CM: Michael O’Connor
The fact we don’t have picture for O’Connor shows that there is some worry as to whether he’ll start or not. His pre-season has been muted, Danny has stated he’s been protecting the player but it remains to be seen if he can find his fitness. If not, it would prompt a reshuffle in my side.
Part of me is behind O’Connor because I remember what he used to be like when he was here first time around. He’s robust, all-action and committed and he played with a certain arrogance that I think you need in some roles. Back then he was energetic which may have diminished over time, but he is the likely successor to the Alex Woodyard role.
If we need extra legs in midfield Michael Bostwick can always step forward, plus I feel O’Connor’s role might be interchangeable with Lee Frecklington, noting that Freck is often more advanced than Woodyard might have been.
CAM: Bruno Andrade
It’s an honest shout from me, but one I believe will fall on deaf ears. Andrade has started the pre-season encounter with Derby and that makes me wonder if he is going to be seen from the bench in the early part of the season. To add balance, Lee Frecklington would play here but I can’t go all summer championing Andrade and then not pick him in my starting XI.
I’m convinced he’s going to be a big hit here, he’s positive with his runs and can break late into the box. In the right role he can feed the front three as well as become part of the attack in the closing stages. I would imagine Danny doesn’t see him as offering much in the defensive third which is maybe why he’ll look for more experience and versatility, but I have to include Andrade and thanks to a recent signing, I can’t have him one side of a striker in a front three anymore!
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.