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Central Midfielders
First Team: Steven Noble (age 34), Hugh Strachan (age 21), and Brent Hunt (age 21)
Noble is the club's captain, and the intangibles he brings are almost as important as his contributions on the pitch. He is a set piece specialist who delivers corners and free kicks, and he is best in a holding role. If we play a DMC, he's the man. Strachan came to us on loan from Partick Thistle and played a crucial role in helping us win our historic double. Like Noble, he is better in a deep-lying role, and we often move Noble higher up when we pair Strachan with him. Hunt is a New Zealand youth international whom we signed from Queens Park. He netted 10 goals for them in two seasons. Hunt is useful as an advanced playmaker, and he's comfortable at AMC, too.
Reserves: Phil Potter (age 19), Duncan Ross (age 20), Joe Linton (age 19), and Declan Neill (age 21)
I like having several versatile players to cover a variety of roles in the midfield, because fatigue and suspensions invariably take their toll in the middle of the park. Potter, a recent signing from Dunfermline, is a dynamic offensive force whom we can bring on when we need goals. He will push for a starting role sooner rather than later. Ross is a box-to-box midfielder with size and good ball skills. Linton, a pocket-sized (5'3") powerhouse, is a lot like Colin Brown, who made valuable contributions to last year's team. Neill is currently playing regularly for the Northern Ireland U21 side. He can play effectively on the left side as well as in the center, and he is an especially good defensive player.
Prospects: Willie Sinclair (age 18), Peter Weir (age 19)
We aren't quite as young here as we are at some other spots, but Sinclair might eventually be the best player we have at this position, a playmaker who can orchestrate our attack with a deft touch. He began his career in St. Mirren's youth program. Weir is a flashy attacking player who can score, a regular with Carnoustie (SFL Third Division) at age 17.
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