Macca has been AFCB's most consistent performer

AFCB has a very strong crop of midfield players now and the start that Shaun MacDonald has made to this season has been terrific. He has really grabbed his chance to re-establish his partnership with Harry Arter and the two of them appear to enjoy the other one being next to them on the pitch. I would say that MacDonald has been playing the deeper role and his tackling has been very evident in breaking up opposition moves. When he does go forward it does seem that the cover behind him is not always as aware as it could be as evidenced in the Huddersfield game's fourth goal, but he can't protect the back four all the time.

Getting forward is also part of MacDonald's game and his passing abilities are excellent when he does get into threatening positions. He has been a bit of a workhorse for the team in recent games and I would not be surprised if he is one of those who has covered some of the most ground so the rest should do him good during the international break.

How much more he can lift his game is up to Shaun but I know he is desperate to get on the score sheet. If AFCB need to go more defensive in the Championship MacDonald could be the perfect partner for Hughes, while running ability could be strengthened with Coulibaly, Surman or McQuoid playing in front of them. 

Shaun is certainly one of the building pillars around which Eddie Howe is basing the team. We have seen Andrew Surman flip in and out of the team and also Eunan O'Kane. MacDonald has managed to keep his place most of the time and along with Ryan Fraser, I would probably say he has been about the best of AFCB's players in the first few games.  Keep it up Shaun!