Disagree. The next guy has to quickly assess the current squad's capabilities and then employ a system that maximizes their utility.
For example, we all scream every match, play Cullen at #9 so let's start with that - square peg, square hole.
Yates or Cullen up front is a false dilemma imho. They do not have much creative or individual ability, which means chances need to be created for them. They are both specialized in scoring tap-in goals. Choosing between Yates and Cullen for the forward position is a false dilemma because they are practically identical.
This season, Yates scored 1 goal in 280 minutes, while Cullen needed 480 minutes. I anticipate your objection that Cullen played on the right in a 4-2-3-1 formation, and that's valid, but Piroe occupied the same spot under Martin and netted ample goals.
Historically, Yates surpasses Cullen - he requires precisely 242 minutes to score a goal, while Cullen needs 339. I assure you, this data is readily found. Yates has played 11889 minutes of professional football and netted 49 goals, while Cullen has played 4747 minutes and scored 14 goals. Unfortunately, neither of them are skilled goal-scorers. I do like Liam, but I prefer complete strikers. These are players who attack the opposing team's penalty box, have the ability to take on defenders, deliver crosses, score from various distances and angles, score inside the box, score with headers and tap-ins, and create chances for others. Piroe and Ginnelly are good examples of such players.
I don't think it would improve things if Cullen played up front instead of Yates. Why? The real issue is much bigger - our style of play, not Yates or Cullen. We don't create many good chances because:
- we normally don't dominate our opponents like we did against Huddersfield,
- we don't press together as a team,
- we don't shoot frequently enough,
- we do not cross the ball frequently,
- we do not attack in numbers (we lack bravery)
Additionally, we lack pace in the front line due to the lack of players like James and Obafemi.
Although we now have both Bolasie and Paterson, we still need to improve our front line skills.
When I say that Yates or Cullen up front is a false dilemma, it implies that our front line performance is not the primary issue. Eight teams above us in the league table have scored slightly more or slightly fewer goals than we have. Our main issue this season, which has been consistent under Martin, lies in our defence.
- we make many mistakes in possession which lead to dangerous situations,
- our opponents tend to dominate us,
- we aren't pressing as a cohesive unit,
- our blocking of crosses is poor,
- we allow too many shots against us, and
- we lack the necessary pace and skills
I believe the issue at hand is not so much about Yates or Cullen, Walsh or Pato, Fulton or Patino, but rather stems from the way we play and the abilities of our players, particularly those in the defensive line.