Cod Almighty | Article

by Simon Wilson

19 January 2007

Sentimentality, even romanticism, often gets in the way when fans talk about promoting 'the youth' into their first team. In an ideal world, many football fans want their team to be packed full of local lads, who passionately care about the club, and are footballers who will fill the England team and win the World Cup. Birmingham City's deep resources, in terms of money and population, would suggest they are well placed to provide such a team. Problem is, though, the Blues' reputation these days is more as buyers than 'promoters', and local lads like Peter Till, brought through the club's ranks, are cast aside.

Many Blues fans, however, felt that the local resources weren't deep enough anyhow, and that Till just wasn't quite good enough for the starting XI in the first place. Indeed, his appearances on the Birmingham bench were more as a space filler than anything else, and he chalked up just one substitute appearance. Further evidence is provided by the list of teams he's been loaned to, all lower-league sides: Scunthorpe, Boston and Leyton Orient. If he was any better, he'd have been at 'better' clubs. Over the past couple of seasons he's done the rounds though, and notched up 29 appearances over those spells. Barometer of skill aside, it's handy experience.

Till's reputation is that of a front man from his time in the Birmingham reserves, but Buckley has earmarked him as a wide player. Much of Till's performances reminds me of Michael Boulding. While not the biggest physically, he looks a nuisance, can play the ball in, and although his chances in front of goal have been limited, he looks to break into the box whenever he can. If this lad were further up the pitch he'd net more. Buckley's been suitably impressed to bring him to Blundell Park on a permanent deal. Whether he's the new Kevin Donovan or the new Marcel Cas remains to be seen, but like most things that arrive at Blundell Park, there's promise. Whether it's realised is another matter.