdale. Simon Moore signed with Coventry City, agreeing a three year deal following Marko Marosi’s move to Shrewsbury Town. Despite being a number 2 in his last few years, Simon Moore has been a breath of fresh air between the sticks. The defence have shown great improvement in their own right. But trust between goalkeeper and defence is vital, and it’s no coincidence that having somebody like Simon Moore in goal has helped the defence. A safe pair of hands, and very commanding in the box. Not afraid to catch crosses. Two of those traits, Marko Marosi lacked. Now 31, Simon Moore is an older head, but still with plenty in the tank. A young Tom Billson in the long-term could learn so much from Moore’s experience. Moore has made some excellent saves when called upon. Moore could easily be one of those players who might not get enough credit, and I think that’s wrong. Moore has played a huge role in the defence improving like they have.

Final grade: A – safe pair of hands, incredibly consistent and has helped make a defence to going from looking decent, to an extremely well organised unit.

Ben Sheaf in action for Coventry during his loan spell.

3. Ben Sheaf

Like Viktor Gyökeres, Ben Sheaf upgraded his loan into a permanent, costing a reported £750,000. Ben Sheaf had his highs and lows last season. But it was all a learning curve. Ben Sheaf is like marmite to the Coventry City fanbase, you love him or you hate him. But to be frankly honest, he is so under appreciated it’s criminal. There are so many things that Ben Sheaf does so well, but is not talked about enough. His defensive work is very under appreciated. Ben Sheaf has the 10th highest defensive duel tally in the Championship, 3rd in the Coventry squad behind Ian Maatsen and Callum O’Hare. Ben Sheaf has struggled to permanently make one of the central midfield positions his own. However, it’s clear he’s been unlucky, as he didn’t deserve dropping. Jamie Allen performed admirably, providing an extra dose of bite on the counter attack. It’s hard to compare Ben Sheaf and Jamie Allen though, because they’re both different types of midfielder, and both suit different types of games. Ben Sheaf has been absolutely superb since signing permanently, and deserves more credit than he gets. Sheaf is rough around the edges still, but is quickly moulding himself as a very good Championship midfielder. Sheaf has the highest forward pass rate out of Coventry City’s squad, with 42% of his passes going forward. Not bad for someone who’s seen as a bit pragmatic.

Final grade: B – been an excellent signing, looks sharper, and fitter, has the odd mistake, but recovers from them. Needs to make the defensive midfield berth his own on a more consistent basis.

“Waggy” celebrates his goal against Middlesbrough.

4. Martyn Waghorn

Signing for the Sky Blues upon parting ways with Derby County. Waghorn has been an unsung hero, in my opinion. Martyn Waghorn hasn’t been the old clinical goalscorer that Rangers, Ipswich and Derby fans grew to love. However, despite only having 1 goal, 1 assist in his first 9 games, it’s been incredibly misleading. Viktor Gyökeres has eaten up the plaudits, and rightfully so. However, Waghorn has been a very good Emile Heskey to Gyökeres’ Michael Owen. It took Waghorn a bit of time to find his feet, but in the last few games, he’s been showing his importance to the side. He’s not the clinical Waghorn that the Championship enjoyed watching, but he’s evidently still a good Championship striker. Waghorn should still have little to no issue scoring around 6-9 goals, although don’t be too surprised if Waghorn assisted more than he scored, similar to Gyökeres, “Waggy” can be creative. Don’t be too surprised if Waghorn gets a few from the spot or from a free kick.

Final grade: B – good strike partner for Gyökeres, excellent movement, causes defenders problems, knows how to draw fouls in dangerous areas. Wish he was more clinical, but on his day, you’d back Waghorn to score those crucia

Ian Maatsen in action for Coventry City

5. Ian Maatsen

First of two players signing on loan from Chelsea, Ian Maatsen has enjoyed an good start to the campaign with Coventry. Ian Maatsen has handled the step up to the Championship from League One very well, having being on loan at Charlton Athletic last season. You can see the areas where he’s a bit raw, but you can see areas where he is extremely good. Ian Maatsen has absolutely blossomed when it comes to his tackling. His tackling has been excellent, like his defensive contribution. Exciting going forward as well. There are a couple of weaknesses though, tracking back and positioning, he can be a bit suspect, he has been caught out a few times, his discipline could do with some improvement, at least Gustavo Hamer has a partner in crime though when to comes to enjoying a booking. However, that’s why he’s on loan and not in Chelsea’s first team yet. However, even those weaknesses are progressively improving. On the whole, considering it’s his first season in the Championship. He’s done a fantastic job. That goal against Fulham, he’s already won goal of the month and October has just started.

Final grade: B – Was going to be a low end B, but that would’ve been harsh. Maatsen has been sensational as a wing back. Consistently improving, involved in Holland’s youth setup. There are areas Maatsen needs to improve on still. His potential is scary. Improve on his weaknesses and he’ll be graded an A with no issue.

Jake Clarke-Salter in action, battling Elijah Adebayo.

6. Jake Clarke-Salter

The second Chelsea loanee. Jake Clarke-Salter had three Championship stints, one with Sunderland and two with Birmingham City. A capable hand at Championship level, Clarke-Salter has helped the back 3 become more organised, courtesy of being left footed, and having some pace for a centre half, an area where Dominic Hyam, Kyle McFadzean and Michael Rose struggle with. Clarke-Salter has proven to be a solid addition, also not being afraid to occasionally overlap Ian Maatsen on the left flank, not afraid to move forward. With expansive mature also comes great risk. There has been a few occasions where he’s caught out. However, the benefit of having pace means he’s able to recover from those errors. Apart from that game where Elijah Adebayo made life extremely difficult. However, Clarke-Salter has shown he’s a solid Championship player as a whole, and has definitely strengthened the side in defence. With his contract expiring at Stamford Bridge, the Sky Blues might be looking to bring the centre half in, on a permanent basis if he does well this season. Only 24, there is time for Coventry to unlock that extra potential he possesses.

