this is such a dumb discussion. any good player will need a certain level of quality between pace, quickness, power, nous/awareness and technique. if you're deficient in one or more attributes, you have to make up for it elsewhere. we can debate what the categories are and the relative importance of each, but they're all part of the game.
it's not all about technique - there have definitely been better technical players than even bergkamp and zidane, but their athetlic deficiencies prevented them from making it to the top. just like there are certainly better shooters than many NBA players, but the game isnt just about skill.
you have guys trying so hard to downplay the importance of athleticism that we get ridiculous statements like shearer wasnt a physical player - the guy practically epitomises the physical english CF. bergkamp was like 6'2, hardly ever pushed off the ball, and was known for being nasty and having sharp elbows.
