The left side of that back four I expected. Surprised, and disappointed that Stuart is on the bench instead of Djenepo. Maybe it’s a hit them on the break at pace tactic.
If anyone was in any doubt about whether Long or Obafemi have futures here... Even without Broja in the squad, Ralph favours two RBs on the bench.
Armstrong and his bursting runs off the bench is a lovely sub to be able to make it Everton are tiring and the game is tight, though.
I thought they had 5 players isolating? Aside from James that looks like their full side. So who is missing ?
Yep. Would prefer him starting, personally, but I'm sure there are reasons alongside hoping for the Walcott ex player curse.
For anyone wondering about Bednarek, worth remembering that his wife gave birth to their first child in the past couple of days and so he’s presumably had a bit of time away.
I mean more that with 9 subs and playing 2 up top I’d expect two options who can play striker. I guess Ralph might still count Redmond as that
They never said five first team players. Just five players. I was always expecting it to be a few kids. Although I think Gomes is one.
Bit of a free hit away to Everton on the opening day but even so, no Bednarek, Starmstrong or KWP in the starting 11 is surprising to say the least. The latter two were 2 of our best performers last season.
Ralph does like an experiment at the start of a season doesn't he?, I'm hoping we don't see the return of the suicidal high line *shudders*
Could be any reason. Anyhow, I'm really excited to see that Ralph has thrown Livramento in at the deep end!
