I wouldn't be looking for a Bertrand upgrade/replacement - at least not yet. I would first rather we sorted out the position in front of him, because not only does that improve that particular position, I think it would also improve Bertrand himself. Having someone on form, and on Bertrand's wavelength, can only help Bertrand. Maybe that player could yet be Armstrong, once he has come through this poor run of form of his (unlike so many of our side, I haven't rated him for a few weeks now). Particularly given that I understand he plays on the left for Scotland, and hence would be used to Robertson flying up and down that wing. Time will tell. Also, when comparing our left side to our right, I wouldn't underestimate the great work which JWP does to cover KWP. When he goes forward - often with either Theo or Armstrong tucking inside - JWP will invariably move over to cover the space. And his experience (albeit limited) at playing RWB no doubt helps there. But we don't always see the same on the other side (and to a large extend, that is understandable - given that we play with a midfield two, rather than three, I don't really want Romeu vacating that area too often). And as such, Bertrand has a tougher job than KWP - knowing that if he goes forward, he's more likely to leave us open; which in turn leads into the above point, of also knowing that the chances of such exposure are increased yet further, because a lack of a connection with the guy in front of him means that losing the ball or making a wrong decision is increased.
Doesnt seem to be anywhere near getting in the squad. Even with 9 subs he wasnt involved. Strange as he did sign a long term deal in the summer so clearly thought of highly.
I think the issue with Armstrong is consistency, at the moment. He seems to start games a little off the pace, with sloppy passing, before growing into it later on. We definitely miss his running with the ball, drawing players to him and creating space for others, when he isn’t on top of his game. Maybe he needs a harder workout prior to kick off to get fully up to speed.
Interesting point you make, a bit like 'never say never' situation. How many of us offered lifts for Vesty to Leicester last year on the basis 'he'll never be any good for us?' Like others on here we will need a decent top up on our strike force and if we have someone that we've already paid for now finding real form, why would we not take a closer interest in him? Redders continues to disappoint and as I mentioned in an earlier post, I think Theo coming in has spooked him even more, why I don't know, but he's going to find his place on the bench filled by someone else pretty soon. The main thing is I really do trust Ralph's judgement, even if at times I'm a bit sceptical!
Redders had a couple of poor touches after he came on and that affected the rest of his performance. We all know that he is a confidence player and he has had periods of poor form for us but then he has had spells when he is red hot too. Starting from the bench is affecting him but he scored a good goal recently and might've had a couple more and i'm hoping that he can get back to his best because he adds a lot to the team when he is on it.
Adams' hold up and link up play has been superb and often helps us transition up the pitch. In that sense he is like Lambert, just without the finishing which hopefully will develop.