Grant Smith
I know I’m going to write this and feel cruel. I can feel it in my bones, but as an independent blog I have to write what I feel, not what I think will be well received.
I don’t think Grant Smith is good enough to play 46 games in a title-winning team. I’m not saying he won’t be good enough, but right now he isn’t. Had we not signed Matt Gilks, I suspect we would have fewer points than we do now.
That’s not to say he’s a bad keeper, not at all, but if you watch one game in particular I think the issues with Grant are laid bare.
The 3-3 draw with Bury was a thrilling encounter, but I firmly believe that a Lincoln City with Gilks or Vickers in goal win that game 3-2. Whether it was the late header, not unlike Chuks Aneke’s effort this week, or whether it was the weak opener, I think a better keeper makes a save there.
He’s not been bad, after a couple of worrying showings over Christmas I think Grant bounced back strongly, but in my eyes he’s a lower League two keeper at best. The thing is, until you’ve had better you don’t know what it looks like. I was a huge Paul Farman fan, but we wouldn’t be top of League One with Farms in the sticks and the same goes for Grant.
He’s a worthy back up, but I can’t see Danny wanting three keepers next season. There’s surely going to be a loan spell, that’s if he remains at the club.
Well reviewed. The stop Gills made at Morecambe broke them, at least three of their players put there hands up high in recognition that they had scored only for Matt to push the ball away at the foot of the post.
Allegedly 10’000 odd MKDons fans did the same on Saturday from Anekes header at the death….
Totally agree with views on Smith. Next season will be make or break for Vickers I think, but only regarding his fitness. Gilks has been inspirational.
If we retain Gilks as number one choice for next season then it may be more prudent to loan out Vickers, so he s given ample game time and opportunity to prove his fitness. I believe Smith is good enough to provide us cover while Vickers would be on loan, with option to recall.