I'm there with you Whoops. I didn't think he was as bad as some painted on Tuesday. His contribution was less obvious than 2/3 seasons ago but his link play remains strong (I think he got caught in possession once but that was out wide and not in the danger area as at Blackburn), he does a lot more to support the defence particularly the full back he plays in front of and his set piece delivery is second to none. When Noonie is fit I can't see us playing with 2 out right (or out left, even) wingers too often - not to start games anyway - so Whitts stays in my starting 11 for now, albeit to the left of mid field where he was at his most effective 3 years or so ago. As for Fabio not getting forward so much second half, I can't say I noticed (other side of the pitch from me) although Wigan may well have put more cover that side of the pitch to counteract the threat he posed.
hey Whoops, It's not that there is a majority/minority situation but that there is general consensus that Whitts is a player most clubs would love to have, and he can win games with one magic bit of skill BUT he is so frustrating to watch as a fan when he gives the appearance of playing a game with jumpers for goalposts with his mates down the park.
Thanks Ninian. I felt in the minority when those around me were slating his every move. Even at the Huddersfield game the same people were moaning even after he scored that wonder goal. I hope the guy does not become a scape goat; he's a confidence player and I don't think the crowd are helping when they get on his back while others who also are not on top form seem to get away with it. In my opinion the problem is the composition of the midfield and not the individual player. When asked to play out of position the result is a midfield performance like Tuesday. Luckily we got away with it thanks to our surprisingly well organised defence.
You need match winners on the pitch. Witts is our most likely source for assists and therefore goals. It's why MM had him as a fixture despite his work rate (lack of) being at odds with MM's overall game plan. Until someone else starts producing regular set piece/open play assists/goals whilst adding work rate and overall contribution Witts needs to start a lot more games than he doesn't. What you absolutely cannot do though is play him CM in a 2 midfield. As Blue says stick him left side or perhaps the 10 type 'free' role I've mentioned in the past.
The 10 role would be the best position for Whitts and hopefully we will see it soon when others are fit. Whitts though seems to enjoy playing as a defensive midfielder and trying to affect the game with his range of passing from there.
