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Salute to Grounds
Reporter: Matthew Chambers
Date online: 01 March 2013
JONATHAN Grounds is the best left-back in League One on current form.
Caretaker manager Tony Philliskirk says has been impressed with the former Middlesbrough man since he took charge — despite a suspicion the 25 year old wasn’t living up to his potential at the turn of the year.
Recently, Grounds has added a highly-dangerous whipped-in corner kick to his armoury which has been responsible for two Matt Smith goals in the recent FA Cup ties against Everton.
His defensive work, too, has tightened. As a package, says Philliskirk, Grounds is capable of regular football at a higher level.
“When Paul Dickov brought me back working with the first team on Saturdays, I was quite critical of Jonathan in a game or two,” said Philliskirk, ahead of tomorrow’s Sheffield United test at Boundary Park.
“But since we have taken the games, I have not seen a better left-back in the league this year — on his current form.
“The big thing with Jonathan, and he is only young, is that he has to realise himself what a good player he is. “We say to a lot of players that you need a bit of luck to elevate you to the next level. But a lot of it comes from within. He is playing with a lot of confidence at the moment.”
Grounds is one of few players who has a deal running up to the end of next season.
WINGER Jordan Obita is set to extend his loan deal from Reading into a second month.
Obita’s parent club is happy for the 19 year old to remain at Boundary Park beyond his initial loan, due to expire after tomorrow’s game.
Obita said: "I'm really enjoying my football. The team is playing some fantastic stuff and we look like we're going for the play-offs rather than trying to stave off relegation. Hopefully over the next month we can get enough wins to propel us into mid-table."
Comments
I agree with TP in what he says about Grounds. For me he is a very good professional, a player who goes about his business without making a fuss. He has been our outstanding player of the season after taking time to settle in to what, lets admit, was a team struggling to find its identity. Don't forget the contribution Tarkowski has made since his return. He learned from playing alongside Gregan. He is a natural organiser and talker. Another thing we have missed in PD's reign.
been great and looking good each game.
Like Crofty, another one who seems to have moved up a level since the departure of PD. Remember Mr Pointon's corners in that windy April of 93? Hopefully more of the same, especially when the winds blow ....
Have Your Say
grounds has gone from what i would consider a huge flop to being an absolute revalation. the contrast has been incredible. time for montano to do a "Grounds".
By DARTH @ 01/03/2013 13:39:30