We issued one ‘A’ grade and five ‘B’ grades, but most have struggled to get a satisfactory rating.
We haven’t marked forwards Jack Marriott, Joel Randall and Ricky-Jade Jones as their seasons have been ruined by serious injury, although the former would definitely be in the ‘can do better’ camp judged on his few displays so far.
Manager Darren Ferguson would be another hovering between a C and a D grade, although he hasn’t been helped by the departure of coach Mark Robson.
Grading key: A=Outstanding, B=Good, C:Satisfactory, D+Can do better; E=Terrible: F=Failure.
17. B NATHAN THOMPSON
Championship starts/goals: 21/1. Here’s a player determined to make the most of his first taste of Championship football at the age of 31. He’s a defender, but he’s often been the most positive Posh player on the pitch with his driving forward runs and aggressive passing. He’s defended okay, but there have been moments in recent games when he’s been caught out positionally or on the ball. Gains a mark for his attitude.
18. B OLIVER NORBURN
Championship starts/goals: 21/0. His impact since joining from Shrewsbury in August has been great on and off the field. He’s delivered some committed midfield displays and he’s taken over the club captaincy because of his leadership qualities. The new skipper is currently sitting at the base of a midfield diamond and performing well. His job is to win the ball and pass it on to the club’s creative players, well to Dembele mainly.
19. B Plus SIRIKI DEMBELE
Championship starts/goals: 20/5. The team’s most natural and gifted attacking talent by some distance. With more quality around him he would have some fantastic goal assists to his name to go with his five goals, the most by a Posh player. He’s taken a battering from some dirty opponents this season, but never hides and always excites in possession. Enjoy the wizard of the dribble while you can as he’s off at the end of the season, if not before.
20. A Minus RONNIE EDWARDS
Championship starts/goals: 14/0. What a gem Posh have on their hands in this 18 year-old defender. Yes, he probably needs to bulk up to cope with the physical Championship strikers, but his quality on the ball and his coolness under pressure mark him out as a future star. Edwards refuses to hoof the ball clear, preferring to intercept crosses by trapping the ball and passing to a teammate. It’s a novel approach, but an impressive one.