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What changes do you see around the club from your days due to the PL experiences in terms of treatment of players and fans?
The way I remember it West Brom triggered his release clause by offering a quid over his 3 million valuation and the clubs did the deal obviously egged on by agents. I don’t believe he ever asked to go. Bryan Robson never picked him much so his game nose-dived.
Nathan was probably the most naturally gifted player I’ve seen at our club. Yes, he had an almost lackadaisical look about him, such was his confidence and ability on the ball. He was fantastic.
Not wishing to open a debate on his personal life and some decisions he made, but I honestly think he ruined his career. For a couple of seasons at Latics, he was outstanding. But then he made lifestyle changes and was never the same again.Had he stayed at Latics, and shone in that 2005/06 season, and I am sure he would have improved further, I believe he would have got a top move to one of the big 5 clubs. He didnt exactly shine at West Brom, and then went to Watford, with me telling Aidy Boothroyd (then Watford Manager) that he had signed a top player with great ability. Unfortunately, he flopped at Watford and was on a downward spiral.
He should never have left Wigan, but I also think Paul Jewell looked at some of his lifestyle choices and knew of the detrimental effect it was having, and going to have, on his performances. A year later, Jewell did similar with Jimmy Bullard as well. But thats another story.What lifestyle changes are you referring to? Is it the lifestyle that has affected the careers of the likes of Paul Pogba, Moussa Dembele, Riyad Mahrez, Yaya Toure, Marouane Fellaini, Mesut Ozil, Karim Benzema to name but just a few? Oh and let’s not forget one of the greatest footballers ever to grace a football pitch, Zinedine Zidane ! :)[/quote]
Growing up with the lifestyle, and changing to it at what, about 22 years of age? Two entirely different things. The change in diet and eating practices must have had an effect. How can you train as normal if you are starving and your stomach is rumbling? It has to have an effect on your energy levels, etc.
Big Sam says as much in his autobiography about players who have to fast. The change in Nathan Ellington was clear to see. Im not knocking his religion or his beliefs, thats up to him entirely. I honestly dont believe it helped his career though.
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