The end for that Starting 11

[keep the faith]

That has got to be the last time we bottle it and play that starting 11 again. Midfielders and wide players there not to create but to close down space.
The difference in the speed and positivity on the park and in the stands when Allan Melkerson and Hauge came on was huge.
Allan and Hauge in particular linked up well and wanted to create.
This has got to be the end of the starting 11 line for Wright, Campbell and (for the moment) Hendo.
Maloney has to start taking responsibility. You can't talk about attacking football and connections with the fans then repeatedly put out sides like that. It's dreadful to watch.

[CapitalGreen]

That has got to be the last time we bottle it and play that starting 11 again. Midfielders and wide players there not to create but to close down space.
The difference in the speed and positivity on the park and in the stands when Allan Melkerson and Hauge came on was huge.
Allan and Hauge in particular linked up well and wanted to create.
This has got to be the end of the starting 11 line for Wright, Campbell and (for the moment) Hendo.
Maloney has to start taking responsibility. You can't talk about attacking football and connections with the fans then repeatedly put out sides like that. It's dreadful to watch.

Can add Doidge onto that list too.

[hibee1875]

Agree the energy and pace greatly improved after the changes but I think that’s harsh on Henderson.

He was the only one from the starting midfield who had the ability to drop a shoulder/turn a defender/make some space.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Agree but we are short of options so they’ll need to start some games. Wright and Campbell shouldn’t play for Hibs again. They’re absolutely terrible.

Henderson also isn’t good enough. He never done anything of note on loan at Ross County or Dunfermline and simply shouldn’t be here. He’s got Liam to thank for getting the move because if he wasn’t a Henderson then I doubt we’d have even considered him.

[hibee1875]

Henderson also isn’t good enough. He never done anything of note on loan at Ross County or Dunfermline and simply shouldn’t be here. He’s got Liam to thank for getting the move because if he wasn’t a Henderson then I doubt we’d have even considered him.

Yep, that’s how scouting works

[Lester B]

I was at the match with a mate I hadn't seen for three years. We both came away with the same thought walking away at the end 'What is he trying to achieve with that team. What are they actually trying to do' That's what baffles me. We can talk about injuries, still being in the Top 6, not conceding all that. But even in bad Hibs teams I could see what they were trying to do, how they were trying to play . All I saw today was an absolute lack of ideas. St Johnstone aren't very good and have always been stuffy but the lack of creativity on show today from us has to be a concern surely. My mate's description: 'Like Cathro crossed with Alex Miller' I wouldn't go that far but I am concerned that Maloney just is not working.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Yep, that’s how scouting works

Not a chance would we have signed a guy who done nothing on loan at Ross County or even more recently Dunfermline in the Championship if there wasn’t a link there.

He’s not good enough.

[Iain G]

Agree but we are short of options so they’ll need to start some games. Wright and Campbell shouldn’t play for Hibs again. They’re absolutely terrible.

Henderson also isn’t good enough. He never done anything of note on loan at Ross County or Dunfermline and simply shouldn’t be here. He’s got Liam to thank for getting the move because if he wasn’t a Henderson then I doubt we’d have even considered him.

Nothing to do with the fact Maloney worked with him at Celtic...so much made up tripe and nonsense on the forum tonight 🙄

[superfurryhibby]

That has got to be the last time we bottle it and play that starting 11 again. Midfielders and wide players there not to create but to close down space.
The difference in the speed and positivity on the park and in the stands when Allan Melkerson and Hauge came on was huge.
Allan and Hauge in particular linked up well and wanted to create.
This has got to be the end of the starting 11 line for Wright, Campbell and (for the moment) Hendo.
Maloney has to start taking responsibility. You can't talk about attacking football and connections with the fans then repeatedly put out sides like that. It's dreadful to watch.

Have to say, not sure about the bottling it bit, but you’re right, we need to change something and the tempo was definitely lifted by Allan and Melkersen. I didn’t think Hauge did much, being kind, I would say nothing came off for him. He was caught on the ball and just looked a bit out of sorts

I felt for Allan a bit. You can see the way he wants to play. It didn’t always come of for him, but he tried to make something happen.

Melkersen looked willing. He can shift and he wants involved. The laddie must start next Sunday.

[hibee1875]

Not a chance would we have signed a guy who done nothing on loan at Ross County or even more recently Dunfermline in the Championship if there wasn’t a link there.

He’s not good enough.

I’m sorry but that is simply just a load of crap. He’s a decent player playing with no movement round about him. Alongside Magennis and Newell with a forward who has some mobility and we’ll see what he’s about

[wookie70]

I'm amazed he is starting Doidge. He looks like he has either lost interest as he knows he has only got to the summer or his injury is stopping him moving. Henderson for me looks miles away from being fit and very rarely gets above a jog. I actually thought Campbell played fine today but having him, Wright and JDH and Lewis is hardly likely to bring us much success in front of goal. It also meant Cadden and Doig were nowhere near as active going forward. It is hard with all the injuries but it is starting to feel like the Lennon tenure when players were shuffled around constantly in the hope of something working. I think Sm needs to pick and eleven and a formation and stick to it for a few games. We don't look like we have any partnerships in the team when we are attacking.

[DaveF]

But even in bad Hibs teams I could see what they were trying to do.

I don't get this? What were we doing under Butcher or Ross at the end that was any better? Was shelling it long and hoping for the best, your cup of tea?

Our midfield was dire before we had injuries and now it's worse, therefore it's hardly going to function like Liverpool.

[Paulie Walnuts]

I’m sorry but that is simply just a load of crap. He’s a decent player playing with no movement round about him. Alongside Magennis and Newell with a forward who has some mobility and we’ll see what he’s about

Not for me.

He didn’t show it at RC and he didn’t show it at Dunfermline. He couldn’t get into the Celtic team which is fair enough.

If he requires a team of top players around him to be a good player then I’m afraid he’s not a good player himself.

[madsen5]

I'm amazed he is starting Doidge. He looks like he has either lost interest as he knows he has only got to the summer or his injury is stopping him moving. Henderson for me looks miles away from being fit and very rarely gets above a jog. I actually thought Campbell played fine today but having him, Wright and JDH and Lewis is hardly likely to bring us much success in front of goal. It also meant Cadden and Doig were nowhere near as active going forward. It is hard with all the injuries but it is starting to feel like the Lennon tenure when players were shuffled around constantly in the hope of something working. I think Sm needs to pick and eleven and a formation and stick to it for a few games. We don't look like we have any partnerships in the team when we are attacking.
Dodge looks like hes towing a caravan.

