U18s | Sunderland vs Manchester United

[KevinJoh]

I guess O'Connor will move to RB with U23 once Riley secure loan. Don't see any point for him playing for U18 at the moment. Probably at CB to learn that position as well, or they expect for him to grow up. Looking forward to see him in U23. Him and Chong (I guess injury precautions and game time currently only reason for him to play U18).

 

[jb8521]

As far as I know he's being played at cb out of necessity because of a lack of quality options there in the u18s and our defence looking a complete shambles when he isn't there to cover but is still seen as someone who will end up playing at full back on either side long term.

 

[TwoSheds]

Ayala, Baresi and Cannavaro (Mascherano too) were outliers. They were exceptional defensive talents. Importantly, how many examples have there been in England? Jose couldn't get Blind out of centre back fast enough and Gary Neville was always seen as a centre back but in the end wasn't tall enough.

My biggest worry is that he turns into one of these solid dependable reserve players who can't make the step up. Someone like Joe Riley. The defensive elements of full back are very positional and the attacking demands of the position are greater now than ever before. I don't think he'll develop either playing every game at centre back.

Gallas was 5'11, Carvalho and Steve Bruce only 6'. It's not only about height. Good to hear that he'll likely go back to full back when other CB options are available though. And don't forget he usually plays RB for his national team as far as I know, not like the time at CB will do him any harm.