JIM Magilton is looking forward to welcoming back prodigal son Pablo Counago to Portman Road and believes the Spaniard can be a fly in the ointment for many of their Championship rivals this season.
By Derek Davis
JIM Magilton is looking forward to welcoming back prodigal son Pablo Counago to Portman Road and believes the Spaniard can be a fly in the ointment for many of their Championship rivals this season.
Although Pablo, who will be 28 next month, has had some flat seasons Magilton remembers when his old team-mate was the Blues top scorer in the 2002-2003 season with 19 league goals in a 21-goal haul.
Magilton said: “That season was the good Pablo and in fairness to Joe he gave him a lot of games. It is well known they had their differences and maybe Pablo didn't perform to the level he had performed so I'm hoping to get him fit so he can put pressure on all the players at the club
“He knows he is behind Alan Lee and Jon Walters at the moment in regard to fitness but I have the highest regard for him as a footballer.
“If you get Pablo in the right areas he will score you goals. He is probably wandered a little over the past two years and funnily enough, not settled to life back in Spain. He is really keen to come back here where he feels at home.”
Magilton, along with coach Bryan Klug, went to see Counago in Spain and was impressed, not just with his ability but also his attitude.
He said: “Pablo is really up for it. He left on a sour note so he is desperate to come back and give it everything he has got. It is a great signing for us.
“He has all the attributes to be a top class player and we never really saw the very best of him last time. He has a little bit to prove and he wants to do that.
“He has matured and appears more relaxed. That comes with age and experience. The things that used to wind you up before, you now tend to take in your stride more and I think he does that now.
“Pablo comes at a good age for us and when I spoke to him he made it clears he is desperate to play not just for me but for the fans and for the club.”
Counago is due to have his medical and sign his new deal today before being officially unveiled a press conference tomorrow afternoon.
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