Liverpool football club recently confirmed that 19-year-old Jonjo Shelvey will be joining Blackpool on loan until December 31st. He’ll thus have the rest of the year to duke it out in the Championship whilst under the guidance of Ian Holloway.
My initial feeling regarding this move is that it’s absolutely perfect for both player and the club. It can’t hurt for Jonjo to get out of Anfield and get some regular first-team action. It’s clear from his performances last season that he’s got plenty of potential and the chance to showcase his stuff on a weekly basis is sure to spur his development.
Some may be disappointed that he didn’t make his way to another Premier League club, but I’d disagree with this. When it comes to the Premier League, it’s a little difficult to guarantee a starting position for loan stars, but I can’t see Jonjo struggling for a starting berth at Blackpool. If he performs to the same level that he did last season he’ll be fine.
Of course, he’d have had no problem breaking into a newly promoted Premier League team, but in turn I’d question whether this would be the right place for him. Should he be scrapping it out in a team that’s fighting for its life, or playing flowing, attacking football with Holloway’s Blackpool side? I’d much rather see the creative, attacking side of his game nurtured and Blackpool represents a great opportunity for this to happen.
There were complaints last season that he was lacking in some areas of his game. Yet these small problems are likely to be ironed out during his stay at Blackpool.
The fact is, had he remained at Liverpool he would scarcely have got a look in (unless there happened to be an uncanny slew of injuries) and a loan move elsewhere represented the best possible option for what’s looking to be a promising career.
Since the move was confirmed Jonjo made his Blackpool debut against Bristol City as Ian Holloway’s side eased to a 5-0 victory. Shelvey got a goal and an assist. A great start to what’s sure to be a good move for each and every party: Liverpool, Blackpool and Shelvey
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I think he’s crap.