Battling A-League champions Brisbane Roar are considering shifting German maestro Thomas Broich back to the midfield to resurrect their tattered title defence.
With Matt McKay on Socceroos duty and coach Mike Mulvey searching for solutions to a shocking four-game losing streak, a move back from the left wing is on the cards for Broich against bogey side Newcastle United.
The two-time Johnny Warren Medallist, viewed as the best import in the A-League’s 10-season history, spent extended time in the midfield at training on Tuesday morning.
Having conceded 10 goals and been exposed by attacking turnovers, Broich’s class and influence certainly could be better deployed in the middle of the pitch.
He shared time with Steven Lustica in McKay’s left midfield position while Dimi Petratos and youngster Devante Clut also lined up on the right in the triangle formation with Luke Brattan.
Brattan said Mulvey was yet to reveal his hand but admitted Broich was a strong chance of lining up in a new-look midfield.
“For sure, I still think he’s the best player in the league and he can play anywhere on the field,” he said.
“If he comes in I’m sure he can create some chances for us and do the job.”
While Broich’s potential shift could open the door for benched striker Jean Carlos Solorzano to start on the wing, under-fire goalkeeper Jamie Young looks set to keep his place ahead of Matt Acton.
Brattan shielded Young, deputising for the injured Michael Theo (wrist), from blame for the worst start of any team since the league kicked off in 2005.
The new keeper copped a vicious on-field spray from veteran defender Shane Stefanutto after Saturday night’s 3-1 defeat to Melbourne City.
Brattan insisted the Roar had quickly moved on from the ugly incident after Stefanutto apologised for his outburst on the weekend.
“We’re a team and we’re in this all together,” he said. “It’s all 11 of us on the field that will take the blame.
“No one likes losing so of course we’re frustrated.
“But we’re still positive and I’m sure, if we can stick together, we can turn it around.”
Making it even tougher for the defending champions, they travel to Newcastle on Friday night to face a Jets outfit which beat them on all three occasions last season.
But they won’t be satisfied with a gritty away draw to finally open their account.
“We’re looking for a bit of revenge and what better way to do that than in their home city?” Brattan said.
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