http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/FootballFicheMatch7093_54648.html Didn't see this else where, but our Greg goes 90 and gets a yellow in a 2-0 victory. Bastia in eighth place for now (granted with one more game than some teams). Pretty good for a small team (tied with Paris S-G I think!). Who knows how coincidental this is, but I believe this is the third straight shutout for Bastia when Vanney starts. In the last two games that Vanney missed with a tweeked knee, Bastia gave up 6 goals. I know that after the last game he played before this his skipper singled out the back four as playing very well together. One would think this can only be good for Greg
I'm really interested in how well he would be playing for the Nats, now that he is seeing consistent playing time at Bastia. During most of his games for the Nats over the summer, he didn't look sharp. I think that would be different now. Too bad we don't have any upcoming friendlies.
Given that Bruce wants to stick with the 4-4-2, and given the weakness we have at the fullback positions, the play of Vanney (and Cherundolo) this year is important. IMO more important to the Nats than anyone else overseas.
I can't compare Vanney and Steve C.Vanney is just not a good enough player based on what I have seen.He serves a good ball but he has been humiliated in most of the US games I have seen.Cherundolo is a promising player.
You're exactly right for pointing out Vanneys contribution to the back line at Bastia this year. Saw some highlights from the last game without him and all the damage came against his replacement. Looks like he's settled in with the team and they've established some kind of consistency in the defensive end. What's this his second full season? Takes a bit of time to prove yourself, not to mention adapt to the language, playing style, etc. He's a solid pro, nothing fancy, but given the right situation he should hold his own week in and week out. He shouldn't, however, be considered as a potential national team starter. Everyone's got their limits.