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I think Gerrard’s set up is a very complex one with players constantly having to move into positions that are unnatural to them e.g. our 8s moving into the FB positions. This results in a lot of positional movements to process so maybe the lack of coordination we saw yesterday is due to this. Granted the collisions were when we were in possession but I still think the players are trying to process a lot of tactical info during the game and errors result. Part of me thinks our poor set up is still due to a lack of familiarity and that it will takes time to improve.....the other part of me thinks the system is too open for the PL and so needs changing.

Huge test for SG and co now. The compactness that we had in the first few games has gone with huge spaces opening up once more. Hence we are so easy to play through and so few passing options available that result in us losing possession. I do wonder if Gerrard, Beale et al will look to adapt the system as currently it’s not working. If we are to continue with both fullbacks bring predominantly wingers then we have to become more compact. Not sure if you can play PC and EB in the same team with full backs bombing on. System worked in SPL but concerns that too easy to play against in the PL. Beale is a very highly regarded coach so l trust them to make the correct adjustments. Although we were poor today...I do think it is the team structure that is causing us most issues.

Agree. That makes a lot of sense and that’s how a quality squad should work. Could well be a period of mental adjustment for them both if they see themselves as the regular CF starter.

Indeed. As an aside I think this probably means it’s an either/or in relation to Watkins and Ings. The only real way they could have both started in Gerard’s formation was shoehorning one of them into one of the narrow 10 roles. Can’t see that happening now so they are now only playing for the CF role.....puts a more focussed dynamic on them as individuals now. Great to have this level of competition....but will either accept extended bench time? Interesting times.

A far more progressive player than I thought he would be with an excellent eye for a pass. Also strong in the tackle. He is the epitome of a genuine number 8 and, fitness allowing, I think he will be in the starting XI in a very regular basis.

Good description. Also, he didnt smile a lot....minor point but its as though he is here to get to work and not to make friends. Again, a subtle difference perhaps from Dean....?

Agree. Excellent interview (with the caveat it is just words at this point). Comes across as a very different man to DS; seems very authoratative as you say. Interesting that when asked about the 'huge array of talent in the squad you have here' he made no reference to/aggrement that and just said its up to the players to take on board what I tell them (or words to that effect).

Only way we could add one more is if CH gets his loan move. I’m pretty sure we’re done but wouldn’t be shocked if one in/out gets done before deadline.

This. He completely changes the attacking dynamic of the team. Stretches, unsettles and bullies defenders. Top, top PL CF and now our most important player in the final third.

Indeed. I bet he woke up this morning tired, sore etc but overall in no doubt whatsoever how tough the PL is in terms of pace, physicality etc. A fantastic step in his development and the perfect opposition for him as Brentford are very physical and relentless pressers. He will probably know himself that there is plenty of work to do but should gain confidence from his first start. For me, not a starter for us yet but his potential is bloody scary. Well done young man

Big Ron says Hi

Yep, fair point. Has hardly played him though. Maybe expected him to be better on the ball...just speculating really. Also, could have been his foray into CDM territory and now he is reverting to type. Again, pure guess work.

I think it’s pretty clear by now (and has been for quite some time now) that DS just doesn’t favour a physical dominant CDM. As has been mentioned numerous times, he has NEVER bought this type of player. DS has always been a possession based manager who believes that if you have the ball the opposition can’t score. Therefore the CDM will primarily be more of a deep lying CM who has the ability to intercept effectively through their reading of the game, decent in the tackle but above all else can retain possession and initiate attacks from the base of that middle third. He will also be very comfortable in taking the ball off the CBs and progressing it forwards. Thus would then also reduce the amount of ‘Mings-ball’ required. Another key attribute is game intelligence with the player able to demonstrate discipline to hold their position and the ability to cover defenders when they need support or have ventured forward. With that in mind, JWP is precisely the type of player that he wants and why Marv never will be, IMO. If the price is acceptable we sign JWP. If not, I think DS May hope that Luiz develops and improves in all the above attributes to make that position his own. Personally, I don’t agree with Dean and see that dominant physical presence as a key missing link for us. However, Dean has his own philosophies and I can’t see him changing those anytime soon.

Yep; it does feel that due to squad size and existing numbers in CM we are waiting to move people on before adding. DS referenced ‘good numbers’ intimating that outgoings are needed for additions to be made.

Very interesting point. Admittedly I always thought we needed a tall CDM for that reason....happy to be proven wrong.

Would be excellent...although unlikely IMO.

I would still prefer a more physical, commanding CDM but if we could get JWP in it would be a massive statement of intent and show the rest of the PL what we really are about post-Grealish.

Exactly. I think we need to move on from the notion that any of our forwards will be wide forwards/wingers and so will contribute less in terms of goals.. Look at Liverpool - Mane and Salah both operate on the left and right of Firmino/Jota yet still score plenty of goals. OK, so obvs an upgrade in regards to quality but the premise still remains. As you say, our front 3 will play narrower as inside forwards instead of being wide/wingers although they will have the pace and running to provide more width when needed. I imagine DS sees the 2 Matts as providing a lot of width as well so imperative we get that CDM for covering those forward runs. Overall a much more fluid system which will give flexibility and unpredictability - something we haven't had for years.

I did and I see your point. However, he is not and never will be as disciplined as a genuine CM in regards to the defensive side of the role...and we don't want him to as he will be most effective in the final third. I am merely expressing concern that we could possibly get over run in that area between the 10 and our back four due to the quantity of naturally attacking platers we will have on the pitch. That CDM (upgrade/competition for Marv) will give us that insurance we need, IMO.

Lots of good points made about Buendia's defensive work rate which appears to be very effective. I guess my main concern is that he will be making those tackles/pressures higher up the pitch that may lead to some lack of cover in front of our back 4. Hence, a CDM upgrade being required......

Agree with this. To me it looks as though we will mirror the Liverpool system. However, having Buendia in CM or 10 will really increase the workload for our other 2 CMs, hence, another dedicated CDM I am sure will come in.

Agreed if we want to be mid-table again. However, IMO, to progress into top 6 its an absolute must. We will be too easy to get at as multiple teams demonstrated last year. Now we have even more attacking threat the danger is that without that top-level disciplined no 6, we will be very vulnerable.

Ahhh...the midfield conundrum. That annoying, pesky friend that just wont go away. You get a load of new friends and think that all is great but that other one knows lots of dirty secrets about you and how weak you can be..and this would ruin everything for all of your new, shiny friends. Let's embrace that friend, keep him close, sort out and resolve what problems we have with him and harmony will be restored...... For the love of God.....sign a CDM, Dean!!

Absolutely agree. Kane and Lukaku both only 1 year younger yet both being sold (potentially) for circa £120-150M.......now lets talk about value for money!!

Smith's first interview post-Grealish should be interesting.