20 Sep 2016 07:29:41
Liverpool fan here in peace. There's been much talk of your poor play in the last few games as well as some (IMO) harsh criticism of Pogba. I think personally that if Mourinho stops pandering to the ego's in your team you'd be far better.
The obvious one is Rooney - he needs dropping, not because he's playing badly (even though he is) but because Pogba would be far, far more influential played in his position. As it is Pogba is sitting somewhat deeper with Fellaini for company and that is not a position were you will see his best. I was worried when you signed him as I thought he would be a game-changer for your entire squad - if Mourinho keeps playing him deeply I'll feel far happier as a Liverpool fan!
The second is Rashford. I know Ibrahimovic is the big name but he offers little off the ball in terms of movement and even less when you're out of possession. He can pull a rabbit out of a hat but it's not really good enough when he does little else. I think his physical prescence also encourages your players to play the hoofed ball, rather than ball to feet, and that also stifles your play. It'll be interesting to see how Mourinho incorporates Rashford and Ibrahimovic because, at the moment, Rashford is far more effectvie for you's. As an aside Rashford is also not suited to wide role - he just wants to cut inside everytime, which is fine, but removes a lot of width from your attack allowing teams to pack the midfield (like Watford) .
I'd imagine the best set-up for you's would be a front four of Rashford (CF/ ST), Martial on the left, Mikhtyrian on the right, and Pogba in the CAM role. Have Herrera and Fellaini as the deeper midfielders (Herrera suits that role better anyway) - alternatively you could play Jones or Blind there to tighten things up though you'd lose some creativity. Defensively your team picks itself - how I wish Liverpool had a goalkeeper and full backs of your quality!
Never the less interesting season - given Mourinho's track record of playing experience over youth he might be one of the few managers unable to make what is undoubtedly a highly promising squad work together well - especially if he chooses the ego's over those who'd fit better into a cohesive system. I still think you's will be strong this season - it all ultimately depends on how Mourinho manages your squad. Curious though but what is the lowest acceptable finish in the league in your fans opinion this season?
20 Sep 2016 07:45:22
Seano, good post, mate. Has to be 4th minimum. Anything else, with the money that's been spent, and with the squad we have, would have to be classed as unacceptable. If we only finished behind City on goal difference last season, then we have to be as close to them again this season.
20 Sep 2016 07:57:59
Excellent post Seano. We needed to buy a winger and we didn't. We don't know how to stretch the opposition back 4 as we don't possess wingers.
At present, 4th will be a miracle.
20 Sep 2016 08:19:09
Good post from a rival fan. I agree with a lot of it, though think Ibrahim needs to be the lone striker instead of Rashford.
20 Sep 2016 09:50:58
Agree tortally pal, I think to get champs league is the aim minimum and some sort of title challenge, domestic cup run or win. Have to say attack wise your team look on fire, envy is the word I'm looking for.
20 Sep 2016 09:37:14
Minimum i expect is 3rd with the quality of players we have but definitely top 4.
20 Sep 2016 12:31:35
Excellent post pal. Couldn't agree more. The only difference is I'd rather a midfield of Hererra with either Carrick/ Morgan/ Bastian. Blind is an option but imperfect him at CB than Smalling. Nevertheless, agree with everything.
20 Sep 2016 14:19:04
Interesting responses lads, should be an interesting season, looking forward ot our first meeting of the season in a few weeks time - hope it's a cracking game.