A few words about Tommy Boyd before he goes.
One of the finest talents ever to emerge from Fir Park has to be Tommy Boyd. His recent inclusion and subsequent debut in the international team in the European Championship match against Rumania at Hampden Park have thrust Tomy to the fore in terms of media attention. Suddenly the tabloid press have found a new star but they have only 'discovered' what we have known all along.
Probably the only good thing to have ever come out of the Governments Y.T.S Scheme, Tommy has the ability to po all the way in the game. Unfortunately for Motherwell Football Club and it's supporters, Tommy's progress has accelerated faster than the club's and the time is surely near where we must part company.
I remember his first games with Motherwell when he was introduced to the first team as a teenage sweeper in a strueyline defence. His natural talent and vision show through and it was obvious at that early stage that if coached Tommy could be a valuable asset.
The fact that he was the youngest ever captain or a premier league side highlights the respect shown for him by his manager. He has the temperament to deal with most pressure situations and this was exemplified when he gained his first international cap and looked more comfortable and assured on that stage than many of the established regulars. Many good players reach this level but then falter through either lack of confidence or lack of ability. Tommy Boyd will not.
There has been a lot of comparison made between Tommy and that other 'Well legend, Joe Wark. By his own admission, Joe was an out and out defender but Tommy is a more complete player. A couple of seasons in midfield (when I must admit I thought Mr McLean had flipped) have benefited Pommy greatly and he is now what I would describe as a powerful half-back, able to defend and attack. He can now be found attacking opposition defences with speed and skill.
It must also be said that the introduction of Davie Cooper was a significant factor in Tommy's progress. With another quality player on the left side of the park, his potential has matured into a genuine talent.
At the time of writing this, Tommy Boyd is still a Motherwell player but in our hearts we all know that it is really just a matter of time before he moves on. I'm sure that the management don't want or indeed need to sell him but at the same time they cannot afford to keep him. It is only hoped that the club receive a realistic fee for Tommy as we have been short changed before
(McAllistair, McClair, Wishart and Walker). In light of recent transfer deals, I can't think that £1m would be an unreasonable starting figure.
Tommy Boyd has been a loyal employee of Motberwell F.C. and tee time has comefor him to reap the benefits. I reckon that he has been one of the finest players ever to wear the claret and amber.
M.T.
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