Portsmouth: Wheelin'-and-Dealin' on the South Coast
When last I wrote, I was mourning the loss of one of Portsmouth's finest midfielders since our return to the Premier League in Pedro Mendes, and was significantly concerned by Chief Executive Peter Storrie's comments to the media that our spending was over. How could we possibly be expecting to compete both domestically and for the UEFA Cup with such a small squad? And how could two-bit loan signings that manager Harry Redknapp seemed to be hinting at really aid us in our quest for continued upward mobility?
Add to that Sunday's crushing defeat at Stamford Bridge and the concerning debut of Younes Kaboul in midfield, and I only began to get more concerned. "Chelsea will win the title," one mate told me "so it really isn't surprising that we lost to them..."
Regardless, getting stuffed at Stamford Bridge in a lacklustre performance by a side with concerns up front thanks to the absence of Drogba and Shevchenko really isn't heartening.
What a difference a few days can make, however.
Perhaps I forgot it was Harry Redknapp at the helm of the club; a man known for making some incredibly shrewd signings on a limited budget.
Or, Perhaps I have simply been concerned at what quality players could possibly be available for limited funds, or that other clubs would be willing to let go on loan.
The loan signing of left-back Armand Traoré from Arsenal today has gone a long way to easing my fears.
While having recently signed a long-term deal with Arsenal but currently finding his first team opportunities at the club limited, Traoré has opted to spend the season at Fratton Park. He will give much-needed cover to the ageing Hermann Hreidarsson in the left of the defense, while also providing a more able option than out-of-position and prone-to-injury Noé Pamarot.
While I believe Pamarot is a useful squad player who has put in some good performances on the left, Pamarot would more efficiently serve as cover for the right of defense, with Lauren's hit-and-miss career at Portsmouth signaling his departure sometime before the start of next season, I am certain. It all depends when an offer comes in.
Most importantly, however, is the high hopes that I have for Armand himself. The lad is still young, but has a lot of potential about him, and I believe he can provide the added pace our defense has at times been lacking-- if he is given the opportunity.
I never rated the "other" Traoré - Djimi - that happens to play in the same position since before he arrived at Fratton Park, and I believe that Harry would certainly desire to see the back of him sooner rather than later. And I believe Redknapp's comments to the media regarding players not wanting to leave was aimed specifically at him and striker David Nugent.
While I am confident of saying that Djimi won't be seeing much - and, more than likely, ANY - playing time during this season, I am even more confident in saying that, if given the opportunity, Armand will shine at this football club.
Add to that my confidence in on-loan Chelsea striker Ben Sahar and the prospects of young winger Jerome Thomas, and I am feeling much more hopeful about our chances this season.
It remains to be seen how many additional signings Redknapp will make in the next nine days of the transfer window, but the change of Jerome Thomas' loan to a permanent signing would signal that Harry already has some solid candidates that we'll be soon to see.
If there is anybody who can make the most out of little or no money, it's Harry Redknapp.
Lastly, I would urge Harry to give Armand his chance to shine during this season. And equally as important, stop playing Diop on the right!
