I'd like to start this off by saying that @Karim_myBagheri's line in the preview thread "na, I think it's the same sun" is one of my new favorite CL quotes.
Unchanged starting XI. Crofts and Novak replace Aribo and Hackett-Fairchild on the bench.
Perhaps a bit harsh on Aribo to be dropped instead of the skipper, assuming he doesn't have a knock. I'm guessing the thinking is Jacko can cover LB as well as central midfield. Would still prefer Aribo as he is more attacking (Crofts can provide cover for holding midfield) with Sarr as emergency cover for left back, or having the option of bringing Konsa in to RB and Solly to left back in an emergency.
Especially as it means both Crofts and Jackson are very defensive type substitutes, we need a Midfield option other than KAG if we need to start chasing the game if both him and Novak are already on the pitch
As argued above I think it's Jackson ahead of Aribo. I think Crofts is ahead of Jackson for holding midfield and Jackson is there to cover left back. Still strange.
I would have preferred the braver decision, but not unfathomable in the context of the grizzled old football approach. Experience on near the end of a game, a certain degree of predictability, good man to have around kind of thing. Disappointing but I can see why they've done it.
I think Crofts is supposed to be cover for Kashi mainly, or possibly Clarke or JFC. Konsa is more adaptable and can cover at the back, or as we saw last week, brighten up the midfield if needed, I still wish it was Aribo ahead of Crofts, maybe he is injured I don't know.
I see what you're all saying, but Konsa is on the bench. This completely and utterly obviates any potential need for Crofts
Konsa hasn't been playing defensive midfield when he comes on though, whereas Crofts has the experience to sit
Konsa is going to be like Phil Jones.
One of these players who can play everywhere in Defence or Centre Midfield yet wont ever tie down one specific spot meaning his potential wont quite be reached
Lame looking bench for us. Glad to see their reserve goalie is a hobbit though. Could have trouble covering the goal, although might go missing unexpectedly. Surprised Moyes hasn't been in for him
Comments
Perhaps a bit harsh on Aribo to be dropped instead of the skipper, assuming he doesn't have a knock. I'm guessing the thinking is Jacko can cover LB as well as central midfield. Would still prefer Aribo as he is more attacking (Crofts can provide cover for holding midfield) with Sarr as emergency cover for left back, or having the option of bringing Konsa in to RB and Solly to left back in an emergency.
Disappointing but I can see why they've done it.
One of these players who can play everywhere in Defence or Centre Midfield yet wont ever tie down one specific spot meaning his potential wont quite be reached
Glad to see their reserve goalie is a hobbit though.
Could have trouble covering the goal, although might go missing unexpectedly.
Surprised Moyes hasn't been in for him