Is there anyone that thinks that signing a centre forward would be counter-productive?

[Roosterbooster]

Those stats don’t suggest hountonji has better movement at all, you aren’t taking into consideration the opposition, how much of the ball we have, it’s an absolute nothing stat.

XG again is a poor stat to run with, sheff united had a higher XG yesterday without creating anything pretty much all game

I havent looked at any Hountondji v Flemming stats. But watching them play suggests to me that Hountondji is a much more natural "classical" striker based on his movement. He pulls the defenders about, and constantly looks to run the channels off the shoulder. It's obviously going to give him more chances in the box playing that way. Flemming is basically playing a false 9

[Mattster]

Those stats don’t suggest hountonji has better movement at all, you aren’t taking into consideration the opposition, how much of the ball we have, it’s an absolute nothing stat.

XG again is a poor stat to run with, sheff united had a higher XG yesterday without creating anything pretty much all game

They suggest he's got into better goalscoring positions / got off shots in better positions (especially when you consider it's from fewer minutes and ~1/3 of which were played our of position at left wing back).

[123EasyasBFC]

I havent looked at any Hountondji v Flemming stats. But watching them play suggests to me that Hountondji is a much more natural "classical" striker based on his movement. He pulls the defenders about, and constantly looks to run the channels off the shoulder. It's obviously going to give him more chances in the box playing that way. Flemming is basically playing a false 9

I honestly can’t get behind anyone saying hountonji pulls any defenders around. I don’t see it at all, he had to shot against Millwall then didn’t look interested. He came on against Coventry at home I think it was and missed every single ariel duel he had.

Id be extremely worried if he had to be our starter for the rest of the season

[123EasyasBFC]

They suggest he's got into better goalscoring positions / got off shots in better positions (especially when you consider it's from fewer minutes and ~1/3 of which were played our of position at left wing back).

He didn’t play at wing back against Sunderland at all, he played left midfield, Pires played left back.

Stats can suggest anything but hountonji haven’t been in any clear goal scoring opportunities apart from the one he missed from 5 yards out against Oxford but brownhill should of scored before it went to him

[Mattster]

He didn’t play at wing back against Sunderland at all, he played left midfield, Pires played left back.

Here's his heatmap

Screenshot_20241227_223132_Sofascore.jpg (68.41 KiB) Viewed 1374 times

Left wing back.

Even if it was left midfield, the point still stands.

[Silkyskills1]

I havent looked at any Hountondji v Flemming stats. But watching them play suggests to me that Hountondji is a much more natural "classical" striker based on his movement. He pulls the defenders about, and constantly looks to run the channels off the shoulder. It's obviously going to give him more chances in the box playing that way. Flemming is basically playing a false 9

We're halfway through the season sitting 3rd, one point off the top. By any stretch of the imagination it has not been a 'smooth ride' so far. Great result yesterday, good victory v Watford and a gritty fightback v Norwich have really been the highlights.
Contributions gave been mixed, Brownhill taking the plaudits for 9 goals from midfield, the defence taking the rest for obvious reasons.
We haven't got a 'classical, nor classy striker on the books. No one, forward wise has excelled; they've done just enough supported by a very credible defence. I just don't understand your description of Hountondji. I'm sure he is honest and tries hard but this level of football is currently beyond him. I want to see a striker who at least looks like he might threaten the goal and/ or be a constant menace to the opposition.
Flemming was not brought here to play as a 'false 9. He's done well last couple of games but they have been exceptions because he has not played in the position he is accustomed to. It would be folly and neglectful not to try and add to what we already have up front.

[123EasyasBFC]

Here's his heatmap

Screenshot_20241227_223132_Sofascore.jpg

Left wing back.

Even if it was left midfield, the point still stands.

He played left midfield and Pires played left back simple as, the heat map just shows how little attacking threat we had

[NewClaret]

In response to the OP, I’m not of the view that signing a CF would be counterproductive. If there’s one available that would improve us then I’d take him. But as I’ve always said, a forward needs players to create chances for them and I think that’s been our problem so I’d prioritise that over a new forward.

