RCB: James Wilson
There are those who do not see the value in James Wilson, but I’m a big fan of the right-sided centre back and for me, he has to start when he’s fit.
He’s mobile. good in the air and most importantly, is vastly experienced at a higher level. He will need to win over the doubters and in an ideal world we won’t have to see his clumsy efforts at right back, but sitting on one side of a defensive three he should excel.
Also, he will probably be one of the players remaining at the back during our set plays, given who else we can send up to aid the attack.
CB: Michael Bostwick
Where he plays is the only bone of contention over Bozzie’s inclusion in the side. One way or another he is always going to be in the starting XI and given his ability to step forward into midfield, I’d have him at the heart of a three-man back line.
There’s many reasons for this, his leadership skills, his imposing frame and tough-as-old-leather tackling and his no-nonsense outlook to stopping attacks. He could also easily step forward into midfield and make us a 4-3-3 if we needed too without any change of personnel.
He’ll also be a big figure going forward, whether it is from free kicks or corners. He did bag a great free kick last season, but I suspect we’ve got a couple of other candidates to take them this time around.
LCB: Scott Wharton
Bringing the Blackburn man in on loan was a big deal, I felt sure he would secure a League One move with someone such as Oxford or Coventry. Instead, we’re blessed with his presence for a season and I do hope, unlike last season with Rob Dickie, he stays the full duration. With him being awarded a three-year deal at Ewood Park I can only see him being recalled during an injury crisis.
There are lots to like about Wharton, his value at the other end of the pitch as shown in the recently friendly against Scunthorpe, his coolness in possession, not unlike Sean Raggett and his snappy tackling and overall awareness on the field.
This boy wants a future at Blackburn Rovers and if that means excelling for twelve months here, so be it. I’ll stick my neck out and say he won’t sign permanently, not at the end of the season, not ever, so we had best enjoy his talents whilst we have them.
I really can’t see Danny leaving Frecklington out.
If you are right with this team selection, then I think this will be the first time since our return to the EFL that we will not have any of the National League winning team on the pitch.