Quote Originally Posted by surge View Post
I agree that there is record of him playing better in contract years before but can't recall anyone saying he was also fitter in those years to point he was chasing back to help defend. That 6 months was enough for me to give him benefit of doubt, especially as he'd probably still be that player if hadn't gotten injured trying to turn around second leg, rather than saying his good behaviour then was all about that new contract.

His behaviour since injury might be questioned again (photos don't look great) but I'm saying him getting fitter was genuine effort to make best of his last year's regardless of it being a contract year.
I admire your faith, but I'm very doubtful personally. It is all too pat for me that the two things just happened to coincide.