Form suggested Baird, class suggested Ostlund, who at least displays the welcome trait of getting stuck in. Burley plumped for Ostlund at right back who was his usual committed self, but looked somewhat short of fitness.
Baird also got the nod in the side and despite putting in several dangerous crosses from the right flank against Crewe was played out of position at holding midfield, with holding midfielder Wright out of position at right midfield. Why?
We suffered last season and earlier this season by not playing players in their correct positions, an accusation frequently levelled at Redknapp, but rarely at Burley. No doubt Burley was keen to have a look at Baird in that position, but with Saints confidence fragile against in-form Watford did he really expect the Northern Ireland right back to make the difference?
Outside of a brief second half revival, the result was one of the poorest Saints performances in a season of disappointments. Yes, we are short of quality in midfield with Belmadi, Prutton and Oakley out injured, so why complicate things? Where was Kosowski, who came on late to set up Madsen's consolation goal?
Reports from training tell of the impact that Burley has on the players and the renewed sense of optimism on the training ground, but this is not translating into results on the pitch, with so many out of contract and others knowing that it will be all change once again come the summer.
A proven coach such as Burley must be seriously frustrated not to see his efforts translate onto the pitch.
Burley needs time and patience from the fans. The problem is that patience has run out and the belief that this is another 'short-term difficulty' is probably only the preserve of the continuing focus of disatisfaction, under-fire Rupert Lowe.
A big performance is required against Sheffield United. Few believe we'll get it.