Think that's where we might struggle tbh. Need another strong midfielder if we're only playing two in there
100%. Without a decent playmaker we’ll struggle. Probably the most important position on the pitch. We haven’t got a central midfielder who follows the game and wants the ball constantly.
I'm hopefully that we will bring in another CM, as mentioned its such a key position and def one I'd love us to bring in a top draw player
I'd like us to go ever so slightly against the recruitment model for a midfielder and go for someone a bit more experienced (23-26 maybe) with over 100 games in the championship for that position. We will need to dominate in that area imo.
That's a big statement to say What about the one who puts the ball in the net Or the one who stops the ball going into the net Or the one who stops their forward putting the ball in the net
In a better standard of football, without someone dictating the game your strikers rarely get chances to put the ball in the net unfortunately. That central role is key to both defence and attack. Spurs have arguably the best striker in the world with Kane, or certainly one of them - managed 13 goals from open play last season because their midfield was awful. Look at how bad United are because they’ve got Fred and McTominay in the middle. Good strikers tend to score loads of goals because they’ve got good players creating loads of chances for them, and that generally stems from your playmaker bringing the ball forward and bringing others into play. I’m not saying other roles aren’t important - obviously having a striker who takes his chances and a keeper who’s not a lemon helps but in the modern day era that midfield role is critical. You dominate games, you give yourself the best chance of winning.
My mam was talking to him today. Told him that she had 3 sons, all Sunderland supporters. She then told him that we cry alot. He laughed.
Central midfield is where I want us to recruit. I've been more concerned about that position than centre forward. If Broadhead doesn't sign, I won't be that bothered. I'd be more bothered if we don't sign another midfielder.
Burnley although they did not score lots, were way ahead of Huddersfield who themselves were very good last season. The championship is not going to be an easy ride. I could see us just about coping with Huddersfield, as they played tonight. I think we would have struggled against Burnley
I don’t know much about modern football mate, but I think you are right. Midfield is the engine room of the team.
The ridiculous thing is we could average more than Everton this season, Ellis could be a godd signing as well.
Fully agree with this. We have a lot of bodies but not convinced we have anyone who can consistently be at the level we need. A season down the line Neil and/or Matate could be at that level but It’s too much to expect this season. My ideal choice would be Ben Pearson on loan from Bournouth. He didn’t play that much last season and is 4th or 5th choice.
I think we need an experienced defensive midfielder to cover Evans .. Matete isn't ready he doesn't read the game .
I agree although I do rate Matete and think he’s got a lot of potential, not quite ready yet for week in week out.