I have to say I am loving reading Gussy's assessments of these re-signings. Insightful and very uplifting for both player and the fans. With Elia it sounds like Gussy had clocked him as a kid with real potential even before he'd joined us in the summer. I also like the way Gussy recognises the role of the coaches to get the best out of the player. That's the role of a quality coach. And he clearly wants only those players who are truly committed to improving and maximising their potential. Sounds like Elia scrapes through with his laid back Pacific vibe!
It reminds me of reading about my boyhood hero Bobby Charlton. He said he used to practice kicking with his left foot day after day, week after week so that he had the ability to shoot with both feet. It sounds so obvious, but some players do it, some don't. He wanted to improve himself and he rose to the top of the pile... a truly world class footballer who played a key role in England winning the World Cup. Remember that?!... :)