---------------Mitrovic----------------- Sissoko------De Jong----------Townsend ------------Tiote--Shelvey----------- Dummett--Mbemba--Lascelles-Anita ------------------Darlow-------------------- I can understand why Cisse was started vs Swansea, but Mitro is proving too much of a threat to just leave on the bench right now. He's scoring and also providing key final passes and knock downs. We need to slowly build our way up the pitch, stay compact, and batter them from crosses and set pieces. De Jong, Mitro, Lascelles and Mbemba all in the box will cause them problems due to their lack of height.
I think you can get at them at the back but if Aguero and De Bruyne play we will definitely be in deep trouble. Could do with them resting a couple up or something. Not that it will make much difference probably.
it's going to a horrible game, hopefully City will be tired and a little complacent after the thumping of Chelski, they may even rotate some players with Madrid coming up the following Tue. Norwich got a 0-0 at home against them... here's to hoping!
OP - Colback instead of Shelvey; his tenacity is more important than passes, we need to do the simple stuff well and can't afford to be turning it over as often. Wijnaldum HAS to be put to the bench now; he's not suddenly coming good vs one of the best teams in the league; I agree, the calmness and aerial threat of SDJ has to be a much better shout; he can link play up and retain possession, Gini is marked too heavily and often turns over needlessly. As a result, Sissoko goes left and he/Townsend can swap throughout the game to give us some flexibility. Mitrovic ahead of Cisse. What he was lacking was confidence; he has that in abundance now, but I'm slightly torn because the two seem in healthy competition which has helped. I'd be comfortable with Anita at right back ahead of Janmaat; he's more disciplined and arguably a better shout at hassling whoever they play wide. Mbemba and Lascelles first choice CB's regardless of who's fit, regardless of division next year!!
Pull of a draw and I will be happy, It helps that Silva, Nasri, Clishy, Kompany and Sterling are all out, not that it matters much, Aguero, De Bruyne and Toure are enough to completely dismantle us.
Keep the faith, here we go,,.. “The most incredible thing about miracles is that they happen.” G.K. Chesterton "Miracles happen to those who believe in them." Bernard Berenson "I am realistic – I expect miracles." Wayne Dyer Tuesday night might be the most important night in our history, so lets all believe that miracles can happen!! Come on Newcastle....................!!
Me likes that, but would stick Cisse on to start and maybe sub him for Mitro if he's not doing owt. and we've just gotta hope & pray that Gini doesn't start, which he no doubt will.