Not sure about the first bit. Surely when he plays DM, Moyes will tell him to do the role that has been the norm through Moyes' entire tenure?
In terms of distribution, it'll be different depending on the players around him/them.
In terms of breaking up play etc, I can't remember a time Rodwell has been blamed for a goal or being at fault for a drubbing. He also hasn't been someone who's been carried either. At the start of the season, he was performing better than Fellaini who was off form and some say not focussed as he was in contract talks.
As you've said he's played all over the midfield. He has had chance to be creative over the 4 years. He isn't that type of player though. At best he is a box to box midfielder, imo. A Gerrard (in his day) lite. Using his strength His performances would look better in a team like the one we've watched since jan but he's played in those teams before. Every year we turn it on and he's never put together a run that's made us think: we have to build around him in that position, like Felli has done. He's not that calibre of player.
But it was always about him nailing a position and playing constantly rather than playing 4 different ones. This season he did that, filling in for arteta in some respects, and was getting form.
He's never given a run out as an attacking mid so its hard to judge what he can do there.
on the subject of youth and resale value over older players in key positions, Dempsey and Donovan, although not long term buys, are actually needed now. We don't need another central midfielder now and keeping him would deny us any improvement in the squad. Forget an improved finish next year. we need someone to fill the Cahill position - Dempsey is ideal and twice the player Cahill ever was - massive improvement to the team for 3 years. Also, the right has been weak for God knows how long. We've never had balance, to have Donovan would mean balance, width and less reliance on the left for 3 years. January has proved how buying players in key areas brings returns to scale. More success on the pitch in the short-term = more money in the long term.
But that doesn't break a cycle of selling. You still won't stop a Baines or Fellaini being sold so the youth decreases and players with no resale value remain.
like I've said, we need to sell and he'll be up for grabs. I just don't see the backlash with him or buy the arguement he's not worth keeping.
