Bennett, Ayala, Martin, Ward, Barnett, Whittaker.....is perhaps the pecking order, though of course we don't know how Hughton sees things yet. 6 players that can play at CB would seem more than enough (though it could be argued that Martin and certainly Whittaker would only be cover). Do we think Bennett and Ayala will be first choice pairing? Where do we think Martin will play (if at all?)? Do we think Ward and or Barnett will be offloaded? Do we think Davies will be brought in? Anyone else on the radar?
Bennett and Ayala are far too young and far too inexperienced to be put together as our first choice choice CB partnership at this level in my opinion. Both are 22 I believe and both would benefit massively from playing alongside an 'older head' with far more games under their belt. Davies would be a good shout, almost perfect in fact and on a Bosman he would be an amazing signing in my book. He's 27 now and ready to show what he can do at the highest level. He was probably too young when thrust into the big-time after his big money move to Villa, and I fear Ayala or Bennett could suffer a similar early career burn out if too much pressure if put on them. Both will definitely have a huge part to play this year, but not together when everyone else is available if it was up to me. We'll definitely sign another CB, Martin will get his fair share of games - 20+ I'd imagine - and I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Barnett head back to the Championship before the season gets underway. Wardy signed a new contract so unless he's loaned out at some point to get some games I can't see him going anywhere.
I disagree with that, I think Martin was a lot better at centreback last year and if Hughton watched the videos will probably agree that's his best position. For me I would have Martin at centreback ahead of Bennett at the moment. I agree I think another centreback is needed to add competition.
To be fair reading into it I think it's just because he could get away with it at Rangers because the SPL is so poor. He will probably have to be more defensive in the Prem because he isn't playing against ****e wingers every week.
Now that Birminghams transfer embargo has been lifted, we might see some movement now. I'm sure they were reluctant to let anyone go as they only had 14 players signed on until yesterday.
indeed. also reading are apparently sniffing around Danny Simpson. I hope we are in for him as well with Hughton's link there.
Apologies if this is elsewhere - raised a chuckle. I don't know why they bother...If the mail are to be believed,hughton is only interested in Birmingham and Newcastle players. Oddly enough they didnt pick up on butterfield and whittaker. I'd be embarrassed to call myself a DM journalist. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2168934/Nile-Ranger-wanted-Norwich-City.html
If the rumours Reading are in for Simpson are true then I'd like to think we are involved too! Would be a great RB signing for us. Nile Ranger? No thanks!!
