Phil71 wrote:Tony Adams wrote:Va-Va-Voom wrote:I feel like Gilberto is one of the most underrated players in PL history.
Agreed, as good as Makelele imo
We wouldn't have had that 2003/04 season without him. His presence in central midfield allowed Vieira the freedom to support the front four from behind.
Hugely underrated. We've had nobody who comes anywhere near him since he left. One of the best central midfield players every to play in the PL. He was for us what Fernandinho has been for Man City.
Football is not only about playing. You also have to stop the other team from playing. That's what these players do, and they do it so well that it goes un-noticed. It gets lost amongst the flair that only happens because they allow it.
"I can’t play. I can stop other people from playing. But I can’t play. Bobby can play."Jack Charlton
Yup, spot on with this, the work he did was under the radar, little things, little annoying fouls he would commit that would stop the opposition attacks, breaking up play, winning the ball back, no fuss. Excellent player. Gave us extra height and strength in the middle of the pitch, something we have lacked since he left - literally.