CBAs are a small part of the game, Caldwell is still playing inside around the ground. Merrett has 27 CBAs but around the ground will standoff / hold his width. Parish, Merrett, Caldwell, Shiel, Hobbs and Setterfield can play together and I think we’ll see it this year.
He is probably on lighter duties in terms of CBAs due to the shoulder injury he had in preseason. Remember in match sim he wore a green vest, to indicate no tackling.
Actually a list problem? Or we’re just not utilising the strengths of the list?
or not being brave enough to have a proper look at someone like Hobbs or even Perkins?
Certainly agree that we’ve over spent on inside mids in the last 5-6 years.
Every year some whine about lack of depth - ”where are all our developing mids?”
And every year some also can’t see past a best 22 and want to trade to then end up in situation again with no quality depth and end up bringing Ham/Hibberd/Cutler and co in.
Injuries will inevitably occur, opportunities will come. As will greater opportunities as the young players get to a point where they over take others.
This is going to be a very real issue for Brad Scott to solve at the end of the year. As it stands, Tsatas and Hobbs are yet to play this year, but they will somehow. Caldwell will build fitness after his shoulder reco and warrant a heavier role. The magnets will be thrown around and a plan for the future will be worked through. If our depth shows signs of taking on the center clearance duties, then Parish leaving as a free agent becomes more likely. If the kids struggle, then other calls will be made.
It adds flavour to the year in my mind. When the rotations start to change, we’ll have a good idea of why.