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Meet the Team: Defenders
Left Back: Mike Staley (age 30)
Staley is a complete wing back in the mold of Sam Courtney, Everton and England's left back. He is responsible defensively, but he is at his best when he's moving forward, hitting precision crosses and making sharp passes. Staley is also extremely good at hitting corners and free kicks.
Center Backs: Andy Carr (age 22) and David Jones (age 34)
Carr can play all along the back line, but the best way to get him into the first XI is to slot him in at center half. He has the ability to distribute the ball to more creative players up the pitch, a skill Sanderson values highly. You've met Jones already, and when paired with Carr, he gives Rochdale 12'7" and 380 lbs. worth of physical presence in the central defense. Jones is a particularly fearsome stopper.
Right Back: Craig Robertson (age 20)
Robertson, like Staley, is capable of getting forward and joining the attack. He has better-than-average pace, but his ability to accelerate quickly makes him seem even faster than he is. His youth, and the upside that accompanies it, give him an advantage over some other good options here.
In the Wings: Ger Dykes (age 18), Graham Somers (age 21), Luis Cassama (age 25), and Graham McGhee (age 32).
Dykes provides a defense-first alternative at left back, and can also fill in for the central defenders. Some of the backroom staff believe Somers is a better player than Jones, and he'll get plenty of opportunities to demonstrate his ability. Cassama, the team's vice captain, is very athletic and is extremely good in the air. McGhee is a smart, technically sound alternative at any defensive position.
The Future: Jack Robinson (age 15) and Stephen France (age 18)
Robinson, who plays mostly left back, has four-star potential as a defensively-minded full back. France probably wouldn't be overmatched right now, but with more skilled alternatives ahead of him, he is developing his game with the reserve and U21 sides.
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