If CG finds his scoring touch again, and I have to think he will, he's very hard to move out of the midfield. Nkunku will more likely play further up, probably replacing Jackson. It's possible, longer term, we see Nkunku behind the striker to link play to Jackson/Bjoja/???, like he was in pre-season. However, with Mudryk and Palmer emerging, I still think Nkunku is more likely to slot in the 9 spot.
The current three don’t have one goal between them in 10 games. Other than Reece James I cannot see any goals from the for full backs.
Therefore much as I like three midfielders one has to make way for a goal scoring threat. That’s why chukwumeka replaces Gallagher in my lineup assuming he recovers fitness. We cannot progress when the only goal scorers in the team are the front three.
Gallagher is fighting not only to get into the team, but also to stay at the club. Now Lavia has to fight to get himself into the team, once he's proved his fitness. That's the level of healthy of competition for places that Pochettino needs in his squad
I think that when Nkunku comes back he will probably replace Mudryck or Jackson I doubt Poch will leave Gallagher out of the squad the way he is playing
Enzo, Caicedo & Gallagher as currently playing well & at moment Latvia is unknown. Am thinking that might well play Nkunku further up, hence not gone for him. Whatever we do, yes we need consistency in selection, but also some fluidity depending on opponents & tactical needs
Thanks Luke - I went Enzo, Gallagher and Caicedo on the simple basis that they are all playing well, they dovetail well as understanding and familiarity play their part, and they are the men in possession. For Lavia and Nkunku they will have to EARN that first team spot. An automatic place in the first team on recovering from injury should not be a given - they will have to take what opportunities they can. That is what competition for places is all about. I do see Nkunku pushed a bit further forward so that may give him more of a foot in the door. For Laviua it will be tougher but he will get his chance - he will have to seize it!
If CG finds his scoring touch again, and I have to think he will, he's very hard to move out of the midfield. Nkunku will more likely play further up, probably replacing Jackson. It's possible, longer term, we see Nkunku behind the striker to link play to Jackson/Bjoja/???, like he was in pre-season. However, with Mudryk and Palmer emerging, I still think Nkunku is more likely to slot in the 9 spot.
The current three don’t have one goal between them in 10 games. Other than Reece James I cannot see any goals from the for full backs.
Therefore much as I like three midfielders one has to make way for a goal scoring threat. That’s why chukwumeka replaces Gallagher in my lineup assuming he recovers fitness. We cannot progress when the only goal scorers in the team are the front three.
Complimentary qualities playing well together gives the midfield a bit of everything - the more they play together the better the unit will become
Great article Luke. I think it’s tough to call currently until we see Lavia in action. Most importantly Enzo must not play with his back to goal.
Gallagher is fighting not only to get into the team, but also to stay at the club. Now Lavia has to fight to get himself into the team, once he's proved his fitness. That's the level of healthy of competition for places that Pochettino needs in his squad
I think that when Nkunku comes back he will probably replace Mudryck or Jackson I doubt Poch will leave Gallagher out of the squad the way he is playing
Enzo, Caicedo & Gallagher as currently playing well & at moment Latvia is unknown. Am thinking that might well play Nkunku further up, hence not gone for him. Whatever we do, yes we need consistency in selection, but also some fluidity depending on opponents & tactical needs
Thanks Luke - I went Enzo, Gallagher and Caicedo on the simple basis that they are all playing well, they dovetail well as understanding and familiarity play their part, and they are the men in possession. For Lavia and Nkunku they will have to EARN that first team spot. An automatic place in the first team on recovering from injury should not be a given - they will have to take what opportunities they can. That is what competition for places is all about. I do see Nkunku pushed a bit further forward so that may give him more of a foot in the door. For Laviua it will be tougher but he will get his chance - he will have to seize it!