[JohnM1875]

Can add Doidge onto that list too.

I'd be taking Hendo out. Think he was decent first half and our only really creative force. Could do with not bricking a tackle here and there, but honestly thought he was fine.

Campbell, Doidge and Wright I agree with. Unfortunately injuries mean they have to feature.

[CockneyRebel]

Agree the energy and pace greatly improved after the changes but I think that’s harsh on Henderson.

He was the only one from the starting midfield who had the ability to drop a shoulder/turn a defender/make some space.




His main problem, for me, is how easily he is pushed/shoved/eased off the ball. Muscle bound guys don't generally make skilful footballers but a bit more upper body strength would not go amiss. He is slight of build but young in years so a bit more time in the gym could very well make him a more effective player.

[RIP]

We had a group of six today. Three were new to Hibs. All commented about Henderson’s lack of movement and how he won no 50/50s. One described him as a scared wee boy.

I felt sorry for wee Hendo as he looked lost out there today.

[flash]

Not a chance would we have signed a guy who done nothing on loan at Ross County or even more recently Dunfermline in the Championship if there wasn’t a link there.

He’s not good enough.
Gies peace.

[Green_one]

That has got to be the last time we bottle it and play that starting 11 again. Midfielders and wide players there not to create but to close down space.
The difference in the speed and positivity on the park and in the stands when Allan Melkerson and Hauge came on was huge.
Allan and Hauge in particular linked up well and wanted to create.
This has got to be the end of the starting 11 line for Wright, Campbell and (for the moment) Hendo.
Maloney has to start taking responsibility. You can't talk about attacking football and connections with the fans then repeatedly put out sides like that. It's dreadful to watch.

The basic problems are slow build up and a lack of creative players. Hendo is not the issue. It's guys like Campbell who have no forward pass in their locker. I thought the two Norwegians at least showed confidence and aggression to go forward. Sick of seeing so many players who almost always pass backwards.

[Lester B]

I don't get this? What were we doing under Butcher or Ross at the end that was any better? Was shelling it long and hoping for the best, your cup of tea?

Our midfield was dire before we had injuries and now it's worse, therefore it's hardly going to function like Liverpool.

I'm not saying it was my cup of tea or any better and I'm surprised if anyone can possibly get that from what I wrote. Seriously. That's Biblical scale misinterpretation. What I'm trying to say is this: I've seen really bad Hibs teams lump it, play tippy tappy. use the flanks, keep it narrow. I can't remember seeing a Hibs team play with such temerity, such a lack of ideas. A lack of any apparent game plan at all

I'm not asking it to function like Liverpool. I would like to have some idea of what we are trying to do.

[Helensburghhibs]

Not a chance would we have signed a guy who done nothing on loan at Ross County or even more recently Dunfermline in the Championship if there wasn’t a link there.

He’s not good enough.

How do you explain persisting with a guy who done nothing on loan at Edinburgh City?

[NC1875]

Can add Doidge onto that list too.

Doidge was absolutely woeful today and has been ever since his injury. Not good enough. The movement and urgency of Melkerson compared with Doidge was night and day.

[Paulie Walnuts]

How do you explain persisting with a guy who done nothing on loan at Edinburgh City?

Trust me, I can’t explain that one either.

The contract extension for Campbell is a shocker.

[DaveF]

I'm not saying it was my cup of tea or any better and I'm surprised if anyone can possibly get that from what I wrote. Seriously. That's Biblical scale misinterpretation. What I'm trying to say is this: I've seen really bad Hibs teams lump it, play tippy tappy. use the flanks, keep it narrow. I can't remember seeing a Hibs team play with such temerity, such a lack of ideas. A lack of any apparent game plan at all

I'm not asking it to function like Liverpool. I would like to have some idea of what we are trying to do.

Well, if you had written that the first time round...🙂

It's a crap team, but I'm surprised that anyone is surprised at that to be honest, given the make shift line ups of recent times. I doubt Klopp could get a tune out of what players we have available.

[Lester B]

Well, if you had written that the first time round...🙂

It's a crap team, but I'm surprised that anyone is surprised at that to be honest, given the make shift line ups of recent times. I doubt Klopp could get a tune out of what players we have available.

Oh aye so it's my fault eh?? :wink:

It's not a crap team, I'm the same age as you and we could put together 5 compiled teams of guys we've seen who are worse than this lot and make them look like Brazil 1970 but they are less than the sum of their parts and that's the issue. Why don't this mixture of good and half decent players make a least a half decent attacking team? Because they don't currently

[DaveF]

Oh aye so it's my fault eh?? :wink:

It's not a crap team, I'm the same age as you and we could put together 5 compiled teams of guys we've seen who are worse than this lot and make them look like Brazil 1970 but they are less than the sum of their parts and that's the issue. Why don't this mixture of good and half decent players make a least a half decent attacking team? Because they don't currently

There is nothing - endeavour apart - in that midfield that works or clicks as a unit. If asked to pick 100 combinations of midfielders at the start of the season I'm confident neither of us would have selected what started today. And that, is the problem.

(And a lack of strikers but that's another thread)

[WeeRussell]

Actually felt like we were playing without a striker in the first half. Never looked like causing any danger, even in what should have been threatening positions, apart from Jasper getting the ball and taking a man on. Looked so lacking in quality going forward it was unreal.

Having said that I think Henderson had a poor game today and will generally offer a lot more. Melkerson has to start the next game in my opinion.. not yet convinced on Hague but time will tell.

Biggest buzz about us of the whole game was when allan and Melkerson came on and instantly we improved and the whole place lifted… unfortunately it didn’t last long enough. Could have been a lot different if it had went in for Melkers about ten seconds into his debut!

[loanheadhibby]

Doidge was absolutely woeful today and has been ever since his injury. Not good enough. The movement and urgency of Melkerson compared with Doidge was night and day.

Doidge was very poor today and has been for a while. However would you want to play no 9 for us? Chasing lost causes all day, trying to hunt down defenders. How many chances do we actually create for him? How many crosses on to his head? How many balls threaded thru?

On Henderson, I agree. Sadly he’s not good enough based on recent performances. As others said, he’s hardly pulled up any trees at Ross County or Dunfermline.

[Since452]

I’m sorry but that is simply just a load of crap. He’s a decent player playing with no movement round about him. Alongside Magennis and Newell with a forward who has some mobility and we’ll see what he’s about

Is it though? What has he done so far in his career that suggests he's good enough to play for Hibs?

