Formation Issues For Cardiff City Tonight !


Cardiff City manager Dave Jones will undoubtedly make changes to the starting XI for tonight`s Carling Cup clash with Peterborough United. However, with the Bluebirds trying to adapt to a new look, fluid formation – Jones may face a selection dilemma based on his formation.

With Michael Chopra ruled out by injury, Jones looks to have a straight choice between his normal 4-4-2 formation, or the fluid 4-3-3 option which ended the 4-0 win against Doncaster Rovers. With Ross McCormack close to agreeing a move to Leeds United, it seems likely that Jay Bothroyd will start. That leaves the big question as to whether Craig Bellamy can handle two games in a week?


I would certainly argue for the inclusion of Lee Naylor and Jason Koumas, each of whom has obvious quality but is lack gametime. Anthony Gerrard is another who would also benefit from 1st team action

4-4-2


Marshall/Heaton,


BlakeMatthews, Gerrard, Gyepes, Naylor


Burke, Olofinjana, Drinkwater, Koumas


Bothroyd, Bellamy







4-1-2-2-1

Marshall/Heaton,


Blake/Matthews, Gerrard, Gyepes, Naylor


Olofinjana,


Drinkwater, Whittingham


Burke                               Koumas


Bothroyd



The second selection appears to rely on the deep-lying presence of Olofinjana – the bulky Hull City loanee has settled well in the Bluebirds midfield but we must not develop too much dependence in case of injury – we lack any other option in his physique or style.

Of course, that are many other decisions Jones could opt for, perhaps Koumas could operate just behind Bothroyd, he was used in that position whilst in his first spell at the Bluebirds. Might Gavin Rae get a look-in? Or even Sol Taiwo?

Either of those formations looks strong, and ought to be capable of beating Peterborough United. However, we know there are weaknesses, while we also have a number of players unfamiliar with each other, and the style. Tonight should be an interesting game!


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