Chapter 115: Building the Midfield
Sunday, July 11, 2010
It was a cold morning at Broadfield Stadium.
Niels arrived early and headed inside. He had the same concerns running through his mind: the midfield was too open, Luka was gone, Drinkwater had not worked out, and Kieron Marsh was not ready to play every week. They needed at least two more midfielders before the season started.
Max Simons choosing to stay had helped, but Niels knew one player could not solve everything. They needed someone who could control the game, someone who could add energy, and someone who could take responsibility when matches became difficult.
Niels opened his notebook. Paul Pogba was at the top of the list. His ability could change the midfield, but his injury history, the cost, and the board's concerns made the deal uncertain. Kyle Dempsey was younger and could bring the energy they were missing. Luke Freeman offered experience, passing ability, and a left foot that could help with set pieces.
