[thejeff]

Critical for a solo.

Less important, but still good if he's backing up an army or blocking for mages.

Also not so important on the low end. If you only expect him to win against weak PD, it may not be worth the investment. Think Ulm's Black Lords with Firebrand and Awe Shield.

Not so much of an issue with non-buffing 0 encumbrance thugs (eg. Bane Lords).

Life drain can substitute, of course.

edit: Double ninja'd, but we all added different pieces.