The OX as CF????

[Theoperator]

Agre NB123, he needs coaching, so I guess he wont improve till the Codger in charge hangs his white coat up.

[officepest]

He's in very real danger of becoming some utility man without purpose or direction. Someone (er, perhaps the fucking manager? ) should tell him where he will play (barring injuries) and exactly what he expects from him.

Won't happen though - he'll be allowed to amble around and be told "just go out and play".

[DB10GOONER]

Ox was awful last night - one of many. But I've noticed with the Ox if he fucks up his first couple of touches or attempts at passes or shots, he basically drops the head and is worth proper fuck all for the rest of the game. This is where a good coach or manager with top man management skills takes over and does what's needed to get the guy's head right. Ox has talent. His problem is psychological. He needs a better manager to get the best from him.

[SteveO 35]

I haven't gone in for all the "Wenger ruined him" stuff on a number of players, as I think players themselves have a duty to perform but in the case of the Ox I think he is genuinely being mismanaged.

Arshavin was one who people claimed Wenger mismanaged, but there is no excuse for the irresponsible, lazy, shite performances he put in for 2 years before he left

In the Ox's case I honestly believe that at times last season he was our best player when on the field. However, when he starts he's frequently subbed regardless of how he plays, and dropped automatically for the next game in favour of the likes of Ramsey.

I agree this season he has been mostly awful but for the first time since he joined the boy looks to have lost his natural confidence and exuberance.