[JohnM1875]

Doidge was very poor today and has been for a while. However would you want to play no 9 for us? Chasing lost causes all day, trying to hunt down defenders. How many chances do we actually create for him? How many crosses on to his head? How many balls threaded thru?

On Henderson, I agree. Sadly he’s not good enough based on recent performances. As others said, he’s hardly pulled up any trees at Ross County or Dunfermline.

That almost 100% describes what Doidge was good at prior to his injury. If he doesn't have that anymore then I can't see what he offers the team going forward.

[hibee1875]

Is it though? What has he done so far in his career that suggests he's good enough to play for Hibs?

I’m saying it’s a load of crap that the only reason he’s here is because he’s Liam Henderson’s brother.

On current form you could argue at least half this team aren’t good enough to play for Hibs

[loanheadhibby]

That almost 100% describes what Doidge was good at prior to his injury. If he doesn't have that anymore then I can't see what he offers the team going forward.

Before he was injured he was also scoring goals, getting on end of crosses and looking a threat. He’s now playing in a team that has no flair. We had an attack just after Doidge went off and there was not one Hibs attacker in the box.

[wookie70]

Dodge looks like hes towing a caravan. I say that at least 10 times everytime he plays. It should be a Dodge not a Doidge towing.

[Hibee Mac]

Maloney is going to end up making a rod for his own back this season. I get he wants to play a certain way, but he needs to get the best out of the players at his disposal, and he's doing the opposite right now.

Neither the fans or the owner wants to see us persist with a style of play which is clearly not working. We need to get players playing in their best positions and playing to their best ability.

Hate to say it but Maloney is not managing this team to the best of its ability. I don't see how that can be seen as anything other than a failing on his part. Anything other than 4th this year is a failing.

[majorhibs]

Doidge was very poor today and has been for a while. However would you want to play no 9 for us? Chasing lost causes all day, trying to hunt down defenders. How many chances do we actually create for him? How many crosses on to his head? How many balls threaded thru?

On Henderson, I agree. Sadly he’s not good enough based on recent performances. As others said, he’s hardly pulled up any trees at Ross County or Dunfermline.

Listen, there was a brilliant cross planted on Doidges head right in front of goal the day. He never even worked the keeper, never came close to hitting the target. Abysmal.

[IberianHibernian]

Maloney is going to end up making a rod for his own back this season. I get he wants to play a certain way, but he needs to get the best out of the players at his disposal, and he's doing the opposite right now.

Neither the fans or the owner wants to see us persist with a style of play which is clearly not working. We need to get players playing in their best positions and playing to their best ability.

Hate to say it but Maloney is not managing this team to the best of its ability. I don't see how that can be seen as anything other than a failing on his part. Anything other than 4th this year is a failing.Not sure where to start here . I`ll try . How often do Hibs finish in top 4 ? I`ve been following Hibs for over 50 years and top 4 finishes have been exception rather than the rule . Am aware that many see that as evidence of failure by managers and those running our club and in many cases that`s probably true but not sure it`s the case now . Today we had 11 players unavailable . Of those 11 , at least 6 and probably more would probably be in our best starting team . What changes to team would you like to see before our best players are fit ? Changes in selection and more importantly positions as you mention players in their best positions ?

[hibbysam]

Listen, there was a brilliant cross planted on Doidges head right in front of goal the day. He never even worked the keeper, never came close to hitting the target. Abysmal.

The one just before half time where he missed the ball completely is the type of cross/finish he scored 9/10 times before his injury. Love the big guy but he’s so far off it just now it’s killing us.

[IberianHibernian]

Before he was injured he was also scoring goals, getting on end of crosses and looking a threat. He’s now playing in a team that has no flair. We had an attack just after Doidge went off and there was not one Hibs attacker in the box.How many goals has he scored this season ? Or even looked a threat ? I certainly thought we looked more like scoring after he went off with Melkerson taking some of the weight off Jasper . Hopefully Mueller will be back soon and Mueller , Jasper and Melkerson ( and maybe Scott too ) can get us 4th in league and us winning the cup so Doidge has time to get fitness and form back to help next season .

[loanheadhibby]

How many goals has he scored this season ? Or even looked a threat ? I certainly thought we looked more like scoring after he went off with Melkerson taking some of the weight off Jasper . Hopefully Mueller will be back soon and Mueller , Jasper and Melkerson ( and maybe Scott too ) can get us 4th in league and us winning the cup so Doidge has time to get fitness and form back to help next season .

That’s my point tho. How can he look at threat when the service is non existent and he hardly gets any opportunities. When he was scoring regularly, he was also missing loads of chances. We were creating things for him.

I’m not actually a huge fan of Doidge but we have to be fair to him. We’re making him live of scraps.

I get that SM is trying to get us playing as a possession based teams but at moment we just don’t have the players. If I was him I’d go 4 4 2 until end of season. Doidge up front with Melkersen off him and just shell it in to box and play off the scraps.

[hibee1875]

Neither the fans or the owner wants to see us persist with a style of play which is clearly not working. We need to get players playing in their best positions and playing to their best ability.


Hello 👋. Fan here who is happy to see us persisting with this style of play. It is working, to an extent…

Have you not noticed how hard we are to play against now? How many chances do the opposition manage to create? Hardly any, that’s how many.

Despite all the players we have out the players that are coming in are able to play this system to the best of their ability. That’s testimony to what’s going on at training. Everyone knows their job.

The only thing that’s “not working” is the lack of goals. Mitchell, Magennis, Newell, Mueller, Nisbet, are all attacking threats that would bring goals.

What’s the alternative? We have our own style of play for the B team players where they do what? Lump it up the park at any given opportunity for Boyle to chase? Oh wait, Boyles not here.

We have a lack of pace in the team which also isn’t helping the current crop. Call me a happy clapper but I’m convinced we’ll come good. Hopefully Melkerson is getting game time means he’s closer to a start. His energy was a positive change yesterday.

[Key West]

Agree but we are short of options so they’ll need to start some games. Wright and Campbell shouldn’t play for Hibs again. They’re absolutely terrible.

Henderson also isn’t good enough. He never done anything of note on loan at Ross County or Dunfermline and simply shouldn’t be here. He’s got Liam to thank for getting the move because if he wasn’t a Henderson then I doubt we’d have even considered him.

What a load of garbage as usual.

[Paulie Walnuts]

What a load of garbage as usual.

Care to explain why?

What part of Henderson’s game has been good enough since he came to Hibs?

He’s offered nothing which is much the same as what he offered at Ross County and Dunfermline. If there was no family link to Hibs then we’d all have been scratching our heads as to why we were signing him.

