I personally really rate russell martin as a centre back, i prefer him at centre back to right back. That being said I'd have him behind bassong and ryan bennett (we've got to start playing him soon). I think the reason he has been playing alongside turner so far is the complimentary styles at centre back that they have making them a better pairing than bennett and turner. I thought russ was outstanding at centre back under lambert and I see no reason why a poor game against hull where his distribution was shocking should be the end of his run at centre back.
I agree - it's not about picking our two best CBs, it's about picking complimentary ones. I think Bennett is still a little too lightweight to play with Martin, hence why we have Turner playing, but Bennett plays on the right where Turner plays so the best combo is Turner and Martin. When Bassong is back, I suspect we'll revert to a Bennett - Bassong combo
anyone think martin is playing cos seb's out and CH doesn't want to have both his captains out of the XI?
Based on tonight (which granted, wasn't the highest standard of opposition), I really want to see Bennett play if fit. Did an excellent job tonight, better than Bassong on the night for me. I think Martin is a good RB to play against stronger teams as he's better defensively than Whittaker, but in games where we're looking to take 3 points, rather than hold onto 1, I'd rather have Whittaker. Much as I like Martin, he wouldn't be part of my best back 4, but as he can cover 2 positions he's invaluable on the bench. Based on that he's equally a CB and a RB for me, which I guess kinda dodges the question!
I am one of Martin's biggest fans (have previously voted for him over Holt as Player of the Season). However like many others I now think he is neither our strongest RB or should start at CB when others are fit. My concern is he is now establishing himself in the Scotland team and, despite his new contract, he may seek a move if a lack of first team football jeopardises his international career.
I have no doubt he will play a lot this season. When Bassong is fully fit he will be right back when we want to play defensively, instead of Whittaker (which will be more often than not). He is club captain too. I think he benefited enormously from Hughton's guidance fullback to fullback last season. Whittaker is great going forward and can shoot superbly with both feet, but is nowhere near as reliable (Martin v Hull as the exception that proves the rule). If Snodders is still not quite fit and Bassong is, I would like to see Whittaker playing right-midfield.
