Chris Maguire Type

Before I start my final shout, let me explain why I have NOT gone for some positions. You may be surprised to see I haven’t plumped for anything in the centre of midfield, a choice I haven’t taken lightly. Yes, in an ideal world we would reinforce there, but we’re only going to have limited resources. If Bozzy and Mickey get fit, along with Ellis and Joe Morrell we’ll have four fighting for two spaces, possibly. Okay, Bozzy might not be a midfielder but throw Tom Pett and Lee Frecklinton into the mix and a central player would seem a luxury. If Morrell gets recalled I’d worry, but I’m not sure he will; unless Bristol City want him in their first team, I can’t see him going back there. They won’t want to loan him to a Championship rival and with him harbouring Euro 2020 ambitions, it suits him as much as us to stay put and play regularly for us, does it not?

I’m not going for right back cover either; I think Aaron Lewis is eager for a chance. Ben Coker will be fit enough to provide cover for Toff and in the wide positions, we do have options in Harry, Bruno and Jorge Grant. Payne and Hesketh can play ten or (if really desperate) out wide, meaning for me the last thing we need desperately is a player in that attacking third with knowledge and know-how. Plus, Hesketh is only on a six-month deal I believe, meaning the ten role will be desperately lacking.

This isn’t the agitating Hylton type, but an experienced player who can fill a couple of positions if needed. Chris Maguire is a classic example; he can play anywhere across the three in a 4-2-3-1, or in the top striker role if needed. As the years advance, he could even fill in the two in front of the defence if needed.

He’s not played in the basement division and knows what is required both at the top and the bottom of this division. That’s what we need, but along with some energy and endeavour still. I’m not talking about a 36-year-old like Peter Beagrie, but a player around the 30 mark who might be able to bring some composure in the final third for six months, but also the experience and leadership I think we lack up top. You see, that’s one of the problems I feel we have in the final third; we lack the leader. We’ve got it at the back and Mickey is a leader in the middle of the park, but in the moments of attack, I think we’re lacking the calmer head.

What are your thoughts on the types of players I think we need? Interested to see what you think in the comments section below.