Stephen Elliott: Why a role change for Luke O'Nien could be considered and the under-23 players who could provide a lift

Luke O’Nien found himself in the right-wing back position again on Saturday after brief stints as a makeshift centre back in recent weeks.
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I have spoken about not knowing where his best position is before in this column and I am still not totally certain. He did well on Saturday again and always puts a huge effort in no matter where he plays.

Perhaps putting him in midfield alongside Grant Leadbitter could be an option. He came to the club as a midfielder and has not really played in there regularly since he arrived at the club. This is mainly because he has done so well in other roles.

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Given the fact that Josh Scowen, Max Power and George Dobson have struggled with their form this season, I wouldn’t be against giving O’Nien a go in there. He has energy as well as decent quality on the ball and may be the guy to give the team that vital bite and drive which has been missing in there at times this season.

Could a role change benefit Luke O'Nien?Could a role change benefit Luke O'Nien?
Could a role change benefit Luke O'Nien?

Doing this may also open a place for Jack Diamond down that right side. He is a player that offers the team something different.

I know Phil Parkinson hasn’t tended to go with younger players but Diamond, along with Elliott Embleton - who showed good form in the under 23s last week – could give the senior players a lift if they are giving an opportunity to showcase their abilities.

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