My latest opinion on Darren Pratley
My opinion on Darren Pratley changes almost weekly. He’s never been a favourite at Bolton, because of his clumsy challenges and the fact that he can just look a little awkward when running around the pitch.
He’s always had good spells- under Owen Coyle, Dougie Freedman and now Neil Lennon he’s always shown his fighting spirit which is a vital part of his game.
In October I wrote an article entitled ‘Dedication’ about the former Swansea City captain, talking about his incredible work ethic.
However, I now feel that solid is the best way to describe his game.
I think a lot of people feel that footballers shouldn’t have areas of weakness, since they spend all week training and that they’re careers need them to be good at football. While we’ve never been able to complain about a lack of effort on Pratley’s fault, we’ve all had a laugh or two about his technical ability.
Under Neil Lennon, though, I actually feel that his ability with the ball is really improving. Lennon actually said that he’s ‘good on the ball’. Under previous management I would never agree with this statement, but ever since the former Celtic man has come in I feel that he’s really taken Pratley under his wing, given him tips on how to improve his game, and given him playing time.
A few weeks ago Pratley spoke about how much he’s enjoying playing every week and I think that he fully deserves it.
What Neil Lennon is doing is eliminating deficiencies from people’s games, meaning that players feel confident in whatever situation they are put in. We only have to look at other players- such as Craig Davies. Lennon has improved his fitness and now we’re reaping the awards of that.
I don’t feel that Pratley is Iniesta by any means, nor will his passing ever be a key attribute, though I now feel that he is very competitive at this level and hope he continues to play well.