Still A Place For Robbo

A few weeks ago, I wrote an article highlighting the need to buy in a centre back. At the time of writing, I believed that Robinson and Edgar (who is now on loan at Sheffield United) were not good enough as cover to Morrison and Spector.

I was also bemused at the clubs decision to appoint Robinson as captain. Despite having all the qualities to be the captain, with his increasing inability to get into the starting 11, I was wary about the influence he could give throughout the 90 minute matches.

My views have changed significantly upon thinking about what he brings to the team. The first of these attributes is commitment. Not just to the players, but to the fans. Many players who are getting passed their peak often seek an easier lifestyle playing for a team abroad. Robbo has stayed in a coaching role to enable the youth at Birmingham to embed themselves.

This shows how much he cares for the club and how much he wants all ranks of the club to work together. This commitment is also shown by his continued support on Twitter for the Ladies’ team as well as the younger age groups.

If this wasn’t enough to be a captain, then his second attribute may sway you. He is fearless. I bet that he would throw himself in front of the ball even if it was made of lead with fire coming out of it. His desire to stop the other team scoring is second to none and it really emulates what a defender should be like.

Yes, he has slowed down quite significantly and yes, he may not be able to pass as well as some other modern day defenders. But he adds the grit to the team that not many can. He adds the vocals and the cohesive ability to keep the back four in line.

Often, a disorientated backline can be spotted instantly where as a good backline is often overlooked. It is an underrated skill to get four players working together like puppets on a string. I think that Robbo can do that better than anyone, even the likes of Morrison and Spector, despite not being as good.

Many people that commented on my last article said that Robinson has a role as a coach but not as a player this season… I have to disagree. He doesn’t give us the finesse that others do, but why should a defender be expected to do that?

I am in no way declaring that he is a first team starter, but I do believe that he can be very good backup if injuries do occur.