Red Hot Cole

In amongst all the gloom, one bright coal burns bright - for one average game apart, Carlton is on fire. Six Premiership games have yielded three premiership goals - and but for an absurd whistle for half time, he would now have four. And that whilst playing for a struggling team that offers him pathetically little support.

Carlton's goals so far this season reveal how far he has progressed. There was the blinder against Tottenham, the header against Liverpool and the brilliantly improvised deflection in last night's game. The assist for Parker's disallowed goal was also superb. Not only did Cole win the ball fair and square, his pull back (and the awareness it demonstrated) was sublime. Parker received the pass gift wrapped and even he couldn't miss after Cole had served it up so deliciously on a plate.

All night Cole battled for the cause, receiving the ball with his back to goal and two or three City defenders up his arse. His instant control and tenacity were a joy to behold - but where was the support? Time and again it was three against one in favour of the defenders so Cole was forced to look back or run forward on his own. Strong, brave, determined, skilful, I thought Carlton was superb last night and he deserved far better support from his teammates. I'm beginning to wonder how long we can keep him though. In a World Cup year, would you want to take a battering every game with nobody on your side available to back you up? Cole is now the real deal and, to be frank, is looking too good for the side he is being asked to carry.