Transfer Profile: Jordon Mutch

Looking to build off of a successful 2018 and challenge in three competitions in 2019, Gyeongnam FC have signed 27-year-old English midfielder Jordon Mutch to play a pivotal role in the center of the pitch. We spoke with AFTN Canada's Managing Editor Michael McColl about the former Crystal Palace and Vancouver Whitecaps man to get a better idea of what Reds fans can expect from Mutch this season. 
(image via Sportsnet)

Strongest aspects of his game? 

He reads the game well and that vision can mean he can play some excellent passes. He's a solid, all round central midfielder. You could say in the old school mold. Hardworking.

Weaknesses? 

Whatever the reasons were - bad luck, playing on an artificial pitch - Mutch was plagued by injury during his time here, limiting his appearances. You have to worry that these may reoccur. He's been hampered by injuries for a few years now. From a playing side, he's not the most flashy, explosive midfielder. He likes to think of himself as a goalscorer, but his stats would suggest otherwise.

Reason for leaving? 

He was just on a year's loan from Crystal Palace and brought to the club by the Whitecaps now former manager, Carl Robinson, who was dismissed in September. Even if Robinson had remained, I think it would have been unlikely that Mutch would have been back. Being plagued with injuries and playing a lot of the season on turf was never going to be a good mix. His salary expectations would also not have been good fit for Vancouver. I don't think his playing style would have been dynamic enough for the club's new coach either.

Where do you think he would be best utilized with Gyeongnam FC? 

He's not the flashiest midfielder a team could have, so the box to box role is ideally suited for him. He has a good engine, distribution, and vision. If he can stay healthy, should thrive in the K League.

What should K League fans expect from him? 

A hard working, committed pro, with the odd burst of the spectacular.

Best moment in MLS?

By far his goal against LAFC in the penultimate game of the season, earning Vancouver a point with a wonderstrike.