Agreed, it is a tough league, we are short of mentality and quality. I think we were always likely to get relegated..... but it needs to be fighting and not the complete give up of 2023
I agree that his interview very much implied that Stephens and Aribo can expect to start moving forward. But at the end of the day, the next game is away to Arsenal. It really doesn't matter who we start. If anything, I wouldn't be against Martin going back to last season's XI for that game, to limit any further loss of confidence amongst those who I see as our more important players. It's the Leicester home game where Martin desperately needs to get his XI correct.
Who fancies being brave and doing the Arsenal fred then? I vote our original 9-0 architect RAWMOK steps up in an attempt at the ultimate redemption...
Stephens straight back in would probably be the final straw for me, if there is a final straw left to be had.
I think we'd conceded more set piece goals in the PL even before today. So another one to add to the list. Against Arsenal, it won't just be a case of "how many", but whether they can score more from open play or set pieces. Gabriel hattrick incoming.
Getting snarky with Alfie House/Daily Echo now… AH: “Was Adam Lallana fit enough to start or was it just a selection decision?” RM: "Do you want to go through every player and we'll talk about the selection?" AH: "Just Adam Lallana specifically." RM: "If he was fit and firing and ready to play after his performance against Ipswich, I think he would have played. You agree?" AH: "Well, you're the manager." RM: "Well, I'm telling you he would have played."
I expect to see the back three again against Arsenal which makes it nailed on Stephens comes back in.
Not sure it is that simple. We were by far the better side until the free kick today and we outclassed Manu until we missed the penalty. The tactics worked and the players were good enough until we make one mistake. What the answer is im not quite sure!
