Where will this end? Reach down there, have a bit rummage and see if you can feel something resembling a couple of walnuts in a leather pouch. Then predict a romping victory!
Really? They've scored one in the last 3 games and we've not conceded in over 5 games, odds against it.
I'm sure Sels will play, Darlow will be given the league cup game on Tuesday. Clark did well against QPR, so I think he might keep his place, also that's very similar to Tuesday's team and we know Rafa loves his rotation, could see Diame, Gayle and Colback (urgh!) coming in.
Who do you leave out? It's a nice headache to have but there must be 5-10 players thinking how am I going to get back in the is squad and nail down a regular spot at the moment.
This. It's a great dilemma to have. In recent seasons we've had players who would assume an automatic start regardless of their form, workrate or attitude. We now have a squad of hungry players all fighting for places. Not everyone can be kept happy in that situation and there may come a point where some individuals get frustrated, but it's a long season and most will get a chance. Plus I think Rafa is a far better man manager than we've had lately and will hopefully keep a positive vibe in the dressing room.
Trying to predict Rafa's line up is impossible, but I expect to see Gayle come back in, along with Diame, Mbemba and possibly Atsu or Yedlin starting. I'm not even sure he will go for that much of a stronger team on Saturday than Tuesday. I think Gayle will come in for Perez, Mbemba for either Clarke or Dummett, Atsu or Yedlin for Gouffran and think he might surprise us by bringing Diame in for Shelvey (rested not dropped).
Think the players will understand Rafa's rotation system. I'm worried about this game and complacency. We're on a great run and just thumped someone so bound to be tripped up at some point.
Pretty sure Rafa's rotation policy will keep everyone on their toes. The very real possibility of being dropped for the rest of the season as we have competition in all positions should keep the complacency at bay
Play the exact same team we did against QPR. Hit them early on and score a couple of goals. After that sit a bit further back and control possession like we are effective at doing, and bring Gayle on at Half time, to counter or exploit their more open defense. Kick off - -----Perez----Mitro----- Gouff-Shelvey-Hayden-Ritchie Dummett-Mbemba-Lascelles-Anita -----------------Sels 45-60 mins or so (hopefully 2-0 up) ----------Gayle------------ -------------Diame----------- Gouff---Shelvey-------Ritchie ------------------Hayden------ Dummett-Mbemba-Lascelles--Anita ---------------Sels----------------
I'm taking my 8yr old to this one. She is very excited. Then she said "should I take my iPad dad in case I get bored? I'll keep volume on low" WTF is going on with kids
