Geordie Hammer wrote:It's obvious that CC can't play as a lone striker and everyone goes on about us having no other options. However, we have Nouble who so far hasn't been tried (hey, we're desperate) and Sears is at Palace so why haven't we recalled him or did Colin put some sort of clause on the loan agreement to say that we couldn't.
This is the most obvious failing of the team. Zola's 4-3-3 is really a 4-5-1 hence Stoke not being able to get much of the ball. The problem is when Cole gets the ball there is a lack of support he receives from a generally deep and one paced midfield. We have no pace anywhere on the park. We look a much better side when Hines is on, albeit he also has a tendency to drop back to much.
Franco is little more than cover for Cole. Nouble and Sears are not ready (Sears never will be). Most on here were very dismissive of Terry Dixons appearance against Valencienne, but if he ever does get match fit, I have no doubt he is the answer we are looking for....a proper goal-scoring, talented striker.
The other major change from last year, is at right back. Faubert does not fully deserve the criticism he receives, but Neill is a huge loss as Captain. He may not have been a great right back, but he was the best Captain we have had for many years.