A golden rule in football states that you should never break up a winning team.[]
Yet after a record breaking 2014/15 season with 132 out of a possible 138 points, Stockport County have done exactly that. Manager Duke of Stockport dropped a bombshell on the fans as the popular Brazilian Rafael Crivellaro moved to Milton Keynes Dons for just $85,000. Despite starting on the bench for many of his 66 games, Crivellaro never complained, scoring 20 goals and assisted another 27. Irishman David O’ Leary soon followed him to the exit for just $40,000.
The two departures were seen as a borderline letdown as they were very versatile. Rafael could play all midfield roles apart from defensive midfield, while O’ Leary was capable playing in the centre and on the right, most effectively in a defensive/midfield role. Taking a hint, defender Reece Wabara promptly jumped at a move to Tranmere, playing in the prestigious third division of British football. Publicly declaring that he was motivated by a conflict with Stockport manager Duke, the fans were no doubt happy to see the back of Wabara in a deal that garnered them over $700,000 in profit.
More positive news would follow- the Duke of Stockport successfully recruiting Portuguese wonderkid Joao Coelho and reliable German Steffen Schmitz for a combined fee of $0. Both men have outstanding ability borne from their time at top level clubs and will certainly be the backbone of Stockport County for years to come.
However, not even these deals could soften this massive blow- British wonderkid Jason Banton moving to Birmingham City for $2.1 million. With phenomenal technical ability, pace and stamina, Liverpool fan Jason was long seen as a future Anfield player. Thus, allowing the kid to make the move to a league one rung lower than Liverpool was utterly confusing.
The loyal “Scarf Wearers” were getting antsy at losing a top British talent, a compass of identity for the club. Thus assertive action was needed- the Duke proceeding to sign a grand total of 0 English players. Indeed, Stockport’s big name signings were Swedish, Czech and Danish. With the club deciding to shift another 3 Brits, the Duke made his stand clear- Dominance over Domestic Bias. Just how would this affect Stockport, a club that treasures its UK-bred players? Stay tuned to find out.
