Posted November 24, 2025 21:41
· last edited November 24, 2025 23:41
AucklandPhoenix
It is blind faith even entertaining the slightest thought that Conchie would make it abroad.coochiee
Nix sold 3 high quality WeeNix grads in one season. Paulsen, Surman and Old. Obviously that lead to alot of excitement around the club, and fair praise for the Academy.
But the progression of the none of the 3 was linear. Surman had a sound debut season, barely played the next campaign, then had a great 2023-24. Old was in and out of the first team for 2-3 years, then also had a breakout 2023-24.
There were always a feeling Paulsen was a bit special, but he had to bide his time behind Sail.
Still too early to write off Hughes, Sheridan, LKH & Conchie as never being able to get a decent gig in Europe.
I also think Walker with time could be an exciting ALM talent. I think back to him cleverly winning & converting his pen against Chile at the U20 WC. He just needs a long stretch not being injured.
6/8 roles are tricky positions to learn your craft. You play both facing and with back to goal. Your decision making has to be quick and accurate. Loose passes in a crowded midfield are punished.
It took Rufer years to consistently learn the DM role well. Bell failed in Denmark but after a couple more years back in Norway looks ready to try a higher level again. Conchie may get there who knows. Some days he looks impressive, others less so.
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Unknown editoredited November 24, 2025 23:41
AucklandPhoenix
It is blind faith even entertaining the slightest thought that Conchie would make it abroad.coochiee
Nix sold 3 high quality WeeNix grads in one season. Paulsen, Surman and Old. Obviously that lead to alot of excitement around the club, and fair praise for the Academy.
But the progression of the none of the 3 was linear. Surman had a sound debut season, barely played the next campaign, then had a great 2023-24. Old was in and out of the first team for 2-3 years, then also had a breakout 2023-24.
There were always a feeling Paulsen was a bit special, but he had to bide his time behind Sail.
Still too early to write off Hughes, Sheridan, LKH & Conchie as never being able to get a decent gig in Europe.
I also think Walker with time could be an exciting ALM talent. I think back to him cleverly winning & converting his pen against Chile at the U20 WC. He just needs a long stretch not being injured.
DM is a tricky position to play. You play both facing and with back to goal. Your decision making has to be quick and accurate. Loose passes in a crowded midfield are punished
It took Rufer years to consistently learn the role well. Bell failed in Denmark but after a couple more years back in Norway looks ready to try a higher level again. Conchie may get there who knows