Louis Saha is a player I’ve stuck up for on numerous occasions, before my patience ran out. It’s not him personally, I’m sure he’s fine, but we simply cannot afford to be relying on a player who is injured as often as he is. He is the only player we have in his position, which has cost us when it mattered. Had we enjoyed the services of an out and out striker in 2007, where we reached the final of the FA Cup and the semi-finals in Europe, who knows what we could have achieved.
Back in May, I said my goodbyes to Saha and Mikael Silvestre, reflecting on their best bits, but certain that enough was enough, it was time for them to go. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine the comedy situation of Silvestre would ensue. Fancy that, being in the middle of a City medical, getting a call from Arsene Wenger, and legging it out of there. Whilst I thought City would be a fairly amusing destination for ol Silly, nothing beats the comedy value of Arsenal “beautiful football” FC taking him on board.
So whilst the Silvestre prediction has come in to fruition, it seems as though Louis will now be departing also. The downside? He has to pass a bloody medical first!
Saha has agreed a two year deal with Everton, with the option of extending that a further 12 months in the future. With no official transfer fee being disclosed, we are just left with speculation.
I don’t mean to come across too harsh on the guy. I actually did really like him as a player. He waited patiently on our bench whilst Ruud van Nistelrooy was our top striker, yet whenever he was called upon, gave 100% to everything, with no grumbling. His brilliant attitude was only emphasised after the dramatics that followed Ruud when he was left on the bench.
If Saha could remain fit, I would honestly love for him to stay. I think he’s a great player who’s had some great moments at the club. However, if we’re looking to seriously compete for the Premiership and Champions League, we need a striker we can rely on to be there, and sadly, Saha isn’t the man for the job.
Goodbye, and good luck!