Following the Gulls' defeat against Gillingham last Saturday, Torquay United manager Martin Ling has been left with a serious conunderum to solve ahead of their visit to one of his former side's Southend United.
The Shrimpers, currently managed by former Plymouth Argyle manager, Paul Sturrock, are likely to provide a stern test for the Gulls who conceded five against Gillingham, which included a brace from their former striker Jo Kuffour.
Although Ling arrived at Plainmoor with a reputation as a manager who likes his teams to pass the ball, following his time with Leyton Orient who he led to promotion from League Two in the 2005-06 season.
Nevertheless, he has insisted that the success he has enjoyed as a manager has come with teams who possess a solid defence.
"As a manager, you have a persona that you like to attack and pass the ball, but whenever I have had success, I have always worked with a tight back four to do the job and to do the job properly." said Ling.
He also hinted after the game that Mark Ellis could get his chance in the centre of defence.
“I could hear the crowd calling Mark Ellis’ name." he said.
“I watched him play for our reserves in midweek, and they lost 9-1 at Cheltenham, but changes will have to be made and Mark will get his chance."
During their current run of seven games without a win, the Gulls have been unlucky on a couple of occasions not to have won. In their 3-3 draw with Rotherham United, loanee striker Billy Bodin hit the woodwork in the dying minutes with an effort, if converted, could have grabbed all three points.
Two games later, Chris McPhee was denied a late winner against Morecambe by an outstanding save from Shrimps' keeper Barry Roche.
Any points gained by Torquay this Saturday will surely provide Ling's men with a welcome boost ahead back-to-back home games against AFC Wimbledon and Hereford United, two games which could see a change in fortune for the Gulls.
