It’s definitely worth seeing when Milutin Osmajic pulls it off. Despite all the vitriol directed at him, former manager Ryan Lowe had a respectable eye for a striker. When presented with opportunities, the international player from Montenegro seldom makes a mistake. Naturally, anyone who has watched the number 28 will recognise the elements that need work: touch, awareness, and run timing. But in terms of beginning points, Osmajic’s is really lethal.
His eight goals from the previous season came from 25 shots on goal, including two deft headers and six deep blasts. Osmajic’s overall play is a little messy, but when he drops the ball in front of the goal, he does it with conviction and clarity. Although he possesses strength and power, he does not always make good use of these two formidable tools. One thing going for him, though, is that manager Paul Heckingbottom was clear about how the forward man should be deployed following Osmajic’s debut.
Heckingbottom told internal media, “Milly’s a very direct player who plays on the last man, which is where we want him.” “I don’t care if he doesn’t accomplish anything else; just play on the final man and keep him out of the way. He’d have probably got on the pitch on Saturday if he’d have been fit and well enough, so I’m pleased with him. There’s still a lot that needs to improve in him and the other players, but I think the biggest thing is getting the rewards for working hard and just trying to enjoy their football.”
It is easy to focus on a player’s weaknesses, especially when they are technical-based and at times frustrating to watch. Osmajic is, perhaps, a player who needs a fully-functioning system around him – and his own game simplifying – in order to shine. The power and accuracy in his shot is devastating and he has shown a calm head in front of goal, when staying onside and racing through at speed. Physically, he should be a nightmare to play against; that area can get better too.
Following that, Osmajic made 17 appearances off the bench and was placed in the starting lineup 13 times. A few minor knocks were sustained, and the front man was frequently substituted, with the team’s selection being erratic overall. This league campaign has seen Riis and Keane miss the mark, and it won’t be easy dislodging either of those. It certainly is a squad game, but maybe Osmajic just needs a real run in the side – and the onus put firmly on him to nail down a place.
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