This Trio Could Be In Demand In Window

BACK in the day, stepping up to the Championship was about one thing – power. Everyone was bigger, stronger and quicker.

Now, not many managers worry about a player’s physical traits. It’s about intelligence, technique and, above all, knowing how to keep hold of the ball.

Can he keep possession? Will he give it away in dangerous areas? A Championship player today has to be so much better on the ball than a decade ago.

Being a big, strong athlete is still important, but it isn’t enough. You look at centrebacks in the Championship now and a lot of them are quite small. Six foot, six one.

But, if they can play, who cares? The ball isn’t in the air as much any more and the turnover always happens in front of you.

As the January window hoves into view, Championship recruiters will be looking to the lower leagues and making a judgement on who can step up.

Do they want physical specimens? Yes, but they also want players who can pass a ball – at the correct weight and at the correct time. Here are three lads who I think fit the bill.

ARISTOTE NSIALA

SHREWSBURY

AGE: 25, POS: DEFENDER

This lad came through the ranks at Everton, but he’s since played all over the place. Accrington, Hartlepool and Grimsby under his current manager, Paul Hurst.