By Andy Baggott
October 2 2003

Peter Reid, fresh from escaping the axe, will have all eyes on him as he looks to end a run of 3 successive defeats, condeding 10 goals with no reply along the way. Definitely out of the equation are Roque Junior, and Ian Harte, both suspended. After the capitulation at Everton, virtually every place is up for grabs, and it is expected that there will be changes. Frazer Richardon is pushing Kelly at right back, whilst Duberry came through the mid week reserves draw, and the boss may recall him to shore up a defence that has been leaking goals at an alarming rate. Dubes is strong in the air, which is an area that we have been caught short recently. Left back could see Domi start, although the Frenchman limped off midweek, and could struggle. Matteo may fill in if Dubes goes to the middle.

In midfield, Reid has gone for the quartet of Johnson, Morris, Sakho and Pennant as a rule. All four are facing a battle to hold on with Lennon, Batty, Olembe, Wilcox, Barmby, and the returning Milner all pushing for a start. Lennon, Batty and Olembe may all find themselves in the first 11 come Saturday.

Up front, Viduka and Smith have been Reids first choice, but in recent matches our forward line has been found wanting. With Michael Bridges scoring a screamer in the week, Cyril Chapuis netting in 12 seconds in the same game, and Simon Johnson scoring 5 for the second string already this season, changes could occur here. Lamine Sakho may also be moved upfront.

Team

All in all, I believe Reid HAS to make changes. If not, he is saying that two shocking performances (Leicester and Everton) are acceptable. After the Leicester defeat, he gave the same players a chance to redeem themselves, it is unlikely that he will give them the same opportunity.

MY team would read Robinson, Kelly, Duberry, Camara, Matteo, Lennon, Pennant, Morris, Olembe, Smith, Bridges, with Carson, Viduka, Milner and Sakho on the bench, along with one of Batty, Radebe or Seth Johnson.

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