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MIDFIELDERS
Senior Team
On the Left
Alan Foster (age 26) is the clear choice if Sanderson plays an AM(L), and he'd be the first pick if the formation calls for a deeper-lying winger, too. He scored eight goals for Rochdale last year, and he's taken the captain's arm band for this season.
In the Middle
Gifted Sam Dawson (age 20) seemed to take his game to a new level during preseason. He's always been lightning fast, but now the rest of his game appears to be catching up. His partner in the middle of the park might depend on Sanderson's tactical choices for any given match. Paul Webb (age 23) offers more offensive flair. Jack McGrath (age 36) is a defensive stalwart. Josh Moore (age 34) is a balanced, heady player. McGrath is the team's vice captain, and he doubles as reserve team manager.
When Sanderson uses an AM(C), look for Austrian newcomer Johannes Scherrer (age 18) or Max McKenzie (age 17) to shine. McKenzie is an elite athlete, while Scherrer, a youth international, is already a slick technician.
Dawson and McGrath are both good defensive midfielders, and will play there when that position is called for.
On the Right
Fan favorite Joe Webb (age 28) returns here, after knocking in nine goals and adding nine assists last year. He is versatile, able to play AM(R), M(R), or even striker in a pinch. Scherrer and McKenzie can also play well in these spots.
Reserves/Youth
John Hollyoak (age 16) and German import Florian Schlegel (age 17) are the most promising talents on the left wing. Veteran Mark Spiers (age 36) will start in the center of the pitch for the reserves, with youngsters Andy Funnell (age 19), Anthony Cox (age 19), Simon Roberts (age 20), Brian Speight (age 17), and Andrew Whatley (age 16) providing hope for the future. Norway's Herman Barstad (age 17) adds to the depth on the right side.
Scherrer, McKenzie, and Dawson aren't exactly greybeards, either.
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