I've followed, Pennington, Cleur, Armenakis and Piscopo since the 4 were in youth set ups in Italy.
I think that there's misunderstanding about Pennington's level. He's not a Devlin, who's basically a physical midfielder. Pennington is clever and patient tackling, good passing, good ball control and he covers more ground than anyone.
Midway through last season there were calls for Pennington to head to Serie A. He was the best Serie C midfielder. The transfer window was blocked by Covid. Pennington then was out of form for part of the second half of the season. This is what dogs him, his consistency. If he's consistent he's Serie A level. The shorter Australian Season could help with that consistency. If he can maintain that level with the Phoenix then they have the bargain of the century.
I think that there's misunderstanding about Pennington's level. He's not a Devlin, who's basically a physical midfielder. Pennington is clever and patient tackling, good passing, good ball control and he covers more ground than anyone.
Midway through last season there were calls for Pennington to head to Serie A. He was the best Serie C midfielder. The transfer window was blocked by Covid. Pennington then was out of form for part of the second half of the season. This is what dogs him, his consistency. If he's consistent he's Serie A level. The shorter Australian Season could help with that consistency. If he can maintain that level with the Phoenix then they have the bargain of the century.