Nowadays his lack of pace is catching up to him whilst his movement and reaction time appear slower than ever. The way he was torn open again and again in Arsenal‘s 5-3 win at Stamford Bridge a couple of weeks ago was an indicator that his best days are behind him. The same can’t be said for Taylor who has fought back from a succession of injuries to inspire Newcastle to their best start to a season in 17-years.
The formidable partnership he has struck up with Coloccini has been the hallmark for success at St James’ Park and he seems to have matured greatly over the last 18 months or so. Admittedly I wasn’t the 25-year-olds biggest fan a few years ago due to his constant need to play up to the crowd which proved to be agitating when on the field matters were more of a concern. Luckily he has grown out of that and is now starting to display the ability that many saw in him as a teenager. His bustling approach to defending complements the cultured style of Coloccini much like it would Phil Jagielka, Phil Jones, Gary Cahill or Chris Smalling in the England squad. His aerial supremacy is second to none and it’s very rare to see him beaten to a header by a striker whilst he can also hold his own in an opponents penalty area. His discipline and awareness has also greatly improved and he isn’t diving into tackles anymore preferring to stay on his feet and make it harder for an attacker. I will acknowledge though that he isn’t the quickest, but I will say he is faster than Terry over 10-yards.
There is no doubt in my mind whatsoever that Taylor deserves the England recognition that Terry is constantly provided with despite the issues with his performances and personal life. Clearly he is getting by on reputation alone which is utterly wrong and it’s no secret that he is one of Capello’s favoutes. It’s no secret that the Italian avoids travelling to the North East to watch games instead preferring to stay in and around London and the North West. It’s clear that Taylor is currently the better player and at 25-years of age has both the maturity and experience to hold his own on the international stage. Whatever happened to Capello picking players in form?
What are your opinion on Terry’s place and does Taylor deserve a call up instead? Follow me on twitter for more debate @Kajynnep
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Couldn’t agree more. If players are picked on form then why is he not in the squad at least?!! Although Taylor deserves to be in he squad, as a Newcastle fan I’m also quite happy that he’s not part of the circus that is the England squad.
John Terry is completely past it, but Stephen Taylor is the classic example of an English defender. Flies into tackles gets his head on the ball has a great attitude, but isn’t very good. Hopeless on the ball, makes mistakes as much chance of making it as an international as me.
Terry has by his actions shown himself to be the unpleasant person that he is.Lack of sportsmanship is his trademark and he should not represent England.