[Key West]

Care to explain why?

What part of Henderson’s game has been good enough since he came to Hibs?

He’s offered nothing which is much the same as what he offered at Ross County and Dunfermline. If there was no family link to Hibs then we’d all have been scratching our heads as to why we were signing him.

There would be no point in an explanation as you seem to be more knowledgeable than the manager and coaching staff at Hibernian football club.

[Paulie Walnuts]

There would be no point in an explanation as you seem to be more knowledgeable than the manager and coaching staff at Hibernian football club.

God forbid someone has an opinion :faf:

If you can’t explain what he’s done well since he’s come in then you can just that :aok:

[hibbysam]

Care to explain why?

What part of Henderson’s game has been good enough since he came to Hibs?

He’s offered nothing which is much the same as what he offered at Ross County and Dunfermline. If there was no family link to Hibs then we’d all have been scratching our heads as to why we were signing him.

Young players going out on loan rarely set the heather alight. We signed him because Maloney has worked with him before, nothing to do with Liam.

[hibee1875]

Young players going out on loan rarely set the heather alight. We signed him because Maloney has worked with him before, nothing to do with Liam.

He’s just a troll. Best to be ignored.

The fact he’s hung his flag on saying we’ve only signed a player as he’s the brother of an ex popular player says it all

[Key West]

God forbid someone has an opinion :faf:

If you can’t explain what he’s done well since he’s come in then you can just that :aok:


Well this post has sealed it then I bow to your superior knowledge and I am sure I will find enlightenment in your future observations.

[Hibee Mac]

Hello [emoji112]. Fan here who is happy to see us persisting with this style of play. It is working, to an extent…

Have you not noticed how hard we are to play against now? How many chances do the opposition manage to create? Hardly any, that’s how many.

Despite all the players we have out the players that are coming in are able to play this system to the best of their ability. That’s testimony to what’s going on at training. Everyone knows their job.

The only thing that’s “not working” is the lack of goals. Mitchell, Magennis, Newell, Mueller, Nisbet, are all attacking threats that would bring goals.

What’s the alternative? We have our own style of play for the B team players where they do what? Lump it up the park at any given opportunity for Boyle to chase? Oh wait, Boyles not here.

We have a lack of pace in the team which also isn’t helping the current crop. Call me a happy clapper but I’m convinced we’ll come good. Hopefully Melkerson is getting game time means he’s closer to a start. His energy was a positive change yesterday.You're seeing what you want to see.

Aim of the game is to win games, we are not doing that, about as simple as an argument gets on whether this style of play is working or not.

And just to clarify, I'm not against Maloney getting more time to make this style of play work longer term, but my point is he needs to play his part in allowing himself to get more time.

He needs to be pragmatic and get the best from the players at his disposal, the injury thing is an easy get out clause. Fact of the matter is that half these players are playing out of position just to fit the formation and style that isn't working. If he had more pragmatism for the remainder of the season, he'd get us top 6 and 4th place I'm sure of it.

But his lack of pragmatism may well lead to us finishing bottom six and that's not acceptable given the position we are in.

If we finish bottom 6 then those in charge of the club will rightly be asking does Maloney really have what it takes to get the best from this team. And thats my original comment about him potentially making a rod for his own back.

[hibee1875]

You're seeing what you want to see.

Aim of the game is to win games, we are not doing that, about as simple as an argument gets on whether this style of play is working or not.

And just to clarify, I'm not against Maloney getting more time to make this style of play work longer term, but my point is he needs to play his part in allowing himself to get more time.

He needs to be pragmatic and get the best from the players at his disposal, the injury thing is an easy get out clause. Fact of the matter is that half these players are playing out of position just to fit the formation and style that isn't working. If he had more pragmatism for the remainder of the season, he'd get us top 6 and 4th place I'm sure of it.

But his lack of pragmatism may well lead to us finishing bottom six and that's not acceptable given the position we are in.

If we finish bottom 6 then those in charge of the club will rightly be asking does Maloney really have what it takes to get the best from this team. And thats my original comment about him potentially making a rod for his own back.

With the players at his current disposal what formation suits them?

[DaveF]

You're seeing what you want to see.

Aim of the game is to win games, we are not doing that, about as simple as an argument gets on whether this style of play is working or not.

And just to clarify, I'm not against Maloney getting more time to make this style of play work longer term, but my point is he needs to play his part in allowing himself to get more time.

He needs to be pragmatic and get the best from the players at his disposal, the injury thing is an easy get out clause. Fact of the matter is that half these players are playing out of position just to fit the formation and style that isn't working. If he had more pragmatism for the remainder of the season, he'd get us top 6 and 4th place I'm sure of it.

But his lack of pragmatism may well lead to us finishing bottom six and that's not acceptable given the position we are in.

If we finish bottom 6 then those in charge of the club will rightly be asking does Maloney really have what it takes to get the best from this team. And thats my original comment about him potentially making a rod for his own back.

What does more pragmatic mean? Lump it to Doidge and feed of scraps? Not being arsey, just genuinely interested in how we change it with what we have available?

[Tyler Durden]

What does more pragmatic mean? Lump it to Doidge and feed of scraps? Not being arsey, just genuinely interested in how we change it with what we have available?

Re players out of position and how we can improve without our injured bodies....

Cadden is a good example yesterday. We moved him into a back 3 when he's arguably been our biggest creative threat in recent weeks.

We have 2 defensive midfielders who are very limited going forward. Therefore it's not optimal to have a back 3 behind them. It's 5 players out of the game who offer nothing going forward.

We could have gone to a back 4 as they'll be protected by our slow defensive central midfield. You then could have Doig/Lewis and Cadden offering attacking width as full backs and create some overloads. When we cross from one side we need 2 attackers and the opposite wide player getting into the box.

We know Doidge struggles on his own so you need Melkersen or another player up there getting close to him when we have the ball.

A few simple changes that play to the strengths of what we currently have. But instead we're going with the same stuff game after game and of course, nothing changes.

[B.H.F.C]

Re players out of position and how we can improve without our injured bodies....

Cadden is a good example yesterday. We moved him into a back 3 when he's arguably been our biggest creative threat in recent weeks.

We have 2 defensive midfielders who are very limited going forward. Therefore it's not optimal to have a back 3 behind them. It's 5 players out of the game who offer nothing going forward.

We could have gone to a back 4 as they'll be protected by our slow defensive central midfield. You then could have Doig/Lewis and Cadden offering attacking width as full backs and create some overloads. When we cross from one side we need 2 attackers and the opposite wide player getting into the box.