Final grade: B – Clarke-Salter just about gets a B, in my opinion. Been very solid on the whole, and has strengthened the defence, adding that different dynamic. A few parts need improvement but definitely a good signing, and a player that would be a great permanent signing. The fact his signing has improved the defence has to be the contributing factor as to why he’s got a B.

Todd Kane post match applauding the fans after the game against Millwall.

7. Todd Kane

Signing on deadline day after being deemed surplus to requirements at QPR, Todd Kane adds a backup option in both the right and left wing back roles. With Josh Reid not quite ready to jump into the first team, and Julien Dacosta not being at the required standard. Todd Kane was brought in to provide needed competition for both Fankaty Dabo and Ian Maatsen. Making 5 appearances so far, Todd Kane has shown he’s definitely a capable player at Championship level, having over 150 league appearances to his name. Todd Kane has proven to be a good backup option. The concern is the lack of discipline, as that was the problem at his last club. However, it’s been a fresh start for Kane and the wing back roles are less of a concern with him on the payroll. It begs the question as to whether we’ll see Kane come off the bench often, or only on occasions. There is doubting that he’ll be an important squad player across the season, in the three games Dabo was suspended, he proved a capable player, the 5-0 Luton thrashing aside. With Maatsen suspended for the game against Blackburn, Kane will be called upon to fill in during Maatsen’s unfortunate absence.

Final grade – C – Todd Kane has definitely proven to be a capable player when called upon. But only playing 5 games, we haven’t got a full idea of how good he really is, granted he’s had a strong start. But given he’s seen as more of a backup option and only made 5 appearances, I can’t give him anything more than a C, I’m afraid. Still a solid signing!

Bright Enobakhare celebrates scoring away at Sunderland.

8. Bright Enobakhare

Returning to Coventry City following a stint in India with East Bengal. Bright Enobakhare is hands down the weirdest signing Coventry City made in the summer. In my opinion, Coventry City shouldn’t have gone anywhere near him, as young gems like Scott Twine were available before Twine for example was signed by MK. However, Mark Robins has been successful because of the risks he’s taken along the way. So you always have the trust the “gaffer’s” judgement on Bright signing, so it would also be unfair for anyone to completely write him off. Bright’s brightest moment in his career was that loan spell at Coventry, where he scored six goals in 18 games. However, his loan spell is completely irrelevant to the now. That was then. At the moment, Bright is incredibly unfit, he also not in the ideal body shape. So in the meantime, Bright is currently a regular fixture in the under 23 side, while also working to get into the required body shape, something that can take months to do. It could be until Christmas or the new year until you see Bright Enobakhare in the first team fold. Understandable, but also worrying as one of Coventry’s weaknesses are a lack of a backup option in attacking midfield, if Callum O’Hare was going to be injured. A fully fit Bright likely is that backup option. In the meantime, I think a Callum O’Hare injury would trigger a formation change, due to there not being a strong backup option available while Bright works to get to the required fitness levels.

Final grade: N/A – Bright Enobakhare could easily become an excellent signing. In terms of footballing ability, Bright Enobakhare has buckets of it. But there are several obstacles in the way at the moment. Expectations for Bright need to be kept very low for now, Bright realistically is a long way away from being in the first team while unfit, if he does, it might take a few games to find a rhythm, but realistically, it’s hard to see him break in, as Callum O’Hare is one of Coventry’s most integral players.

The Rise Of The “Super Swede” – Viktor Gyökeres

Coventry City have had another successful summer recruitment drive, relative to their limited finances. Signing the likes of Martyn Waghorn, Simon Moore, Ben Sheaf, Ian Maatsen and Jake Clarke-Salter. However, once signing that’s particularly stood out is the signing of Swedish striker, Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish forward was on loan at Coventry last season, which included a heroic winner away to Stoke, which resulted in Coventry City’s survival. A move that got off to a rocky start, but one that ended very strongly. That loan move has become permanent for a fee of around £1 million. A move so far that is proving to be a bargain. Seven games gone, Viktor Gyökeres has started the campaign very brightly, with 4 goals, and 2 assists, with a Sweden call up more than possible for the 23 year old forward. Viktor Gyökeres is quite possibly the first name on the team sheet at the moment. A player with both power and pace, add in the dribbling quality, you have yourself a complete striker. Defenders have struggled to deal with him this season so far.

In this article, we start with Gyökeres’ difficult loan spell at Swansea City, what was different at Coventry City, how he’s become one of Coventry City’s most integral players in Mark Robins’ squad and we go through exactly what Viktor Gyökeres offers to this Coventry City side.

Viktor Gyökeres in action for Swansea City.

Viktor’s struggles in Wales:

Before we go into Viktor Gyökeres’ run with Coventry, you have to start with Swansea. At the start of the 2020/21 season, Gyökeres signed for Swansea on loan from Brighton, following an impressive loan spell with St Pauli the season before. However, Viktor’s first Championship spell was a complete write-off. Whether that’s due to Swansea under Steve Cooper played a style that didn’t tailor to Gyökeres’ strengths, playing put of position. It’s unknown, but he never looked like trouble Jamal Lowe and Andre Ayew for their places. Gyökeres only made 11 league appearances, with only two starts. It would take an effect on his confidence.

Gyökeres in action for Coventry against Birmingham.

Gyökeres joins Coventry on loan:

Despite Gyökeres struggles in South Wales, Coventry City were in need of a striker, following an injury crisis; and Gyökeres had just been recalled by Brighton. So Coventry gave Viktor Gyökeres a second bite of the cherry at Championship football, signing him on loan for the rest of the season. Gyökeres was likely seen by Coventry fans as a temporary fix, then would be a forgotten loan which you’d be asked about in a pub quiz. But little did we know how integral he’d become today. In his second start, he would score his first goal for Coventry City, in a 2-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday. However, it wouldn’t do much to improve his confidence. Gyökeres was still suffering from a lack of confidence, as his loan spell didn’t start particularly well. Consequently, Gyökeres went on a four-game spell where he didn’t play. International duty couldn’t come soon enough for Big Vik.

