Originally Posted by
jackal2
I just commented on another thread that Nolan appears to be looking to get the ball forward very quickly, not long-ball at it's crudest, but certainly based on turning defences and getting the ball into the position of maximum opportunity as soon as possible. In which case, a pacey striker who can take advantage of that ball over the top is even more important. There were several times today when the "right" ball was played but Stead just didn't have enough pace to capitalise. I couldn't help but picture what havoc a Kevin Bartlett would have caused given the same opportunity. I would say it's Stead's place that is under threat, because Ameobi is a better and stronger target man and fits the bill for a direct style of play.