I don’t know why we still let New Castle bully us. Unlike 2 years ago we have big beefy players now, but we still allowed them to bully us to an extent this year. Too bad we can’t have an enforcer like hockey. I am thinking MLS. He is not intimidated by anyone.
With respect to Zubimendi I have to put my trust in Arteta. Mainly because I have no clue about players, but also because of what he has done with the team and his track record with players.
Even if plan A with a player doesn’t work out, he usually still finds a way/position for the player. Kai as an 8 wasn’t that successful and may not be an elite pure striker, but the guy works his butt off and is an important piece of our defense.
Except in opposition’s set pieces. Why do we suck so bad at defending them?
I really enjoy reading your pieces and the different observations and opinions you bring to the table sometimes.
With regard to bullying, I think that we are playing very physical football, but not crossing the line. Whereas Newcastle are really bullying at times, but referees don’t really see this difference and give them a free pass.
With regard to set pieces, it looks like the opponents figured out our setup where big guys just defend the zones, and the smaller guys defend 1-on-1. And our opponents try to get their shooters on a second ball, when zone defenders are not in an initial position anymore.
I don’t know why we still let New Castle bully us. Unlike 2 years ago we have big beefy players now, but we still allowed them to bully us to an extent this year. Too bad we can’t have an enforcer like hockey. I am thinking MLS. He is not intimidated by anyone.
With respect to Zubimendi I have to put my trust in Arteta. Mainly because I have no clue about players, but also because of what he has done with the team and his track record with players.
Even if plan A with a player doesn’t work out, he usually still finds a way/position for the player. Kai as an 8 wasn’t that successful and may not be an elite pure striker, but the guy works his butt off and is an important piece of our defense.
Except in opposition’s set pieces. Why do we suck so bad at defending them?
I really enjoy reading your pieces and the different observations and opinions you bring to the table sometimes.
Thanks for your comment!
With regard to bullying, I think that we are playing very physical football, but not crossing the line. Whereas Newcastle are really bullying at times, but referees don’t really see this difference and give them a free pass.
With regard to set pieces, it looks like the opponents figured out our setup where big guys just defend the zones, and the smaller guys defend 1-on-1. And our opponents try to get their shooters on a second ball, when zone defenders are not in an initial position anymore.