MOST successful teams have what is commonly called a "ball winner."

He is often the motivator, invariably playing in the middle of the park, is a "hard man", generally small, though not always (remember Norman Hunter?), is fast on his feet and "takes care" of the opposition's most dangerous player.

When the ball winner is also blessed with skill and goal scoring abilities, and many are, then the combination is devastating. Examples among current players are Keane and Wise and oldies like Bremner and Souness (dare I mention).

Of course it is no good having a ball winner who mistimes his tackles, gets himself sent off regularly, provides the opposition with wonderful scoring opportunities from free kicks outside the penalty area or, even worse, inside the area, loses his skill in distribution, or lacks pace. Recently I have come to the view that Kevin Ball, who has been a stalwart for most of his long career, has sadly descended into the latter category. This was confirmed again at West Bromwich when a mistimed tackle and subsequent free kick led to the goal which lost Burnley the match.

I believe that it was no coincidence that our first two matches of the season were won without Bally. Now fit again the younger, and equally tough Weller should play the pivotal role. Importantly his timing, his skill, his pace and his goal sense are also equal to the job.

So Stan, while I have great respect for your judgment in these matters, can you give your urgent consideration to dropping the Ball and instead giving us a bit of Welly in the middle of the park.

ALEXANDER GOW, Brindle, Chorley.