cant agree about speed not being a priority tidyman.
The important thing in football has and always will be to find or create space.
Some players use strength.
some use agility.
some use speed.
some players just use their class to create space with their disposal.
Ideally you have a mix of all (allowing that some players will use a combination)
I agree with the sentiments that to win finals you cant load up on light fleet footed players, but there will always be a place for a few.