A top creative midfielder in the McAtee or Buendia mould (not necessarily those specifically) and a RW as cover for Anthony would be my top choices.

[Mattster]

He played left midfield and Pires played left back simple as, the heat map just shows how little attacking threat we had

Disagree.

But as I said, the point still stands. Whether left wing back or left midfield, in that 88 minutes out of position (in a game you've just said we had little attacking threat) he got into position and had a chance that was equal to the best chance Flemming has had in the last 4 games (275 minutes) as a striker. And those 4 games include what many are calling our best attacking performances.

As I say, entirely plausible Parker doesn't want a more traditional striker and that's why he's favouring Flemming and maybe why Flemming isn't getting into those positions. But if that's the case then it means a new striker is even less necessary.

[123EasyasBFC]

Disagree.

But as I said, the point still stands. Whether left wing back or left midfield, in that 88 minutes out of position (in a game you've just said we had little attacking threat) he got into position and had a chance that was equal to the best chance Flemming has had in the last 4 games (275 minutes) as a striker. And those 4 games include what many are calling our best attacking performances.

As I say, entirely plausible Parker doesn't want a more traditional striker and that's why he's favouring Flemming and maybe why Flemming isn't getting into those positions. But if that's the case then it means a new striker is even less necessary.

Or that Parker knows hountonji isn’t good enough and wasn’t his signing along with sambo

[Roosterbooster]

I just don't understand your description of Hountondji. I'm sure he is honest and tries hard but this level of football is currently beyond him.

I haven't said anything about his ability at this level, only his style of play. He makes runs like a typical striker would. He looks to get in and around the box and run off the last man. That's not how Flemming plays

Flemming was not brought here to play as a 'false 9.

I never said he was

[claret59]

I visited this site expecting t be 'lifted up' after two really good results and excellent team play., instead I find myself somewhat depressed having read this post. The team is playing as a team that believe in themselves and getting good results. Why the panic to change things?

[hoosier-daddy]

I visited this site expecting t be 'lifted up' after two really good results and excellent team play., instead I find myself somewhat depressed having read this post. The team is playing as a team that believe in themselves and getting good results. Why the panic to change things?

Most disagree with the OP. That doesn't mean there is any panic.

There's a massive difference between "panic to change things" and bringing another player in to help during the 17 games we have from February.

[boatshed bill]

Couple of injuries up top and we are very much exposed.

Luckily any new signings up front are not liable to get injured.

[hoosier-daddy]

Luckily any new signings up front are not liable to get injured.

Erm...

[boatshed bill]

Erm...

Do I really need to explain that?

[hoosier-daddy]

Do I really need to explain that?

Dude, you didn't understand the original point being made. So let's leave it.

[Clive 1960]

said all along we need another striker on loan to buy as another injury or two up top and we are depleted and hopefully it's addressed in January window..

[boatshed bill]

Dude, you didn't understand the original point being made. So let's leave it.

Actually I really did get the point. I like to be slightly , if you like, cryptic.
Seasonal greetings to you.

[Vegas Claret]

It is essential. Our two rivals will strengthen big so we must too.

The key is to get one with the right attributes. Parker will want a striker who is tall, can play with his back to goal and can finish, somebody with the type of attributes of a Calvert Lewin. No way will we get someone with every attribute possible.

Form will ebb and flow so we need options in every position.

Leeds are rumoured to have offered 20 million for a defender playing in France and Wilder will likely spend loads this window if he can, both sides will likely strengthen quite a bit

[Hbclaret007]

I would like another striker, but our bench could be Foster, Jrod, Sarmiento, koleosho, Benson and hountonji. Lots of options there.

[GetIntoEm]

Don't think we are mega desperate for anyone, we have a bit of depth with the returning players.

