I may have come across in a more aggressive manner than intended, the looming lockdown has dampened spirits in this household considerably and the one ray of light that we cling to is that we can watch "our boys" win a game of football. I have to admit that having such a good "XG" factor doesn't compensate us for losing.
I have no issue with Longy and Ruffs, they are committed OUFC players and give their all. Whether they are the best or not they do what they do. Easty has been having some very questionable moments of late and perhaps should be given a break to get his head clear or whatever he needs to do. I would certainly not advocate getting rid of Sykes and Agyei - I am on record as having called for Agyei to be given a starting role and Sykes has enormous potential given the right guidance. Gorrin certainly is a vital cog in the team and despite his ability to collect cards more readily than any other player would always feature in my choice of team. As for Kelly, well, I am not convinced. I don't know what he brings to the side. He allegedly, has ability and potential but, certainly this season, is yet to display any.
So, to the injuries, yes they happen and more so than usual this season however, it has exposed the total lack of cover in the squad and served to highlight the lack of any leadership within the team when certain individuals are not present. If KR thought to place all his trust in a centre back pairing of Atkinson and Moore then I have to question his thought process. To rely on the ability of Longy to play anywhere on that back 4 is stretching things. He's a good lad and has turned in some exemplary performances but it's unfair to expect him to carry that much responsibility. We should have recruited pre-season. The need was there from the moment that KR admitted that Nico Jones was not ready, Elechi was also a work in progress and aside from them, the coffers were bare. Now, by his own admission, we need to bring someone in to help out. Undoubtedly whoever that is will not be match fit (much to the self satisfaction of
@Scotchegg ) indeed, they may never get match fit before the injured players return but will have to play all the same. I would hope that Mous can still manage a game or two before hanging up his boots, he may not set the world alight anymore but he is a calming factor and an old hand at the game. Also, I would imagine that he commands respect among the players and is not shy in speaking out. He also knows how to tackle and cover back.
So, naming a settled back 5, I'd accept just having a back 5 at the moment let alone a settled one.
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