In Defence Of Dugarry

Last updated : 15 December 2003 By Richard Barker

Steve Bruce was asked several weeks ago whether Christophe Dugarry remained ‘The King of St Andrews’, but it seems that in the eyes of some supporters, that crown may well be slipping. The World Cup winner’s antics in last week’s humiliation at the hands of Blackburn Rovers were the last straw in some fans’ eyes.

When considering his performances at the back end of last season, in particular against the likes of Charlton, Middlesborough and Southampton, it is hard to believe that it’s even the same player wearing the number 21 shirt. What is more, to some Blues fans, his demeanour suggests that he just doesn’t care anymore, and that once he got his two year contract at the end of last season, he’d got what he wanted – a final pay packet – and so could rest on his laurels.

True, he has struggled with this knee injury all season, but as many people have asked, if he’s not fit, then why play him?

Well, there are countless reasons. Most importantly, even when playing poorly, and not even fully fit, Dugarry poses a threat. At Leeds, Dugarry made both goals, as he did in the 1-1 draw with Wolves at Molineux. When you have someone so talented, and able to conjure up a piece of magic from nowhere, it makes little sense to leave him out of the team. Eric Cantona rarely contributed all-action performances for Manchester United over 90 minutes, but in a second he could create something out of nothing.

It is perhaps fortunate that his knee injury may keep him out for a few more games, as will his inevitable hefty suspension for his indiscretions against Craig Short. Maybe now is the time that Dugarry can get his head straight, so he can come back as the player we all know and love, and maybe one or two fans can also settle down a little, and remember exactly what Blues have achieved lately. If it weren’t for the incredible expectations that Blues have suddenly built up in the past 12 months – aided significantly by Dugarry – then would there be any complaints at all?


Not so long ago Blues were facing the likes Hartlepool, Torquay and Macclesfied in the league, and it was only in Cup games against better sides that we ever saw even half decent players. People should be thankful that we have someone as gifted as Dugarry on the
St Andrews turf – and not only is he gracing that turf, but he’s wearing a royal blue shirt to boot.