The game at Stoke fills me with dread because of the fact we can't seem to handle the ball in the air or more to the point don't know how to.The only two defenders we have available who can are Nelsen and hill but you can't play them both together as the lack of pace lets them down even though effort doesn't.Anton is not the player some think he is as he hasn't a clue how to man mark at corners and set pieces. M'bia was looking the part until his joey moment at Arsenal so were without him too.I would drop Diakete into the back four as he is mobile and confident on the ball.The only way to stop stoke playing their normal skydiving game is to keep the ball on the floor and use a spoiler in the middle. If hughes can't see that is Faurlin's role then i give up to be honest,i suggest he watches the tape v Spurs where him and Granero bossed that game for the best part of 70 minutes.Also Mackie needs to come on as an impact sub as he is not a 90 minute man.
Corners and throwings will be tough for us but all markers have to do is put their man off enough. Its the second ball that will win or draw us this game. We have to be first to it to dictate the play so for me the 3 central midfield triangle is essential for this game!
Not sure Diakite is the ideal man to be at CB either really. He has a rash tackle in him and isnt really one to win a header either. He uses his agility to keep hold of the ball most of the time. We are short of options for sure in defence.
