I've just been having a think about our best starting eleven assuming that all the players are 100% fit. I would say that it's the trickiest it's been to do for the last few years, which to me is a very good position to be in. Anyway here goes. 5-3-2 formation.
Marshall
Cooney Knight-Lebel Mickey Williams Conway
Lankaster Thomas Tabiner
Tracey Hemmings
Any takers?
It's a difficulty because we have the players for a 4-3-3 set up but regularly play 3-5-2.
I can't comment on Long as he hasn't really had the run of games to know if he's still the player we had 2 years ago. Which, tbf, means we have to say similar things about Powell.
Also, Powell was recruited into a 3 man midfield with 3 in front.
Another question is: are people preferring Hemmings over Bogle. From what we've seen Hemmings works hard but Bogle adds punch up front.
So.... despite above comments, Marschall; Cooney, Knight-Lebel, Demetriou, Williams, Conway; Lankester (Thomas), Powell, Tabiner; Tracey (Lankester), Bogle.
Cooney is the surprise of the season. Tracey is one I'm not sure about. Last few games he's found some new confidence but I feel he is fragile in that sense so that's why I might be tempted to put Lankester there. In which case I would slip Thomas back in midfield.
Very tricky indeed. Especially as I think the back 6 pick themselves and so the rest of the team is fitting around them.
Having watched Powell for 90 mins against Congleton, he was miles off the first team.
And then with him playing in a strong U21 team yesterday, we lose to Fleetwood U21.
Think it has been noted by management as he has been on the bench a few times, but not been brought on.
And, Bogle for me. The first centre forward for ages who can control a ball.
Am in total agreement with JB.
Also, sometimes the 'Best Eleven' isn't necessarily the 'Best Team'.
At the moment, the team looks well balanced - and the team-spirit is really good.
Bit if a cliche, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it ...