Ollie Turton: “He's the epitome of a dependable professional.”
Brady Frost, Feature Writer
Twitter: @brady0894
Source for image above: HTAFC
Blackpool right back Ollie Turton becomes Huddersfield’s fourth signing of the window, but is he likely to challenge Pipa for a starting choice? John from Blackpool fan podcast, The Seasiders Podcast tells us more.
Another defender has joined the ranks at Huddersfield Town, with right back Ollie Turton joining The Terriers on a two-year deal, with the club having the option to extend by a further year. The 28-year-old, who can also play in central midfield, joins from Blackpool where he secured promotion to the Championship with The Seasiders, playing over 40 matches during the campaign.
Turton has played over 350 matches in his career and with all of the club’s signings so far this season, he adds experience to a team that was sorely lacking it. Is he the man to provide competition to Pipa for a starting place or will he be just a useful squad option?
With the move finalised, we wanted to find out what to expect from Town’s newest defender, so we spoke to John from the Blackpool fan podcast, The Seasiders Podcast, to see how Ollie Turton has been performing for Blackpool.
Photo source: HTAFC
What type of player are Huddersfield Town getting in Ollie Turton and what do you make of the move?
A wholehearted and solid right back. I'm not surprised he's leaving us, just quite surprised he's had a Championship move lined up as I think most 'Pool fans imagined he'd either be a backup for us or go to a League One side next year.
How would you describe his playing style?
He is a classic old school right back. He's strong in the tackle, doesn't often get drawn in and generally not bad positionally. He's strong enough in the air and generally decent enough with his feet to have played both centre half and centre mid occasionally but I wouldn't see him as a long term option in either position.
What would you say his strengths and weaknesses are?
Defensively, he times a tackle very well and generally concentrates. His weakness is going forward. He can get down the line and deliver a good cross but he's no flying wing-back. He loves to check back!
Photo source: HTAFC
What have been his highlights at Blackpool?
He's not really a 'highlights' type player but he's been excellent (own goal aside) recently and his goal against Oxford was a reward for so many unsung contributions. I'd say marking McGeady out of the last time we played Sunderland was one of his best displays but his consistency is his true strength. He's rarely MOM but he rarely lets you down.
How would you sum up his time at Blackpool?
In his first season, he seemed pretty good though I didn't see much as during the boycott. He had a poor year last year and got a bit of stick. He became a bit of a whipping boy, but in the last six months or so, he's silenced the grumbling.
What was the situation in regards to his contract? Was it a case of him wanting to leave or did Blackpool not want to offer him another deal?
He was offered a contract but it was likely not the 2+1 offer that Town offered so we assume he's gone for a longer and possibly better deal.
Photo source: HTAFC
What has the fan reaction to his departure been like? Can you tell us more about his relationship with the fans?
As above, I think more Blackpool fans are a bit surprised but he goes with best wishes and little resentment. I think most of us felt he was a player we could upgrade upon but at the same time, knew he'd give his all if he played next year.
Do you think he can make an immediate impact with Huddersfield?
I'm sure he'll settle in quickly. He's the epitome of a dependable pro.
Based on what you’ve seen from him, do you think he is good enough for the Championship?
I'm not sure if he's Championship quality. I think it depends on the system. If he's an out and out full-back, he'll be fine. If he's needing to be a wingback, he'll be exposed I think.
Is there anything we should know about Ollie Turton that we don’t already?
He's very much a what you see is what you get kind of player. I can't imagine him causing any trouble or being hard work for a manager.
How do you think Ollie Turton will get on at Huddersfield Town? Let us know in the comments.
