Not so Fab in the end

Last updated : 01 September 2005 By Chris C

The writing had been on the wall for Fabrice for several months. He was so out of favour with Harry Rednapp that he was omitted from the team photograph and only made fleeting appearances in the reserves and in pre-season. Rumours of attitude problems and mystery injuries emerged and it was hardly surprising to see him leaving the club.

No doubt Harry branded him as one of the ‘ponces’ that he would gladly drive to another club. Although it is not believed that Harry was the chauffeur for the long trip up to Bolton, it is clear from his cancelled contract despite having a year left on his contract that all was not well.

Many Saints fans will be disappointed to see an undeniably talented player shipped out for nothing. Despite his reputation for crop circles, he was skilful and able to retain possession at times when other Saints midfielders struggled and provided many valuable assists as well as chipping in with some great goals, albeit infrequently.

The on-off transfer saga was finally concluded today after Fabrice had been training with Bolton for a couple of days.

Sam Allardyce talked up his value: “Fabrice will add depth to our side and being a left sided player he is a rare commodity in the modern game.” It’s a strange comment given he was far more effective and comfortable on the right side of midfield cutting in on his left foot rather than being able to beat defenders for pace on the outside.

Let’s hope for Fabrice’s sake that Allardyce can get the best out of a player who has now left too many of his previous clubs in acrimonious circumstances.