(20-07-2020, 10:41 AM)audiosmee Wrote: i think Sabri was trying a plan B with the playoffs in mind- as discussed though i dont think he has the versatility of personel to manage what he wants.
I think technically we're a long way from the promised land- Sabri has done wonders with what he has got but can we really see our side week in, week out in the PREM? The players seem to enjoy the burst of pace and explosive counter attack but they are not comfortable in possession- too many simple mistakes don't allow us to build a head of steam. We have a well drill and disciplined side but obviously that doesn't translate to technically mastery too at this level
I think he thinks he was forced into the formation yesterday with the play offs in mind (ie having the best players available and fit). This is my theory. Swansea last week showed up the real weakness of the Da Costa & Jenkinson partnership. It was a car crash for 20 minutes. That problem was resolved by bringing over Ameobi to back up Jenkinson. So yesterday, if Ameobi is half fit or he wants to give him more rest before the play offs, what's his options? Bring back Cash and try to push Barnsely forward? Or does he bring in Lolley and drop Da Costa? Or play someone like Yates or Silva on the wing and see if they can defend any better than Da Costa. Diakhaby hasn't got a clue defensively. Maybe give Mighten or Walker a start? None of these are particularly attractive options for him so he goes for the cautious approach and brings in another defender (and experience) in Dawson in the hope that they can stay tight and see out the game. If that's right, then the team selection against stoke is going to be v interesting.