Swindon Town Preview: The Midfielders

The New Season starts Saturday and Vital Swindon Town takes a look at the midfield and rates the players prior to kick off.

Michael Timlin - 8/10

The former Fulham midfielder joined on a permanent deal in the off-season after impressing during his second loan spell at Town last season. On his day Timlin is one of the best midfielder in League One and will be a key player in the middle of the park.

Christian Roberts - 6/10

Is either really hot or really cold. Roberts is recovering from a knee operation and will be out for at least 2 months at the start of the season. When at his best Robbo will terrify the opposition.

Craig Easton - 7/10

Easton was runner up of the player of the season award here at Vital Swindon last season. His performances alongside Timlin and Lee Peacock were phenomenal and it did not take long to see why Leyton Orient fans rated him so highly. Will be a key player in any promotion run this season as long as he stays healthy.

Jon-Paul McGovern - 6/10

The talent is there but at times last season it didn't come through. Looked great when he arrived at the County Ground but his performances dropped somewhat after the departure of Paul Sturrock. Big season for McGovern.

Lilian Nalis - NA

We have not seen enough of the 36 year old midfielder but he brings some experience to a rather young squad. Nalis looked impressive against Cardiff City. Once he has his match fitness back we will judge.

Michael Pook - 6/10

The target for the boo boys saw his playing time limited last season due to injury and the performances of Easton, Timlin and Peacock. Town boss Maurice Malpas has said Pook will be nothing more than a squad player. The Swindon Town youth product will be out to prove Malpas wrong and get his shirt back.

Chris Allen - 7/10

Allen made his senior debut last year and did not look out of place. Will likely get a place on the bench and continue to improve through playing for the reserve team.

Anthony McNamee - 7/10

Macca was a revelation after he joined Swindon from Championship side Watford last season. His pace and skill wowed the County Ground faithful. McNamee will have to take his home form and apply it to away games if Town are to pick up valuable points away from home. His crossing is superb.

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