Maybe 1 in on loan. I imagine any striker won't immediately go into the team

[Tribesmen]

Get Ferguson in from Brighton , he would have a field day in the championship

[fatboy47]

The lads in situ are playing out of their skins for Parker, and they've just outplayed the market leaders in front of 30k away from home...the team is starting to click and belief is growing by the day.

Just the time to send a message that theyre not really up to the task and we need better.

Some of you lot would make amazing man-managers, in a David Brent kinda way.

[JohnMcGreal]

To think this team doesn't require a proper centre forward would be a case of very short term thinking.

We might get away without one for the rest of this season (we might not) but we also need to be planning ahead, and we will certainly need one next season regardless.

If the funds are available and there are good options available, we should take them sooner rather than later.

[Spijed]

It is essential. Our two rivals will strengthen big so we must too.

The key is to get one with the right attributes. Parker will want a striker who is tall, can play with his back to goal and can finish, somebody with the type of attributes of a Calvert Lewin. No way will we get someone with every attribute possible.

Form will ebb and flow so we need options in every position.

How much would a player cost that's similar to Dominic Calvert Lewin?

Would be a huge financial risk if we failed to get promoted.

[Elizabeth]

The lads in situ are playing out of their skins for Parker, and they've just outplayed the market leaders in front of 30k away from home...the team is starting to click and belief is growing by the day.

Just the time to send a message that theyre not really up to the task and we need better.

Some of you lot would make amazing man-managers, in a David Brent kinda way.

I’m sure it would be properly man managed if Parker decides he wants to bring in another striker. Football is a professional game and when you are successful the worse thing to do is rest on your laurels if you want further success.

[Dyched]

Depends if you want to be pessimistic or optimistic.

If a forward came in and scored 5 goals till the end of the season, turning what could be 5 points into 15 it’s worth every single penny.

Like I said earlier. Forward wise we are not too bad. Brownhill getting injured is the worry with Flemming being the first choice forward. A new forward helps out in two ways really.

[Newcastleclaret93]

I think there’s two roles where we definitely need to strengthen this window and then only one other role that would be nice to improve.

Right wing and left back are a must in my opinion.

Then if we have any cash I would love to sign a creative number 10.

My ideal signings would be:

Right wing - Steukers (Genk) solid right wing option and someone I think could grow into a solid premier league player.

Left back - Moreira (Strasbourg) in my opinion he’s going to be a top left back and have an impressive career. Interestingly he has played nearly his whole youth career as a winger or attacking midfielder but this season has spent the majority at left back and has excelled dribbling from deep.

Attacking midfielder/ forward - Kroupi (Lorient) this is probably quite an optimistic one as I suspect he’s probably already worth 10m quid. But he’s an 18 year old tricky little player. Got an eye for a goal and his dribbling/through balls were what impressed me. Might be wrong but I think he’s out of contract in the summer so I suspect he will end up going to a big club on a free unless we can attract him this window.

[Dyched]

I’m sure it would be properly man managed if Parker decides he wants to bring in another striker. Football is a professional game and when you are successful the worse thing to do is rest on your laurels if you want further success.

It’s not even a problem. He can call them to a meeting. “Lads, we’re bringing in someone else. To help you all the be Premier League players next season, is that okay?”.

[ClaretLoup]

Just the time to send a message that theyre not really up to the task and we need better.

Some of you lot would make amazing man-managers, in a David Brent kinda way.

So Fergie when he brought in Dwight Yorke, Van Nistelrooy and Van Persie was like David Brent?

Aye, reight, have a good day.

[fatboy47]

So Fergie when he brought in Dwight Yorke, Van Nistelrooy and Van Persie was like David Brent?

Aye, reight, have a good day.

Or Kompany when he brought Tresor and other wastes of space into a happy successful team?

Aye reight, have a good day.

[warksclaret]

Hountondji simply has to go out on loan-end of. For me he is not as effective as Costelloe. He is a big lad but I have yet to see him make an aerial challenge

[Mattster]

I think there’s two roles where we definitely need to strengthen this window and then only one other role that would be nice to improve.

