I think the point about modern crowds is fair enough, we are pretty impatient. But people were bound to by on edge today, it was a huge game: as such the pressure on a youngster was even greater, so that's another factor in his performance today.
For me the problem isn't what he does when he gets the ball-he hit two dipping, swerving crosses into the 6 yard box second half that were every bit as good technically as what Norwood did today (we were sat right behind them). A more deadly striker than Platt would have buried at least one of them. His first touch was also immaculate at times, and he has ability, there is no doubt about that.
One concern is strength-he was constantly out-muscled and and one occasion he was actually palmed away (shoved in the chest) today.
But the real problem is his positioning, both his defensive and his movement going forwards. I was genuinely really worried about this before today's game, as when he was in the side early-season it was a major problem, and something similar to what Connor suffered when he last played that position (and had a mare). I've seen so many seasoned pro's just move him around at will (Boyd today 2nd half, and he was put there to do it by a manager who probably had access to Man U's scout reports on Gael!); he often "marks space", standing in an area where he offers no defensive cover. When he does close down, it's too late and creates another gap. Also, when play is progressing with us in position, he is slow to move off the ball: he isn't always looking, so doesn't stand much chance of anticipating. Again, it's a mental thing to do with concentration that will come with time.
All told, he doesn't look ready to be starting games yet. Fantastic talent, but can't do the basics that are required-particularly the positional, off the ball things. The contrast when Deegan came on was vivid: he closed the gap in front of Jordan, and his off-the-ball movement when we were in position was superb as ever, offering an option (that Sammy usually ignored in favour of a hoof to Platt..), and in one move in the corner playing a beautiful reverse-pass blind. That was the first time 2nd half we got anywhere near that byline. The change should have been made 20-30 mins earlier, and it should be from the start on Monday. Gael will come again next season, a better, more mature player. Unless we flog him..
D)
