It’s worth remembering that while the January window “slams” shut, it’s a full month. And ours was a success amid all the boredom.
Somehow Twitter was awash with bemusement over the Bennett deal. We signed him, Swansea didn’t. We have cover at centre-back and another one on the road back from injury. Loaning him back was a deal-maker. Plus, it keeps him playing a high level of football. The sigh of relief from Elliot Ward was heard across the county.
We shouldn’t forget about Howson either. We’ve added depth to our squad with quality players.
Away from us though, we’re in better shape than those in immediate danger. Wolves brought in Bassong and Bassong alone. Clearly they saw everyone else ignore Spurs’ pleas and replied with a “Go on then, can’t hurt to have him.” Steve Kean’s polishing his “do our best to get out this league” soundbites a bit too early and brought in Bradley Orr. And let Ryan Nelsen go. Ominous for them two.
QPR spent a lot, but still without any semblance of a plan. The seats behind the goals at Loftus Road are going to be taking a pounding, but not as much as their bank balance. Save some money for the F1, eh Tony?
Swansea were unexpectedly quiet, although Graham appears to have noticed where the goal is now. Bolton have put their faith in the talented Ryo Miyaichi but were unceremoniously rejected by Zaha. Just as ominous as Wolves and Blackburn. Wigan held onto Hugo, but will lose him (and Premier League status) for free. Mind= boggled.
So, while there’s no room for complacency, we really have come out of January rather well. The rumours of Rhodes and Snodgrass were wide of the mark, for now at least. Rhodes would have been a curious one anyway since Vaughan is close and all our strikers are in the goals.
We even saw off a cheeky bid from across the border. Although, the bid reeks more of Rangers attempting to show their fans they are active in improving their squad now they have the money from Jelavic. Token gesture.
