some of the runs he’s making are exactly what we’ve needed - that Yaya Toure style player that can break lines with power instead of relying on finesse

he’s so far been better than I was expecting, he’s doing all the defensive work while showing up in key attacking areas as well.

that’s the whole point of having inverting FBs though, they help the single pivot out

ESR should be the natural fit as LCM. Havertz I can see the sense of as well.

Mercedes G-Wagon

I think there’s times in recent games that we’ve ended up with too many players forward, and in turn that means the defenders tend to play it back and make the safe pass. We’re seeing fewer triangles being created on the pitch, Odegaard isn’t getting as close to Saka and Martinelli often ends up isolated on the left.

It’s great that Saliba and Gabriel are comfortable on the ball but I feel the midfield leaves far too much build up to them.

expect Chelsea to raise their game, can see them sitting back and trying to use pace on the wings

would be interesting to add the stats from when Odegaard was on loan, feel progressive passing is one of those things that requires a lot of trust in teammates.

he had to get the Rice deal done first, as well as teach half the England squad English

he had to get the Rice deal done first, as well as teach half the England squad English