It was pointed out on Legends tonight that as LuaLua could be away for 6 weeks, we aren't left with many options upfront. If Bellamy got an injury we'd be forced to play Shearer and Ameobi upfront. Does Bobby Robson have any intention of introducing Chopra to the first team yet? And does anyone know how long it will take for Cort to be back?

-- Anonymous, January 17, 2002

Answers

He's going nowhere just yet! He's holding my place in line at ASDA.

-- Anonymous, January 17, 2002

He hasn't even started training yet. Even if everything went well, I can't see CC playing at any level before the end of Feb.

-- Anonymous, January 17, 2002

...and if / WHEN Bellamy gets suspended!?

-- Anonymous, January 17, 2002

I think we can cover Bellamy's absence for a game or two through suspension. Where we would really struggle would be if AS got injured and were out for any period more than the odd game.

Shola can do a job up front for the odd game, but imo Shearer is critical to our current style - the takes the physical strain by occupying the opposition CB's, holds the ball up brilliantly, and brings the wingers and the speed merchants into the game. Take him out and I think we'd have problems.

Having said that, I don't believe Luax2 being here or not really influences this situation unless both AS and CB were unavailable. If Bellamy were injured I think we'd play Shola, although personally I'd consider moving Robert inside and bring in Bernard. Similarly if AS were injured, Shola would come in.

-- Anonymous, January 18, 2002

robert has a great touch in front of goal, remember Arsenal?

-- Anonymous, January 18, 2002

if Shearer was out it'd be an awful situation for an opposing team to have to face Robert and Bellamy up front, and Bernard, Dyer, Solano at them. i think the deep defensive marking against them would have to start on the 6 yard box

-- Anonymous, January 18, 2002