Isted out, Begovic in
Possibly.
It seems at least that Harry Isted is leaving for Burton Albion on a permanent transfer.
Isted was signed by Dean Holden to compete with Ashley Maynard Brewer last summer and became first choice once Nathan Jones came to the club as he was a player that he had worked with previously.
That always looked a weak argument to me, and Isted never made me feel comfortable. He did offer more authority of his box than AMB, but I was often dismayed at his shot stopping losing count how many times he would push out a saveable-looking shot creating even more defensive uncertainty.
He came across as a bright fellow, and I wish him nothing but the best at Burton, who have been very active in the summer transfer window. Isted will vie with New Zealand international Max Crocombe for the Brewers’ number 1 shirt.
Talk of 37-year old Asmir Begovic joining us has got louder in the past week. The Bosnian has had a long career but up until his move to QPR a year ago he had pretty much settled for the substitutes bench.
However he played 45 of QPR’s 46 Championship games last season, but left after the expiry of his contract.
I think an experienced goalkeeper is what is needed. Begovic had sat around collecting a pay cheque before last year and I would’ve questioned his hunger back then, but I know QPR fans were hopeful he would stay another season.
QPR despite finishing 18th and flirting with relegation had the 7th best defensive record in The Championship last season. Begovic kept 13 clean sheets. The Addicks kept 5 all season.
Quick send a cab over to QPR with Scott and a contract…Begovic would be a steel and worth a punt.
It does seem that it has always been Jones’ intention to sign an experienced keeper, as the other name often mentioned before he signed elsewhere was John Ruddy. In fairness, it may not be a bad thing for AMB to spend a season learning from a keeper who has played at a higher level for most of his career? Based upon last season, Begovic would be a step up either way.
Think you make a good point, Jon in that AMB should learn a lot from Begovic. Played at a much higher level than Ben Roberts.
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