Rovers Mid Season Report - Defence

NEW vital Blackburn member MikeyGamst's mid season report on the Blackburn Rovers squad, starting with our goalkeepers and defenders.

Hey all, first post on this new forum. So thought I'd introduce myself with a little run down of how I thought each member of team has been doing this year.

Goalkeepers
Brad Friedel - Outstanding, Premier League's best goalkeeper. He doesn't command his area like he used to but his shot stopping is unparalleled by anyone in the league. Has bailed Rovers out time and time again (re: United, Sheffield).

Jason Brown - Good prospect, his 45 mins of first team action so far has yielded one penalty save and a commanding performance in front of a mostly shaky defence. Obviously time will tell with the stocky Welshman, but good start none the less.

Peter Enckelman -

Defenders
Brett Emerton - Positioning is a little suspect at times but if you'd told me at the start of the season he would be a key performer at right-back I'd have struggled to keep my beer from being spat in your face. He adds much needed pace at the back.

Zurab Khizanishvili - Don't get him on the back of your shirt for starts, his names a dear one! He adds class at the back and whilst prone to a lapse in concentration is always a solid performer.

Andre Ooijer - Terrible to start with but improves with every game, his reading of the game is great and has grown into the Premiership. Will doubtless prove a great signing but at £2.1 million was perhaps a little over priced.

Andy Todd - Will be shipped out in January, he is a solid journeyman but his lack of discipline has cost him again.

Ryan Nelsen - This guy is awesome, a steadying influence, a tower of strength and an incredible natural leader. Blackburn are missing him more than they will ever miss Craig Bellamy. Blackburn Rovers joint best player with Friedel.

Lucas Neill - Excellent across the back, but we better get use to him not being around. He wants to go elsewhere and we should let him. Stephen Warnock as a new left back is an appealing thought.

Mickey Gray - Has performed the last two games. He was very good against Spurs in particular. Before that aginst Basle and West Ham in particular he was terrible, he will be here until the end of the season but will likely be replaced by someone quicker.

Dominic Matteo - Good lord no.

Let me know what you think and hello to all. Mikey

This article was written by MikeyGamst.

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