No bids for Albion ace Mackail-Smith (From The Argus)

Yes! CMS and Ulloa up front, Goals and plenty of them are going to start smashing into the opposition's net!!! So excited to see the pair play together at the Amex, Seagulls!!! UTA

Lets hope it remains this way.

If Ulloa is the foil we all hope he is then there is no reason at all why he won't help Cms achieve 20+ goals this season as well as chipping in with 10+ himself.

Uta

Will ullloa get us ullhigher ??

'No bids for CMS'

What about Hoskins or Dobbie?
Are we looking to get rid of one of these?

Great for CMS as this is likely to allow him to play much more to his own strengths. Would hate to see him leave the club, certainly at this stage and likewise Barnes and Hoskins, although I'd guess that the the most likely leaver would be the latter if a decent offer was made. I like him as a player, but not convinced Gus does.

The Dobbie situation is interesting. Would be interesting to hear Gus's thoughts regarding the signing of this player and his subsequent lack of appearances. In view of his age and the lengthy period of contract, would Gus now consider him a less than successful purchase?

The Dobbie situation is interesting. Would be interesting to hear Gus's thoughts regarding the signing of this player and his subsequent lack of appearances. In view of his age and the lengthy period of contract, would Gus now consider him a less than successful purchase?

I'd be happy for us to sell CMS. I don't think he's performed that well in the 18 months we've had him. If another team is willing to pay us what we initially outlaid - or more - I hope the club takes it.

Before anyone says it, I'm not be negative, just offering a different, honest, opinion. I love the Albion and I was chuffed when we first signed CMS, but I just don't think it's worked out for him or BHA quite as we hoped it would.

Why on earth do they tag this as 'breaking news'??

Can we have more breaking news like 'It's cold out there today!'

Ulloa and CMS up top, with Hoskins on the bench to come on and Orlandi in the hole just behind them with Dobbie to come off the bench as needed. Save some money by shifting Barnes.

heathgate wrote:
Ulloa and CMS up top, with Hoskins on the bench to come on and Orlandi in the hole just behind them with Dobbie to come off the bench as needed. Save some money by shifting Barnes.

And who will do what Barnes does so effectively?

...all of them but with added skill and goals.

Dr Baldhead wrote:
I'd be happy for us to sell CMS. I don't think he's performed that well in the 18 months we've had him. If another team is willing to pay us what we initially outlaid - or more - I hope the club takes it.

Before anyone says it, I'm not be negative, just offering a different, honest, opinion. I love the Albion and I was chuffed when we first signed CMS, but I just don't think it's worked out for him or BHA quite as we hoped it would.

Which is why we just bought Ulloa. Read the article above.. Gus is admitting that CMS needs a CF to play off of and Ulloa was drafted in for that very reason.
If you were making your ditch CMS comment at seasons end after the Ulloa/CMS partnership has failed, then i would have to agree, but to say that now is somewhat daft, when you are about to see the latest and greatest strking experiment that is supposed to fire us into the play-offs.

The most important thing is to tie Bridcutt to a long contract. This is crucial for the team to move forward and make the most of the players we have or will get in the future. I would say Bridcutt is good enough for the very best teams and cannot be replaced.

Old Scrote of the Amex wrote:

heathgate wrote: Ulloa and CMS up top, with Hoskins on the bench to come on and Orlandi in the hole just behind them with Dobbie to come off the bench as needed. Save some money by shifting Barnes.

And who will do what Barnes does so effectively?

BAMBI !!

Old Scrote of the Amex wrote:

heathgate wrote:
Ulloa and CMS up top, with Hoskins on the bench to come on and Orlandi in the hole just behind them with Dobbie to come off the bench as needed. Save some money by shifting Barnes.

And who will do what Barnes does so effectively?

Well said Barnes has the best work rate after Bridcutt at the Albion,Dobbie should be at best with the DEV 'S

heathgate wrote:
...all of them but with added skill and goals.

