Thursday 9 July 2015

Free agent Taylor could be another bargain for Cherries

Eddie Howe has certainly aimed to be clever in picking players that have not rocked the boat and who have Premier League experience and who can fit in with the club's plans. The news of interest in another free transfer possibility comes right on the back of a stern dismissal about shelling out anywhere in the region of £14 million for the services of Charlie Austin or any other player. Now for a bit of reality and a closer look at Ryan Taylor.

Taylor is a 30-year-old who has played as a full back, centre back and in midfield. That is one of the features that seems to be attracting the AFCB recruiting eyes this summer. The Cherries are after versatile players than can play in a few positions. The demands of the Premier League will be tough and the club certainly has plenty of cover for positions already. Back in 2009 Taylor cost Newcastle £6 million to sign from Wigan, so he was seen as a key player for the Toon even though he has struggled with injuries.

It has surprised me at quite how many signings the club has made. AFCB are right up there with Liverpool who are rebuilding their squad and it doesn't look like six players will be enough either. So what of AFCB's existing players who thought they would be getting the chance to ply their skills in the Premier League? Some are going to miss out and keeping those players still incentivised will be a major task come August, but it was managed last season.

A signing like Ryan Taylor though would perhaps be a security signing more for injury protection and experience than a player who would be likely to play in every game. For players like Christian Atsu though, he only has a year to impress and every game will be carefully monitored not only by AFCB but also by Chelsea his parent club. The mix of those who need to prove themselves at this level and those who have already done it should give AFCB a good balance in terms of attitudes. But getting many of these players on free transfers is exceptionally good business if they work out and keep the Cherries up.  

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