Viktor Gyökeres celebrates with Leo Østigård.

Will the real Viktor Gyökeres please stand up:

The international break happened. While Coventry’s first team didn’t have any football to play. The under 23 side did. So Viktor Gyökeres was selected to play in the U23 squad and performed very well, scoring himself a brace. This caught the eye of Mark Robins, as once the international break was over, he was straight back into his plans. Gyökeres would make his return in a 3-0 defeat against QPR, where he would impress. Then came one his second goal of the season, in an emphatic 3-1 win over Bristol City. A sign Gyökeres has some of his form back. Then followed strong cameos against Bournemouth, Rotherham and Barnsley. Viktor Gyökeres just looked so much more confident.

Viktor Gyökeres becomes Coventry’s saviour.

Super Swede slays Stoke to ensure Coventry’s survival:

Next came a crucial midweek game against Stoke City, in Stoke-on-Trent. A tough place to go for any football club. In a five-goal thriller. Coventry played with no fear, and it was Viktor Gyökeres coming off the bench, who was Coventry City’s hero. This was where Gyökeres became a fan favourite. While the Preston game officially ensured the Sky Blues’ survival. It was more or less secured in Stoke. Gyökeres’ performances were rewarded. Gyökeres would end the season, starting the last 3 games of the season, putting in strong performances. Viktor Gyökeres ended the season, as the first choice striker, and deservedly so. Gyökeres scored 3 goals in 19 appearances. However, his contributions at the end of the season were far greater than what the overall stats suggest. That was when I said, it’s time to get rid of Maxime Biamou, because Viktor Gyökeres should be the man going forward. Gyökeres deserved to be signed permanently by Coventry.

Viktor Gyökeres celebrates his goal against Blackpool.

Big Vik signs permanently:

Mark Robins was very impressed that he ended up signing Gyökeres on a permanent deal, an undisclosed reported to be 12 million Swedish Krona, £1 million in British currency. The highest fee Coventry City have paid for a striker, since Freddie Eastwood. With Maxime Biamou and Amadou Bakayoko gone. Gyökeres and Martyn Waghorn were brought in to replace the two. Gyökeres signed a three-year deal, the main sign that the club have an investment in you. So far, it’s been paying off. Gyökeres has looked stronger, faster, fitter and meaner.

Viktor Gyökeres celebrates his goal against Cardiff City.

Being the most integral player in the squad:

Yes, I said it. In the first seven games of the season, Gyökeres has been Coventry City’s most integral player, with Simon Moore and Callum O’Hare. Viktor Gyökeres has barely put a foot wrong this season. In the early stages, the defining moment is Blackpool away. The game before against Barnsley, where he missed a late penalty. He shown his amazing mentality by putting in a superb, dominant display. A game where Gyökeres. Viktor Gyökeres in just 7 games has beaten his tally from last season. Gyökeres has 4 already and it’s still only early days. If you have more physical strength, Gyökeres will beat you with his pace, if you’re a player with pace, he’ll beat you with strength. Viktor runs the channels, and dribbles the ball very well. His dribbling being one of his big strengths. Within 6 months, Viktor Gyökeres has gone from a potential loanee everyone will forget about, to one of Coventry City’s most integral players in their current squad.

Expectations for the rest of the season:

To keep a level head on things; a good start doesn’t guarantee success will carry on, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. While it’s easy to get carried away, it’s important Gyökeres shows this is on merit, not an early season flash in the pan. So really, the expectation for Gyökeres is to have this levels of performance throughout the season. Should Gyökeres do that, dare I say that the young Swede has all the potential to surpass over 15 goals, and might get a fair few assists, too. However, it’s still early days, but Gyökeres is quickly proving to be one of the best all round strikers in the Championship, especially based off his current form. If his current form shows anything, a return to Sweden squad might not be far away, scoring regular goals in the Championship and only being 23, a Sweden call up is 100% a massive possibility for Gyökeres. The objectives for Gyökeres this season, in my opinion has to be this. Firstly, aim for 15 league goals or higher, 4 goals in 7 games early on, it’s definitely possible. Secondly, get himself selected for the Sweden squad before the end of the 2021/22 season. With the level of performances he’s shown so far, there is so much potential for Gyökeres to even improve That’s the scary thing for opposition players. Viktor Gyökeres is still only 23, he still has plenty of time to fine tune, and massively improve his game. Coventry City is definitely the right place for Gyökeres at the moment.

Ex-Coventry City Players, Where Are They Now? Episode 1: Aaron Martin

This is a new article series where I will look at ex-Coventry City players who have gone on to pastures new and review their career after life at Coventry City came to its conclusion. The first player is Port Vale Centre Half, Aaron Martin who parted ways from Hamilton after their relegation to the Scottish Championship. As Port Vale went on a mass recruitment drive following a mass clearout, including the departure of Port Vale legend, Tom Pope. Aaron Martin was one of the crop signed to rebuild Port Vale in Darrell Clarke’s image. In this article, we look through Aaron Martin’s career post Coventry City.