Rubbish ,GET TO SPEC SAVERS ASAP

No good having workrate if yo have no end product, as you all keep saying about CMS,...... Barnes out please...... and Tinkerbell.. already been.

Playing 4-4-1-1 system

Prob certainties to start but could be replaced:-

Ulloa (Barnes)


CMS (Barnes/Hoskins)


Orlandi (Buckley/Lua Lua/Hoskins/Crofts)

Barnes (Hammond/Crofts/Hosk
ins/Lua Lua/Dobbie)

Lopez (Buckley/Lua Lua/Crofts/Hammond)

Bridcutt (Hammond/Crofts)


Bruno (Calderon/Lopez)

Greer (Dunk)

El Abd (Dunk)

Bridge (Maksimenko/Painter)

Breaking news! Nothings happened. Good one, Argus.

I am intrigued as to how Gus will utilise our new acquisition and this interview would appear to add to this. If I recall rightly, Barn Door Billy and more particularly Vokes were rarely played with CMS in the anticipated role, or indeed in the same starting line up. This was tried with BDB but didn't work out and was quickly dropped. Barnes maintained variations on his deeper theme that have continued this season with Vokes normally replacing rather than playing alongside or in front of CMS. I suspect that this was in part due to the need to accommodate Navarro as extra meat in the midfield and later the creative talents of Vicente.
I would hope that CMS will drop to a deeper role, running on to the ball and utilising his headless chicken routine to far greater effect. The emergence of Orlandi (in the main) and Spanish Dave as creative outlets, along with some tactical experimentation on our established 4-3-3/4-5-1 ( there's a whole argument whether it's 4-1-4-1etc but lets stick to basics) line up, bode well. I would like to see CMS and Buckley playing off Ulloa with Orlandi providing support.
We have made real progress this season. This is belied a little by our league standing which is not much of an improvement. We have leanrt to dominate games and now hopefully, we can start putting teams to the sword. Barnes still has a role to play and is not finished yet… As for Hoskins, I fail to see the attraction in what he has done thus far. The counter to this of course is that he has not had the opportunity but he is in my opinion a poor man's CMS i.e he would play the same role, as opposed to offering anything different.
I would also love to hear my mate Gus's thoughts on Dobbie. He looks increasingly outside of the 'plan'. I sincerely hope that no one else goes now. We wouldn't miss Dobbie but there is now a good balance in the squad. The defence will need addressing at some point but Spanish Dave and Calderon are adequate cover for Bruno and there are a couple of options for left back. I am also presuming that the Latvian lad is not just a make weight. The centre looks solid for now and any signing would have to be a significant improvement and I am not sure we can afford any more quality on the bench...

No offers for CMS, thanks for telling us Gus, but I wonder if anyone asked you if any clubs had contacted you regarding CMS, if any feelers were put out.

Apart from fringe players I see no reason for the club to sell anyone. If one had to go then I would suggest Dobbie simply because I haven't got a clue as to what his role is.

The Argus has made a headline out of the fact that no bids have come in for CMS, I'm thinking that the rest of the interview must have been pretty dull if this is the best they can come up with.
Mr. Naylor must surely have asked if any other players might be coming in, what was the answer?
Did anyone ask Gus if offers have been recieved for, 'any,' of our players, what was the answer?

Having acquired Ulloa to play alongside CMS it will be interesting to see (a) who is selected for the (other) 4 midfield positions and (b) who else Poyet signs this month and where he wants to utilise them.
Bridcutt obviously would fulfil the holding role and I imagine Orlandi the attacking one or even Vicente if fit.. A fit and on form Buckley the wide/wing position (although I wouldn't be surprised to see Barnes starting sometimes) which leaves one slot free.
Currently the choice lies between David Lopez, Hammond, Crofts, Dicker and possibly JFC. None are ideally suited to this position in a potential 4-4-2 formation or a 4-4-1-1 one.
David has the passing ability, Hammond more physical presence and Crofts potentially the enegy. Dicker fits in effectively but is not really a ball winner and JFC lacks experience. What we lack is a powerhouse midfielder, the sort of player Poyet has in the past said he wanted.
The other position Poyet might wish to strengthen is CB where we lack pace. This might be pertinent now as GG's contract expires in the summer. Finally the club might wish to look ahead and potentially plan for life without Bridge at LB.
2 Weeks of the window are left which really isn't very long. However having secured the much sort after striker (Ulloa) Poyet should now be free to address other priorities.
I am really looking forward to the Arsenal game and keeping fingers crossed for Saturday.

