Some splendid posting by The Observer (not just on here).
The excuses given for Pique, so far: Shakira, CB partner, Alves, Alba, Valdes, Busquets, Referee, pitch conditions, weather .....I'm sure as we go along, there will more additions to that list.
And there are some who are lauding him for having a "good season". Talk about lowering standards. A club of this stature demands consistency, and absolute commitment. Piqué offers neither. That he required Pep and Puyol to discipline him, then be outshone by a converted CB, currently hoping a new acquisition baby-sits him, is all one needs to know about Piqué the defender. His game lacks tact or any sense of discretion. Even worse, is when he runs his mouth after a defeat. Neither his game nor personality is inspiring.
There is a notion that he's God's gift to Barca, and there isn't anyone who could 've done better. I don't see why with similar endless opportunities, and backing Piqué received, a defender with sound fundamentals, and heart wouldn't 've delivered or even proved better. Its not like there is any one particular trait of Piqué that actually stands out. He's no leader, organiser, or displays an impeccable game reading, not a clean tackler, or even potent in the air. As a pure defender, he's average. Yes, he can make those diagonal passes, but so can mascherano, and better. Some culés are just way too sentimental regarding some Barca players, and fail to admit their failings even if its blatantly evident.
I find semi-neutral's fascination for mediocre players, quite bizarre. Player in the avatar not included, though that's one punchable face I've seen of Iker.
