17 Jul 2016 22:36:25
Posters, Eds - who do we think will/ should be our main holding midfielder this season?
Surely Carrick can no longer be that man, albeit was the right decision to retain him and use him sparingly.
I don't think we have another genuine contender in the squad as it is. Granted we mightn't play an out and out defensive mid, but we will need one that's more 'holding' than the rest. Don't seem to be linked with anyone in that mould.
18 Jul 2016 01:28:17
We shouldn't play with one, zero need considering most teams play with one striker.
It should be a rotation process if we play with 3 in midfield, 2 go one sits, constantly evolving to rest and cover. That's what I would do, Schneiderlin will be a key player for us this season I feel.
Teams playing on the counter attack will mean we should have the pace and energy in midfield to get back in shape. If we commit more men forward opponents won't be able to counter attack in numbers unless they cheat and if they cheat they end up getting punished more often than not.
18 Jul 2016 04:21:13
That is why Kante would have been perfect Beast. He plays CM but has the energy to cover the role of CM or DM.
I think the DM role is slowly disappearing out of the game. Midfielders should be asked a heck of a lot more than to sit in front of the back 4 whilst playing sidewards passes.
18 Jul 2016 04:51:33
Schneiderlin And TFM Spring to mind.
Defensive mid is probably only needed against the big teams. We normally dominate possession against weaker teams so the defence don't need protecting. It's usually set pieces and long balls that are the issue then. So, good height (Smalling, Bailly, jones + 1) and pace in defence.
18 Jul 2016 08:05:44
Carrick was never a defensive midfielder. He's a deep lying playmaker.
18 Jul 2016 08:05:44
Carrick was never a defensive midfielder. He's a deep lying playmaker.
18 Jul 2016 13:10:18
Carrick was never a defensive midfielder. He's a deep lying playmaker.
18 Jul 2016 13:30:01
Johannes Geis from Schalke springs to mind! Could step right into Carricks place at the drop of a hat!
19 Jul 2016 01:11:46
Carrick was never a defensive midfielder. He's a deep lying playmaker.