With the season meandering to a close and everything apart from a final league position settled, I thought I'd have a reflect. Those expecting a thriller at West Brom may want to wait before contributing:
Overall reflections
What a ridiculous season. At times I've been sky high, at others rock bottom, it's really difficult to put into words what this year has meant. Looking at it objectively we're guaranteed a mid-table finish on our return to the top flight, we've never looked in any real danger of going down. Given the limitations of our squad, especially the lack of goal scoring pedigree it's nothing short of miraculous, regardless of how volatile the league has been.
High Moment
There's so many to choose from. If I was going to take a particular result it would have to be the 5-1 thrashing of the mackems. However, if we're talking individual moments it would have to be Tiote smashing in the equaliser against Arsenal. The side put us through the mill that game and to rescue a point with that goal was something special. I was bursting with pride.
Low Moment
I know a lot will say the sale of Carroll but for me I’ve never felt lower when Hughton left. It’s was the only point in the season I genuinely thought we might implode and sink into the relegation zone. Pardew has come in and done a great job, but the way a man who we owe so much to, was treat with such contempt still gets my angry to this day.
Best Player
Honorable shouts to Enrique, Tiote, Nolan and Barton but it simply has to be Colo. He’s had the odd blip but on the whole he’s been exceptional. In everything he does he just oozes class, absolutely majestic.
Best Individual Performance
This season has been a complete team effort so I’m difficult to pick one particular performance. Colo, Enrique and Tiote have all had some absolute belters but for me I’d have to go with Ben Arfa against Everton. The lad looked an absolute touch of class, completely ran the show. I’ve never been so excited about a performance and a player in a long, long time.
Best Buy
Tiote, no question. Ben Arfa could turn out to be a top acquisition but to bring a player of Tiote’s caliber for absolute peanuts is bloody brilliant business. Exactly what we needed.
Most Improved
Simpson and Best have come on a ton, but Barton had a great season. People will say it is what we have come to expect from him but it doesn’t disguise the fact he’s improved massively. It could of been so easy for him to go on to become a Smith, Duff or [insert one of the numerous has been we’ve acquired over the years], but he’s really stepped it up this season. Long may it continue.
