25 Jul 2020 14:32:18
Who would you prefer as your central defender- a Declan Rice turned into a centre back or a Nathan Ake? Comments please; Ed001, you’re very welcome to comment esp your analysis on both players.
{Ed001's Note - Ake is poor positionally and highly reliant on pace, I would not want to trust to him at all. Rice I think is better in midfield but he could easily become an excellent defender as well, considering he has played there a lot and it is supposed to be his natural position. So without doubt it would be Rice for me. The only advantage Ake possesses is pace, he can jump higher but he is usually chasing the play and so often unable to make a header he should clear.}
25 Jul 2020 15:07:22
I’m all in for Torres now after the Ed opinion.
25 Jul 2020 16:25:47
After last week's Bournemouth v Southampton game, it was highlighted (can't remember which channel) that Bournemouth have let in over 40 goals per season for the last 5 seasons and have basically been kept up by Calum Wilson and Josh King scoring more than they've let in. This season Wilson and King have scored far fewer and Bournemouth are going down.
The above stats do not say a lot for Ake's defensive or leadership qualities!
25 Jul 2020 16:39:35
Thought of Pau Torres too; Ed002 (on Spanish page) said that Manchester City are interested in him (Pau Torres) too.
25 Jul 2020 17:02:05
Okay, so here's what I think.
We pay similar football to Barca, a high line with a huge expanse for attacking players to exploit.
It would make sense to play a very mobile centre half, maybe even a converted midfielder (like Mascerano) .
So for that reason, Rice looks like a clever option.
For the same reason I think Jorgino is ineffective with a high line.
25 Jul 2020 18:20:25
I'm surprised soo many people have forgotten about Ampadu, it's a shame he struggled with game time this season but i honestly think he could play a role for us next season. I remember watching his performance against Spurs, he was top class at CB. Also looked very good at CDM for wales every time he's played. I do hope we sign an experienced CB, but i also hope Ampadu is given a chance in preseason.
25 Jul 2020 18:55:49
Good post Nathswindon.
26 Jul 2020 09:34:46
Thanks Obinna
Yep, I forgot about Ampadu. Seems risky to rely on him but he is a very good looking option I agree.