Cuellar On Competition and Ciaran Clark

Carlos Cuellar has given the big thumbs up to new signings Richard Dunne and James Collins, and is full of praise for newbie Ciaran Clark.

I was going to try for a alliterative title but being thick I ran out of ideas after stringing the words Cuellar Chats Competition Clark. Doesn't really have a ring to it does it sadly, although it does sound like me first thing in the morning - not that I wake up thinking about Carlos Cuellar or Ciaran Clark I must add.

Chatting to Mr Harrison (not George) on the official site the Spaniard said he welcomed the additions of Dunne and Collins as it would help keep him and Davies on their toes if they wanted to keep the first team jerseys.

He also said the experience the new signings bring would be wonderful for the youngsters coming though, not least Clark who is already knocking on the managers door for appearances.

'I think it's very important for the club because to stay at the top you have to have a big squad.'

Referencing last year once we lost Laursen to injury he implies it was all well and good with the competition being him, Davies and Knight but with players of the pedigree of Dunne and Collins, both internationals, both accepted first choice defenders, it does take that competition to a new level and nobody can afford to slip below their very best, because in his own words 'we will have to stay at our best if we want to play in every game'.

Speaking specifically about Clark, Cuellar had no concerns with the youngster coming in for the Fulham match after playing alongside him in the Peace Cup.

'I had every confidence in him because I know he is a good player and he can play in this team.'

I think everyone agrees it was the perfect match for Clark to be bloodied and he hardly put a foot wrong. There's also something refreshing about seeing a young centre half come into the team and verbally ransack and reorganise his colleagues.

It gives you a warm feeling in your heart.

*Try Vital Mobile FOR FREE for the latest news, scores, fixtures and so much more*

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.