Kris Commons

This signing could end up being a real bargain, in fact some might say he's already repaid his transfer fee via his performances last season.

I am really looking forward to seeing how he does this season, however I must admit I am really disappointed to see his current lack of condition. I'm all for allowing players a few weeks to rest and re-charge their batteries, but he looks like he's spent 6 weeks on the sofa eating 3 takeaways a day.

I felt that last season he was carrying a bit of weight and had hoped that he would use the summer to "get in shape". I know from personal experience that the right type of training can significantly increase speed strength and stamina, which to my eye seems to be his achilles heel. At 27, he should be in the peak of his football powers and as a professional sportsman, (very well paid one at that), his fitness and condition should be high on his list of priorities.

Had he been another squad player, with average ability, I'd be less concerned. However he is blessed with a fine left peg, is the best striker of a ball at the club, (only Ki comes close), reads the game well and has a great eye for goal. I believe he should be an automatic pick for the manager, but I also think he could be so much better with the added yard of pace and a better "engine" as they call it.
It just concerns me that such a talented player was available at such a knock down price and I wonder if there is an attitude problem, ( rather than a physiological one).
I hope I'm wrong and the success he enjoyed last season, playing for such a great club, spurs him on to even greater things this year, for both club and country.