Donatello

One of JWP's best seasons was arguably under Poch. Clasie's pressing is one of his better attributes. Davis would fit the bill, but as you've alluded to, age may be becoming a factor. I can get behind your assessment for the rest though.

If anything I find this even more surprising/concerning given that this assessment doesn't factor in why we were rotating...I.e. Europe/cup games. It's purely a study of EPL games....which you would imagine would demonstrate Puel kept an unchanged line-up for league games, but evidently not. Anyway, I don't think it demonstrates a stable first team approach. United and City aside (whom have squad depth), the teams which changed the most, seem to be teams which struggled the most.

Whilst I'm largely undecided, I think he has to go purely to combat the negative perception/atmosphere at home games. You can't start a new season with such a dearth of optimism, not when home form is so important (and by extension, crowd influence, etc).

I'm not sure what you're b*tching about, it isn't that bad (2nd half).

They have near identical points per game, but one of them has a garbage squad (not that I'm advocating managerial changes/etc)

.....namely because he's so adept at absolving himself of any responsibility

Forster has one of the best seats in the house.

Why no comment about Stephens going for a walkabout?

Really? :S

Jesus, what a d*ck. Edit, aimed at Stephens....I don't know what you guys are moaning about, it was about as blatant as it gets.

I don't mind the tactics, but I'm pretty sure I heard the commentator say that it was the first time since being back in the Prem that we've not had a shot (on or off target)....that isn't something to get too excited about

They said he had scored 5 from 7 on my stream, so make that 5 from 8.

Pushed in the back on this occasion. He has been weak today though.

Criminal from Davis there. Sims with some really purposeful movement and a neat one two, and Davis fudges up a two yard pass (although in his defence, he's usually composed in those situations)

On a positive note, Stephens has played well (imo)

Crowd booing Gabbi being subbed.

I'd be happy with a shot.

Side note, we're only a point above Leicester as it stands. How'd that happen?

*Really* poor. No way near enough control for a philosophy which advocates possession. It'd be nuts to not make any HT changes. Stick Davis where Tadic is 'playing', and shove Prowse/PEH in midfield.

I get the impression the crowd is going to boo at half time

Nice

Fair enough

Eh? It makes no difference

Am I being too critical of Forster by thinking he should punch that lofted chip/cross clear? Courtois did for JWP's free-kick in the first half.