IN RECENT weeks our defence have certainly taken their fair share of criticism.
It is an area which should have been strengthened during the summer. With Ramage being loaned out to Barnsley and Parr injured, we haven't had much choice as far as defence has gone. But I really think credit needs to go to our back four for their efforts in last Saturday's game against Everton.
Joel Ward, for me, has been our player of the season so far. During games where we have looked awful, Ward has been so consistent, and I think he has been one of the best right-backs we have had at this club for some time.
I went to Portsmouth University and therefore knew many Pompey supporters. When we signed Ward from them for a mere £400,000, at the time when Portsmouth were going through deep financial struggles, Pompey fans were admittedly gutted to see him go and said to me we had got ourselves a great defender and was a real bargain.
And they were right. To come from League One to a Championship side, and then straight into the Premier League and not look out of place against some of the world's best strikers is phenomenal.
At only 24, I think Ward will go on to be a force in the Premier League for years to come.
Credit must also be given to Moxey, Delaney and Gabiddon. Moxey is superb at running down the wing, which in turn created so many chances for us.
I wasn't Gabbidon's biggest fan last season, but I think we have really benefited from his experience in the Premier League this year, and playing alongside Delaney, we have formed a formidable defensive unit in the last few games