I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure.

My very genuine question is, Why?

Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt.
Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all.
I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent.

As always, just my opinion.

Uta

I can't believe the same idiots spending hours posting drivel on here....... don't any of you have jobs?.... no, I thought not

geomians wrote:
Why on earth do they tag this as 'breaking news'??

Can we have more breaking news like 'It's cold out there today!'

Breaking news = no news.

gusset snatcher wrote:
I can't believe the same idiots spending hours posting drivel on here....... don't any of you have jobs?.... no, I thought not

We are sorry m'lud, we didnt realise you were so high brow and important.

Ballantrrae it would seem that you and I are largely on the same page regarding our squad.

Gus has got his man, we now have the target man, but is one player enough to make the squad contenders.
Vicente surely will play, when fit, in midfield, how could you not use him.
I agree with you regarding the, 'power house,' midfield player, we appear to lack someone who will drive forward with the ball, the Modrich (spell check) type player.

I am with you on the center back too, as is Poyet, I would like to see a big and powerful CB join us, someone to dominate in the air and be a strong physical presence.

You and I differ on the front end, I would still like to see another Ulloa arrive.

Gus said that the club was ready to, 'spend big,' one new player at around 2 million is not exactly spending big. I hope for more to come. ,

heathgate wrote:

gusset snatcher wrote: I can't believe the same idiots spending hours posting drivel on here....... don't any of you have jobs?.... no, I thought not

We are sorry m'lud, we didnt realise you were so high brow and important.

and I guess your job allows you time to post drivel on here.

I have already got thru over 2 hours work and it's only 6-30am here.

Its an intriguing scenario to finally buy the big target man centre forward and then to add that CMS will definitely play alongside. I would assume that Buckley also has to start as Gus rates him better than Zaha and he is our best attacking player, who will now finally have a recipient for his crosses, which really only leaves another three midfield berths. Bidcutt is 100% defo and one would assume that if Vicente is fit, he has to start. That would leave one place for Orlandi, Lopez, Hammond, Croft, Dicker, Barnes, Dobbie, not to mention Lua Lua, Hoskins, Calderon, JKF & Painter
Not an easy choice as even the non chosen would not be a bad team.
It will be interesting to see who he selects and I am sure it is bound to cause a whole lot of controversy. Personally, I'd still prefer to see Hoskins alongside Ulloah. I also hope he will retain Buckley or Lua Lua to give us that width and pace out wide. They keep defences stretched which will allow more room centrally for Ulloah and whoever plays sidekick to exploit. Guess we'll all find out by the weekend.

VegasSeagull wrote:
Ballantrrae it would seem that you and I are largely on the same page regarding our squad. Gus has got his man, we now have the target man, but is one player enough to make the squad contenders. Vicente surely will play, when fit, in midfield, how could you not use him. I agree with you regarding the, 'power house,' midfield player, we appear to lack someone who will drive forward with the ball, the Modrich (spell check) type player. I am with you on the center back too, as is Poyet, I would like to see a big and powerful CB join us, someone to dominate in the air and be a strong physical presence. You and I differ on the front end, I would still like to see another Ulloa arrive. Gus said that the club was ready to, 'spend big,' one new player at around 2 million is not exactly spending big. I hope for more to come. ,

Errrmmm, he's the second biggest signing this Club has made, ever- it currently reads: CMS2.5-3.5m, Ulloa 2m, Buckley 1m. So if you don't think 2m is spending big for us then you may need to adjust your expectations or otherwise read last Saturday's Argus or Match Programme.

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure.

