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Vacant captaincy, surely there is only one candidate?

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With James Clarke not being offered a new deal, Walsall have a vacant captaincy. No-one can deny that Clarke was a great captain, who got involved with every part of the club. Although he divided opinion in his play, Clarke led the team, and never gave up. So who is the perfect candidate?

Only one fits the brief

A captain must lead by example, giving their all for the shirt. They need to be committed and dedicated to the club, and to trying to influence the game. Although captains are sometimes more experienced and older, this doesn’t necessarily make them the perfect candidate.

In my opinion, a perfect captain embodies the club, and is the engine of the group. Not just in a playing sense, but regarding community work, and what it means to be a part of Walsall FC. And that leaves only one prime candidate in mind, Liam Kinsella.

Kinsella has been at the club for a number of years, making his debut in 2014. He has worked hard to get to a position where he is a regular starter, after he was moved around between Right-back, and central midfield. He has excelled in the middle of the park, but he has been utilised all over the pitch, and has never dropped his effort levels.

Fans like Kinsella because he is ‘One of our own’. His work rate, and commitment to the cause also makes him a favourite. Even when things have looked bleak, Kinsella has remained loyal, signing a new deal after relegation, and an extension at the start of this year. Loyalty is a rare thing in football, but Kins has always displayed it.

Best season to date

Kins is still only 25, which is surprising because of how many years he has been around. He has made 175 appearances in all competitions, 46 of which were this season. He only missed three games, all because of suspension after a dubious red card. He also won player of the season, which was thoroughly deserved.

There was also a stat this week that showed Kinsella had won the most tackles in the league this season, which further adds to his desire and work-rate.

For me, there is no better player to be made captain for next season. Kinsella has shown everything it takes to be the man to take the armband, and he would lead the team with pride.

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2 comments

  • John Sheath says:

    As you say the only choice. His Dad must be very proud of him.

    • Roberto Petrucco says:

      For me, he embodies Walsall FC, and that is something you want the captain to be

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