12 months ago we were pleased to sign anyone. Maybe the underwelming reaction to this potential signing (of a decent player) shows how far we've come. I'd be pretty chuffed. He's a good solid, avoid getting relegated midfielder. Earlier in the season people were seriously thinking Ryan Taylor was adecent option in this position. Routledge has serially failed to deliver at this level. So by my reckoning we are one injury (to Barton, an injury prone player) or suspension (to Barton, a heed the ball when all is said and done) from being in real trouble in this pivotal position. For these reasons, not to mention the value for money aspect this would be agreat signing.