My very genuine question is, Why?

Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt.
Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all.
I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent.

As always, just my opinion.

Uta

All about striking a balance between creativity and caution. Chelsea did indeed flood their midfield with a creative, non-defensive, midfield. But then they threw away a two goal lead against an inferior Southampton team!!!

No bids for CMS, no bids for anyone. So where's the news

For all those who persist in riding Ashley Barnes, may I just point out that since he has been restored to the team, we have won three successive games. Without him, we went five without a win.

Coincidence? I don't think so.

He seems to be the one attacking player in our squad capable of tracking back and giving the defensive side of our game some stability. Oh, and of course, he's also capable of scoring a goal or two.

Yes, we have players with a better first touch and greater ball skills, but, right now, Barnes appears to be the glue that holds us together.

He would seem to be the most obvious guy to make way for Ulloa (with CMS playing behind him), but I'm not sure Gus will see it that way.

gusset snatcher wrote:
I can't believe the same idiots spending hours posting drivel on here....... don't any of you have jobs?.... no, I thought not

No, we are all retired or on benefit.

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure.

My very genuine question is, Why?

Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt.
Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all.
I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent.

As always, just my opinion.

Uta

it seems a good idea im all for attacking teams from the off, but with all that flair would you tell our very effective fullbacks not to get forward for fear of being overran?? i think that is why people want another more defencive minded cm

i like barnes.most games ive seen him play in hes scored or assisted. i would keep the squad together for the remainder of the season.lets see where we finish and then make decisionns about contracts etc.good luck leo.hope you prove to be the new peter ward and shoot us into the play offs.uta

bruce beckett wrote:
For all those who persist in riding Ashley Barnes, may I just point out that since he has been restored to the team, we have won three successive games. Without him, we went five without a win.

Coincidence? I don't think so.

He seems to be the one attacking player in our squad capable of tracking back and giving the defensive side of our game some stability. Oh, and of course, he's also capable of scoring a goal or two.

Yes, we have players with a better first touch and greater ball skills, but, right now, Barnes appears to be the glue that holds us together.

He would seem to be the most obvious guy to make way for Ulloa (with CMS playing behind him), but I'm not sure Gus will see it that way.

Gus sees him for the long term future of the Albion and is coaching him to play in any position, left, right, forward, back and upside down.

Gus wouldn't waste his time coaching on this if he didn;t rate Barnes.

He's only 23 and doing a great job in the Championship. Where was Murray at 23? Rochdale.

You improve with experience and this rule works in football too. Every player is learning, thats what humans do.

Apart from the idiots on here, they learn nuffink on a daily basis.

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure. My very genuine question is, Why? Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt. Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all. I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent. As always, just my opinion. Uta

I agree. Hammond and Crofts don't merit the shirt. I'd forgotten about Vicente and Dicker in an earlier post in my team selection - which means we are now flooded out with midfielders. Gus should now choose the more skilfull, attack-minded midfielders/wide men like Vicente, Orlandi, Buckley/Lua Lua/ Lopez, and perm 2 from Ulloa, CMS, Barnes, Hoskins and Dobbie up front as we often look unbalanced when we flood the midfield with players like Hammond, Crofts and Dicker and our defence (viz Derby match) looked extremely vulnerable in the last 15 minutes, when we didn't have a striker on the field.

Personally, I would like to see:-
Ulloa/Barnes
CMS/Hoskins
Buckley/Lua Lua
Orlandi/Dicker
Barnes/Vicente
Bridcutt,
Bridge
Greer
El-Abd/Dunk
Lopez/Calderon/Bruno

Kuszac

I too think we need to buy a replacement for Greer - who I think is the defensive weak link at the moment.
Also we need more cover for Bridge.

I'm amazed that gusset snatcher can use a computer. I guess this must be a care in the community programme...

Breaking news. There is no news. On other no news The Albion will not be bidding for Lionel Messi. FFs.

