Of course, if we get Murillo and Luiz fully fit over the break that could be game-changing. Zinchenko too although maybe that's a double-edged sword with his defensive shortcomings.
Ultimately though, I guess the decision to stick or twist depends on who's available and willing to take the job. To me, it needs to be someone with (positive) PL experience, which probably means Dyche if it has to be a free agent.
BENITEZ
Seems madness to want a change after seven games, but I’m not sure we’re seeing signs of progress. Yesterday’s team and tactics didn’t look like we’re evolving into a more possession based side, if indeed that is EM’s aim. It was more like a Nuno setup but without the fast counter, mainly because the main man in that was wearing black and white. The crowd was pretty good yesterday and the handful of sacked in the morning chants came when the barcodes fans started singing it, and they were quickly drowned out by the Nottingham, Nottingham chant.
We’re a mess, that’s for sure, and I’m not convinced that anybody else could rapidly make a silk purse out of the disjointed squad we have for whatever reason put together. I wouldn’t be disappointed if he was sacked this morning. Equally, I’d be ok if EM came out and told everybody to calm down and let Ange does his thing. In short, no fucking idea.
The only way is Dyche.
When talkback is asking for Benitez or Dyche you know everything’s fucked
Progress isn’t linear though. Newcastle away is always a tough game and there are three defenders who he’d probably have preferred to play (which would have helped playing out) and Luiz would have started, if available.
It’s only three games ago that there were clear signs of where we were trying to get to when we outplayed Real Betis for a half.
I’m not convinced either but EM made this choice - he has to let it play out longer than seven games.
I think we will probably do okay in the second rate european competition. We will have a significant personnel advantage over the majority of less powerful sides.
We've looked off the level in the league. Largely as a result of setup.
I thought that until we lost at home to a rubbish side from Denmark.
I'm concerned that everyone is pinning hopes on Luiz coming back. He was fine when he played, but it's hardly like we won both games that he played 3-0.
I didn't think that they were rubbish. Had the bravery to play to their physical strengths, and had a bit of help in that from the officials.
Not typical of what we will come across. But you are right to be concerned about the traps that we set for ourselves. It levels the playing field somewhat against inferior opposition.
If we are dependent on a player that has only played a handful of minutes for us that would be a worry. I don't think that we are.
The second best team in Denmark, who are regulars in Europe with a decent list of scalps.
He's gone. Statement on the OS.
Not really.
Emergency meeting called at the club…
EM: Can you turn this round?
AG: Yes mate
EM: Ok.
Edin Terzic at Sat Bains.
