For all of us moaning about City passing backwards here is a counterpoint to that using one of Man U goals against Arsenal. Seems its in vogue to break up the oppositions shape. See Shota is ahead of the game. https://theathletic.com/3566727/2022/09/05/manchester-united-arsenal-antony/
Yeah his touch was superb and his passing to others. His turn and pass for Tufan’s chance was sublime too. Needs consistent service. 3 good balls in the box caused 3 goals at Coventry.
Haven't seen Simons or Vale yet. It's a bit of an assumption to deem them ready to start. Also harsh on Slater who's not really done owt wrong. I think he'll go 3511 with Pelkas behind Oscar and Slater and Tufan either side of Seri as the midfield 3. We need to get a settled midfield so they can develop that understanding they're lacking at the moment.
Unfortunately we don't seem to be able to break the shape of any of our opponents when we try to pass out from the back
Surely as a link between midfield and striker(s). Should have something of a roaming role - like Koren used to have
We've played some of the better sides in the division so far - even Preston who are the most defensively solid in the league, and QPR who will be in the playoffs if they can keep their key players fit. If you look at upcoming fixtures they're nothing like the run we've just had. See where we are in 10 games. Judge then.
I reckon if Shota is going to change the keeper he will do so after the international break. Reading's keeper had a total mare at Rotherham a few weeks back, being responsible for 3 of the 4 goals they conceded. Ince kept him in the team and he then kept a couple of clean sheets.
Easy solution to our issues, play 4-2-3-1… Baxter Coyle McLoughlin Greaves Elder Slater Simon Tufan Seri Pelkas Oscar The above is blatantly obvious to me with what we’ve currently got available.
Two left footers at CB, Seri isn't an attacking midfielder, Tufan isn't a winger, theres no pace or width in that team.
Think I would make a good scout in fact I was one for a few years, mind you didn’t do much for my football knowledge but I always loved it at Portobello scouts group.
I would go with C.Jones Woo A.Jones Simons Slater Cannon M’Hand Seri Docherty Tufan Pelkas A full team of central midfielders, what’s not to like? Talk about squad balance.
He’s a false 10 so didn’t feel right to include him over those 11 which are all natural centre mids. Actually, suppose A.Jones is naturally a defender but almost equally comfortable as a DM so he still counts.
Martinez has had a great effect in the middle for them. His statistic for winning headers is better than taller players around him. Our armchair managers wouldn’t want him thoughnas he is only 5’9”.
Your snide comment may have made sense if Martinez’s partner at centre-half was also 5’9” or shorter and not you know, 6’3”.