Gus doesn't pick a team of eleven each game, he selects a squad of eighteen and changes this from game to game and throughout each match. As such,is the actual starting eleven that significant? Of course some players are likely to start every week and we all have a view about who that should be and it makes for lively debate on here.
Vegas, I take your point about types of players you and probably most would like to see coming in, but to suggest that £2mil 'isn't spending big',taking everything into consideration, is surely a bit off the mark isn't it?

So does our new lad get to play against Birmingham, maybe.

For the moment I think we should consider him a non starter and turn our attentions to how we beat Birmingham without him.

Vicente has had a further week to improve his fitness, should he start?

Barnes opened the scoring in our last, should he start, will CMS be fit enough to start?

If Ulloa doesn't get his international clearance thru in time and CMS is not fit, could we see Hoskins and Barnes start, should we?

We have to aim for three points so do we err on the side of caution, select a team that shouldn't lose, one capable of scoring on the break, or go all out for the win by selecting a truly attacking team?

This game might not happen, the weather could stop it.

VegasSeagull wrote:
So does our new lad get to play against Birmingham, maybe.

For the moment I think we should consider him a non starter and turn our attentions to how we beat Birmingham without him.

Vicente has had a further week to improve his fitness, should he start?

Barnes opened the scoring in our last, should he start, will CMS be fit enough to start?

If Ulloa doesn't get his international clearance thru in time and CMS is not fit, could we see Hoskins and Barnes start, should we?

We have to aim for three points so do we err on the side of caution, select a team that shouldn't lose, one capable of scoring on the break, or go all out for the win by selecting a truly attacking team?

This game might not happen, the weather could stop it.

Not being critical here Vegas, but there is not much of a game plan at all in your post,or perhaps I'm missing a subtle point? Ulloa's impact could be huge if he lives up to his cyclone billing, a season changer like Jason Roberts. Lets wait and see if CMS thrives as most of us want him to do alongside Ulloa. If he doesn't Craig's days could be numbered, I have a gut feeling its gonna be a great combination though.

Dave when I say that 2 million is not, 'spending big,' I say that simply because 2 million for a striker is what I would expect us to spend if we are taking a run at promotion. If the guy delivers 2 million might look like a cheap deal.

We made a loss of 8 million last year but we don't know how thta loss was made up, and we were doing everything from scratch.
Derby also made a loss of 8 million and just look at how long they have been in their stadium. From Withdene to the Amex must have cost us money aside from buying players.

When a club of our standing and with our aspirations for this season my idea of, 'spending big,' on a promotion run would be in the 5 million range.

Ulloa, a midfield power house and a new CB would probably take us to 5 million.

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure.

My very genuine question is, Why?

Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt.
Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all.
I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent.

As always, just my opinion.

Uta

Spot on

gusset snatcher wrote:
I can't believe the same idiots spending hours posting drivel on here....... don't any of you have jobs?.... no, I thought not

GUSSET THE LEGEND is back. Must be feeling the pressure mate, your lot are dropping points, wilfred is on his way, and transfer dealings sicknote butterfield on loan from norwich. By the time we play you lot at our fantastic amex, i predict we will be above you in the league. And you will never fill slumhurst

albionfan33 wrote:

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure.

My very genuine question is, Why?

Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt.
Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all.
I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent.

As always, just my opinion.

Uta

it seems a good idea im all for attacking teams from the off, but with all that flair would you tell our very effective fullbacks not to get forward for fear of being overran?? i think that is why people want another more defencive minded cm

Perhaps but then we do have the extra defender (almost) in the very able Bridcutt.

Either way, it's all good stuff.

Uta

Murray's Mint wrote:

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure.

My very genuine question is, Why?

Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt.
Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all.
I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent.

As always, just my opinion.

Uta

All about striking a balance between creativity and caution. Chelsea did indeed flood their midfield with a creative, non-defensive, midfield. But then they threw away a two goal lead against an inferior Southampton team!!!

No accounting for complacency. Gus would never let this happen :)We do have Bridcutt in there too remember.

