Originally Posted by
oriel
Boyle was certainly not first choice last season, and even with (the mistake imo) of moving Hoare into Shields role in the cup final, he still missed out, as Gartland was preferred with Hoare. I think teams going for league titles and having aspirations of doing better in Europe will still need 4 central defenders, but it would seem Hoare / Cleary are the first choice two for now. For a good few games last season, Boyle didn't look 100% fit. He has 3 years left though, should have a lot to offer.
Massey will be under serious pressure now with Leahy joining, this is an excellent addition. When Jarvis was there, you got the impression he would be second choice, but to be fair he got plenty of games too, Leahy may not have the experience yet, but he’ll be joining to dislodge Massey, good to have that competition.