"I don't have Manchester United in mind, I have Maribor in mind," he said. "I don't rest players. We must play with what we have, with the best we have." This is a fairly consistent approach from Mourinho. He doesn't like big squads, and he doesn't like rotation. Personally I would rather see some key players given a rest against Maribor, especially Cesc and Oscar. Not to underestimate the opposition, but the away game to Manchester United - and the Premier League- must be our priority. We also have a potentially feisty away Cup tie on Tuesday. Only Shrewsbury, some might say, but no doubt they will be throwing the kitchen sink at us. Rather see a few youngsters played in the domestic cup games. It's going to be a long hard season, and I would hate to see us fail at the final hurdle due to burnout, as we did last year.
I think there is no doubt it'll be largely a 'second' team v shrewsbury. Probably the likes of Cech, Drogba, Salah, Ake, Zouma, Mikel and maybe 2-3 from the 'first' team. I don't imagine it'll be the main starting 11 tonight (we know Costa is out/rested) but I think it'll still be a very strong team. United is still 5 days away and we're far from having this group sewn up. Personally I would rest some of the key players tonight but have them on the bench in case. I'd rest Hazard and either Fabregas or Oscar. Our options are cut down though with Ramieres and Schurrle out. Dave should play though given his suspension. Courtois Ivan Cahill Zouma Dave Matic Mikel Willian Fabregas Salah Remy Maybe something like this tonight (above) and (below) v United?? Courtois Ivan Cahill Terry Luis Matic Fabregas Willain Oscar Hazard Costa
Ivan & Matic need some much needed rest. Should use Mikel & Ake to fill in. If Mikel & Ake is not good enough replacing Matic & Ivan against Maribor & Shrews (both crucial), then we will be in soup. Last year league - we didn't run out of steam. Remember we played entire season without a striker!
