Cronky

I noticed in Eddie's last pre-match interview that he acknowledged (for the first time that I'm aware) that it was becoming more difficult to sign players from the 'big six'. His wording was that those clubs are 'looking at us differently', but the meaning was clear. We still haven't made any such signing, even on loan.

Some plus points, particularly Gordon. I just don't think ASM suits our side any more. He plays in bursts, which may be something to do with that muscular physique of his, as much as his mindset. Gordon gave us the sustained pace and energy that we needed. I also thought there was just a sign of Anderson fulfilling his obvious potential. He seemed to be imposing himself a bit more, and trying to make things happen with some confidence.

I really like Burn and the contribution he makes to the whole spirit of the side, but in the last few games, he's looked a bit vulnerable. Like a centre back looking awkward out wide. I can see Man U targetting him in the final.

A great debut. He has to start next week.

I think there'll be a real bidding war on Osimhen, and it'll take £150m+ Gary Neville seemed to be talking about these 8 year contracts having a clause in them which states that after 5 years, the contract can be terminated if the player hasn't played a certain number of games. To me that sounds like a 5 year contract with a three year option. Maybe I've misunderstood, but if that's what Chelsea are doing, they shouldn't be allowed to spread the transfer fees over 8 years when it comes to FFP.

He seemed to have a restricted role, anchoring the midfield while Mount and Gallagher charged forward. He didn't create a chance from that position, but I was impressed because everything that was asked of him, he did quickly and well. I can't remember him giving the ball away once.

I thought Fernandez was impressive. Very rarely took more than two touches, and the second touch would usually send the ball forward.

Ever since Herbert Chapman made centre half a defensive role, the system of numbering has been all at sea. That man has a lot to answer for.

Yeah, I don’t think you can be ‘slightly’ concussed. If there are signs of concussion, he shouldn’t play.

That wasn't on my list of guesses.

Sorry, I'm old. What does NPW mean?

Longstaff or Anderson. A young local lad.

I don't feel nervous about this game. It just feels like an opportunity. With previous situations where we've had the chance of winning - 74, 96, 98 and 99 - the occasion has proved too much and we haven't shown enough belief. (I think we did okay in 76) I'm very confident that this team will show up and wouldn't it be great to defeat Man U. We've only lost two games this season - one in stoppage time away to Liverpool, and one where we fielded a weakened side. We do have a realistic chance, and after the semi, I feel the pressure has eased.

I gave it 7. I like Gordon and Ashby looks promising. I was hoping we could bring in one more though.

We're of the same vintage, but I'm as excited as hell. In Nick Hornby's book, he described us as a 'habitually poor side', and that really stung because it was true. Apart from two brief flourishes under Keegan and Robson, we have been habitually poor. Even under those two managers, we didn't win anything. But I just feel that this team, under this manager, has a different mentality. They play without fear. The game was won in the first 20 minutes last night, when despite the pressure of the occasion, we ripped the opposition apart. I'm relishing the final, and I'm glad it's Man U. It's a chance to put to bed all those ghosts of past failure, and I can see them doing it.

I feel relaxed about it, like the worst is over. I would have hated to lose against Southampton in the semi, who overall were pretty crap. They will go down. In three of the four finals that we've been in since 1969, we've been really crap. Really, really crap. But now we're not going to be crap, and assuming the game will be against Man U, the pressure will be off. Keep the faith.

Naa. I want Man U. Let's take them down.

Chance for Gordon to show us what he's got. Let's look at it that way.

Thank you, Mr Jack Daniels. I'd never have made it through that second half without you.

Good subs. Willock looks tired, Miggy's had a bit of a mare, and Wilson has struggled to keep hold of the ball.

Played really well for the first 20 minutes, and still very much the better side. No sign of nerves, which is great. The only way the Saints looked like scoring was from a defensive error, and we have been taking a few chances at the back. It was a very good strike too, though. Providing we stick to our plan, keep our nerve, stay positive, we should be fine.

The main thing that worries me is Adam Armstrong's pace. Hopefully we'll score early and relax.

Give him Gordon’s mobile number. He’ll tell him what to do.

You’re spoiling all the fun.