I agree. Most other clubs in this division have had two, three, or four first picks out for medium long spells and have had to get on with it. The only player we might really miss is Solly as there is no natural replacement. Green or Wagstaff is a toss up anyway. Hollands was overdue for a rest (perhaps why he made a tired tackle today) and Hughes is a competent defensive CM. With Cook and N'Guessan signed and Jackson and Haynes fit enough at least for the bench, plus Pritchard, we have enough cover up front and wide. Monday would be the ideal time for Hayes to replace Kermorgant. Give Kermorgant a chance to patch up his bruises before another battering at Carlisle. If Hayes excelled once given his chance he could stay in the team, otherwise he could justifiably feel miffed. The midfield is looking a bit thin. If we lose any more to cards or injuries, do you think we might see Alonso on the bench? They said he was no worse than anybody else against Dartford, though I agree that is faint praise.
One player who deserves special mention today, at least based on CAFCPlayer commentary, is Leon Cort. He's always been a bit of a 'meh' player amongst Charlton fans but has come in for Taylor and was a hero, dominating the box like the beast he is. Plus Kermorgant, who was his usual self (if every Frenchman in history were like him, history may well have taken a different course ) and got the goal. Moving on to Monday's game, I would expect to see Pritchard alongside Stephens in the middle. Hughes hasn't even made the bench for yonks, surely that shows that Pritchard is more highly rated in Powell's mind.
I always supported the signing of Cort and he has waited patiently and loyally for his chance. Deserves to stay in the team unless and until he has a couple of bad ones in succession. (Although I admire Taylor too). I think that sort of unnecessary comment is best left to our more Neanderthal posters. Don't get too wrapped up in your avatar. Remember that for very long stretches of European history France has been the pre-eminent military power. (Not that I personally consider that a compliment). On the other hand, Kermorgant is Breton, so may not wish to typify a French player. (A bit like calling Billy Bremner a great English midfield player). And indeed he does seem different from our usual perception of French strikers. I think that is because CP is in love with Hollands (as I am) and never envisaged needing to take him off during a match, whereas Pritchard can cover all four midfield positions. I agree that because Pritchard has been playing a bit recently he might be readier to step in as replacement for Hollands, but Hughes gives a better balance especially if we are playing both Stephens and Green who are poor tacklers. Depends how ready CP thinks Hughes is to step in. I wouldn't be happy with both Green and Stephens in the midfield at Carlisle. We will need a bit more grit.
Alright alright eddie, I noticed you removed the wink Re Hughes - I don't think he and Stephens have played together as yet, so I would see it as a double risk to bring Hughes in from the cold AND play him alongside a new CM partner. Although you have a point that Hughes is a tougher player than Pritchard. But as I say Powell seems to prefer Pritchard, and I'm happy to trust him.
My grandfather came from Jersey. Does that count? Would you like me to give you Captain Blackaddick's home address so you can call round for a friendly discussion?
[video=youtube;fA_EBNaRwI0]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fA_EBNaRwI0&feature=player_embedded[/video]
