Matt Jay

[Alistair20000]

I used to say Matt Jay was so close to be an amazing player but was actually a bit crap because for all his ability it never really worked in game - it was like his decision making was off.

He has found that extra "thing", I'm not sure exactly what but he's very quickly become a lot more effective, which means now all those tricks, skills, clever bits of thinking fit into the patchwork of his overall game. There's been times this season (and yes this might sound overblown) where he has resembled in style, a League 2 Messi. Which is weird to say, but it's true - with his mazy runs, finishing, being unselfish with the ball, etc etc

One of my favourite players at City currently - I'm really pleased to see him kick on. Want him to stay - I also think he'd be a good future captain.

Agree with this.

For quite a long time I thought Matt Jay was not going to make it but he has found the way and has now established himself.

 

[tonykellowfan]

I used to say Matt Jay was so close to be an amazing player but was actually a bit crap because for all his ability it never really worked in game - it was like his decision making was off.

He has found that extra "thing", I'm not sure exactly what but he's very quickly become a lot more effective, which means now all those tricks, skills, clever bits of thinking fit into the patchwork of his overall game. There's been times this season (and yes this might sound overblown) where he has resembled in style, a League 2 Messi. Which is weird to say, but it's true - with his mazy runs, finishing, being unselfish with the ball, etc etc

One of my favourite players at City currently - I'm really pleased to see him kick on. Want him to stay - I also think he'd be a good future captain.

I think he has built up a bit of weight which probably has helped. Also I do think there is a narrative that players have a certain amount of ability and that's it, which I think is wrong as many players do improve as they get older through coaching and playing. Vardy is a good example of this but is true of many other players.

 

[Spoonz Red E]

I think he has built up a bit of weight which probably has helped. Also I do think there is a narrative that players have a certain amount of ability and that's it, which I think is wrong as many players do improve as they get older through coaching and playing. Vardy is a good example of this but is true of many other players.

Absolutely.
Any skill will be improved by good practice.

 

[Ash]

I think he has built up a bit of weight which probably has helped. Also I do think there is a narrative that players have a certain amount of ability and that's it, which I think is wrong as many players do improve as they get older through coaching and playing. Vardy is a good example of this but is true of many other players.

Yeah, Jay's almost 5 stone now

 

[Rosencrantz]

It's not really weight but strength and how to use what he has got of it to best effect. Often about how you position your body in relation to the opponent. More time on the ball gives MJ the opportunity to show those undoubted skills and be more effective.

 

[The Proper Chap]

I think his main assets are his work rate and desire.

Really pleased for the rewards he is getting, seems like a top lad.

 

[grecianstew]

It's not really weight but strength and how to use what he has got of it to best effect. Often about how you position your body in relation to the opponent. More time on the ball gives MJ the opportunity to show those undoubted skills and be more effective.

This. Tuesday night in the approach to the goal a big centre back tried to body slam him but was bounced off like he wasn’t there.

 

[jimmy]

It is also worth pointing out the challenges that 'smaller' midfielders (attacking midfielders) have to overcome in League Two compared to higher up the pyramid.

1. Not as much protection from referees.
2. Worse playing surfaces.
3. A more aerial style of play.

Age old question, but how would Messi get on with a Tuesday night game away at Stoke (Port Vale)?!

MJ has worked hard and been patient and also worked on his game. Well done to him.

 

[IndoMike]

Forget where I sourced this

"What do Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona and Brazil’s Pele have in common besides being international superstars and most likely in the Top 10 list of all-time soccer greats? They are all short.
Messi is 5′ 6.5″
Maradona is 5′ 5″
Pele is 5′ 8″
I hate it when I hear coaches place so much emphasis on size and height. Emphasis on speed I can understand. I also think height is important for a goalie. But to dismiss or overlook a player because of his/her physical stature is a huge mistake. Size does not matter!

Over the years, I have found many reasons why size is not important:

Shorter players have a lower center of gravity, making it much easier to dribble, make fakes and feints, and change direction.
Never underestimate the toughness of a short player. These players are usually tougher and more physical than taller players".

 

[Legohead]

Always thought Jack Payne was a really decent player at the lower levels. He's about 5 foot 5 i would say. If memory serves i believe he now plays for Swindon? Often though with players like Payne et al of a similar ilk, if they aren't involved in the game so much they have a tendency to become quickly ineffective.

Always liked McKirdy of Carlisle too. He can't be that much over 5 foot 5 can he? Not sure where he is now but left Carlisle which surprised me.