Merson not happy with overweight Roper

After returning to pre pre season training drastically over weight Ian Roper is still considered as being too heavy by the management and fitness coaches. Twelve games into the season and he is still a long way off where he should be, both in terms of his ideal weight and fitness levels. In fairness he has been struggling with injury and this has hampered his cause but this cannot be used as an excuse to justify his current condition.

Roper played the full 90 mins in last nights 5-1 reserve win and with the first team currently letting goals in left, right and centre i think its fair to say that if Roper was in a condition to play, he would be. Merson would love to have a fit and leaner Roper in contension but Roper is doing himself no favours. It is his testimonial year and if he cant be bothered to get fit i dont see why the fans should be bothered to attend any of his benefit events.