I think it is a no brainer if nobody is signed before then it has to be Maksimenko with Lopez at right back unless the unlikely happens and the FA rescind Calderons red card.
Whilst Maksi was signed he was announced as a left back but all the press since then has suggested he's a centre back. So why play a young centre back out of position, when we have an experienced centre back we could play there? Not anti it, would be good to see how Maksi copes and it would be a good opportunity for him to impress, which is what young players need. From a best XI point of view though, I'm not sure it would be the best choice.
From seeing maxi on several occasions now I would have no worries playing him for a short spell. Looks steady defending and once more exposure to first team comes will develop going forward. Alternatively 3-6-1
Maxi's done OK - I really think our midfield needs the extra class of Dave there as Crofts and Bridcutt have been disappointing and Kemi is still finding his feet. El Abd at rightback.
We are very under powered and under cooked at the moment, which given our strong pre-season fixtures is odd - but it shows the squad has weakened in depth to the extent we are having to play out of form players and those still not at full fitness.
Will be a famous victory if Oscar pulls off something against middling Derby, that's how our expectations are changing
What an absurd comment! Beating Derby won't be a "famous victory". It'll be beating Derby at home.
I agree that we look undercooked however. The players were talking about the amount of ball-work they did pre-season... seems like they're not 100% yet
El-Abd at right back is a scary prospect these days. Remember Reading away the other year when he was brutally exposed by their wingers. Would rather stick with Spanish Dave at right back.