Ian Maatsen has provided Coventry City with a different kind of threat down the left side this season. Maatsen’s technical ability and use of the ball has provided the team with another creative outlet, allowing for some sumptuous, fluid build-up play. Although that hasn’t yet seen Maatsen provide goals and assists for the team, his contribution has been valuable nonetheless, and will likely be soon rewarded with a more tangible output.
A skilful, technical player, Ian Maatsen is a player who looks very comfortable on the ball. What is perhaps most impressive about him is his awareness in possession of the players around him. Not just the kind of wing-back that will bomb on constantly towards the byline, Maatsen is capable of quick combination play with his team-mates, occasionally moving into midfield positions if he feels that is the most optimal position to be in. The defensive side of his game is not Maatsen’s strongest attribute, but it has rarely stood-out as a significant area of weakness.
As the team’s only natural, senior left wing-back, the risk with Ian Maatsen is that any dip in form may be difficult to arrest. It has been a strong start to life at Coventry City for Maatsen, but it is a long season ahead and there are likely to be difficult periods for him to endure. As much as there is improvement to come from Maatsen, managing his peaks and troughs in form is going to be vital.
Sideways Sammy 