24 Jul 2016 01:13:29
I know one game does not make a season, but already the signs were there. The system was obviously different. Quicker through the lines, but not getting caught out the back. Barkly looks like he might have shed a few kg. (I am certain he is a star) . (Not sure why Wiltshire would get a game before him) I also liked Mirrallas attitude. He is too good a player sitting on the bench. Del Boy up front with Lukaku might work. Tom Davies I thought was one the best of the young lads. It seems now very obvious that the players last season could not stand Martinez and didn't buy into his system. Martinez was a loser. Played in crap sides and sent one team down. Koeman was a winner, played in the highest quality of leagues, country, won everything and was universally known as one of the best players in the world at the time.
24 Jul 2016 05:58:22
Fantastic post their Aussie.
24 Jul 2016 08:17:19
It was a good run out. But there were plenty of mistakes at the back, we just weren't punished for them. I think we need to do better at stopping crosses because we are second best to headers in the box and Robles is hesitant at coming for crosses.
The young kids did well and you're right there is definitely a change in attitude in the players that is translating to better performance on the pitch.
We desperately need attacking options on the left because we need to stretch the opposition more by switching sides regularly, and with Gibsons passing range I can see him used more this season if he stays fit.
I think we still need to recruit the whole spine of the team this window to be as competitive as we can, and someone on the left wing too. Just my thoughts.
24 Jul 2016 09:45:33
I thought Grant was good as well. Very confident and wasnt afraid to support Barkley further forward as well.
I do think we need an alternative this season to Barry and McCarthy. Barry is too slow and will find it difficult to keep up with the pace of the game.
McCarthy gives his all but you've got to have more in your locker than a last ditch tackle. Only has a short pass and usually sideways and offer nothing at the top end of the pitch. We'll see what Koeman does with him this season.
24 Jul 2016 09:55:43
Totally agree BlueJohnUns. I would expect Bessic to feature more and if we sign Witsel or another central midfielder with a goal or 2 in his locker, that will help. Barkley was over-used last season (s) and when his form dropped and he obviously needed a break, fans got on his back. Yes McCaarthy is over-rated in my opinion. He does have fantastic last ditch tackles. but what are center halves for? His passing ability is quite poor and so he nearly always plaays the simple option. And yes Barry has slowed down too much to be on Premier League pace. He does well to compensate, but anyone can see he is behind the faster top midfielders. eg Kante or even our noisey neighbours captain.
24 Jul 2016 11:38:48
I'd agree with that Degsy.