O’Neill Out Of Position Is Good For Players

Martin O’Neill has re-stated that it does players no harm to be played out of position, in fact he believes it makes them better players.

MON has become notorious for moving players around, like Luke Young (a right-back) at left-back. Carlos Cuellar (a central defender) at right-back. Nigel Hokey Cokey has played at right-back, central midfield attacking and played on the right of midfield as well as playing the holding role. Gareth Barry (a central midfielder) has played on the left and as left-back and then there is Nicky Shorey who has been utilised as left-back in the changing room. Need I go on?

The Villa boss told the official site that a lot of players have had to play out of position this season saying that is just the way things have had to be, explaining:

‘All the players are prepared to play out of position. It shouldn’t be an unusual thing because I believe the more positions you can play in, the better equipped you are as a footballer. Throughout the game, you’re obviously going to get players playing out of position and it is a big help to the team. I think it improves the lads as players too – unquestionably.’

Adding, with a flurry it must be said…. ‘You have to adapt to your new position so when you go back to your normal place, you should find it more rewarding.’

Luke Young said the other day, (Left is All-Right for Luke) that he doesn’t mind where he plays, as long as he plays. Although he has also admitted to being surprised at being played at left-back instead of his more comfortable right-back position.