Several games in the last 3 weeks means changes were inevitable but can we work out what team Zola would put out is all players were fit and available. GK. Manuel, obs Back 3 . Angella definitely, then maybe Doyley and Ekstrand? Cassetti would have a shout here. Dont think he would pick Bekelem. Front 2 - Looks like Deeney and Fossi, so not Fabrini/Acuna Midfield. McGugan Anya and Abdi. Probably Fareone, then what? Is Ireney first choice? Or Battocchio? Then there is Murray/Pudil. So this is the team we think Zola would pick, not the one we want. So what do you think....????
He has said that he knows what his best team is, but what that is I am not sure. I think that he might believe that Murray has done enough in mid-field to include him at present. Not sure what he thinks about Doyley and Pudil. I suspect that he might think that different combinations will work, depending on the type of opposition we are up against. I cannot see quite where he goes if Deeney is injured or suspended as there does not seem to be anyone else playing his role.
I think Zola would pair himself up top with Deeney but the FL deems that illegal. What OFH said about who we are up against is important too. Does Zola have this tactical know-how yet though? Happy days though, this is the best Watford squad I have ever seen (I am 30) and I am chuffed we have so many decent options.
My personal choice - like I know, I'm a ref not a coach, would be this: Almunia Cassetti Angella Ekstrand Pudil Anya Ireny Abdi McGugan Forestieri Deeney in a flexible 3-5-2 4-3-3 5-3-2 system. Width, pace, guile, tenacity, power. The problems start when we defend too deep and the midfield collapse back onto the defence. I am not sure that, Iriney apart, any of our new overseas lads have got to grips with the Championship yet, they need to lower their centre of gravity whilst Acuna needs to get fitter. I think we have missed Vydra as we do not have a definitive replacement for him with his exceptional pace and eye for goal. Like I know....