Anthony Knockaert - What should Town fans expect?

Louis Castell, Feature Writer
Twitter: @NBCWrestling

Anthony Knockaert - What should Town fans expect?

Town have just signed Anthony Knockaert from Fulham FC for the remainder of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season. So here is a rundown on his career so far and what he can bring to Town’s fight for survival.

Like me, many Town fans may be confused by this signing because only a few days ago the impression was that Knockaert was on loan for Greek Super League side Volos from Fulham. However, his loan was recalled early this January, and Town have swooped in to gain his signature for the remainder of the season. So, let’s have a look at the Frenchman’s career to date.

Knockaert started his senior career at Guingamp in 2009, scoring 17 goals from just 67 appearances. In his time at Guingamp, he helped the team to achieve promotion to Ligue 2 in the 2010/2011 season scoring 4 goals in all competitions. However, in the 2011/12 season, he scored 13 goals in all competitions which attracted interest from European clubs.

Knockaert then moved on to Leicester City in 2012 where although he was in and out of the first team in his 3-year tenure he managed to rack up 16 goals and 15 assists in 106 appearances for the club in which he ironically scored his first league goal against Town back in 2012 as well as winning goal of the season for his goal against the club. Despite being offered a new contract by Leicester, Knockaert declined and decided to move on.

After spending one season at Standard Liege gaining 7 goals and 8 assists in 27 appearances, it was his move to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2016 that became his move successful stint so far. In 139 appearances he claimed 27 goals and 25 assists. He played a vital role in helping the club achieve promotion to the Premier League in the 2016/17 season scoring 15 goals in 45 appearances as well as being named EFL Championship Player of the Year.

Since his move away from Brighton to Fulham FC in 2020, a continuous number of muscular injuries mean Knockaert has failed to cement himself in Fulham’s first team or with other clubs he’s been loaned to such as Nottingham Forrest or Volos.

One of the major things that Mark Fotheringham’s team has lacked this season is creativity going forward, often appearing to struggle in the final third and to get the final shot away. After watching Knockaert throughout the years, especially for Brighton it is clear to see at his best, Knockaert is a fast and agile winger who at his best can run past defenders with ease and has the bravery to take those chances in the final third as well as the creativity to make those key passes that lead to that final shot. Knockaert has proven throughout his career he can score and assist plenty of goals, especially in the championship.

If Town can keep him fully fit, Knockaert could be that vital creative push that helps drive Town to safety in their battle for survival.

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