Dyer's return could make Woodgate's return an unhappy one
Posted by JamesB in Newcastle | 3 March 2007
The return of players from injury, notably this week Kieron Dyer, comes as a great relief to me. As the run-in really gets underway, and equally importantly we start to face more formidable opposition in the UEFA cup, it is critical that we have our best players available to us. When used properly, Dyer can really make a difference. Against Fulham for example I felt he was a bit isolated up front with Martins; I think his most effective position is coming from deeper in central midfield and running at the defence rather than running behind it. With Emre unavailable at the moment there is space for him to play this position.
I also want to start seeing some big performances from Damien Duff. We haven't seen anything like what he is capable of this season, and despite escaping much of the criticism I think many fans are disappointed with what they have seen. True, injuries have hindered his opportunities but he has had enough time on the pitch to have more of an impact than he has had.
I'm also excited about the prospect of Gooch and Taylor forming a partnership at the heart of the defence. I see Taylor as one of our most valuable assets, and to date Onyewu has unspectacularly gone about doing his job in a professional manner. Both players athletic ability should make them a formidable partnership and a real handful for even the biggest fastest centre forwards.
A win against Boro today is vital if we are serious about catching the European contenders; I see no reason why it can't happen. I don't think their defence, even with the great Woodgate, will be able to shut out Martins and Sibierski with Dyer supporting the whole game, and providing our defence stands firm I'll back us to take the points in a 2-0 win.
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