Aaron Martin in action for Coventry City against Gillingham

Coventry City career:

Aaron Martin first joined Coventry City on the 25th of February 2013, following a forgettable loan spell at Crystal Palace earlier in the season. Aaron Martin was 1 of 24 transfers in the 2012/13 season. So you’d be forgiven for forgetting it if this question was asked in a pub quiz. In a season where Mark Robins made Coventry go from relegation candidates to play-off contenders, before he took the Huddersfield job. Coventry City were lacking in stability following relegation from the Championship. Aaron Martin would make 12 appearances during this loan spell. Spells with Birmingham City and Yeovil Town followed, before Martin would return to Coventry City for a second spell, initially on loan until January of 2015, which upgraded into a permanent stay. It was a difficult season for Aaron Martin. At least in my point of view. However, Aaron Martin would show improvement during the 2015/16 season, under the guide of then manager, Tony Mowbray. In a squad with the star power from players like Adam Armstrong, James Maddison, Jacob Murphy, John Fleck and Joe Cole. Martin was a bit of am unsung hero at times, even earning an unsung hero award. Though Martin shown improvements, he did lack aggression and was occasionally a liability, liable to giving away silly fouls. The one standing out was where Coventry threw away a two-goal lead against Swindon Town. Martin in stoppage time wrestled Nicky Ajose to the ground. A move I’m sure Vince McMahon, Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar would’ve been impressed with. Sadly for Martin, he’s playing football and not wrestling for the WWE so he was penalised for said foul, which Nicky Ajose went on to score. That said, Martin did a decent job in my opinion. However, Martin’s lack of aggression was why Tony Mowbray chose to release the centre half, though admitted it was a difficult decision. Aaron Martin made 72 appearances for Coventry, scoring 2 goals.

Aaron Martin signs for Oxford:

Following his departure from Coventry City, Aaron Martin signed for Oxford United, who had just won promotion to League One the season before. However, the 2016/17 season was one to forget for Martin. Only making 4 appearances in the league making a further 4 in cup action. Aaron Martin would make more appearances the following season. However, Martin would still play a bit part role, on a sporadic basis. His league appearances tripled from 4 to 12. However, come the end of the season, it made sense for both parties to go their separate ways. Not really alot to report on, because it was fairly forgettable. 16 league appearances across two seasons.

Aaron Martin celebrates his goal for Exeter in a win against Northampton Town

Aaron Martin signs for the Grecians:

Aaron Martin would drop to League Two. Signing for Exeter City, following the Grecians’ 3-1 defeat to Coventry City in the League Two play-off final the season before. Aaron Martin would play a large role in the first half of the 2018/19 season. However, once the turn of the new year Martin’s game time would become limited. Only making 4 appearances in the second half of the season relative to the 20 appearances in the first half of the campaign. Aaron Martin would score 3 goals in 24 league appearances as Exeter finished 9th, just a single point off the play-offs.

Grecians’ title charge & the birth of a global pandemic:

The 2019/20 season proved to be more successful for Aaron Martin. Playing a far larger role in Exeter’s defence. Aaron Martin would play in 35 of Exeter’s regular season games out of a possible 37 and all of Exeter’s play-off games, scoring 3 goals. Exeter were in a five-team title battle between Swindon, Crewe, Plymouth, Cheltenham and Exeter. Just below, Colchester, Northampton, Port Vale and Bradford City were squabbling over the final two play-off spots. Forest Green and Salford both had an outside chance too, if they hit form at the right time. However, in March 2020 Coronavirus was born, and it had massive ramifications on how everybody lived their lives as the virus spread around the world. Football was stopped in the UK. It was then decided the season would be curtailed via points per game. A big reason being finances for the clubs down in League Two. Exeter had to settle for a play-off spot, where Port Vale cruelly missed out by a single point. However, with clubs worried about finances, most clubs voted for PPG, including Port Vale themselves, very noble as I couldn’t see many people being as selfless in the same position. The Grecians would make the play-off final for the third time in four seasons, after beating Colchester over the two legs, which Aaron Martin scoring a goal himself in the second leg. However, Exeter would be crushed by the Cobblers in the final, losing 4-0. This would be Aaron Martin’s final game for Exeter City.

Aaron Martin in action for Hamilton Academical

Martin moves north of the border:

It wouldn’t be until November 2020 until Aaron Martin would have a club. This time, Martin moved north of the border to join Hamilton on a short-term deal. His season with the Accies was one of struggle. Aaron Martin made 24 league appearances for the Accies, with an average WhoScored rating of 6.64. Not a bad average considering he was with a side that finished bottom. Before the league split in two. There was a two-point gap between Ross County in 10th and Hamilton bottom, with Kilmarnock inbetween. However, once the league split. Hamilton capitulated, with 4 out of their final 5 games ending in defeat, only beating St Mirren. Hamilton ended the campaign 9 points off safety. This would be Martin’s only season with Hamilton as he would make a return to England.

Aaron Martin pictured in Port Vale’s home kit

Aaron Martin signs for the Valiants:

Following his departure from Hamilton, Aaron Martin returned to England, to League Two to sign for Port Vale. With Darrell Clarke wanting to rebuild the Port Vale side in his own image, following a frustrating campaign which Port Vale’s went from relegation candidates to title contending form within a space of weeks. Mostly thanks to Tom Conlon going on a rampage, scoring a flurry of goals and bagging a couple of assists during that run, including a goal of the season contender away to Barrow. Port Vale went on a nine-game unbeaten run, winning 8. Vale finished 13th in the end. Although the league position is rather deceiving, as Vale struggled for large parts, being saved by a sudden purple patch of form. However, Clarke has rebuilt his Port Vale team to launch a stronger assault on League Two this season. Aaron Martin should bring quality and stability to Port Vale’s defence, which was one of Vale’s achillies heels last season. At the age of 31, Martin has likely peaked as a footballer. However, Martin should be able to offer alot to Darrell Clarke’s men. So far, Port Vale are winless in the first 3 games with Martin having played once. However, it is very early in the season with some of the new Port Vale signings needing time to settle down before hitting their stride. Yet to score in the league, but have kept two clean sheets. I couldn’t tell you where Port Vale will finish because League Two is one very difficult league where anything can happen. However, with Vale finishing strongly last season. There is reason to be optimistic, despite the slow start. I would say pushing for the play-offs should be the objective for the Valiants this time round, but it’s very early days, and it remains to be seen if Aaron Martin can play a very important role for Port Vale this season.

