Have the likes of Rhys Walters, George Hall and perhaps even sub Funso Ojo given Darren Moore a welcome selection dilemma for the game against Bolton Wanderers?
Rob Fielding writes…
OK, it was only Maldon & Tiptree but… Sunday’s game not only gave Vale fans the welcome sight of a glut of goals and chances but some of the performances may give Darren Moore food for thought.
After playing so well in the final stages of last season, it has bemused me that Walters has not featured more in the League. His performance on Sunday, albeit against non-league opposition, oozed class once again…
I’m a Rhys Walters fan. In a Vale midfield replete with similar players, Walters offers a point of difference. His strength and ability to wriggle out of tight corners enables him to find space and dictate play. After playing so well in the final stages of last season, it has bemused me that Walters has not featured more in the League. His performance on Sunday, albeit against non-league opposition, oozed class once again. Is it time for Walters to get a starting place in central midfield?
George Hall was also impressive, being a constant menace to the Maldon defence. I would certainly hesitate in playing him as a wingback against Bolton but I think his pace and running could see him take the attacking (previously the one held by Ben Garrity) position. I feel for the skipper who hasn’t really dominated games like he did a couple of years ago. Perhaps it’s the less advanced role? Perhaps injuries have taken their toll? Perhaps the higher division is a steep step up? Or perhaps Garrity just needs more time? Whatever the reason, Hall looks a more potent attacking midfield option at the moment.
Ruari Paton was another playing in a somewhat unusual role as he was employed in the advanced midfield position on Sunday. I think the popular Irishman is someone who thrives on confidence and gametime. If Hall is employed as the attacking midfielder I would like to see Paton played up front. Out of Vale’s many forward options to partner Devante Cole, he looks like the most natural fit. I would move Paton alongside Cole and give him a run of games. It’s time for the manager not to chop and change upfront so much and allow a partnership to develop.
Finally, it was good to see Funso Ojo back on the pitch. After the veteran surprised a lot of us with a superb start to the season, it’s been a mystery to see him completely out of the squad. If now’s not quite the right time for a start, Ojo should certainly be a member of the matchday squad if not a starter.
There’s certainly plenty for Darren Moore to consider ahead of the game against the Wanderers.
I know Ruari Paton was picked as man of the match on TNT but for me the outstanding performance was Walters. Reminds me so much of how Robbie Earl and Ian Taylor were everywhere on the pitch and competing for everything. I would have Walters in my team every game and make the most of him before he is snapped up by a bigger club for a high fee.
Walters is a natural talent, with excellent vision, and tactically sound positioning. I would start him every game, but Moore has stockpiled midfielders and his varied team selections suggest he doesn’t yet know his best midfield formula. Right now I would start with four in midfield, Walters, Hall, Ojo, with Curtis to add creativity and wing service. The form of Croasdale, Byers, and Garrity has slipped in recent weeks, but would form a very string bench. The experienced Shipley is further down the pecking order.
If players were fit, my 442 starting line up would be; Amos; Gabriel, Humphreys, Hall, John; Hall, Walters, Ojo, Curtis; Paton, Cole.
Croasdale, Ojo and Walters every time. There’s stability and energy there, and potentially goals from Croasdale once he gets his sharpness back. But Moore will continue to pick his favourites with Byers going backwards and sideways at a snails pace.