Jesse – I won’t be at 3 Kings – I’m heading for a proper Trini bar in Barbican called Masque. It’s huge (two floors), there ought to be space even if you’re late. If you’re interested, leave a comment here and I’ll contact you with more details.

I also agree on several other counts – some too technical to discuss here, but in essence I would be immensely disappointed if the TD adopts a posture so conservative in nature that it constrains scoring.

For instance, while the 5-3-2 may seem to have the advantage of a compact defense, it does not translate into occupying spacing in the middle third where T&T can ill-afford to concede space. The 5-3-2 is scripted for counter-attacking soccer, but it would be certain to fill the hearts of Trinis with fear all game long because of the fact that it thrives on a team absorbing pressure without necessarily playing fluid, creative soccer of its own making. It’s too reactionary a formation, suited for some occasions but I hope not this one.

I also do not like the idea of a solitary striker, but to its credit the 5-4-1 could resolve the question of capitulating the midfield (as was the case when Jamaica recently played England). That stated, the 3-5-2 and the 3-4-3 have certain attractions which would (at least on paper) resolve some of our mutual concerns.

The 3-4-3 is not an easy formation to execute. The 3-5-2 is less orthodox, but could achieve width, depth, good shape, balance in attack and defending and even reduce the responsibility of flank players with respect to the area they are responsible for patrolling. Most importantly, it is easily colapsed into a 4-4-2 without notice.

I have no disagreement with the 7 players you have playing ahead of the committed defenders. Indeed, I selected 6 of them for my squad (aside from Evans Wise who I was tempted to choose to balance Latapy’s early introduction-with which I concur for the reasons you expressed) but I opted ultimately for.

I differed with you on the choice of starting keeper – I opted for Jack over Shaka, but my reasons were somewhat philosophical rather than fundamental. In the end it is my opinion that one possesses what the other sacrifices (again this is too extended given my constraints here). Our back line is identical.

I struggled to find a place for Jones to start – as well as Cox -but in the end I agree with the XI you fielded because of Dwight’s too retracted role, Latapy’s usefulness earlier rather than later, Birchall’s centrality, Edwards’ ability and the versatility in the system … you may have come up with this in jest, but regardless of what Beenie arrives with …. be assured your structure is workable on any given Saturday.

Guidance!

Thanks for reading.