Could Wilshere replace Lanzini?
Manuel Pellegrini must be tearing his hair out privately as he starts to consider his team plans for the weekend.
But his track record shows that out of form players are usually immediately replaced for the following game and we must bear in mind that famous “If I could have taken 11 off I might have fone” line.
One thing seems crystal clear – Seb Haller needs a ‘proper’ partner against one of the meanest defences in the league with Lanzini having been unable to get anywhere near him up front.
Considering the lack of service Haller has received out of midfield it seems a small miracle that he has managed four goals so far this term.
The Blades – having conceded less than a goal a game this season – will be a serious test and given the poor form of Pablo Fornals, Felipe Anderson and Lanzini, the manager’s options look limited.
Given the emphasis that was placed on midfield signings in the summer, the current situation could hardly be more depressing.
Robert Snodgrasss has shown nothing this term so his re-introduction maybe a pretty desperate measure and most would surely prefer to see young Nathan Holland given a chance on the bench at least.
Maybe his presence would inspire Anderson back to the sort of form of which we know he is capable as the Irons look for a crucial win.
Sadly Lanzini has produced nothing over recent games and the manager may decide to start Jack Wilshere from the start despite his own less than sparkling form when he has appeared this term.
Much will depend on who is available given that we were told this morning that one or two have taken serious knocks but assuming all are fit this is the team we may see.
Roberto; Fredericks, Diop, Ogbonna, Cresswell; Noble, Rice; Yarmolenko, Wilshere, Anderson or Holland, Haller.
Watching Sheffield Utd last night, I think we have problems. If Arsenal couldn’t break them down what chance has our current shower. Still, I live in hope as always.
COYI
perhaps MP will make them wear the Man City kit as a punishment for lack of effort against Everton
Thanks Hugh – good article. The fact that I agree with your proposed line-up says more about our lack of options than about me be a sycophant
It really is worrying and once more raises questions about buying Fornals rather than an energetic defensive midfielder (Isaac Hayden was probably available for less) – right now I would take a spirited energetic performance and a draw after the spineless performance at Everton
Not Wilshire fgs
He’s looked out of depth, the energy and work rate of the Sheff Utd players would have him running in circles. I’d put in Holland for Anderson for one and possibly Sanchez alongside Rice pushing Noble forward. I only say Sanchez as over Wilshire as this would allow us more cover in the middle. Personally I’d put Coventry in there. Sod the age.
Something needs to happen and we need to go for it from the off.
If you watch the U23’s they really go for it ealry on. 2 goals yesterday in the first 11 minutes.
I’d much prefer to see Masuaku as a left sided attacking midfielder instead of Wilshire. If Rice is not to be left exposed again one of the M/F has to drop back and help Nobes support him. So NO Gung-Ho attack but quality passes. The only real times we have looked dangerous this season (apart from dead ball situations) is when we’ve played with speed. So get them training on speed passing and movement.
To become the player MP & MH anticipated when they bought him Fornals needs 2 things to happen. Regular game time & not to be played out of position.
Roberto: Fredericks: Diop: Ogbonna: Cresswell: Rice: Noble:
Yarmolenko: Fornals: Masuaku: Haller.
Yes, granted the choice of Masuaku instead of Anderson is a bit “out there” but is worth a punt. He is certainly a better player going forward than he is defending.
Please,please,please,not wilshere.The man flatters to deceive,he is lightweight,easily knocked off the ball and most times picks the wrong pass.I like pellegrini but i can’t see what he sees in wilshere.
Anderson has got to be in the squad.Ok he does blow hot and cold but when he does turn up he is very good.