Player Review: Chris McCann

Chris McCann was signed in the summer by Owen Coyle, who had previously managed the Irishman in his time at Burnley. Following the expiry of his contract with Burnley, there was little doubt McCann would be reunited with Coyle.

In the first few months of the season McCann featured rarely, even when he did he didn’t exactly blow us away with his performances. The majority of us thought McCann was a poor player, and was signed simply because of his time at Burnley under Coyle. Obviously after Coyle’s sacking, Rosler came in with fresh, ambitious ideas and a completely new philosophy. Rosler was willing to give everybody a chance in the squad, knowing with playing 55+ games he would need a big squad filled with quality.

From everyone in the squad, the one who has stepped up and looked a completely different player is Chris McCann. He has the qualities to match Rosler’s perfect idea of a central midfielder, Uwe loves to have 3 box-to-box midfielders who are strong, good with the ball, and importantly chip in with a few goals; so far McCann has done everything. Over the last few months, McCann has scored goals against Reading, Cardiff and Brighton which is something Rosler will be very happy with; and has formed a brilliant relationship with McArthur in midfield, both players are doing their jobs perfectly lately which will no doubt be pleasing Rosler and the fans. When we lost McCarthy in the summer, it was a big loss no doubt; McCann has filled his boots very well in my opinion, it’s fair to say McCann didn’t start well but has flourished under Rosler and deserves a lot of credit for his recent performances.