Uta

Alfie T wrote:

VegasSeagull wrote: So does our new lad get to play against Birmingham, maybe. For the moment I think we should consider him a non starter and turn our attentions to how we beat Birmingham without him. Vicente has had a further week to improve his fitness, should he start? Barnes opened the scoring in our last, should he start, will CMS be fit enough to start? If Ulloa doesn't get his international clearance thru in time and CMS is not fit, could we see Hoskins and Barnes start, should we? We have to aim for three points so do we err on the side of caution, select a team that shouldn't lose, one capable of scoring on the break, or go all out for the win by selecting a truly attacking team? This game might not happen, the weather could stop it.

Not being critical here Vegas, but there is not much of a game plan at all in your post,or perhaps I'm missing a subtle point? Ulloa's impact could be huge if he lives up to his cyclone billing, a season changer like Jason Roberts. Lets wait and see if CMS thrives as most of us want him to do alongside Ulloa. If he doesn't Craig's days could be numbered, I have a gut feeling its gonna be a great combination though.

Alfie I really don't have a game plan, none at all. My post was asking questions to find out what you guys think Poyet might do.

I can only offer my thoughts on players by reading the written words of others.
I do try to work out what I think our strengths and weaknesses are, game statistics help with that.

Opinions as to our line up, well I leave that to you guys that are much closer to the action.

Dr Baldhead wrote:
I'd be happy for us to sell CMS. I don't think he's performed that well in the 18 months we've had him. If another team is willing to pay us what we initially outlaid - or more - I hope the club takes it.

Before anyone says it, I'm not be negative, just offering a different, honest, opinion. I love the Albion and I was chuffed when we first signed CMS, but I just don't think it's worked out for him or BHA quite as we hoped it would.

they havent been playing to his strenghts thats why. CMS is a fantastic player, who would be in my starting eleven every time.

I hate negative posts but does the non news that no-one has put an offer in for CMS put him in the shopping window?

I have been reading these threads for 3 years but do not know what uta means. Can someone enlighten me please.

Old Scrote of the Amex wrote:

heathgate wrote:
Ulloa and CMS up top, with Hoskins on the bench to come on and Orlandi in the hole just behind them with Dobbie to come off the bench as needed. Save some money by shifting Barnes.

And who will do what Barnes does so effectively?

we would more time looking at players who stay on their feet instead of laying on the grass

Dolph Ins wrote:
I hate negative posts but does the non news that no-one has put an offer in for CMS put him in the shopping window?

I have been reading these threads for 3 years but do not know what uta means. Can someone enlighten me please.

Up the Albion my friend

heathgate wrote:

gusset snatcher wrote:
I can't believe the same idiots spending hours posting drivel on here....... don't any of you have jobs?.... no, I thought not

We are sorry m'lud, we didnt realise you were so high brow and important.

we may talk drival about our beloved Albion, but at least we dont talk out of our backsides like you!! Go and play with the traffic!!

VegasSeagull wrote:

Alfie T wrote:

VegasSeagull wrote: So does our new lad get to play against Birmingham, maybe. For the moment I think we should consider him a non starter and turn our attentions to how we beat Birmingham without him. Vicente has had a further week to improve his fitness, should he start? Barnes opened the scoring in our last, should he start, will CMS be fit enough to start? If Ulloa doesn't get his international clearance thru in time and CMS is not fit, could we see Hoskins and Barnes start, should we? We have to aim for three points so do we err on the side of caution, select a team that shouldn't lose, one capable of scoring on the break, or go all out for the win by selecting a truly attacking team? This game might not happen, the weather could stop it.

Not being critical here Vegas, but there is not much of a game plan at all in your post,or perhaps I'm missing a subtle point? Ulloa's impact could be huge if he lives up to his cyclone billing, a season changer like Jason Roberts. Lets wait and see if CMS thrives as most of us want him to do alongside Ulloa. If he doesn't Craig's days could be numbered, I have a gut feeling its gonna be a great combination though.

Alfie I really don't have a game plan, none at all. My post was asking questions to find out what you guys think Poyet might do.

