Fergie was a master of using 'basic' squad players in the final third of the season to keep the PL campaign on track while also dealing with the CL games. Pochettino is doing ok this season in that respect, but IMHO if Spurs don't get at least 2 of the 3 current injured CM/DM fully match fit by Feb, the PL/CL campaigns will begin to collapse come March.
It was interesting what Poch said in his recent interview, about him and Levy agreeing that the club would make a push for a regular top 4 finish after the stadium had been completed, and how he in (to use his own words) "in advance" of when the board expected the club. It demonstrates the degree to which Poch has grown into his role at the club, and the extent to which the board clearly love him. That is the reason why I was so confident about taking Pixie's bet. I have something really juicy in store for him.
Throwing the game or not last night, I still think the FA cup needs to be improved in format (no replays) and should have a points bonus award for winning it, just like 5 points or something. Everyone would be desperate to win it then.
Why would taking the replays out improve it? Heathen I'd like to see a similar rule brought in as in the JPT where they limit the amount of changes allowed from the previous domestic fixture. Increase prize money too, points idea is silly.
The FA can start by showing actual respect to attending supporters. Games on saturday/sunday only. KO times between 15:00 and 17:30 only. How participating clubs then deal with it (team selection etc) is their business.
Or X% of the starting XI have to have been in the starting XI for Y% of your total league (and UEFA) games played to date (I'm sure values of X and Y can be selected to ensure PL clubs turn up with decent teams) . Of course the danger is that classic "giant killing" acts could become less common because the opponents are made too strong.
Genuinely wouldn't be too bothered if we went out of the CL next too. The kid Hoever he is played well considering. Great chance to win the title so if we go out of the CL I'd be quietly pleased that we can go for it with no distractions. #truestory
Give the FA Cup Winners a 'Champions' League spot ... no more ridiculous than rewarding 4th placed fail with one as currently happens ... would automatically bring the Cup's kudos back to where it has historically (and rightly, IMHO) belonged