What We Learned From Danny Cashman’s Interview From What’s The Craic Podcast.

Ben Wood and Alex Craig from What’s The Craic Podcast sat down with Danny Cashman for an interview to get an idea of what the young and exciting forward signed upon his departure from Brighton & Hove Albion. In this article we go through the key parts of the podcast, and what was learnt from this interview.

The end of Crawley’s academy leading up to Cashman signing for Brighton’s academy.

Around 2012, Crawley Town, a smaller club from Sussex had an academy of their own. Cashman was born in Crawley so you can see why Cashman started his footballing life in his hometown. However, Crawley Town’s academy ended up closing their doors due to being unable to fund for an academy side, this was shortly after Cashman was offered to stay on at Crawley’s academy for a second year. It should be noted during that time, Crawley were still in the Conference Premier, now renamed National League. So you can imagine money being very tight with also having an academy to run, as well. Unfortunately it resulted in Crawley no longer being able to fund an academy, which meant Cashman had to search for a new club. However, Cashman clearly caught somebody’s eye, as he was shortly signed by Brighton & Hove Albion, a fellow club in Sussex, which went on to yield plenty of success down the road. Cashman at this time in his life was aged 11. It was initially a six-week trial. But after playing one game, Cashman did enough to be signed by the Seagulls. Danny Cashman’s time at Brighton would last a good 9 years, as both an academy and professional.

Danny Cashman in action for Brighton against Newport County.

The change of approach towards playing football, from academy footballer to professional footballer.

Next up, Danny Cashman explained the differences between academy and professional football. Cashman went on to describe the difference between both stages of a football career. Firstly, Cashman described early stages of football as a hobby, something he has always wanted to do, because playing football is what he enjoys doing. Admittedly, Cashman went on to say, when younger it’s common to think about scoring goals in front of 30,000 fans, oblivious to the sacrifices that have to be made to achieve that dream. Like missing out on events, because the focus is on honing your football skills. But later admits to when he got older, with football essentially beoming a full-time job for Cashman, as now he’s getting paid to play football. It becomes a serious matter, because now he’s professional, his job like any other footballer is on the line. Performances have ramifications for the future. Football might be the beautiful game, but it can equally be cruel, as job security doesn’t yield longevity very often. A football career can be very short, for example, one serious injury could spell an early end to a football career. Cashman explained how the enjoyment factor isn’t the only motion a footballer will go through, once it becomes a job. Contracts and even careers are on the line.

Cashman’s powerful message to people with aspirations to be something they dream of doing.

Thirdly, Ben Wood asked Cashman if he had any backup plan, should football not work out. However, Cashman admitted growing up he really enjoyed doing sports the most. He went to say to any young footballers that it’s not necessarily a weakness, then went on to say, if you work hard enough and push hard enough, anything can happen. Cashman then went on to say that everyone’s journey is different. In a footballer’s case, it can take one club to make it, or it can take 3 clubs. For example, Coventry loanee, Ian Maatsen played for 4 academies before turning into a professional footballer. Feyenoord, Sparta Rotterdam and PSV Eindhoven, before joining Chelsea, then turning into a professional footballer. Cashman appears to have a very wise head on very young shoulders.

Playing for England’s youth setup.

Danny Cashman went on to mention playing for England. So Alex Craig went on to ask if any of his teammates in the England setup stood out to him who he thought to go on and do some big things in their career. Firstly mentioning Bobby Duncan who’s had stints with Manchester City, Liverpool, Fiorentina before settling in at Derby County. Mason Greenwood who’s gone on to play for England’s senior team, and become a regular fixture for Manchester United’s first team. Finally, Bukayo Saka was mentioned, who at the age of 19 went on to break into Arsenal’s first team, and be part of England’s recent Euro campaign, where England reached their first major tournament final since 1966. Cashman admitted to playing with all of those players, paying compliments to them all. Praising Duncan’s finishing, praising Saka’s pace, speed and strength before praising Greenwood’s gifted ability with both feet. Cashman went to admit that he wants to reach a similar stage himself instead of saying that he got to play with those calibre of players. However, Cashman quickly remained humble saying everybody has a different journey, eager to work hard to work his way to that level his fellow England youth comrades are currently at.

How Cashman thought he was valued at Brighton.

Next was being asked as to how he was valued at Brighton. Cashman went on to say when he was younger, he felt he was valued quite highly at the Seagulls talking about the being selected, being pushed on harder than other players. Which is always a good omen. However, once Brighton earnt promotion to the Premier League, things ended up changing as Cashman became of a team that was more international. So he went to learn different backgrounds, different cultures. So things instantly became more difficult. Later on going to admit he didn’t feel as valued, compared to how he valued Brighton. However, Cashman went to say that it also helped him become the man he is today. Danny Cashman comes across as a very driven and ambitious footballer. A very humble individual as well, speaking very highly of where he came from and being so grateful for the opportunities he’s been given.

Danny Cashman signs for Coventry City

Signing for Coventry, then instantly being loaned out to Rochdale

Next up was questions about Cashman’s big move to Coventry City, then instantly loaned out to League Two’s Rochdale. Firstly he was asked how daunting it can be, having lived in Crawley to make that big move to Coventry, then going out to Rochdale on loan. However, Cashman and his agent knew about a potential move to Coventry for some time, before finding out about leaving Brighton. So, Cashman was already preparing for life away from home. To the point where that was where Cashman wanted to be next. Cashman went on to compliment the Sky Blues, labelling them as a massive club, praising its Championship status. Cashman then went on to say he had little time to think; because he instantly bad to pack and leave home. Cashman then watched the pre-season friendly between Coventry and Wolves. Shortly afterwards, driving up to Rochdale. Back to earlier in the episode where sacrifices were mentioned. This was one of those things, leaving home to live far away, due to joining a new club is a large sacrifice. Cashman is hoping to move to Manchester, during his stay at Rochdale. Rochdale wanted Cashman up there early, so he can train and get used to what’s what over at the Dale. So Cashman watched Coventry vs Wolves, then quickly headed over to Rochdale.

