He’s spent more time on the treatment table since leaving Newcastle than any where else but Real Madrid defender Jonathan Woodgate is ready for a return to the Premiership.
The injury plagued defender will be back in England for 12 months with Middlesbrough currently the favourites to bring the Teessider back home on a loan deal.
Woody had some world class performances for United and there are plenty of Geordies who’d have him back at the club.
Given United’s superb relationship with Real, there would be a good case for Woody to be back donning the black and white number six shirt he left behind in 2004.
His injury record in Madrid though suggests the player is cursed with bad luck and although he is classed as one of the world’s best defenders on his day, his arrival could be a risk for Glenn Roeder.
With just five caps to his name at England level, Woody could certainly have made a difference to both England’s chances in Euro 2004 and the last World Cup but he remains a high maintenance squad member due to his injury worries.
Woodgate was also involved in two top four finishes in 2003 and 2004.
Yet the fear to every United fan must be, if he did return to Tyneside, just when would he break down with an injury?
Perhaps a pay-as-you-play option could be the answer for Woodgate?
His destination will be decided before the transfer deadline.
Whether it benefits United or conspires against them this season remains to be seen.
- Post to:
del.icio.us
Digg
Newsvine
Nowpublic
Reddit
« Previous | Home | Next »