‘He’s got a temper on him!’ – Lincoln City verdict on Charlton new boy Conor McGrandles

Charlton Athletic have added midfielder Conor McGrandles to their ranks – here’s some insight into the new signing.

Ben Ward from The Stacey West Podcast provides his views on the Addicks new addition.

ARE LINCOLN CITY FANS DISAPPOINTED THAT CONOR MCGRANDLES IS GONE?

I think the disappointment from some stems from the heavily-rumoured suggestion that he wouldn’t re-sign with us because he wanted to move back home to Scotland. I’ve got no issues with players moving for a better payday, and I’m grateful that he saw his contract out rather than manipulated a move, but there is a slight aftertaste with the move that doesn’t quite sit right with some.

WOULD YOU HAVE LIKED TO HAVE KEPT HIM?

I’d have liked it if Conor stayed. On his day, he’s got a ton of fight and spirit about him, and he’s an asset to any League One side, for sure.

DO YOU THINK HE WILL SUIT CHARLTON’S STYLE OF PLAY?

He’s very adaptable, so I don’t think he’ll have a problem with the style of play. Lincoln have morphed into a passing side over the last few years, and Conor’s been a key part of the midfield, deputising as captain for long periods last year when Liam Bridcutt was out injured.

CHARLTON HAVE A FAIR FEW MIDFIELDERS, DO YOU BELIEVE HE CAN NAIL DOWN A STARTING SPOT?

He’s not going to be going somewhere to be considered a substitute, so he’s going to be fighting for that starting spot. There were periods of last season where he dropped off a little bit though, and allowed some silly mistakes to creep in. But if Ben Garner can get some consistency drilled into him, he’ll likely be on the team sheet most games.

WHAT TYPE OF MIDFIELDER IS HE?

He’s a battling centre-mid. He may look a bit on the scrawny side, but he’s got a temper on him! When he keeps a lid on it, it’s a great attribute. Gets stuck in, isn’t afraid of a tackle, and he sticks up for his team-mates if it turns ugly. If you go back and watch the incident at the end of the Sunderland game last season you’ll see what I mean – Lewis Fiorini got clattered, and within seconds Conor was on the scene, getting involved with Lee Johnson and the Sunderland bench.

WHAT ARE HIS BEST ATTRIBUTES?

His determination. He may not be the most technically gifted player you’ll ever see, but when he gives his all, you can’t complain. He popped up with a few goals as well, but it’s not something I’d say to rely on him for.

ANY WEAKNESSES?

As mentioned before, he had a bit of an inconsistent spell last season. Something snapped him out of it and he went back to being the Conor we knew when he signed for us. But when he hit that streak, there were some wayward passes and a little bit of naivety that cost us a few points here and there. On the whole though, I’d say he’s a good signing for Charlton. We all wish him the very best, except for two games this season!

PICTURE: CHARLTON ATHLETIC FC