Match Day Thread Pre-Season 2015

Combined with his volley against that Dutch amateur side, it appears that they calibrated Jay's new ligament for ball striking.

 

I was pretty unimpressed with Espanyol, they were unnecessarily dirty considering it was a wind down friendly game for us.

 

I thought Caulker played well.

 

To be honest Dusan looked a bit knackered like he did the last game at the end, he isn't firing on all cylinders yet hopefully that will come the more he plays.

 

They removed the "scuff" whilst operating on One Goal's knee

 

Remember the first half a dozen games last season? Came off on the hour.... He was after all signed to replace twatbeard

 

Can't really deduce much from a game like that, but....

Caulker looked comfy - J-Rod best used as a no. 9 - Mane is wasted as no. 9 - Tadic is still playing on the wrong wing.

Juanmi looked good around the centre circle but didn't seem to have many ideas around the box. Cuco was solid but 2nd half was pushing very far forward. Looks from his body language to be a bit maverick.

 

Can't take much from that game, the pace being so slow. Lovely goal from Jay otherwise was a bit uninspiring.

Have to say dissappointed with espanyol. Very dirty team especially in a friendly.

Onwards and upwards though, that is pre season done!

 

Tough to judge much on this afternoon.
Juanmi looks incredibly composed in and around the box as witnessed by his assist against Vitesse. He doesn't rush and gets his head up to look for the best option.
Martina is a bit of a risk taker and caught out a couple of times trying to nick the ball
Caulker was ok, JWP had a good second half, though Espanyol were not great.

 

Just got back from being baked in the Itchen stand....no wonder I usually go in the Kingsland. Some good play...thought Caulker and Martina looked promising. One of those games that is mainly midfield with few chances. Great goal from JRod.

 

Met a chap who told me he had spoken to Clasie and he confirmed that he could be back in a week.

 

Is it my imagination or are we shooting from distance more these days? Is everyone trying to improve on Shane Long's second against Villa?

 

Here's the highlights - not long

 

Koeman just been on Sky....still cautious about Jay. Says he's been out a long time and can't be rushed back...wouldn't confirm if he would play against Vitesse or Everton.
When put to JRod....he said he was ready.

 

I think he's being too cautious now. Just play him and see what happens.

 

Dusan must be a cool dude. Obviously saving his hurrahs for when it means something. Nice strike by Jay though. Bet that felt good off the foot.

 

Tbf to Koeman's assessment, Jay still looks a bit stiff and cautious. Compare him to the Jay of 20 months ago and he's not there yet.