He's not burst onto the scene in the same way that AWB did, but I actually think he has the potential to be better player.

He was pivotal in our first goal, with a great ball down the line to Schlupp and he was good both defensively and going forward. AWB does the last gasp lunging tackles that catch the eye, but TM seems more composed, better on the ball and I think he's going to be a top, top player.

We just need to be patient with him as he will make errors, but he has so much potential.

AWB is a great player in the making but that has always bothered me. He relies on pace to rectify his errors but what if he loses that pace?

As you say I would rather a player who doesn't have to do last ditch tacks as their positional awareness is good enough to spot the danger early. Anyway too soon to tell with Mitchell how good he will be but he is certainly good enough for us.

One more point

It will be interesting when PVA is back.

Mitchell has been a delightful surprise (to me).

I'm still half waiting for him to be humbled (as he was against Traore), but he's clearly learning and improving fast playing at this level.

If you want to live in a world full of kindness, respect and love, try to show these qualities.

I think he's developing nicely.

As JohnB said, he didn't make the same initial impact as AWB or even Nat Clyne, but I'm seeing steady improvement game by game.

With PVA out of contract next summer, Tyrick could be his long term successor.

Old, Ungifted and White

Just been watching the U23's in their 1st PL2 league match v WBA, last seasons 3rd place team, SCOTT BANKS, what a talent, scored 2 made 1, IMHO , TM will have to watch HIS back & as for PVA, find another position mate, LB is covered.

This operation, will make the 'Charge Of The Light Brigade' seem like a simple military exercise.

I agree with all of this. I had my doubts the first couple of times watching TM but he has grown in confidence quickly and the position is his to loose now.