Just how important could the ever-improving Joe Ralls be next season?
By Jordon Jones
Wednesday 26th April 2017
As one of the Bluebirds consistent performers this season, could Joe Ralls become a key player for the Bluebirds next season?
Likened to City stalwart Peter Whittingham, Ralls has stepped up in an attempt to reach the standards of his midfield predecessor since replacing him, proving he is more than capable of stepping up to the plate.
Warnock has taken a likening to the partnership of Joe Ralls and Aron Gunnarsson and this could be the line-up we see next season – it seems both players have done enough to convince him that they can work as a unit.
If Ralls is to stand out though, he will need to offer more in terms of creativity as with the defensive work of Gunnarsson, Ralls will be the central midfielder who will offer a creative park in the middle of the pitch.
Ever since his season with Yeovil Town, where despite being relegated from the Championship, Ralls has looked a more complete player and that is a key part of his development as a player.
He has finally nailed down that central midfielder role in a Blue shirt, rather than being deployed as a left-sided winger or left-back.
Scoring five goals this season is a respectable feat, but it is the assists column that may need improving if he is to become a more standout player for the Bluebirds next season. So far he has just one assist to his name, although he has created 34 chances over the course of the season.
Ralls has taken on a mature role this season it has to be remembered, putting himself forward to take penalties, all of which he has dispatched.
Even if the Bluebirds do recruit a central midfielder in the summer, Joe Ralls has done no harm in putting himself forward as one of City’s main men in a promotion push for next season.
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