05 May 2014 18:59:13
Sorry don't like to criticize any player who dons the white shirt but Tom Lees imo is just not good enough at this level. Centre half is a key position & needs someone who can read a game, tackle and distribute, none of which Tom can do. League one at best

1.) 05 May 2014
Have to agree on that one. I think the lads athletic and may be a full back, but not a centre half, for the reasons you have given.

2.) 05 May 2014
Also agree mate. Always looked upon him favourably as he's an academy graduate but he's not up to it. The one question I ask myself about players now is "is this player a league winning defender" or "is this player a league winning striker".

Tom Lees could win league 1 or 2 but he won't win us the championship or keep us in the premier league when we get there. He is either a decent backup or needs to be sold on.

Its the same feeling I have towards Aidy White. Potential is there but with Aidy his development has been stalleed due to Warnock playing him everywhere bar left back and not getting enough game time under Brian. I think they both need to go.

3.) 05 May 2014
Definitely need some experience in centre of defence next season have conceded far too many cheap goals which would be embarrassing for under 9's. Tom lees has had an awful season and is terrible on the ball too every time he gets it all he does is hoof it up the pitch

4.) 06 May 2014
I think Lees is the best of a bad bunch when it comes to our centre backs that have attempted to partner Pearce this hear! I'd keep him as a back-up to Pearce and another solid centre back. Not sure who I'd want to keep between Zaliukas and Wooton for 4th choice as both are simply woeful, Killock?

5.) 06 May 2014
I don't think Killock is the answer. He hasn't really been around the first team much. Farmed out on loan to play no real level of competitive football that can measure how well he'd cope at our level. It seems like Killock, Turner twins and even Charlie Taylor have missed the boat with us. i'd perhaps keep Taylor around. We need a proper defensive overhaul. Pearce and Byram are the only ones I actually trust at the back. i'd like to see Pelts back at CB though.

6.) 06 May 2014
I agree with CRMD above, if we are seriously thinking about moving forward I think we need to move on players like White & Lees however harsh it may seem. Both are decent lads who have come through the ranks but they are not strong enough to get us higher up the league. I can't fathom why BMD stuck with him all season as IMO he was probably the one who unbalanced our back four in most games.

7.) 06 May 2014
I agree that Peltier would be a good call as back up to the central defense however he has clearly questioned Brian authority and therefore is surplus to requirement. I am afraid that if BMcD continues to manage the team then Lees will continue to play as Brian is oblivious to how poor Lees is. The only addition to our defense under Brian will be the signing of Matt Mills

8.) 07 May 2014
Against Cardiff, I think it was last season, Peltier looked great playing at centre back. If we can get Zaliaukas back to the level he was when captain of Hearts, they'd be a great pairing. I think Pearce's attitude is first class, just not sure he's got the quality or pace to be part of a promotion level side, though he has improved since last year. Really can't see Lees as a long term answer, undecided about Wootton who needs time to develop alongside someone more experienced.