Best not performing at his best.

On the 2nd of July 2012 Leon Best, former Newcastle and Coventry City striker, signed for Blackburn under Steve Kean but less than a month after signing his contract he suffered an injury to his anterior cruciate ligaments which ruled him out for at least six months.

The news was disappointing as fans had high expectations of him and his ability as a striker, and it seemed fitting that he was awarded shirt number nine, the number of ex Rovers legend – Alan Shearer.

After a season filled with disappointment, Leon Best`s return was eagerly anticipated. However it is debatable as to whether his contributions to the squad since his comeback have been beneficial or even worthy of a permanent squad position.

It is arguable that the fans may have held too high expectations of Leon Best in the hope that he would be the man to turn results around and generally contribute to the improvement of performances.

Simply though, Best has just not been good enough so far. In recent performances he has completely lacked any sign of passion for the club, and is yet to score a goal. In today`s game against Watford he let himself down even more by receiving a red card for an off the ball incident.

Nuno Gomes created a positive link up with Jordan Rhodes in earlier games this season and even scored a few goals whilst David Goodwillie put in a good performance when he came on as a substitute against Huddersfield on Tuesday. These are two strikers who have spent more time warming the substitute bench than playing this season.

It is confusing as to why players such as the aforementioned are not being given opportunities when a player who has played consistently pretty poorly in recent games has been securing a permanent position in the squad. Considering Goodwillie and Gomes have barely been played, it is likely that given the chance, they would fight for further opportunities by putting huge amounts of effort in to play well.

One of the main factors contributing to fans disappointment this year has been the lack of passion and effort that has greeted them week in and week out. Although understandably it is difficult to come back from an injury and play your best football, it is more the lack of passion from Best that has infuriated fans especially when there are other passionate candidates capable of first team football.

It is possible that Best will have a far better season next year when he is fully recovered and settled, but currently when fighting a relegation battle, his performances have not been of a high enough standard to impress the fans.