We know Doidge struggles on his own so you need Melkersen or another player up there getting close to him when we have the ball.

A few simple changes that play to the strengths of what we currently have. But instead we're going with the same stuff game after game and of course, nothing changes.

If ever there was a game to just mix it up and have a go, it was yesterday. Should have just went with what we finished with up at Dundee (with Doidge making up the 11 up top with Melkerson) for me. Think it would have given the place a lift. Felt totally deflated when I saw the lineup yesterday.

[CapitalGreen]

If ever there was a game to just mix it up and have a go, it was yesterday. Should have just went with what we finished with up at Dundee (with Doidge making up the 11 up top with Melkerson) for me. Think it would have given the place a lift. Felt totally deflated when I saw the lineup yesterday.

After his last 2 starts you still think Doidge should be starting!?

[Tyler Durden]

After his last 2 starts you still think Doidge should be starting!?

Are we more likely to score with Doidge and another striker, or with Melkersen on his own?

Supported by the likes of Drey Wright and Henderson who is clearly still adjusting to the role he's tasked with. Nisbet played with the same players and he was hopeless aswell.

You're missing the point of the debate here.

[Is It On....]

Re players out of position and how we can improve without our injured bodies....

Cadden is a good example yesterday. We moved him into a back 3 when he's arguably been our biggest creative threat in recent weeks.

We have 2 defensive midfielders who are very limited going forward. Therefore it's not optimal to have a back 3 behind them. It's 5 players out of the game who offer nothing going forward.

We could have gone to a back 4 as they'll be protected by our slow defensive central midfield. You then could have Doig/Lewis and Cadden offering attacking width as full backs and create some overloads. When we cross from one side we need 2 attackers and the opposite wide player getting into the box.

We know Doidge struggles on his own so you need Melkersen or another player up there getting close to him when we have the ball.

A few simple changes that play to the strengths of what we currently have. But instead we're going with the same stuff game after game and of course, nothing changes.

I agree with you. The management team need to answer the question "why have we only scored in 2 out of 10 league games"?

The follow up should be "why do we generally create so few chances"?

They then have to work out how to maximise the strengths and minimise the weaknesses of the players they have in the attempt to improve the situation.

We are probably safe this season (thanks to the great start to the season and some very weak teams in the league) but unless things improve at the start of next season we will be looking for another new management team because no goals in 8 out of 10 league games is relegation form.

[Nicho87]

I remember when dare I say it Williamson played brown, riordan together up front, yes brown started as a striker. In a very poor hibs team.

The desire and attitude was night and day to earlier that season

It was fresh to see and exciting

Maloney would get more rewards and appreciation in giving game time to Melkerson and one or two other young forwards than sticking with doidge - yesterdays performance from doidge, non existant

[Hibee Mac]

Re players out of position and how we can improve without our injured bodies....

Cadden is a good example yesterday. We moved him into a back 3 when he's arguably been our biggest creative threat in recent weeks.

We have 2 defensive midfielders who are very limited going forward. Therefore it's not optimal to have a back 3 behind them. It's 5 players out of the game who offer nothing going forward.

We could have gone to a back 4 as they'll be protected by our slow defensive central midfield. You then could have Doig/Lewis and Cadden offering attacking width as full backs and create some overloads. When we cross from one side we need 2 attackers and the opposite wide player getting into the box.

We know Doidge struggles on his own so you need Melkersen or another player up there getting close to him when we have the ball.

A few simple changes that play to the strengths of what we currently have. But instead we're going with the same stuff game after game and of course, nothing changes.Bang on, a pragmatic manager works his system around the strengths of the players he has at the time. Too many players right now are either playing out of position or not to their strengths.

The injury situation only exacerbates the problem, but it is not the cause of our issues. For me, the root cause is that Maloney will not adapt to the situation at hand.

[sauzeelegod]

With the players at his current disposal what formation suits them?

433

[Nicho87]

I’d favour a 4 3 3

I think getting McGinn back at right back should allow cadden further up the park or even play his energy in a midfield three

We missed his runs forward yesterday didn’t get often as much

[MWHIBBIES]

Are we more likely to score with Doidge and another striker, or with Melkersen on his own?

Supported by the likes of Drey Wright and Henderson who is clearly still adjusting to the role he's tasked with. Nisbet played with the same players and he was hopeless aswell.

You're missing the point of the debate here.

Depends entirely on the execution and how we play. 2 strikers doesn't automatically mean more goals.

[Is It On....]

I’d favour a 4 3 3

I think getting McGinn back at right back should allow cadden further up the park or even play his energy in a midfield three

We missed his runs forward yesterday didn’t get often as much

I would prefer McGinn back in midfield 😉

[matty_f]

i don’t think that starting eleven if anywhere close to what we’d be playing with everyone available.

Even the players that featured who would be in a first pick 11 wouldn’t necessarily be in the positions they played on Saturday.

Cadden isn’t a right centre half, Doig wouldn’t be the left centre half, Stevenson wouldn’t start, Campbellp wouldn’t start, Dabrowski wouldn’t start, Doidge wouldn’t start, Wright wouldn’t start, Allan & McGregor wouldn’t be making the bench, we wouldn’t have to fill the bench with development players.

We are down to bare bones because of injuries, suspensions and illness. We’re at the point of square pegs in round holes just to get a team out that’s capable of at least holding its own in matches.

I’m sure all of us, including Maloney, would want that to be the end for that starting eleven as it was set up. Unfortunately, until players are available to replace them, we might have to cope with it a bit longer.

[DaveF]

Re players out of position and how we can improve without our injured bodies....

Cadden is a good example yesterday. We moved him into a back 3 when he's arguably been our biggest creative threat in recent weeks.

We have 2 defensive midfielders who are very limited going forward. Therefore it's not optimal to have a back 3 behind them. It's 5 players out of the game who offer nothing going forward.

We could have gone to a back 4 as they'll be protected by our slow defensive central midfield. You then could have Doig/Lewis and Cadden offering attacking width as full backs and create some overloads. When we cross from one side we need 2 attackers and the opposite wide player getting into the box.

We know Doidge struggles on his own so you need Melkersen or another player up there getting close to him when we have the ball.

A few simple changes that play to the strengths of what we currently have. But instead we're going with the same stuff game after game and of course, nothing changes.

Is this what we were doing under Ross?

[B.H.F.C]

After his last 2 starts you still think Doidge should be starting!?

