My third view on Darren Pratley who is quickly establishing himself as one of my favourite people on Earth
So, I’ve written a few articles this season already on Darren Pratley- pinpointing positive aspects in his much criticised game.
The first was about his work ethic. The second was about his solidity. My third (and definitely not final) opinion is ‘Darren Pratley: The Matchwinner’.
Every Darren Pratley article written by anyone this season will go on about how he’s received more than his fair share of stick from fans despite his work ethic and now he’s coming into his own etc…
I think after Dougie Freedman’s first game in charge at Bolton (against Cardiff in 2012), I said that the former Swansea City captain was coming out of his shell and was starting to express himself as a footballer. At that point, I thought that he’d push on and establish himself.
This didn’t happen and his sporadic form was frustrating.
However, under Lennon he’s not just established himself as a solid first team player (which is already a step above the squad player that first graced the Reebok turf), he’s now a player who can carry our team and spur everyone on.
His tenacity and persistence constantly wins us 50/50 balls and switches opposition attacks into our own offensive moves. He can win balls in the air due to his height and athleticism.
A few months ago, I’d be complaining that his clumsiness and mal co-ordination gifted the opposition too many free kicks. Now I’d say that his commitment, passion and determination wins us the ball almost all the time at little cost of a harmless free kick or two.
Not only has his physical off-the-ball game improved massively, but his ability to drive his team forward with his attacking prowess is at the root of many of our goals. He’s a strong ball carrier, and under the guidance of Neil Lennon, his composure on the ball has improved massively.
He’s scored some absolutely awesome goals including those against Millwall and Blackburn (he’s netted two other in the last six games) which were both magnificent finishes.
His stature within the club has increased so much that he’s now indispensable to our in-form team.These efforts have been recognised by manager and former midfielder, Neil Lennon (who no doubt has helped Pratley in his development) as he looks set to sign the former Fulham man a new contract.
Pratley is playing the best football of his career… so far. I don’t want to jinx anything, but he’s been awesome and I feel he has it in him to keep it up and push on.
Oh, and by the way he’s now on my phone screensaver…
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