Robbo or Cech? And then there's Mozza

SO what do you do?

Go for the tried and tested Paul Robinson, knowing that what he doesn't give you in terms of raw technical ability, he gives back in tub-thumping passion and industrial-strength commitment.

Or how about Marek Cech? Still a relative rookie to English football, never a defensive bone-cruncher, but, as a result, perhaps less prone to conceding possession or free-kicks while also offering more attacking options (as seen by his contribution towards Albion's two goals). The young Slovakian is a bright, friendly bloke, who is clearly every bit as passionate as Robbo, even though it may not come across as evidently on the field.

And it was interesting to hear Mowbray's take on Cech yesterday.

It hasn't been a great time for him recently. Minor disciplinary issues have crept in - which you can read more about today on birminghammail.net - and although Mowbray wouldn't elaborate, you get the feeling Cech still has some making up to do. Mowbray clearly rates him as a player and a person. But, equally, it's clear that Cech is an ambitious man. He won't tolerate being sat on the bench for another six months.

And what of Robinson? He's been a tremendous player for Albion over the last five years and is a strong character of which there is no other of his kind in the Baggies line up. His strengths are obvious and there are games where players of his mental resolve are needed. Can you afford a player of his character being sat on the bench or sidelined? What would the reaction be and how would it affect the dynamics of the dressing room?

It's a tough choice for Mowbray. There are merits to both. Perhaps he can find a way of accomodating both players, maybe with Cech further forward? But who misses out if he does that?

It's a tough call.

I'm just glad it's not me who has to make the decision...

While, we're at it, let's talk about James Morrison. Albion have, this lunchtime, received a bid of around £3million. And it's been rejected.

Tony Mowbray mentioned yesterday that he has no intention of selling anyone who he wishes to keep. It's a change in his stance - because previously he said that he would need to sell in order to buy. However, consider this, he has invested so much time in pursuing loan deals that permanent transfers have not been talked about, or targetted. Albion have not primed themselves to bring in any permanent deals for cash. And the last thing anyone would want to do is repeat the mistakes of 2006 when Earnshaw was allowed to leave without a replacement coming in.

Given that Mozza has been Albion's best player this season then I'd be amazed if Mowbray opts out of his policy, least of all to a club who are likely to be accompanying them down in the bowels of the Premier League. Can you see Albion helping out Bolton by handing them their best player? Or, let's put it another way, can you see Jeremy Peace wishing to help Gary Megson? No, me neither.

Happy New Year