where does that middle finger go if he tries an alternate fingering.

Must be frustrating if he's trying to follow the usual recommended fingering.

Some people only use 3 fingers anyway as they have a weak pinkie.

I f he develops the pinkie in to use he still has 3 fingers in play.

Maybe has to take a great leap forward and learn to play with triads

or even barre chords using the 5th string and his index or pinkie barreing the A shape

or slide guitar.

Sure Christopher could develop these ideas in to a more practical format and advise.

Awkward but he seems to be open to trying any of the alternatives if it gets him playing.

Sure he'll get there with that great attitude.

Dave