11 Jan 2015 20:55:57
Having the usual debate with my lad over team selection and my obsession with balance. We both feel that signings and a quicker than anticipated Howard recovery at the hands of Dr Bob mean that Joel and yesterday's defence stay put. Both prefer the rejuvenated Lukaku over Kone and would find a place for Naismith and Mirallas (possibly on RH side)
The real debate was the midfield. We can't see Barry ever being dropped by Martinez and think that McCarthy will come straight back in when fit leaving Besic as the likely casualty. We both really rate Besic and were wondering about a system that could accommodate all three of them, given that they are all probably a similar bet to Tony Hibbert as first goal scorer!
Personally whilst McCarthy is out I would bench Barry, play Barkley centrally and Oviedo left midfield. After all two DM's all season hasn't done much for our goals conceded.
Any thoughts

1.) 11 Jan 2015
11 Jan 2015 21:08:58
Think I've mentioned a 4-3-3 before, usual back 5, barry sitting infront, mccarthy and besic doing their thing and covering the full backs with mirallas and naismith supporting lukaku.

2.) 11 Jan 2015
To be fair,I know Ross has been given abit of a bashing on here,but I thought his best game this season was against qpr when he was next to besic in holding midfield roll

3.) 12 Jan 2015
Me too Tedster. Once McCarthy is back and firing on all cylinders, he and Besic should be the holding midfielders with Barry dropping to the bench. But will Roberto see this?