Danny Cashman signs for Rochdale on loan

Cashman’s ambitions at Coventry City.

It was revealed that rather than the under-23 department. It was the first team who reached out to Danny Cashman’s agent about signing Cashman to Coventry. Danny Cashman had interest from League One clubs, as well. The club and Cashman had discussions, coming to the same conclusion that in season one, that Cashman plays in League Two in order to get plenty of game time to acclimatise to the senior game. Cashman went on to say he wants to do well and enjoy his football, playing lots of games. So when he goes back to Coventry, he’s had that experience at senior level, in a highly competitive league. So he can be ready for the first team. Hoping that he does enough so Mark Robins trusts him enough to promote Cashman to first team duties the following season. Cashman went to say that Coventry said to him that they don’t want Cashman in the under-23s. Which was a nice thing for Cashman, as he’d been playing at under-23 level at Brighton and shown his capabilities at that level. Coventry were more than happy to loan him out to League Two, because senior football was the next step. Cashman was also delighted to discover that he was being offered a three-year deal. Showing that the club are putting an investment into Cashman and his development as a player.

Cashman’s development plan.

Cashman is very aware that he had been playing at under-23 level which he did very well at. However, he’s more than aware that the jump from under-23 football to the Championship is absolutely huge. Before he can make that jump, he needs that loan spell in League Two to learn the senior game, and gain valuable experience. With Robins eager to improve several departments in order to avoid another relegation battle, it instantly makes Danny Cashman’s chance of making the first team straight away very unlikely. Cashman went on to admit that going out on loan was best football parties, the club and Cashman himself. Cashman once again appearing to be very self-motivated in terms of what he wants to achieve.

What Cashman can bring to Coventry City?

Firstly, Alex Craig went on to ask Danny Cashman how it felt to finally receive his first ever senior game. Moving from an under-23 setup to a League Two side. Cashman went on to say from a team point of view, it was gutting to lose in the last minute, saying they didn’t deserve to lose like that. But on a personal note, it was a proud moment for Cashman and his family. Patience paying off, feeling like he’s deserved the opportunity for some time. Cashman admitted it was a difficult type of game, being at 2-2, scrappy and the game not tailoring to his strengths, where Cashman likes the ball at his feet with the smart touches. Cashman was also appreciative of the good reception he recieved from the Rochdale fanbase, before going on to compliment the Dale team, backing them to have a good season. Cashman was then asked about if the style of League Two football would hinder or aid his development. Cashman then went on to say, due to him not being the tallest or strongest, admitting that it will have an effect on him. Cashman went on to say it was something he needed to learn and it was something he was willing to do. Something he needs to learn, to get him ready for potential Championship football. Admitting that it might take an impact now, but in the long-run help Cashman develop as a player. Cashman went on saying that there will be games that will suit his style, but some games that might not and it’s those games Cashman needs to take advantage of, and learn from quickly, to develop as a footballer. Once again, being very down to earth.

The stadium Cashman is looking forward to playing at this season.

Cashman was then asked what stadiums he was looking forward to going to this season. Cashman firstly mentioned Crawley, with Crawley being his hometown. Wanting to score a goal there, in front of his old friends.

Life away from home and the challenges that lie ahead.

Cashman went on to admit that there will be days where it might be a struggle. But Cashman went on to say that sometimes you need to move away in order to progress. Never an easy thing to do, but hiding away can hinder progress. Cashman went on to say it could be the best thing that could’ve ever happened to him and he’s eager to give it his all.

Cashman’s personal goals at Rochdale.

Alex Craig went on to ask Danny Cashman what his personal goals were for this season at Rochdale. Cashman went on to say, first and foremost he wants to break into the team, and earn the manager’s trust. In terms of goals and assists his ambitions are to be near the top in the team he is playing for, and if possible in the whole division. However, Cashman did admit that he expects to gets more assists than he will score goals. However, with the main priority being good performances on a consistent basis, hopefully catching Coventry’s eye. Cashman was then asked what his preferred role is on the pitch, Cashman went on to say that his main preferred role is being a number 10. Playing behind the striker, but also admitted sometimes enjoys playing on the wing, enjoying playing a number 9 too. Something that ticks an important box for Mark Robins, as he values players who can be versatile in their play. More positions you can play, the more likely you are to get game time. Cashman wants to play football, not minding where he’s deployed, whether that’s as a number 10, winger or a centre forward.

Cashman’s perception on Coventry City.

Cashman was next asked about what made him want to join Coventry City. Cashman went on to say, the appeal of Championship football was a reason why Coventry was an appealing option for the young forward. A good deal with long-term security being a big factor, as well. Showing Cashman they’re investing in him. Cashman went on to say it’s his biggest move, to date. Cashman went on to explain that he feels Coventry City can offer a clear pathway for him for his development where at Brighton, it was a big vague. At Brighton, he felt like he deserved a chance, but never really got it. Where at Coventry, Cashman feels closer, nearer that first team. Cashman went on to say his goal is to reach the Coventry first team in a year, a year and a half. Then to cement his place to help the club.

Mention of the future.

Ben Wood went on to explain to Cashman that the club have been investing in alot of its youth players. Tom Billson going out on loan to Scunthorpe to name one. Young prospects who are driven, ambitious and wanting to reach that brass ring, which rewards a first team breaking. Ben went on to be very complimentary to Cashman, saying it’s an absolute pleasure to have Cashman at the club. Complimenting Cashman about his drive and very humble attitude.

