GOALKEEPERS
(Last updated 18-02-03)
A.K.A.: Big Nige, England's Number One
Do they chant his name?: Every time he plays
Played/Clean Sheets ('99/'00 League and Cup, full games only): 55/22
Percentage of games in which a clean sheet has been kept: 40
Played/Clean Sheets ('00/'01 League and Cup, full games only): 36/13
Percentage of games in which a clean sheet has been kept: 36.1
Played/Clean Sheets ('01/'02 League and Cup, full games only): 49/21
Percentage of games in which a clean sheet has been kept: 42.9
Status/Value: Nige is still a top-class goalkeeper, but he is unlikely to regain his place in the first team, mainly because Robbo hasn't done much wrong. Allegedly touted to Liverpool for £1m in the last transfer window, Nige is probably going to have to move on if he wants regular first team football.
To sum up: An excellent player to have as either a back up or first choice. The problem is his wages - Leeds can't afford to hold onto him if he isn't playing, so he's likely to be moved on.
A.K.A.: Robbo, England's Number One
Do they chant his name?: Now that he's got Martyn's place in the team, he's got his chant too - England's Number One
Played/Clean Sheets ('99/'00 League and Cup, full games only): 0/0
Percentage of games in which a clean sheet has been kept: 0
Played/Clean Sheets ('00/'01 League and Cup, full games only): 24/6
Percentage of games in which a clean sheet has been kept: 25
Played/Clean Sheets ('01/'02 League and Cup, full games only): 0/0
Percentage of games in which a clean sheet has been kept: N/A
Status/Value: First choice 'keeper at Leeds since the beginning of the season and unlikely to give up that crown. Still has a lot of learning to do, but his shot stopping ability means he earns his place in the team. Worth upwards of £6m.
To sum up: A very good player who can get better. Would do well to learn from Martyn, particularly when it comes to commanding the penalty area.