I think people are looking for goals and for him to play like he did as a striker without understanding how his role has changed. He’s a constant at least minor grade threat who opens up space for other players. And it’s not just his positioning, he can still beat players off the dribble. There was a play today where he threaded the ball neatly through three Everton players and immediately created a dangerous situation. It came to nothing because of actually a decent job by one of the Everton CB’s but that’s the kind of thing he doesn’t get credit for. He’s basically doing a way better job of doing what what everyone raved about Shane Long doing. I mean, he’s not peak Hazard or anything, but he’s a solid player. The team dynamics and roles have shifted, and some players are benefitting in terms of stats/appearance, and some are not but the team is better and everyone is doing their job.
Just got in, had to listen to it on the car radio. First thing I do is text Citeh mate to tell him that mid table mediocrity is not forever. That gloomy feeling will pass and one day they might be 5th if they get a decent manager. Higher than Manure was the reply. Straws?
Two well taken goals there. Can’t for the life of me see how there’s any controversy about that red. Looks absolutely cut and dried to me, that. Maybe there was intent, maybe there wasn’t, but that was at best utterly reckless, and could have caused serious injury.
Thé penalty for Bertie was pretty much nailed on too. Need the var referee that usually watches Man Utd as Rashford would have got that without doubt
Do people think you need to want to break a leg to get a red? He stands on the back of KWP's leg after hacking at him moments earlier. If you want intent he establishes that with the opening lash out. However, dangerous is dangerous and that is enough for a red. What choice has he left the ref?
The Tobes/Ancelotti mind games need improving. We played as a well-drilled team, with a plan, but all the stories will be about (only) beating 10 man Everton. Oh, and on the 9-0 anniversary.
No-one has (recently) mentioned that the refereee was Kevin (nobody's) Friend. Be honest, how many of us gave this up as a lost cause when the officials were announced?
Just caught up after watching the GP. That was a tremendous performance. The red was fifty fifty for me - I don’t think it was deliberate, but it was probably foolish. Either way, we controlled that game beautifully. As others have said, Romeu and Vesty outstanding again, and a mention for JWP who had another excellent game at CM. A word though for Diallo. I know we were against a thoroughly demoralised ten men at that stage, but his movement into space and passing looks superb. We might have another one there. Brilliant stuff, and well done Onionman. Long may it last!
Adams and Ings at last seem to be jelling together and the goal by prowsey was pretty classie as well, well done The lads coys.
Ancelotti claimimng that Digne's red card was due to Pickford's and Richarlison's tackles last week. Don't be silly, Carlos, it's because we're leaving the EU