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Why Ash Baker can become a strikers dream from right-wing-back

13/8/2018

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After the prompt departure of Jack Hunt to Bristol City only five-weeks-ago, there was growing concerns around who would fill his boots in the right-back/right-wing-back role.

Liam Palmer was the only other ‘recognised’ first team right-back available from last season who, it seemed, was going to reap more game time.

Jos Luhukay had other ideas. In steps Ash Baker.
Picture
The former Cardiff City youth player made his first team debut against Norwich City in the final league game of the 2017/18 campaign, contributing to a 5-1 victory.

More recently, Baker featured for a full ninety minutes against Hull City in the Owls first home league fixture this term.

The 21-year-old defender certainly raised a few eyebrows after an impressive performance, despite the contest ending level.

Baker made many promising forward runs down the right channel, consequently delivering some terrific crosses and creating potential goalscoring opportunities.

You could argue that Adam Reach and Barry Bannan are the most recognised and impressive crosses of the ball in the Owls squad, well, Baker possesses a quality delivery also.

In fact, only Bannan made more crosses (8) versus Hull City, here’s Ash Baker’s performance dissected:

Mins: 90
Touches: 58
Passes: 36
Pass accuracy: 69.4%
Crosses: 6
Long balls: 8
Accurate long balls: 2
Credit: whoscored.com

Given more time and therefore experience, Baker has all the characteristics to be a forwards dream.

Wednesday collectively have three or four strikers who could exploit the crossing potential of Baker, especially in the air. Fletcher, Nuhiu and Joao all spring to mind.

Based on Baker’s showings so far and as he continues to grow in confidence, the Wednesday faithful won’t be waiting far too long until he grabs his first assist.

If this then becomes a common theme, Jack Hunt will be quickly forgotten.
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