Astute signings make difference

Saturday’s performance against Wolves, although ending in defeat, provided some positives, and it wasn’t too hard to pick them out, loanees Alan Rogers of Forest and prospective England player, Mark Noble of West Ham.

After the injury to left-back Andy Dawson in the FA Cup tie against Aston Villa, many City fans looked with some concern at the likely backups left in the squad. Roland Edge had just left, and the cupboard looked threadbare with just Damien Delaney having any experience in playing in that position. In addition, the midfield personnel, although okay in playing the defensive role, didn’t seem to be able to provide much in the way of creative options for the strikers.

As the loan window was still open, Peter Taylor went and picked up an experienced man he could trust to cover the left-back role, out of favour Alan Rogers of Nottingham Forest. Rogers came to the KC Stadium on loan until the end of the season, seeking to make a permanent move away from the City Ground. At the time of the move, he was out of match-fitness, but he’s now fit, and has provided some experience in a position where City have looked a little weak when Dawson is absent. Andy will now have to beat off this competition for his place which is all to the good.

I would expect that Rogers, if he keeps up this kind of performance, to be rewarded in the summer with a permanent deal to the KC, giving Taylor the options he craves at each position.

One loan player that it is unlikely we will see at the KC next season is the future England player Mark Noble, on loan from West Ham. He came to the club with a good reputation around East London, with Hammers boss Alan Pardew wanting the 18 year old to get some matches under his belt. Apparently Pardew was particular about where he wanted Noble to go and thought the lad would learn more being around Peter Taylor.

Endorsements from the knowledgeable Hammers fans gave the City fans something to look forwards to, ?He’s an exciting prospect in a Joe Cole type of role? was a common message for those attending the KC, even his England under-21 team-mate Nigel Reo-Coker gets excited about Noble’s talent: ‘For his age Mark’s ability is frightening. He’s a genuine all-round midfielder and at his age that is very rare. He does a bit of everything and most importantly he does it well. He tackles, passes, scores goals and tries a few tricks as well. He’ll definitely be a fans favourite at the club and his potential is enormous.’

On Saturday, we saw glimpses of that. His ?take-charge’ attitude gave confidence to the players around him, and although still only 18, young Noble will give the team a lift until the end of the season, when he returns to London. There’s no question of his ability, and Mark will use from now to the end of the season to gain experience that can only benefit him. I fully anticipate, when the announcement of the 2010 World Cup squad is made, his name will be on it, whoever the manager is.

Quotes from official Hull City website