Right wing and left back are a must in my opinion.

Have you seen any of Cyriaque Irie at Troyes in Ligue 2?

He's my dream right wing signing. Hopefully we've got eyes on Troyes since that's where we got Odobert from.

He's not really being linked with anyone yet so may be able tk get him in. Leave it until Summer and he'll likely be beyond our reach.

[Elizabeth]

It’s not even a problem. He can call them to a meeting. “Lads, we’re bringing in someone else. To help you all the be Premier League players next season, is that okay?”.

With Jay knowing he’s at the end of his Burnley career any new striker brought in to replace him for next season would be a natural progression Jay would be expecting. It doesn’t stop him still having an important role to play this season with his enormous experience and attitude in the game.

[taio]

Of course we should look to strengthen if the right player is available, interested and affordable. It's what all football clubs look to do.

[jdrobbo]

Most disagree with the OP. That doesn't mean there is any panic.

There's a massive difference between "panic to change things" and bringing another player in to help during the 17 games we have from February.

I asked a question to promote a sensible debate. I think, in the main, that has been achieved. My opinion, regardless of how I framed the question, is that I’d like us to consider a good loan signing.

[Silkyskills1]

I think there’s two roles where we definitely need to strengthen this window and then only one other role that would be nice to improve.

Right wing and left back are a must in my opinion.

Then if we have any cash I would love to sign a creative number 10.

My ideal signings would be:

Right wing - Steukers (Genk) solid right wing option and someone I think could grow into a solid premier league player.

Left back - Moreira (Strasbourg) in my opinion he’s going to be a top left back and have an impressive career. Interestingly he has played nearly his whole youth career as a winger or attacking midfielder but this season has spent the majority at left back and has excelled dribbling from deep.

Attacking midfielder/ forward - Kroupi (Lorient) this is probably quite an optimistic one as I suspect he’s probably already worth 10m quid. But he’s an 18 year old tricky little player. Got an eye for a goal and his dribbling/through balls were what impressed me. Might be wrong but I think he’s out of contract in the summer so I suspect he will end up going to a big club on a free unless we can attract him this window.

You've cast your discerning eyes regularly over these players then. Go on, be honest, how many times have you seen each play?

[taio]

I asked a question to promote a sensible debate. I think, in the main, that has been achieved. My opinion, regardless of how I framed the question, is that I’d like us to consider a good loan signing.

Your OP was clear - that you think we should try to sign a centre forward albeit on loan, which is a totally sensible suggestion.

[jdrobbo]

Your OP was clear - that you think we should try to sign a centre forward albeit on loan, which is a totally sensible suggestion.

Exactly. I think I get what hoosier was saying though.

[Newcastleclaret93]

Have you seen any of Cyriaque Irie at Troyes in Ligue 2?

He's my dream right wing signing. Hopefully we've got eyes on Troyes since that's where we got Odobert from.

He's not really being linked with anyone yet so may be able tk get him in. Leave it until Summer and he'll likely be beyond our reach.

Funnily enough yes I watched him when Lorient beat them 2-0. I was watching mainly so I could see that Kroupi play but he did catch the eye.

The only thing I will say about Irie is that he came across quite lightweight. But I guess at 18-19 they will come across that way. Certainly has the technical ability to be a successful
Signing for us.

[Newcastleclaret93]

You've cast your discerning eyes regularly over these players then. Go on, be honest, how many times have you seen each play?

A handful of times, potentially 2-3 times each. Seen a bit more of Kroupi purely on the basis I have family that live in Lorient.

I guess I would ask the same question to most people on this topic, how many times have others watched the likes of Poki at Peterborough.

[Hipper]

The only thing we are really missing is a Doaks/James/Solomon type player, someone really creative. Koleosho isn't it (I've seen nothing this season that shows he is) and nor is Anthony although he is quietly effective and having more of an impact as the season progresses. Parker has found a way to score goals with what we've got. The Stoke game may be an opportunity to see if we can overcome bus parking tactics.

