Grounds’ Current Form

Last season, Grounds was seen as ‘Mr Consistent.’ It was highlighted on this very site that he went under the radar a lot but this was due to him being so assured at left back, we didn’t notice how vital he was.

I do admire Grounds. This article is not written as a way to show my disdain towards the lad, but I am aware that his performances have dropped in the last few games which has led me to try and figure out just why that is.

As a player, I believe Grounds is simple on the ball. He gives easy passes and often keeps the ball well. Recently, he has tried a lot of passes that are a bit more ambitious however, some of these haven’t come off. I think that this may be due to frustration at his current form and therefore wants to make up for this with Hollywood passes.

Despite this, I think his attacking has actually improved a lot since being at the club. His relationship with Gray is very good and I do think that they work well together which is a clear plus point in terms of an attacking threat.

But the one thing that I feel is letting him down is his fitness levels. At first, I thought that his defensive ability was being lost, but now I pin this down to fitness. He looks burnt out. Last season he played 47 matches. Now for any professional at any club, this amount of games would be physically demanding. But for Grounds who had previously played at Yeovil, whom with no disrespect, play at a lower tempo, he hasn’t been used to such a demanding schedule.

His ability to pass is looking more and more strained as he is looking tired. Sometimes it appears that he may have lead in his boots. Also, the tiredness is creeping into his running. Usually, he is in position and ready to defend but recently, he is being beaten way too easily and this is a concern. Nahki Well got past him nearly every time and for crosses to be constantly coming in is a real issue for the back four.

I think that he should be rested for a few games. He is and will continue to be our best full back, but just let him have a couple of games off especially before the hectic Christmas period and I believe that he will come back as the same Grounds that we all know and love.