No particularly but he’s always been much better playing with a partner. I think playing him and Melkerson up front, as a two, with two wide players in Hauge and Jasper would have seen us pose a lot more threat than what we have been.

We don’t have players available to really change personnel, but he has to do something to try and get players in to better areas of the pitch.

[BoomtownHibees]

Dabrowski

Cadden
Porto
McGregor/Delfierre
Doig

Stevenson
JDH
Henderson

Jasper
Melkerson
Hauge

That team yesterday would have give us a bit more excitement and attacking sense imo. We were up against ***** who didn’t threaten one bit but still persisted with 3 centre halves, 2 defensive wing backs and 2 defensive minded central midfielders. Add in the goalie that’s 8 out of the 11 who have no real interest in creating anything or driving us forward

[pacoluna]

I'm amazed he is starting Doidge. He looks like he has either lost interest as he knows he has only got to the summer or his injury is stopping him moving. Henderson for me looks miles away from being fit and very rarely gets above a jog. I actually thought Campbell played fine today but having him, Wright and JDH and Lewis is hardly likely to bring us much success in front of goal. It also meant Cadden and Doig were nowhere near as active going forward. It is hard with all the injuries but it is starting to feel like the Lennon tenure when players were shuffled around constantly in the hope of something working. I think Sm needs to pick and eleven and a formation and stick to it for a few games. We don't look like we have any partnerships in the team when we are attacking.

Campbell's ten yard back pass to porteous when he had acre's of space summed his game up, he was honking.

[jacomo]

I'm amazed he is starting Doidge. He looks like he has either lost interest as he knows he has only got to the summer or his injury is stopping him moving. Henderson for me looks miles away from being fit and very rarely gets above a jog. I actually thought Campbell played fine today but having him, Wright and JDH and Lewis is hardly likely to bring us much success in front of goal. It also meant Cadden and Doig were nowhere near as active going forward. It is hard with all the injuries but it is starting to feel like the Lennon tenure when players were shuffled around constantly in the hope of something working. I think Sm needs to pick and eleven and a formation and stick to it for a few games. We don't look like we have any partnerships in the team when we are attacking.


I’m not convinced the shape is working. The players seem unable to find space and find each other.

[matty_f]

I’m not convinced the shape is working. The players seem unable to find space and find each other.

i don’t think it’s the shape , we’re just lacking the players to play it as effectively as we can.

[Tyler Durden]

Depends entirely on the execution and how we play. 2 strikers doesn't automatically mean more goals.

I agree mate but we have 2 months of evidence that we can’t execute it with this manager and the players available. Maybe simply subbing in Melkersen will help but we aren’t creating chances for a number 9 to miss.

Hence I’d favour going with 2, or a more natural forward like Melkersen playing from wide.

[Tyler Durden]

i don’t think it’s the shape , we’re just lacking the players to play it as effectively as we can.

So we change the shape. We’re not getting enough from the players we have available

[Tyler Durden]

Is this what we were doing under Ross?

It is yes.

It would work better than what we’re doing now. Maloney should wait until he has more players back or recruited to play the 3-4-3

[Victor]

i don’t think that starting eleven if anywhere close to what we’d be playing with everyone available.

Even the players that featured who would be in a first pick 11 wouldn’t necessarily be in the positions they played on Saturday.

Cadden isn’t a right centre half, Doig wouldn’t be the left centre half, Stevenson wouldn’t start, Campbellp wouldn’t start, Dabrowski wouldn’t start, Doidge wouldn’t start, Wright wouldn’t start, Allan & McGregor wouldn’t be making the bench, we wouldn’t have to fill the bench with development players.

We are down to bare bones because of injuries, suspensions and illness. We’re at the point of square pegs in round holes just to get a team out that’s capable of at least holding its own in matches.

I’m sure all of us, including Maloney, would want that to be the end for that starting eleven as it was set up. Unfortunately, until players are available to replace them, we might have to cope with it a bit longer.

This. Plus the fact that there are two teams on the pitch. St. Johnstone are fighting for their Premier League survival, so getting a draw with our ‘B’ Team might not be the disaster some people think it is.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[500miles]

i don’t think it’s the shape , we’re just lacking the players to play it as effectively as we can.

We're slow as a week in the jail. Melkersen and Hauge need to start games because we have no ability to get in behind defences.

[keep the faith]

i don’t think that starting eleven if anywhere close to what we’d be playing with everyone available.

Even the players that featured who would be in a first pick 11 wouldn’t necessarily be in the positions they played on Saturday.

Cadden isn’t a right centre half, Doig wouldn’t be the left centre half, Stevenson wouldn’t start, Campbellp wouldn’t start, Dabrowski wouldn’t start, Doidge wouldn’t start, Wright wouldn’t start, Allan & McGregor wouldn’t be making the bench, we wouldn’t have to fill the bench with development players.

We are down to bare bones because of injuries, suspensions and illness. We’re at the point of square pegs in round holes just to get a team out that’s capable of at least holding its own in matches.

I’m sure all of us, including Maloney, would want that to be the end for that starting eleven as it was set up. Unfortunately, until players are available to replace them, we might have to cope with it a bit longer.

I totally get the injuries and the fact that starting 11 would not be the case if everyone was fit.
The point I'm making Matty is that it's the team that finished that should have started and the safety first (however pragmatic) approach is painful to watch. Campbell, Wright etc will never be good enough, so start with the Norwegians who will be part of the future and Allan who will create chances. Even give O'connor a run as he is bang in form with the young side.

[BoomtownHibees]

I totally get the injuries and the fact that starting 11 would not be the case if everyone was fit.
The point I'm making Matty is that it's the team that finished that should have started and the safety first (however pragmatic) approach is painful to watch. Campbell, Wright etc will never be good enough, so start with the Norwegians who will be part of the future and Allan who will create chances. Even give O'connor a run as he is bang in form with the young side.

Said that after the game. Why not start with the more attacking players, try and get ahead in the game. If you then want to try and shut up shop a bit then do it and you probably win the game

[matty_f]

I totally get the injuries and the fact that starting 11 would not be the case if everyone was fit.
The point I'm making Matty is that it's the team that finished that should have started and the safety first (however pragmatic) approach is painful to watch. Campbell, Wright etc will never be good enough, so start with the Norwegians who will be part of the future and Allan who will create chances. Even give O'connor a run as he is bang in form with the young side.

I don’t think Allan should be anywhere near a start for Hibs. I list count of the number of moves that broke down with him yesterday. His best moments just now are passes that are nearly brilliant.

