That vicious foul on AJ last night really throws a spanner in the works. Bobby Zamora’s change of shirt number seems to have revitalised his confidence – witness the way he absolutely leathered that third goal into the net – but it was bittersweet to reflect on just how well the pair linked up.
I’d imagine next in line is Erik Nevland. He’s a similar stature to AJ and is probably the best finisher at the club. He did stick one away rather clinically at Chelsea last season too. Mind you, if John Terry clatters into him early on Sunday as he did shortly after that goal at Stamford Bridge, I fear I won’t be able to control my rage.
It is interesting to note that Eddie Johnson made the bench ahead of Diomansy Kamara last night. Perhaps Roy took a dim view of Willy McKay’s pretty transparent efforts at stirring things up. Eddie’s been waiting for his chance for a while and there were signs in pre-season that he looked a lot more ready for first-team action but he’ll probably have to watch from the bench for starters on Sunday.
Dan, I think we will see Erik start on Sunday, he did last year when we lost AJ, although BZ was also out for a while too at the same time.
BZ was at his best last night. Erik lacks pace but wins on finishing ability. He also brings others into the game well. Nod down to BZ last night. With the potential of Duff then that adds some pace / trickery when in attack.
EJ has a lot to prove DK, as we all know, has scored some vitally important goals. Not sure about his commitment (agent speak? who knows). I think both EJ and DK will be on the bench.
I hope, but am not convinved that Damion Duff starts ahead of Gera which will minimise to soem effect the loss of AJ.
Bench including ZG, BHR, EJ & DK has lots of options with CD and DD on the pitch. Lots of potential to shift people around.
COYSW!!!!
Im gutted about losing Johnson. I haven’t seen any game highlights but I’ve heard that AJ and Zamora where on fire! I can understand why hodgson is anger because the pastnership has been broken up. I think Nevland will be in for now but hopefully we can sign another striker.
The positive thing to come out of last night’s game was just how good Zamora was again for me. Hopefully, he can lead the line to great effect. Losing AJ is a blow, but the flip side is that it gives somebody else a chance to stake a first team claim. Nevland looks to be first in line and deserves to be when you consider how good he’s looked in fits and spirts. If another striker comes in then that’s great, but Roy will have his work cut out to get some good value this close to the end of the window.