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With Jay DeMerit now out with an injury for a large portion of the 2013 MLS season, Kenny Miller has been selected to wear the captain’s armband for the Whitecaps. On Saturday, Miller scored his third ever MLS goal for the Caps, which also ended up as the winning goal, securing a 2-1 victory over the Columbus Crew. The Edinburgh, Scotland native had another effective game against Columbus and left Whitecaps fans impressed with his performance.
One of the most positive aspects for the Whitecaps after two games has be to be manner in which the 30 year old veteran has progressed significantly from his performances from last year, with the player having delivered two very solid games to kick off this new MLS season. The leadership and experience Miller has brought to the pitch is top class and he looks like he will be a key player in terms of filling the void that DeMerit’s injury has left on and off the pitch.
Second chances
Kenny Miller has fortunately been given an opportunity to redeem himself from his numerous poor performances from last season. Not only has manager Martin Rennie given the Scotsman a second chance, but also the fans, which is an essential factor when it comes to a player’s confidence level.
Barry Robson was not so lucky, only lasting half of a season in Vancouver before being sent back to England. I don't mean to sound anti-Robson because I know what the Scotsman is capable of. Simply put, he was not able to adjust to the media spotlight and style of football played here in North America.
Where Kenny Miller looks to top Barry Robson is in his adaptability and attitude. A big reason as to why Robson was not given a second chance was due to his failure to adapt to North America and his poor attitude. For me, he came across as arrogant and over-confident on the pitch, whereas Miller seemed much more humble and willing to adjust to football across the pond.
Looking forward
If Kenny Miller wants to stay in Vancouver as a Whitecap in the years to come, there are some important things he must first accomplish this year.
Firstly, Miller must stay in top form and do his job, which consists of being a leader on and off the pitch and also putting the ball in the back of the net. He must consistently do his job as a striker and be a leader to young players and newcomers to the squad. Secondly, Kenny must win over the supporters' love and respect. He must become the sort of player that the supporters want on the back of their jerseys and whose name they chant during the match. Two games into the 2013, Miller has made progress on both fronts.
Many pundits have pointed out that they expect that Kenny Miller will leave the Whitecaps mid-season in the summer transfer window. However, I cannot see Miller going anywhere this year, especially with Jay DeMerit's injury keeping him out for the majority of the season. With Kenny being given the captaincy by Martin Rennie, it gives the player a major vote of confidence and it should solidify his place in the club until, at least, the end of the season.
Whether you are fully behind Kenny Miller or want to see him leave Vancouver, expect him to be sticking around with the Caps much longer than originally expected. Miller looks to be on track to becoming the Whitecaps' Mr. Redemption for 2013 rather than going down in the club’s history alongside players such as Barry Robson and Mustapha Jarju.
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