The Heartbeat

By: cathal | October 10th, 2008

In the aftermath of the Lecce game, Ledesma came in for a bit of stick from fans and pundits alike. Many where questioning his importance, his creativity, his role in the team. But where they right to do so? Is the heartbeat of the side able to get Lazio pulses racing?

The criticism hasn’t come out of nowhere but it is difficult to judge whether or not it stems from Cristian’s behaviour on the pitch or off. Due to his nutcase agent, Ledesma is continually linked to the big guns, most recently Juve and Inter, but I am inclined to take anything said in that camp with a pinch of salt. You have probably noticed that Cristian tends to say very little himself and his agent bangs on a bit too much. Clever ploy or just bad agenting? Who knows.

What is clear is that the media isn’t linking Ledesma to these clubs for no apparent reason. Yes, a lot of it is down to the fact that good old agent is unable to keep his mouth shut, but a large part of it is the uniqueness of Ledesma as a player. He is one of very few players nowadays who can protect the defence, win a tackle, begin attacks, lead and organise those around him and set up goals and even score the odd one too. We win our games when Ledesma is winning his midfield battles. That is why I am reluctant to see him go.

But will he actually go? That’s the million dollar question. I guess rumours linking us to Yohan Cabaye of Lille is a good indicator. Cabaye is very similar to Ledesma. I have watched him on many an occasion in the French League and Champions League and he looked to be incredibly solid and has bags of potential. The only problem I would have with him is his age; he is only 22 and for a defensive midfielder, that is quite young to be expected to hold a midfield for a team like Lazio. Perhaps Cabaye is sought as a back up to Ledesma but to be honset, I think he is better than a Lazio back up. The only thing is, I don’t think he can fill Ledesma’s boots. I am very intrigued to see if anything materialises here as it seems we have had our eye on him for quite some time. He really is a mouthwatering prospect.

Even with Cabaye potentially within our grasp, it seems incomprehensible that we would let vice-captain Ledesma go. In a period of change, progression and advancement, I don’t think it’s wise to let the one constant, the epicentre of Lazio walk away from the club. He may not be working wonders on the pitch at the minute but he can’t work anything if he is not on it for us. Lotito, get out your cheque book and draw up a big fat contract for Cristian. Now!

The only other news of the day involves Meghni. It appears that he has had a relapse of the muscle injury that kept him out for a large period of last year. Recovery time is currently unknown but it is likely to be a while. This is a huge shame as I think he was genuinely in line for a starting berth against his old club Bologna. Let’s hope he gets fit soon.