[DaveF]

It is yes.

It would work better than what we’re doing now. Maloney should wait until he has more players back or recruited to play the 3-4-3

It wasn't working toward the end, hence why he was punted. And that was with Boyle and a lot fewer injuries than what we have now.

[lord bunberry]

i don’t think it’s the shape , we’re just lacking the players to play it as effectively as we can.
Surely he should change the shape to suit the players he has available then?

[DaveF]

We're slow as a week in the jail. Melkersen and Hauge need to start games because we have no ability to get in behind defences.

Quite a few wanting Hauge to start but all he has done in 40 mins of football is chop 2 players down and collect yellow cards.

[LaMotta]

I don’t think Allan should be anywhere near a start for Hibs. I list count of the number of moves that broke down with him yesterday. His best moments just now are passes that are nearly brilliant.

Surely you can count to more than 2?

[basehibby]

That has got to be the last time we bottle it and play that starting 11 again. Midfielders and wide players there not to create but to close down space.
The difference in the speed and positivity on the park and in the stands when Allan Melkerson and Hauge came on was huge.
Allan and Hauge in particular linked up well and wanted to create.
This has got to be the end of the starting 11 line for Wright, Campbell and (for the moment) Hendo.
Maloney has to start taking responsibility. You can't talk about attacking football and connections with the fans then repeatedly put out sides like that. It's dreadful to watch.
What part of "injury list" do you have trouble understanding?

[Since452]

We're basically playing a reserve team right now. Including the bloody goalkeeper. Our injury list is incredible. I think a bit of perspective is needed right now.

[hibee1875]

I don’t think Allan should be anywhere near a start for Hibs. I list count of the number of moves that broke down with him yesterday. His best moments just now are passes that are nearly brilliant.

Agree. Plus in his last two games he’s been booked as his opponent has gone past him easily and his only option has been to haul them back. Imagine it was Campbell or JDH doing that.

[Tyler Durden]

We're basically playing a reserve team right now. Including the bloody goalkeeper. Our injury list is incredible. I think a bit of perspective is needed right now.

We don’t need perspective. The vast majority are being very reasonable and understanding of the injury situation.

The bottom line is that with the players we’ve had available this week, we should have enough to beat Dundee and St Johnstone. We’ve haven’t looked like doing so.

[keep the faith]

What part of "injury list" do you have trouble understanding?

Read my message, rather than get shirty. I'm not ignoring the injuries, I'm suggesting he should have put a more attacking creative side out rather than have these type of players on the bench. Thanks.

[matty_f]

Surely he should change the shape to suit the players he has available then?

i’m not sure there is a shape that suited the players available yesterday without there being some compromise.

[matty_f]

Surely you can count to more than 2?

Let’s not get carried away here. :greengrin

[LaMotta]

Let’s not get carried away here. :greengrin

:hilarious

[LaMotta]

Agree. Plus in his last two games he’s been booked as his opponent has gone past him easily and his only option has been to haul them back. Imagine it was Campbell or JDH doing that.

JDH has been booked 10 times this season and he hasn't been criticised for it once. Players get booked all the time. It doesn't mean they are finished FFS.

[wookie70]

I don’t think Allan should be anywhere near a start for Hibs. I list count of the number of moves that broke down with him yesterday. His best moments just now are passes that are nearly brilliant. Did you do a list for Henderson too. I actually though Allan did better than I thought he would at least when we had the ball. I agree he is nowhere near close to being a starter but barring a few months under Lennon I have always thought that

[B.H.F.C]

i’m not sure there is a shape that suited the players available yesterday without there being some compromise.

Always is a compromise, but continuing the same way is compromising any attacking threat as it is. Up at Dundee last week we looked much better when we went to a back four, even with ten men. Nothing we do just now is going to be perfect with what we have available but just keeping doing the same thing is pretty demoralising, when you know how it’s going to go before a ball is kicked.

[keep the faith]

JDH has been booked 10 times this season and he hasn't been criticised for it once. Players get booked all the time. It doesn't mean they are finished FFS.

I'm convinced that with a run of games Allan would make a real impact. The haste to write him off is nuts. Think we are in the minority mate.

[LaMotta]

I'm convinced that with a run of games Allan would make a real impact. The haste to write him off is nuts. Think we are in the minority mate.

I think he would as well.

I've posted quite a bit in defence of Allan recently, it's probably as tedious for people reading my posts as it is me writing then :greengrin but it's only because I keep reading the most bizarre things being written about him.

[hibee1875]

JDH has been booked 10 times this season and he hasn't been criticised for it once. Players get booked all the time. It doesn't mean they are finished FFS.

I’m meaning the manner in which he picked up the bookings. i.e not being good enough for this level anymore. If you’ve not seen them go and watch them back. They’re embarrassing fouls for a professional player at this level

[matty_f]

Did you do a list for Henderson too. I actually though Allan did better than I thought he would at least when we had the ball. I agree he is nowhere near close to being a starter but barring a few months under Lennon I have always thought that

i meant to say “lost” but, well, my phone has a habit of changing words and i don’t always notice.

I didn’t literally do a list or literally count for either player, to be honest. just went with what i thought was a fairly well known figure of speech (albeit “list count” is probably less well known than “lost count” :greengrin)

[LaMotta]

I’m meaning the manner in which he picked up the bookings. i.e not being good enough for this level anymore. If you’ve not seen them go and watch them back. They’re embarrassing fouls for a professional player at this level

I've seen them live, I wont be going back to watch them again. If anything I think they were good fouls to make under the circumstances from an experienced player.

It's embarrassing trying to make something out of his bookings whilst ignoring his assists/goals this season.

[hibee1875]

I've seen them live, I wont be going back to watch them again. If anything I think they were good fouls to make under the circumstances from an experienced player.

It's embarrassing trying to make something out of his bookings whilst ignoring his assists/goals this season.


In both occasions there was enough cover at the back. The one on McGregor I think practically the whole team was back. The one yesterday was just a wrestle as the guy done him.

Nothing about my comments are embarrassing. I’m just fed up of reading on here folk thinking he’s the messiah and should be playing every game. 2 managers now, 2 managers who work with him on a daily basis don’t see him good enough to be part of the 11.

It was mentioned at the agm that his situation wouldn’t be commented on as it’s personal, and either way there’s other players ahead of him.

I can think of two good contributions this season. His back heel to Boyle and his performance vs Dundee Utd. Apart from that I have seen absolutely nothing to think he is going to offer enough in goals and assists to make up for his lack of tracking/tackling in the middle of the pitch.