Leeds, the division's leading goal scorers, don't have a steady goalscorer (Piroe has 9, same as Brownhill). The next best team, Middlesbrough maybe do with three top scorers and the rest low numbers (Latte Lath 9, Conway 8, Aziz 8). Sheff Utd's leading goalscorer is Campbell with 6.

I'm not convinced there is a need for us to have an obvious goalscorer either so long as we can get others to score, which we are at the moment. Our style of play doesn't require it.

[NewClaret]

A handful of times, potentially 2-3 times each. Seen a bit more of Kroupi purely on the basis I have family that live in Lorient.

I guess I would ask the same question to most people on this topic, how many times have others watched the likes of Poki at Peterborough.

This is a good point. I’ll confess I don’t really watch any team much other than Burnley. What I do tend to watch is the premier league which is not our market for signings. I certainly don’t watch foreign teams. YouTube highlights are my main source of information on other players.

Most of the comments on here are the same, based on reputation or stats alone, I’d say. I very much doubt anyone’s suggestions on here are based on deep analysis of a player.

[claretspice]

Flemming getting fitter, stronger and more effective with each passing game…

Jay Rod just off the back of a good run in the side, leading the line and a key player in our upturn…

Lyle Foster back into the matchday squad after two months out…

Hountonji patiently waiting in the wings

…would signing another forward be counter-productive, with us currently doing so well?

Could another position now be deemed more essential?

Personally, I think I’d look to use the loan market: I suspect most will think we MUST go ‘all in’ on a recognised goal scorer?

There's absolutely no question that we could use a striker in January.

The way Parker has used Hountondji suggests he doesn't see Hountondji as a viable front line option this season (I agree with those who think he has potential but it's moot right now - the fact he was used so fleetingly against Derby confirms that he's just not considered a front line option). He looks to me like he needs a loan to adapt to the pace and physicality of English football, probably in League One.

That leaves Foster as the only front line striker offering pace, and neither Rodriguez or Flemming really occupy and fix centre halves, nor (in the case of Flemmimg owing to instinct, and Rodriguez owing to age) do they have the movement to create half a yard in the box to convert a half opening into a real chance.

Even if Parker is happy with his starting options, therefore, the squad is light of an option to break a tight game. For this season, that is probably a loan or a 'one for the future' that can in turn free up Hountondji for a loan. If it's a one for the future option then Richard Kone is scoring for fun for Wycombe in league one and was hugely impressive when I saw him score twice against a good Stockport team recently. He looks a real prospect - quick enough, lively and strong. But if we go up we'll need another front line striker who improves on what we've got I think.

[Mattster]

This is a good point. I’ll confess I don’t really watch any team much other than Burnley. What I do tend to watch is the premier league which is not our market for signings. I certainly don’t watch foreign teams. YouTube highlights are my main source of information on other players.

Most of the comments on here are the same, based on reputation or stats alone, I’d say. I very much doubt anyone’s suggestions on here are based on deep analysis of a player.

Anyone making the slightest hint of deep analysis of a player on here is told to get off the spreadsheets and watch football with their eyes

[hoosier-daddy]

To think this team doesn't require a proper centre forward would be a case of very short term thinking.

Interesting, as I think the opposite - we need a forward between January and the end of the season. We are short of reliable options.

[warksclaret]

We have 7 first team centre halves on our payroll, and one serious striker/No 9 in Foster (who has missed more starts than played this season). We have the tightest defence in all four divisions-imagine how many points we would have today if we could have found another serious striker-maybe someone like Delap who at one point was going nowhere. Absolutely no debate for me. The club have had long enough to look and find, and filling this position promptly could be the difference in getting auto promotion and not.

[ecc]

Not sure an extra striker can ever be one too many unless it brings discontent to the squad.

I'm not overly optimistic about us getting one. A PL loanee could be good.

[Stacks]

Bring back ASH for 4-5 months