Robert Lee playing as a sweeper.

Back in November when we playd those nice boys from Sunderland we were all convincing ourselves of the worth of having Robert Lee playing as sweeper.

Given Barton------Lee-----------Domi -------Hughes---Caldwell Solano-------Acuna------Speed ------Dyer--------Shearer

I can't remember if we played that formation again, or whether there was any real discussion on its merits. It worked well for 30 minutes but then we backed off and let them back into it. I am in no way suggesting doing it again, just wondering whether it ha sjust been chucked away for ever.

AND

when we played at Boro we played 5 in midfield to match their 5. Should we be looking to do the same against Sunderland.

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2001

Answers

The way that Gallacher runs around we could slot him into the left of midfield, he'll need to be replaced after about 70 minutes though after he's run himself into the ground again!

Robson said Lee could prolong his career by about three years if he reverted to sweeper but I think that was a bit of 'nice' talk to justify his tactics.

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2001

I think the Boro performance was one of our best this season. With Barton injured it would seem like a good option to play 3-5-2 and Nobby on the right and Quinn on the left. Also the spare man at the back (Hughes) could sit on Dabizas' shoulders and thus counter the ariel threat of the big Irish one.

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2001