Asking Cashman about Coventry’s ambitions.

Cashman went on to say that signing for Coventry, is a step up for the young forward. Wanting to help contribute to the Sky Blues while he was here. Helping progress while he hopes to progress as a player, too. Cashman stays grounded, taking it one thing at a time. Ben Wood throughout the episode spoke from a recruitment point of view, and Danny Cashman constantly gave amazing insight, which should catch the eye when listened to, word for word.

Conclusion:

That the end of the podcast episode. Very well detailed, and the interview executed by Ben Wood, and Alex Craig. Very informative and very interesting. Here are /their Twitter accounts if you yet to follow them. @WhatsTheCraicPC, @ItsBW94_ and @Alexcraiggh.

Coventry City Prospects To Keep An Eye On.

Since Mark Robins’ return in 2017, not only have the first team been on a constant upward trajectory. The development squad has seen constant investment over the last 4 years. Dominic Hyam, Sam McCallum, Jordan Shipley, Tom Bayliss, Zain Westbrooke, Josh Eccles and Jack Burroughs to name some who’ve made the successful transition to U23 football, to the first team. Hyam and Shipley are still with the club from the very start in League Two, to this today. Others have gone down other paths, Sam McCallum will be a league opponent next season as he will play for QPR in his second Championship campaign. With the U23 squad possibly the strongest it’s been since Mark Robins’ arrival, with competition in multiple positions ranging from players who’ve come through the academy and players who arrived from different clubs. We look at the next potential prospects who have a good chance of bridging the gap between the first team, and their current development player status within the next few years.

Declan Drysdale in action at Newport County during his loan at Cambridge United

1. Declan Drysdale

The 21 year old centre half has come off an eventful campaign which included winning promotion with Cambridge United. In a season where Drysdale made 30 appearances in all competitions. Drysdale had two loan spells, the first at Gillingham, with the second at Cambridge United. The latter yielding more success. Having a promotion on his CV, where he made key contributions and had some sublime performances can only do his confidence a world of good. However, this is probably Drysdale’s most important season at Coventry. It begs the question as to whether Mark Robins wants to deploy Drysdale as a utility player, or if he wants to send him on loan again. If Cambridge are interested in having the Birkenhead born defender on loan again, it’s certainly a viable option as surely, a full season in League One is the next step up.

Why is he somebody to keep an eye on?

Since joining the Sky Blues in 2019, Drysdale has grown and matured with time. Every loan spell he’s had one way or another has aided his development. At a staggering height of 6 foot 5, there is hope that Drysdale can have a similar type of physical presence to veteran centre half, Kyle McFadzean. A defender whom is very important to the defensive line-up due to his experience and exceptional leadership qualities. However, with McFadzean’s career ready to wind down before it begins to give up the ghost. There is hope that a successful season this year will ready Drysdale to be a ready-made successor. Ultimately depending on how much he develops this season.

Josh Reid battles Jeremie Frimpong for the ball as Ross County played Celtic

2. Josh Reid

The 2020/21 season proved to be a great success for the Dingwall born Full Back. Following the departure of Sean Kelly to Falkirk. Josh Reid would make his Scottish Premier League debut on the opening day of the 2020/21 campaign, in a 1-0 win over Motherwell. Josh Reid would impress, making 20 league appearances for the Staggies. This caught the attention of Coventry City who in January ended up signing Reid for an undisclosed fee – agreeing a three and a half year deal. Reid’s time at Coventry so far has been a slow burner, due to picking up an injury early on. However, Reid spent the rest of the season in Coventry’s U23 setup. The original plan was to sign Reid, then loan him back to the Staggies for the remainder of the season. However, once Ryan Giles was recalled by Wolves, then loaned out to Rotherham United, those plans were scrapped, due to Coventry being in need of a cover option, should McCallum have got injured.

Why is he somebody to keep an eye on?

The Scottish Premier League is subject to ridicule, due to how dominant the Old Firm clubs, Rangers and Celtic are relative to the rest of the division. However, plenty of Scottish clubs have played large roles in players developing. Before coming one of the best Left Backs in the world; Andy Robertson was playing in Scotland for Queens Park, then Dundee United. Josh Reid will be hoping to maximise his own potential with the Sky Blues. If you’re playing in the Scottish Premier League on a regular basis at the age of 18, you clearly have some sort of talent. With Coventry likely to have a only one senior left wing back in Ian Maatsen. It’s an opportunity for Reid to cement himself as a credible back up. Reid will need to improve on being a left wing back, due to naturally being suited to a full blown left back. However, Reid has more than enough time to do so. Personnel and formation could easily change, if Robins sees fit. However, in the meantime; Reid will need to improve as a wing back. However, if Reid shows the development. He’ll edge closer to the first team, and might be considered an option if Coventry wanted to sacrifice a defender in a game to play a back 4, you could slot Reid nicely into left back, if deemed good enough. Edging closer to the first team should also increase his chances of potentially being selected in the Scotland youth setup, as well.

Will Bapaga in action against Forest Green Rovers

3. Will Bapaga

Will Bapaga has been one of the club’s hottest prospects for a while now. Ever since making his senior for the Sky Blues only at the age of 16; Bapaga has been held in very high regard. Will Bapaga in his career to date has 8 senior appearances to his name. 2 of those included substitute appearances in the Championship. Will Bapaga caught the eye of many last season during a brief cameo against Norwich City in the FA Cup, with some suggesting Bapaga is progressed into the first team. However, Will Bapaga is still very raw, and while the ability is there, with his ceiling being very high. There are alot of edges which are rough and are yet to become smooth. The next step for Will Bapaga is going out on loan. Ideally in a league that is very physical. A league like League Two, or maybe similar to Jack Burroughs, a loan in Scotland could be what Bapaga needs to aid his development.

Why is he somebody to keep an eye on?