I can only offer my thoughts on players by reading the written words of others.
I do try to work out what I think our strengths and weaknesses are, game statistics help with that.

Opinions as to our line up, well I leave that to you guys that are much closer to the action.

This part Vegas has a simple answer:

"We have to aim for three points so do we err on the side of caution, select a team that shouldn't lose, one capable of scoring on the break, or go all out for the win by selecting a truly attacking team?"

A truly attacking team - we have to really go for the throats of these lower teams every time - like Cardiff do for example - we are better than them (Birmingham) - very clearly - sometimes it'll go horribly wrong - but most of the time it won't!!

How does Murray (as the Aussie Open is on!) get on when he is tentative, slices and waits for mistakes - both against lesser players and/ or the Federers? Play to win, attack, put them to the sword - mindset - is Gus our "Lendl"?

besides, it's far m ore fun to watch!

SMF20 wrote:
I notice from a lot of posts that people still very much edge on the side of caution when thinking about a starting 11, almost everyone would appear to want Crofts or Hammond in to keep things secure. My very genuine question is, Why? Why can't we flood the midfield with attack minded players given that we already have 6 defensive minders players starting the game in Kuz, Bruno, El abd, Greer, Bridge and Bridcutt. Why can't the other 5 berths available be filled by Orlandi, Buckley, Vicente, Cms and Ulloa? In my mind this gives a great balance between defence and attacking flare and there is certainly no harm in asking these more attack minded guys to defend from the front and track back. These are fit guys after all. I made a point of looking at both Manchester Uniteds and Chelsea's starting midfield s last night and there was not one defence minded midfielder on show. Chelsea's was Infact loaded with supremely talented forward thinking players... Ramirez, Lampard, Oscar, Hazard and Mata. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to go as far as Chelsea but with bridcutt sitting in the hole and the 6 to 5 ratio I mention above, I just wonder why we can't load the other 5 positions with attacking intent. As always, just my opinion. Uta

Gus hates the game being "open". It's why we have conceded the second least goals in the division. It's not because we defend particularly well, it's because we keep the ball, take time out of the game and limit the chances the oppo will get. So, there is no way he will open the team right out like that.

The other thing to bear in mind is that our full-backs get forward all the time. With them forward, it would leave the 2 centre-backs and Bridcutt.

It will be very interesting to see how he will get Ulloa and CMS into the same team. Imho, CMS is not suited to playing deeper. He isn't good enough technically. He needs to be up on the shoulder of the last defender for balls to be played through or flicked onto him. If he plays like that, up top with Ulloa, I would think it would be a wide player or the attacking midfielder that gets sacrificed in a normal situation.

Can't wait to see what Gus has on mind though!!!

Good post WestStander17, looking forward to what Gus will do too. Interesting times.

Hovite wrote:

bruce beckett wrote:
For all those who persist in riding Ashley Barnes, may I just point out that since he has been restored to the team, we have won three successive games. Without him, we went five without a win.

Coincidence? I don't think so.

He seems to be the one attacking player in our squad capable of tracking back and giving the defensive side of our game some stability. Oh, and of course, he's also capable of scoring a goal or two.

Yes, we have players with a better first touch and greater ball skills, but, right now, Barnes appears to be the glue that holds us together.

He would seem to be the most obvious guy to make way for Ulloa (with CMS playing behind him), but I'm not sure Gus will see it that way.

Gus sees him for the long term future of the Albion and is coaching him to play in any position, left, right, forward, back and upside down.

Gus wouldn't waste his time coaching on this if he didn;t rate Barnes.

He's only 23 and doing a great job in the Championship. Where was Murray at 23? Rochdale.

You improve with experience and this rule works in football too. Every player is learning, thats what humans do.

Apart from the idiots on here, they learn nuffink on a daily basis.

Great post Hovite. I agree with all of It.

Or it just might be that he is no good......like a lot of other rubbish that plays for Brighton. It's about time they sold their stadium and moved.

Or maybe other clubs have seen sense.