gazza ladra

We really should have had loan targets identified, and have been prepared to bring one of those in based on player sales (an offer too good to refuse) or injury. Manchester United were able to bring in Sabitzer on very short notice when Eriksen went down. Obviously, we’re not as attractive an option, but there must have been many good players willing to take a stab at a club in the top four of the Premier League, the opportunity to play for a contract. 5he club has done extremely well, but in this instance — selling Shelvey without a replacement, they made a mistake.

Actually, now that you mention it I think that Wood would have been quite useful today.

Do we know anything about the fitness of Willock, ASM, and Wilson for this?

Howe did mention that he did some “one to one work with him” early in the week.

In the presser, Howe said that Targett is “close to training. We haven’t seen him yet”. Manquillo is “getting close”.

Fair enough they were not bad. But not that good. Schaar, Botman, and Trippier were also steady. No great performances today. Distinctly lacking the quality needed to seize three points. I agree with those who say that this was our worst performance of the season.

Ok, then get a player on loan. Manchester United managed that.

Could have, should have secured someone on loan at the very least. That, or don’t sell Shelvey. It was not a good window given the opportunity before the club and shortness in midfield. Opportunities to finish in the top four are rare. Carpe diem, and all that.

Everyone so bad today. Murphy was lively though. Still no end product.

Scores a goal, Shearer names him to his team of half-season, and … the wheels come off.

Can Ashby play on the left? Can Ashby play?

Willock was quite poor. We did look better with Gordon, but I wouldn’t describe him as a creative force or attacking outlet. Really meh when we needed something from someone. Isak, ASM, Gordon, all meh. Miggy put away the opportunity that fell to him — fell to his left foot fortunately, but otherwise…

Didn’t offer much today.

Wow, ASM doing his best to make Joelinton look better as a forward.

Liverpool will oblige soon enough.

Brutal, but mostly accurate. Too high for Gordon, Trippier, and ASM. Burn really was poor.

Dreadful

Holding my breath for a VAR check. Thank god

Can we agree to restrict this discussion to the Grammar subforum? BTW your opinion on the Oxford comma is shit.

Whatever we do, I want to see Isak and Gordon on the pitch together. If we’re starting Wilson, give him and ASM a half to get their rhythm.

Look forward to watching Kuol score for you against Chelsea next year then.

Saw some discussion of Kuol staying on at Hearts next season and the possibility of playing next season. Wikipedia says 1st and 2nd place qualify for Champions League (or rather qualifiers for CL) and 3rd and 4th for Europa Conference qualifiers. Scotland does go in for Europa League?

Originally read this as a response to Rafalove about Lavia. Yes, Rice will be expensive.

I thought that was the reason Burn missed the header. Haven’t rewatched.

He’s quite good. I don’t think he’s as good as Schaar though. Poor choice of words from King Arthur. Not uncomfortable, just not as fluid and aggressive as Fab.