By singingshiver
August 26 2003

Walsall have now picked up only 2 points out of the last 9. The Saddlers have scored 1 goal in 3 games and look unlikely to add to that. So what is going wrong on the pitch after an influx of talent arriving at the club over the summer? The defence have been strong and have only conceded 3 goals in 4 games, this is a record that is unusual for a Walsall defence that has always leaked goals in previous seasons.

The midfield is probably the strongest Walsall have had in a long time. The likes of Osborn, Samways, Oakes, Lawrence and Wrack are all good players who have a lot to offer.

So why are Walsall struggling to score goals and hurt teams? This is clear for everyone to see - Walsall need another striker. Jorge is running his heart out up front but due to Merson being exempt from defensive duties, Jorge is playing very deep when the opposition are on the attack. One more striker would make the ball stick longer in the final third and this would allow the midfield to get forward and support the attacks more often. Also, it would provide another target man and take the pressure off a low in confidence Leitao.

It is a known fact that Colin Lee wants to bring another striker to the club. The likes of Akinbiyi and Huckerby have been strongly linked in recent weeks but so far nothing has materialised. So what does Colin Lee do now? He has a good squad at his disposal and a tactical change must surely be the only option until reinforcements are brought in. Lee cannot continue to play 1 man up front when we are not scoring goals or creating chances.

So what choice does Colin Lee have? Below are a list of possible formations and players that could make the difference.

4-4-2 - The good old traditional formation. Would provide width to the side and the use of Corica, Wrack and Pedro in wide positions would add attacking threat. Samways and Osborn in the centre of the park with Merson and Leitao up front

4-4-1-1 - The formation Colin Lee adopted that kept us in the first division when he first arrived. Same as above but with Merson dropping behind Leitao.

4-3-1-2 - This could be the most attacking formation lee could play. 3 man midfield with Osborn, Samways and Oakes. The Merson playing behind Leitao and Birch.

4-3-2-1 - The same midfield as above, but with Corica and Merson playing behind Jorge.

3-5-2 - Wingbacks formation. Possibly introduce Stefan Oakes in the midfield or playing with attacking wingbacks with Oakes and Wrack instead of Zigor and Bazeley.

3-4-2-1 - Keep the same formation and hope for the best. As above, possibly play with attacking wingbacks but drop Pedro and play Corica behind Jorge.

No matter what Colin Lee decides, we need a fresh approach to the next game. We have become predictable and too easy to defend against.

Use the online poll to vote for what formation Walsall should adopt in the next game. Also, use the message board to discuss all the above and your own ideas.