The Central Midfield Debate

I cant really remember a time when we had so many options in midfield, whether we want to play attacking, defensive or a more balanced style of play, we have the player to suit. It's hard to predict who Kenny will play, but my preferred pairing would be Gerrard and Aquilani.

Against Sunderland the midfield should be pretty similar to the side we saw face Valencia.

Aquilani just in behind Carroll. Adam & Lucas. Downing on the left, Henderson on the right.

I take it Meireles is still recovering?

I think he did play a part for Portugal, though. Not sure.

Our best starting 11 should read:

             Lucas      Gerrard

                   Aquilani

Downing                           Suarez

                    Carroll

I think it really depends on whether Suarez plays off Carroll leaving four midfielders (two CM's) or whether he starts from the right in a 4-3-3 leaving 3 centre midfielders.

If it's the former then my first choice would be Lucas - Gerrard and Lucas - Aquilani until Gerrard gets fit but if Alberto excels then Gerrard will have to fight for his position.

If we play 4-3-3 then I'd go for   Gerrard - Lucas - Aquilani with Adam - Lucas - Aquilani until Gerrard is back.

Aquilani prefered position is a deep lying centre midfield similar to what Alonso played for us and what position he played for Juventus last season

Our best starting 11 should read:

             Lucas      Gerrard

                   Aquilani

Downing                           Suarez

                    Carroll

Swap Downing and Suarez and I'd agree with you

Both players can play on either side. I do know Aquilani's favoured position corbally, I just believe he should be playing higher up with a more rugged Gerrard deeper. If Aquilani can stand the rugged nature in the centre then I'd slot him there with Gerrard in a more goal threatening area.

Both players can play on either side. I do know Aquilani's favoured position corbally, I just believe he should be playing higher up with a more rugged Gerrard deeper. If Aquilani can stand the rugged nature in the centre then I'd slot him there with Gerrard in a more goal threatening area.

I know they can and it's minor details but it makes more sense to me what with Downing primarily playing on the left