He could be a little better, but he could be a lot worse.
That’s my feeling when it comes to Dan Crowley’s time so far at Birmingham City. Having signed for us last summer in a deal worth £700k, it’s been a pretty big culture shock for the 22-year-old on the pitch. Having predominantly played in a central position throughout his career, he’s been playing out wide for the majority of his time at St Andrew’s, but he’s still managed to contribute one goal and four assists in his time with us.
For that sort of investment, that’s not really too bad of a return all things considered. If we’d have paid a lot more for him, we’d probably be demanding a lot more.
But what do the rest of the Birmingham City fanbase make of his time? That was the question that @BirminghamFanTV wanted answered as they put the question out to fans on social media, and the general consensus seemed to be that he’s been OK, but could be so much better if there was more consistency to both his game, and how head coach Pep Clotet manages him.
He’s a class player for me but being played out of position to often he’s more of a left sided midfielder who can drift inside and has got good dribbling skills to match 💙💙👍
— Alan Elwell (@elwell_alan) May 27, 2020
Quality player on his day, needs to release the ball faster. Blues need to start playing a formation that fits around him tho behind the strikers, most effective when he’s on the edge of the box, solid 8/10 first season
— Matt Thomas (@MattThomas_1) May 27, 2020
He’s a massive talent. Loves to get on the ball and makes things happen but often looks flawed in a 442.
To be fully utilised, we’d need to play him in a “free role”, central – in between midfield and attack.
— Ryan Boyd (@RRWB_) May 27, 2020
Inconsistency of formations/playing styles has hampered performance and any type of progress this season I think for players individually.
— Francis Ngannou (@TRINIDANDY) May 27, 2020
Incredible player, just need the right system now.
— Richie Lum (@richiealum) May 27, 2020
Obvious talent but needs a team built around him, no good out on the flanks. Hogan reckons he plays best as a lone striker with a 10 behind him, could be interesting to try it with Crowley in that role
— Declan (@DecDavis_) May 27, 2020
What about you? What have you made of Dan Crowley?