[Frank Grimes]

70% of his performances have been start brightly, then disappear about half an hour in. Sometimes you forget he is playing which you can't afford in a position as crucial as central midfield.

 

[NinjaZombie]

Giving him big money would just be us not learning our lesson with Rashford. It's quite obvious to see so you'd hope the people in charge see it as well.

 

[Denis79]

I am a huge fan but I have to admit he's had a terrible second season.

 

[Still ill]

Difficult second season syndrome, innit?

 

[reelworld]

Anyone think that we might be best to invest in Ugarte partner and push Mainoo to AM? His game might be more suitable at AM. He does not have the necessary passing range for CM

 

[FrankDrebin]

Does he have the passing range for a AM ?

 

[Cathy Ferguson]

Anyone think that we might be best to invest in Ugarte partner and push Mainoo to AM? His game might be more suitable at AM. He does not have the necessary passing range for CM

I think so. His lack of pace is a huge concern regardless of position. That might mean he will not make it.

 

[IrishRedDevil]

Anyone think that we might be best to invest in Ugarte partner and push Mainoo to AM? His game might be more suitable at AM. He does not have the necessary passing range for CM

He isn't fast enough and doesn't press enough to be part of the front 3.

 

[Perfidious Albion]

70% of his performances have been start brightly, then disappear about half an hour in. Sometimes you forget he is playing which you can't afford in a position as crucial as central midfield.

This sums it up for me. A number 10 or a wide-player can possibly afford to do the odd disappearing act, but not a midfielder, particularly in a two in the modern game.

Even during his impressive Euros for England, he tended to fade shortly after half-time. Some people naturally possess more stamina than others, but it's concerning to see it in a fella not yet 20. Putting on more muscle mass is only likely to exacerbate this. The strange thing is, you'd expect an athlete lacking stamina to have dynamism - 'fast-twitch muscles', if you like, but he doesn't fall into this category either.

Don't get me wrong, I still like the player. Some of his close control is a joy to watch and at his best he displays a lot of footballing intelligence, but he does feel more like a 'futsal' player, just without the dynamism that you need for that discipline. In addition, defining his best position is not easy.