A direct replacement for Hyam would have been ideal i.e. RCB, but if Rose stays fit he can do a job. I have concerns over how good he actually is, but there were signs previously he could be a player, so let’s hope consistent game time helps.
Dabo is a worry, he had an amazing L1 season but post that I can’t remember him doing much as he seems to constantly be in/out of the team. Again though, with game time I’m confident we’ll see the Dabo of previous.
In the meantime, despite his inexperience we have to give Burroughs a go - Eccles looks so lost and it can’t be helping his confidence.
I wasn’t a fan of Bidwell last year, but he is offering something so far this year and he takes no prisoners either - we lack that presence in our team.
Doyle and Panzo have both had one great game a piece - we’re going to get some inconsistency with younger/inexperienced Championship defenders and have to accept it. However both look confident and will only improve over time. Doyle was excellent on Wednesday.
So we’ve lost JCS and replaced him with Panzo.
We’ve lost Hyam but have a ready made back up in Rose.
Plus Doyle to cover at CB.
We’ve lost Maatsen but Bidwell is stepping up.
Our issue last year was sloppy goals, we have a new look defence this year - forced upon us or otherwise - that’s what we wanted didn’t we?!
In all seriousness let’s give them a chance. We know we’re one experienced CB and a back up LWB short (unless Tayo comes good), but the starting back 5 are good enough for this league. Let’s give them a chance to get match sharp.