Jake Bidwell (8 Viewers)

Sky Blue Harry H said:

Sunderland often play with Roberts and Clarke (2 very attack minded wingers - maybe MR wanted the slightly more defensive attributes of Eccles and Bidwell, although that seemed to hamper us attacking wise - plus Roberts didn't start!)

Click to expand...

I think the fact that Sunderland played with 2 wide attackers either side of their CF meant it was a particularly difficult afternoon for both wing backs and probably nullified much of their possible threat going forwards too.

Improved somewhat in the second half, he looked lost at times in the first half. Him and Panzo were just not on the same page. The previous loan boys that have filled that position of the past couple of seasons do look better going forward. Bidwell can whip a good ball in and defensively is sound when he plays left back or left sided on the three.

Yes, he looks more a left back in a back four or even left centre back. You could of swapped him and Panzo around at halftime and probably got a better result

I personally prefer Rose than Bidwell in a back 3 even if he's maybe not a LB per se, but has filled in when needed. Rose seems more confident with his passing and offers an attacking threat from corners. If we move Panzo up further forward, I think Rose could slot next to Fadz and Hyam. Would like to see the new Palace lad given a chance soon as well.

Why has it become the norm to dig out any fan who dares criticise a player? Bidwell has been v poor since he joined us, a half decent display against Derby at the back end of the season the only performance where he wasn't noticeably one of our weakest players. Not sure the system suits him to be honest, he can't play that LWB role that MR clearly wants him to. Unfortunately it feels like a square peg, round hole situation