Options off the bench, hopefully we utilise it today if needs be.. (hopefully the game is done & dusted early doors, we should really be putting these to the sword today)
Much stronger bench. Nwakali unfortunate but hammering the door down to start. I don’t mind this selection, the club captain deserves a shot to prove his worth but he isn’t guaranteed a shirt now which might well bring more out of him. I would personally have had Nwakali in the team, tweaked the shape a bit to have two in the middle and benched DKD, using Phillips and Russell to support Humphrys.
Right to put Connell back in for me. Think Nwakali will get a run out in the second half. Could come on for any of the midfield three I guess. Glad to see us sticking with the same shape & team, other than that.
The problem has been his end product, but he certainly provides something different. I guess Lofthouse can play on the left if needed so has a bit more versatility.
All depends on O’Keeffe and his fitness & form. O’Keeffe provides a more defensive base than Cotter. And it’s worked. Cotter in flashes is decent - but he is a lower L1/L2 player in my eyes. Although forward play, he started the season well. I know it’s easy to compare - but he’s miles off someone like Hammill or even Devaney on his day. It’s a sign of where we are I guess. I’m not writing him off, just being realistic. And I do hope he can prove me wrong - as he seems a decent lad tbf.
I think Nwakali will get that role, if we are chasing a goal second half. Love Baz, but seems like something has gone off between him & the gaffer. TBH given recent form he'd only be on the bench for me anyway. Not a Cosgrove fan. If we need an aeriel threat up top later I'd rather put Pines up there.
Good team, good bench, 3 points, clean sheet, big score an a decent turnout, keep the faith, C,O,Y,R.