Morning all, game day and a nice local derby. The reverse fixture earlier this season was a tight one and won in the closing minutes by us. This will be similar I reckon, few chances and who takes them. Team pretty much picks itself here, with the main debate being who plays as the middle 3? Personally I’d go with:
Martinez
Elmo Konsa Mings Targett
Nakamba
Luiz McGinn
Traore Watkins El Ghazi
I don’t think starting Kesler would be right. Derby, up against Neto and Adama throughout, it would be a huge task and he firstly needs a couple of minutes here and there from the bench. They will target Elmo though, so we need to ensure he’s supported.
I’ve put Nakamba in because I want him to stop the supply to their wide men and cover the back four. Basically breaking up the passing ability of Moutinho and Neves. We still need McGinn’s energy in the middle if nothing else. Luiz back in for Ramsey is my only change because I’d like us to keep the ball a bit better and provide some cutting edge.
One goal is going to win this game like last time but I think we can do it again.