Will Bapaga is already highly thought of by Mark Robins. With his technical ability and potential held in a very high regard. However, the lack of physicality and still being raw has halted him making that breakthrough. A loan to get regular senior football is what Will Bapaga needs. Games at a higher tempo and pace, plus a far more physical environment with games having ramifications for the clubs involved. A fair dosage of senior football in order to further improve his technical and physical abilities, should enable Bapaga to develop to a point where soon he can bridge the gap between the first team and the development side.

Fabio Tavares in action for Rochdale against Doncaster Rovers

4. Fabio Tavares

Fabio Tavares before coming to Coventry had already earnt his fair share of experience at League One level. In all competitions in his time with Rochdale, Tavares had 4 goals in 39 games. During that time, Fabio Tavares would embark on a loan spell with Curzon Ashton during the 2019/20 season. Fabio Tavares had scored 1 goal in 3 league appearances for the National League North Side, before COVID curtailed the season. During the 2020/21 season. Fabio Tavares’ would still feature for the Dale on a semi-regular basis. Before signing for Coventry. Tavares had featured 18 times, scoring twice. Tavares would only start 3 of those 18 games, all coming in the EFL Trophy. On deadline day of the winter transfer window, Fabio Tavares signed for Coventry for an undisclosed fee, agreeing a two and a half year deal with the Sky Blues. Tavares took time to get used to his new surroundings inside Coventry’s development side. However, once he did, his quality was evident. Tavares ended up scoring a superb hat-trick in Coventry’s emphatic 6-1 win over Cardiff City.

Why is he somebody to keep an eye on?

Unlike most of Tavares’ fellow development side comrades, Fabio has already had a fair share of senior football, playing at a very high level, in League One. As stated before, Tavares had made 39 appearances for Rochdale, enough experience for Tavares to have learnt at a very high level. A greater standard than what the current professional development league, Tavares is playing in at the moment. Fabio Tavares also offers something very different to the other strikers at the club. The main criticism of the striker department is its lack of pace in the side. Tavares is very fast, with rocket like pace to get onto through balls for an opportunity at goal. Fabio Tavares had a superb performance recently against Nuneaton Borough in pre-season, scoring a well deserved brace which could’ve been a hat-trick, if it wasn’t for a horrible miscue in the first half. Tavares will be looking to stamp his authority on his role as first choice striker, with Danny Cashman on loan at Tavares’ former club, Rochdale and with Harrison Nee needing to adjust to the under-23 side on a full-time basis. It’s Tavares’ chance. A strong under-23 campaign will only accelerate his push for the first team, as well. Best case scenario, Fabio Tavares could break into the first team, during the second half of the 2021/22 Championship campaign.

Jonny Ngandu in action against Cheltenham in the EFL Trophy

5. Jonny Ngandu

Jonny Ngandu’s season was rather interesting to say the least. Usually you would think Coventry would send him somewhere in League Two, or a non-league division. However, instead it was decided Jonny Ngandu would be loaned out to Iceland, joining Kevlavík on a month-long loan, playing in the 1. deild karla, the men’s first division in Icelandic, the second tier of Icelandic football. Ngandu would only make 4 league appearances for Kevlavík. However, it was a success, courtesy of Kevlavík winning promotion to the Pepsidelid, the top flight of Icelandic football. After returning to Coventry City, Jonny Ngandu would kick on, ending the season with the under-23s very strongly. The midfielder ended the under-23 season with 5 goals.

Why is he somebody to keep eye on?

Jonny Ngandu has been part of the under-23 fold, since the age of 16. In the same season, ended up agreeing a new deal, keeping him at the club until June 2022. That was extended by a year this summer. However, the loan in Iceland should make Ngandu a better and all rounded footballer. Ngandu might not be as close to the first team, compared to the other players listed. However, Ngandu is owed a big loan move to really show his metal. A loan move to another foreign league might be that answer. Fellow under-23 comrade, Jack Burroughs secured a move on loan to Ross County and Scotland could also be a good country for Ngandu to head to. The Scottish Championship is a highly competitive division with so many teams fancying a shot at success. A successful season north of the border, it could easily spell a large step towards a first team berth for the young 19 year old. Ngandu has shown potential to be a top player for a long time, being given a big break at a senior club on loan, could be exactly what he needs.

Danny Cashman signs for Coventry City

Honourable mention: Danny Cashman

It’s difficult to put Cashman as one of the main players, because he hasn’t played a game for either the first team or development side get. However, Cashman has played alot of under-23 football for Brighton & Hove Albion. Last season, Cashamn scored 6 goals in 20 appearances, claiming 3 assists. Cashman scored 10 goals and 10 assists in 32 league appearances for Brighton’s under-23 side across 2 seasons. So as soon as Cashman joined the Sky Blues, it made perfect sense to loan him straight out to a League Two side, this being Rochdale, as Cashman had proven to be a good player at youth level. So the next step up logically was a loan move to get a taste for senior football.

Why is he somebody to keep an eye on?

Danny Cashman, despite his release by the Seagulls had a strong youth record, and will be looking to build on that. A small, but pacey forward who can also play out wide should offer something for Coventry, should be make that breakthrough. In the meantime, Danny Cashman is currently due for the biggest season of his life, on a season-long loan at Rochdale. A league as brutal and tough as League Two. It will be seen if there is any indication as to whether Cashman might well turn out to be a very good investment, or if league football is currently a big ask. Rochdale are a fairly fun side to watch, however. Not renowned for defensive prowess, but a team who might score fair few goals, as well. So Cashman can certainly expect to receive plenty of service due to how creative Rochdale could be. It’s hard to put a target of how many goals Cashman should aim for, as the Dale appear to be building their side to appeal to Jake Beesley’s strengths. But a campaign of consistent strong performances and a healthy goal return of at least double figures should prove to be a successful campaign for the new signing.