31 Jan 2025 10:40:46
We saw some encouraging signs last night. The first half was the usual nonsense, but in the second half things changed. We were more direct, more forward passes, more one touch stuff, and the difference was huge, we looked a different team. There was an attack where we broke forward and had 4 players charging onto the area waiting for the cross. Energy, directness, fluidity, not words we have used lately.
I felt more optimistic than I have for some time watching the second half, but it reinforced that the GK and CF are real issues we need to address. Hojlund continues to struggle and Zirkzee isn't the answer. Onana has improved from his first season but I never feel confident he isn't going to drop a clanger.
Also interesting that RA is still experimenting, pushing Kobe further forward last night, which worked well, and Garnacho seems to be responding too.
Jeez, I'm almost giddy.
31 Jan 2025 11:49:39
I have thought for a while that Kobbie's best position might be further forward under Amorim.
It'll be interesting to see if he gets a run of games in that position against better opposition to see how he fairs.
31 Jan 2025 12:34:14
Good post AJH. Agree.
31 Jan 2025 12:44:52
Been banging the drum for Mainoo as a 10. He lacks the pace and energy to be a top central midfielder in my opinion. But his close control and ability to keep and use the ball in tight situations make him very useful as a 10.
31 Jan 2025 13:14:06
Agree ajh with most of that, the only problem is twasnt as if we were playing real Madrid.
31 Jan 2025 14:56:02
Fair point Leahy, but we beat City, drew with Liverpool, and saw Arsenal off with 10 men. Oir issue had been the 'lesser' teams, teams were would ordinarily expect to beat have been battering us.
31 Jan 2025 16:12:51
I felt watching it that players were in their positions, knew their roles better. I know it wasn't a big team we beat, but there was more fluidity and confidence throughout.
31 Jan 2025 16:40:04
Coaching takes time on the training pitch. Assessments of players and their roles takes time. The important thing is the players are following and are getting fitter and trying harder. In 18 months we will start the season with a realistic hope of competing for the title.
31 Jan 2025 17:51:19
If nothing else, RA has shown that he’s able to influence a game with his changes and make positive changes to the way that we play on the fly. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to say that about any of our managers.
31 Jan 2025 18:39:40
I hope so Ken.
But if certain pieces fall into place, I wouldn't bet against it being sooner than that.
31 Jan 2025 21:28:49
Mainoo absolutely should be ahead of Bruno, positionally.
01 Feb 2025 00:34:34
You mean play a little further forward than Bruno, Jim?