Al Al-Habsi
Should Bolton Cash in on Ali Al Habsi?
Wednesday, August 25th, 2010 | BWFC News, BWFC People | 7 Comments
Ali-Al Habsi is a gifted player, but there’s logic in letting him leave…
It’s hard not to be amused by the situation at Wigan Athletic. Getting pasted by Chelsea is a fate that’s befallen quite a few teams recently, but being on the wrong end of a 4-0 drubbing at home to Blackpool can only be classed as utter humiliation. The Latics aren’t particularly significant, but the thought of their relegation has appeal. It’ll be like getting rid of a tramp who’s been sleeping on the doorstep.
Now there’s another reason for Whites fans to look at the Premier League’s least fashionable club. Bolton reserve goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi is currently on loan at the Dave Whelan stadium, and rumour has it that Roberto Martinez wants to make the arrangement a permanent one.
'Why are sending me to Wigan? Why?..........
Al-Habsi has had the misfortune of being around at the same time as Jussi Jaaskelainen, one of the top flight’s most consistent performers. The big Omani hasn’t let anyone down when called upon. He gave a fine display at Bayern Munich in the UEFA cup and performed heroically at the end of the 2007-8 season, when Jaaskelainen was injured.
So getting rid would be folly, right? Well, not necessarily. Bolton have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to goal keepers and Adam Bogdan, who made his debut in the League Cup tie at Southampton may prove to be the best of them.
‘I have belief in the lad, that is why we were able to let Ali Al-Habsi out on loan because I knew Adam was competent and ready to go in goal and he showed his qualities in this match.’, said Owen Coyle in an interview after the game.
Regular reserve team watchers already know how good Bogdan is. The Hungary under-21 international arrived in 2007 and it was clear even then that he was a cut above. He’s big, a great all rounder and commands his area well. Since then he’s had the benefit of Fred Barber’s coaching, and is now ready to make the step up.
It will be sad to see Al-Habsi go, but he deserves his chance at the top level, and he’s certainly an improvement on Kamikaze Kirkland, Wigan’s current incumbent. The current bid, thought to be £1.5 million must be rejected, but if the pie-eaters get realistic with their valuation then Owen Coyle should do the deal.
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