11 Dec 2013 18:16:22
The spine of the team is so important. I said this just the other day. From Tim through to Jags and Distin to Barry and McCarthy to Lukaku. I see RM is saying exactly the same in the Echo. Particularly pointing out the Barry McCarthy pairing. We will have to see how we get on without McCarthy this week. No easy game. they are all hard in the Premiership.
Degsypulford

1.) 11 Dec 2013
Big time, Barry and McCarthy, Distin and Jagielka. Been outstanding. They are the reason I ain't bothered bwt the loan signings. Barry will sign on a free and if we keep this base, any talented 'Roberto' player will slot in and shine ahead of them.

2.) 11 Dec 2013
Yes you are right, but we have the players to step in now he will put Osman in for him. Coyb

3.) 11 Dec 2013
I would put Barkley in McCarthys place and play Osman further up.

4.) 12 Dec 2013
12 Dec 2013 00:57:08
with mc carthy out, why do we not play this team vs fulham:
howard
coleman jags distan oviedo
deloufeu barkley barry pienaar
mirallas
lukaku

think barkley can mix it with the best centre mids if he is needed to. his vision is first class and his pace would be a real help in the middle of the park against a fulham team who are playing three centre mids who are over 30, 33 and 36 years of age. Barry can do what he does best, break up play and find the simple pass. Think this may revitalise mirallas as I think he would thrive in a more central role and more involved in the game. Finally I feel del boy would have more influence on the game than that of osman, especially as he would be pitted against the ex koppite ja riise. what's everyone's thoughts?

5.) 12 Dec 2013
Del boy all day long. bignose