WHAT are we going to do about Garcia? While it's unlikely that we'll see a reality TV show in the January transfer window to audition for his replacement, his value to the team is as much a source of debate as ever.
Last Saturday's performance against Fulham served only to provide evidence for both the prosecution and the defence, like many games before it.
A peripheral figure for much of the game, he then conjured up a superb header from a distance which, had it been Crouch on the end of Agger's cross, would have seen the ball bounce more times than a Steve Harmison loosener on its way to the keeper.
The applause which greeted his removal shortly afterwards would surely have been more muted but for this typically outrageous piece of finishing which meant his contribution ended on a high rather than another anti-climax.
Garcia falls squarely into the category 'luxury player'. The type who entertains, can decide matches with a single flash of skill, but who can't be relied upon when the going gets tough.
Need an unexpected flick or incisive pass to unlock a defence? Luis your man.
Need someone to drag you back into a game when you're 1-0 down and struggling to find some fluency? Look elsewhere.
No-one gives the ball away more frequently, yet promises so much when in possession around the edge of the box; think of the great goals of the last three years, and Garcia will figure prominently.
So is he worth the candle? Surely there must always be room for the flair player, the one who inspires delight and groans in equal measure?
Well yes, but you have to pick and choose when and where you play him.
Don't even think about putting him on the wing away from home, unless you want to give the fullback behind him an impression of what it was like at the Alamo.
Do pick him for European ties, playing just behind an advanced striker, where he can wander to best effect and produce some stunning shots and passes.
As for the rest, your guess is as good as mine.
On balance, I'm happier when he's in the team - you just have to hope the other 10 are on form.
Last Saturday's performance against Fulham served only to provide evidence for both the prosecution and the defence, like many games before it.
A peripheral figure for much of the game, he then conjured up a superb header from a distance which, had it been Crouch on the end of Agger's cross, would have seen the ball bounce more times than a Steve Harmison loosener on its way to the keeper.
The applause which greeted his removal shortly afterwards would surely have been more muted but for this typically outrageous piece of finishing which meant his contribution ended on a high rather than another anti-climax.
Garcia falls squarely into the category 'luxury player'. The type who entertains, can decide matches with a single flash of skill, but who can't be relied upon when the going gets tough.
Need an unexpected flick or incisive pass to unlock a defence? Luis your man.
Need someone to drag you back into a game when you're 1-0 down and struggling to find some fluency? Look elsewhere.
No-one gives the ball away more frequently, yet promises so much when in possession around the edge of the box; think of the great goals of the last three years, and Garcia will figure prominently.
So is he worth the candle? Surely there must always be room for the flair player, the one who inspires delight and groans in equal measure?
Well yes, but you have to pick and choose when and where you play him.
Don't even think about putting him on the wing away from home, unless you want to give the fullback behind him an impression of what it was like at the Alamo.
Do pick him for European ties, playing just behind an advanced striker, where he can wander to best effect and produce some stunning shots and passes.
As for the rest, your guess is as good as mine.
On balance, I'm happier when he's in the team - you just have to hope the other 10 are on form.
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