From Hammer to Robin? Why Earthy Should Stay Put
Bristol City should move heaven and earth to sign George Earthy on a permanent deal when the Hammers loan period ends, argues Paul Blake.
Firstly, what the heck is going on down in cider drinking country? The Robins have been steadily climbing the Championship table after a run of 12 games with just 2 defeats. Now the Robins are perched in fifth place, well in the play-off hunt with just 4 games of the regular season to go.
Their form at Ashton Gate has been excellent. Liam Manning’s side have secured 5 wins in their last 6 home matches. Their most recent win, against fellow play-off hopefuls West Bromwich Albion, was perhaps the most dramatic and the most significant of their season so far.
The archetypal six-pointer
Haydon Roberts’ last minute winner, slid in through Josh Griffith’s legs in the Albion goal, sent the home crowd and the Bristol City bench wild. Albion on the other hand were left ruing a missed opportunity in this archetypal six-pointer.
Coinciding with City’s good run of form have been the improving performances of West Ham loanee, George Earthy. City should move heaven and earth to keep the youngster at Ashton Gate.
The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has added a vibrancy to City’s attacking game. Earthy is a modern short passing, attacking midfielder who has helped his adopted team to retain the ball in attacking areas.
Although he pops up on both flanks as well as through the middle, he does most of his effective work in the inside-left position.
When Earthy arrived on a season long loan, Head Coach Liam Manning said: “George will add a different dynamic to our attack and we know he will bring a huge amount of energy when he plays.”
Winning over the City faithful
Not afraid to get stuck in, Earthy has won the City faithful over with his high energy pressing and never-say-die spirit.
Playing ahead of holding midfielders, Jason Knight and Mark Bird, Earthy is showing he is capable of linking play effectively in possession and pressing strongly in defensive transition. This has helped City to both maintain possession for longer periods and regain possession more quickly in the attacking third.
Another cool finish by Earthy at Loftus Road on Saturday afternoon enabled City to consolidate on their home win against West Bromwich Albion by earning a point on the road at Queens Park Rangers. Liam Manning was full of praise.
Outstanding for us
"I think George has been outstanding for us," the head coach said in his post-match press conference. "You look at a lot of players, especially young lads going on first loans from Premier League teams, they don't always go that great. I think it speaks volumes about him and his character.
"He turns up, every single day and works hard, loves the game, and is desperate to do extras. He'll be one of those where I think he'll reflect at the end of the season with it being a real big positive because he's got a really exciting future ahead of him."
Whilst Bristol City might not be quite ready for the Premier League just yet, there is strong evidence that George Earthy might be. Perhaps another season in the Championship might suit both parties just fine.