[Percy Vere]

I know it’s a pointless observation. But Boyle is so badly missed.
I knew he was a key player but I didn’t realise how much we depended on him. That said we are short nearly a whole first team.
Our creativity in midfield is absent. Time for SA to get starts, with Melkersen off Doidge, see if that combination works. Leaving Doidge on his own ain’t working.

[Mutu]

We are mince but I am convinced there is a start 11 in that squad with is better balanced than Saturday. Melkerson in for Doidge, Allan in for Henderson and literally anyone but Wright and we're improved in my view. When Bushiri gets back I'd be putting Stevenson next to JDH too.

Need Newell and Hanlon back so badly.

[LaMotta]

In both occasions there was enough cover at the back. The one on McGregor I think practically the whole team was back. The one yesterday was just a wrestle as the guy done him.

Nothing about my comments are embarrassing. I’m just fed up of reading on here folk thinking he’s the messiah and should be playing every game. 2 managers now, 2 managers who work with him on a daily basis don’t see him good enough to be part of the 11.

It was mentioned at the agm that his situation wouldn’t be commented on as it’s personal, and either way there’s other players ahead of him.

I can think of two good contributions this season. His back heel to Boyle and his performance vs Dundee Utd. Apart from that I have seen absolutely nothing to think he is going to offer enough in goals and assists to make up for his lack of tracking/tackling in the middle of the pitch.

The part in bold is embarrassing because nobody, not one person has said he is the messiah and should be playing every game. Saying he is the messiah would be just as ridiculous as saying he is finished.

I think its clear that you haven't been paying much attention watching Hibs this season if you can only think of two good contributions from him. St Johnstone away and St Mirren at home he was absolutely vital in changing both games in our favour. And to repeat this point again, Allan has the most goal contributions from ANYONE that is available for selection in our squad just now.

[BSEJVT]

I'm convinced that with a run of games Allan would make a real impact. The haste to write him off is nuts. Think we are in the minority mate.

Scott Allan is one of the best and one of my favourite players of the last decade but I am sorry to say he is a million miles away from it now

I would rather he didn’t play in case his legacy is tarnished, it saddens me watching him now

[hibee1875]

The part in bold is embarrassing because nobody, not one person has said he is the messiah and should be playing every game. Saying he is the messiah would be just as ridiculous as saying he is finished.

I think its clear that you haven't been paying much attention watching Hibs this season if you can only think of two good contributions from him. St Johnstone away and St Mirren at home he was absolutely vital in changing both games in our favour. And to repeat this point again, Allan has the most goal contributions from ANYONE that is available for selection in our squad just now.

People on here have polar opposite views of Allan atm. I have read plenty on here that think him starting would have us winning (the messiah) where as there is plenty like me who think he’s past it. I actually wouldn’t be surprised if he hangs up his boots at the end of the season.

I’ve been paying plenty attention, to be fair you just reminded me of his assist for McGinn vs st mirren. But st Johnston wasn’t an Allan show, Murphy was just as instrumental.

I can also remember at least 4 occasions, 2 mentioned above, where he’s lost the ball in the middle of the park and has resulted in either hacking or trying to hack the man down to stop the play

[B.H.F.C]

People on here have polar opposite views of Allan atm. I have read plenty on here that think him starting would have us winning (the messiah) where as there is plenty like me who think he’s past it. I actually wouldn’t be surprised if he hangs up his boots at the end of the season.

I’ve been paying plenty attention, to be fair you just reminded me of his assist for McGinn vs st mirren. But st Johnston wasn’t an Allan show, Murphy was just as instrumental.

I can also remember at least 4 occasions, 2 mentioned above, where he’s lost the ball in the middle of the park and has resulted in either hacking or trying to hack the man down to stop the play

Depends how you want to judge a player, that plays his position, I think.

If it’s basing it on goal involvements to minutes on the park, he’s still got something to offer. If it’s based on bookings to minutes on the pitch, he might not have so much to offer.

As others have said, I don’t think anybody is suggesting he’s the messiah. He’s clearly way off it but when he’s only had 15 minutes here and there over such a long period, he’s going to be way off it.

The bit that gets me is this idea that we’ll end up totally overrun with him in the middle of the park when it just hasn’t been the case in his limited number of starts.

[LaMotta]

People on here have polar opposite views of Allan atm. I have read plenty on here that think him starting would have us winning (the messiah) where as there is plenty like me who think he’s past it. I actually wouldn’t be surprised if he hangs up his boots at the end of the season.

I’ve been paying plenty attention, to be fair you just reminded me of his assist for McGinn vs st mirren. But st Johnston wasn’t an Allan show, Murphy was just as instrumental.

I can also remember at least 4 occasions, 2 mentioned above, where he’s lost the ball in the middle of the park and has resulted in either hacking or trying to hack the man down to stop the play

That doesn't mean they think he's the messiah FFS. It's more that right now we have a horrendous injury list, a complete lack of creativity from midfield, we are struggling to break down teams and he has shown this season that he is the best player we have available who can help create goals.

On your last sentence - so what?

[Paulie Walnuts]

I can also remember at least 4 occasions, 2 mentioned above, where he’s lost the ball in the middle of the park and has resulted in either hacking or trying to hack the man down to stop the play

JDH lost the ball in the worst position I’ve seen someone lose it all season. He’s also been booked 10 times and has less goal involvements than Allan despite way more time on the pitch.

He’s not finished. Having a weakness to your game doesn’t mean you’re finished. Neither does not being quite at the peak of your career anymore.

If you have more goal involvements than every fit player at your club then quite simply you still have a lot to offer. Especially when that club can’t score goals.

[brog]

I totally get the injuries and the fact that starting 11 would not be the case if everyone was fit.
The point I'm making Matty is that it's the team that finished that should have started and the safety first (however pragmatic) approach is painful to watch. Campbell, Wright etc will never be good enough, so start with the Norwegians who will be part of the future and Allan who will create chances. Even give O'connor a run as he is bang in form with the young side.

I think I know what you're trying to say but its a bit confusing. You say we should start with the team that finished but you also say Campbell will never be good enough, even though Campbell finished the game!! It's tempting to make these changes but it's one thing coming on against players who've already been involved for 60-70 minutes, it's another starting against those same players. We must also remember we've just had 4 consecutive league clean sheets despite playing yesterday with only one true defender. Wright and Campbell may lack attacking quality but they work hard to protect our defence. I really can't imagine the 2 young Norwegians plus Scotty having the nous or the legs to perform that role. We should be careful what we wish for.