Incognito

Kelvin Etuhu. How many appearances while on loan did he make

I don't mind him trying to pull the trigger to be honest, sometimes I think we're guilty of trying to walk the ball in the net, a bit like Arsenal used to be.

I can't help wonder if a sports psychologist could have helped with Gray. There's clearly a player in there, but there is also a reason a succession of managers have not managed to get a consistent tune out of him. It really is baffling how someone can come on now and again and make a difference as a sub, earn a start then do absolutely naff all. The more I think about it, the more I think there is something wrong with Gray's psyche.

I think it's clever from Rodgers regarding Iheanacho. He can't throw him under the bus, not until at least another striker is in the building. I agree though, Iheanacho does not fill me with confidence at present.

When I was in Dundee a few years ago, I had a tour of Tannadice Park. The old fella who did the tour was talking to me about Gary Mackay-Steven and Stuart Armstrong. All the noise in the press was about how good GMS was. The old fella was absolutely adamant GMS would be a flash in the pan, whereas Armstrong would go on to play in the EPL. He was right clearly, GMS is in the Scottish Championship now isn't he? Not that it'll happen, but I'd take Armstrong as a squad option here, especially in lieu of Praet's injury.

A very curious case. I don't know all the in's and out's but I can offer the following. I work with the mother of one of the u23 lads. Not going to name which as don't want anything biting them on their arse. But I mentioned young Sidnei to her in pre-season after her son had featured in one game, and she rolled her eyes at me. According to her, Sidnei has always been the favourite of the club staff coming up through the ranks. Given his alleged talent, this isn't that surprising. But one has to feel that if the club have constantly indulged him over the past few years, then they might well have made a rod for their own back with this stand off.

Oh GTF. An Alexei Sayle lookalike who also looks like he should have been a window cleaner

I agree with what you're saying with regards Slimani being a plan B against a low block, however Rodgers has gone on record that he won't employ such a tactic. It's his way or no way. He will have to live and die by his sword.

It really does seem to be a prerequisite to be a nob in order to work for Sky Sports doesn't it?!

I think you're absolutely bang on with this. There have been a few times that I've seen where BR has waxed lyrical about Matty James, both about him as a footballer and as a man. I'd love to see James actually go out to OHL and get some games under his belt. I've seen pictures of him training with the squad on the OS and official social media accounts so he must be close to be able to participate in matches (albeit not for us).

Good move for him. I don't see him breaking through now, so as a club it makes sense to help him find his level. Hopefully he can shine with Wigan and perhaps get himself a Championship move at the end of the season. I'm sure his Godfather will give him a few pointers about life with the 'tics also.

Could go the opposite way, with cliques forming that are detrimental. NP famuosly ripped up the North West clique with Marshall, Peltier, Gallagher, Wellens, Danns, etc. That being said, we are dealing with a higher calibre of player these days.

I'd love Mario Götze at the Citeh. Certainly had his injury/fitness issues but on a free, could provide a decent squad option across the attacking midfield positions. Always thought José Callejón was a bloody good player too, although didn't realise he's into his 30's now.

Agreed. I always thought he looked very raw, but something to work with. Normally, I would say we don't have the time to work with raw potential in our first team but given the seeming lack of bodies I don't think a run out in pre-season could hurt - especially given the Blackburn friendly coincides with seven or so of the squad being away on international duty.