this is gonna be pretty vague and generic, but i'll give as much info as i remember. :\

i'm looking for a specific author/commentator from, i think the early-to-mid mediaeval period; he is responsible for a comment something along the lines of "all that is needed to hold any strategic position is 5000 mounted knights" (not the exact quote, but something along these lines; i do believe the figure is correct).

a friend has suggested Nikephoros II Phokas, but i don't believe he is the one - the closest comment he has made of this nature is the reference in On Skirmishing that the cavalry army of any mobile army commanded by the emperor must be of at least 8,200 riders.

i am sure, however, that it was a name similar, something starting with Nike- or Niko-

any ideas?