I'd agree if the upside was worth it, but increasingly don't think that has been the case. With the squad he's had to work with 3 at the back with wing backs might have been more pragmatic. Could then still have got in 2 forwards plus Clark.

Defensive ability of full backs the story of the season. Can't stop crosses, can't defend crosses. Often out of position too. Recruitment main issue leaving square pegs in round holes but maybe naive of Valikari to not protect weak links more.

What if the 2008 financial crisis had never happened?

That shape maybe happens naturally if you have Drey as the right shuttler, with a natural right back. Then Holt as the left shuttler more naturally tucking in with Raymond overlapping and Benji pulling out left. Tricky situation as Clark is captain but often not sure what he's offering as a 10.

Carey for Clark around 65 mins feels like it should become a common change. I'd prefer Carey in that position, a line too deep where he is playing just now for me. Sprangler will continue to pick up bookings with current personnel around him as often left exposed being run at.

In that system think we need more mobility from the shuttling midfielders. Carey and Holt both neat and tidy enough but not quick. Signing a right back to allow Wright to play where Carey currently is will hopefully make a difference.