David Moyes has big decisions to make as he approaches the Conference semi final first leg against AZ Alkamar on Thursday evening.
Having played his regular first team against Manchester United and with a Premier League game against Brentford on Sunday he will need to make chances.
Things may not be as anxious as before last night but the manager still needs to guard against over playing squad members with important games to come.
At the same time he remains desperate to win a trophy and needs to ensure he put out his strongest team.
His reluctance to use several of the summer arrivals in the Premier League but in the Conference was an example that they were not ready for the step up.
However, Alkamar are clearly the best team we will have played in the competition so fasr and thus tricky selection choices are on the agenda.
ClaretandHugh team: Areola, Kehrer, Aguerd, Oggy, Emerson; Downes, Rice, Lanzini, Fornals, Bowen, Antonio
I’ll be amazed if Paqueta doesn’t start. Having beaten United, Thursday is now our most important remaining game by a mile. With four days rest, I don’t think he’ll make many changes.
Stick not twist, it’s a real chance to win first trophy in 43 years and gateway to Europa League!
Like your selection but I would insert Cornet for Bowen. If required we can sub on later.
Moyes will flog the same players game after game. He does not use his squad, does not drop players who are either out of form or tired. I just wonder why we invested 150m in the summer to improve the squad when he clearly refuses to use it.
New signings like Paquetta, Aguerd even Kehrer are improving game by game and are now part of our best team available. I want to win a European trophy so Moyes must play his best team and not feel compelled to play lesser squad players like Fornals or Lanzini in what is such an important game. stick with the winning team that’s full of confidence that’s my opinion.