07:32
Anichebe: The fighter who won’t stay down
After another impressive performance, is it time
for the West Bromwich Albion forward to be
considered for a Nigeria recall?
Victor Anichebe is a fighter.
No trunks, no gloves, no headgear, he doesn’t
even ply his trade inside a ring, but his spirit is
one that could easily pass of as that of a boxer.
He has been knocked down time and time again,
but he never stays defeated. Just when you think
he is down and out, he springs up with renewed
zeal, confidence and motivation.
Injuries are footballers’ worst nightmare and it
won’t be overstretched to say that perhaps the
West Bromwich Albion forward has had more than
his fair share. However, despite his tortuous
career marked by assorted spells on the treatment
table—and he has had some pretty nasty ones—
the 26-year-old comes back stronger; almost
always with a bang sprinkled with vengeance.
For his most recent setback, the Nigeria
international suffered a groin injury that kept him
out for most part of September and October.
However, Anichebe returned for the Baggies in
spectacular fashion, helping his side to salvage a
point against Crystal Palace at the end of October.
The Eagles had raced to a two-goal lead through
Brede Hangeland and Mile Jedanick in the first 45,
only for Anichebe’s introduction in the second to
halt the rot.
For a player who is prone to injuries, his ability to
ride off challenges with his broad shoulders and
imposing height is quite incredible.
His close-range header, which reduced the deficit
in the 51st minute, galvanized his teammates to
push for a leveller. And late on, they were
rewarded for sustained pressure, again, with
Anichebe playing a crucial role.
It was his bravery and experience (and clumsiness
from the Palace defender) that won the Baggies
the late penalty from which Saido Berahino slotted
home to earn Alan Irvine’s men a 2-2 draw.
Anichebe | Finally back on his feet
Irvine praised the Nigerian after the game but his
remarks highlighted an awkward pattern in
Anichebe’s career: a high level of inconsistency.
"I thought Victor had a really good pre-season
and started the season well and realising he’s a
really important player for us,” Irvine told
The Birmingham Mail.
"I expected him to have an impact when he came
on Saturday (against Palace) and he did that.
"He knows he has got to produce his best form
repeatedly in order to play and there’s a big
challenge for him.
"He showed what he’s capable of doing, he’s
extremely effective with his back to goal, he has
good technique, brings other people into the
game and he is a handful,” he said.
No comments
Post a Comment