Alberto2005

We're giving the ball way too easily, really need Shelvey on to retain some type of control.

Diame over Shelvey ffs.

I have some hope Joselu won't play just because we've played midweek and Rafa might think it's time to give him a rest even if it isn't down to form.

Not sure whether I want Aarons to get a start or keep Murphy in to see if he can continue his improvement. Probably stick with Murphy for now.

Still think Joselu will start

Based on what? Based on what I've seen of him so far I'd say he's better. Before the Man United game people were praising Lejuene so I don't see how 2 games later he's suddenly the next coming of Titus Bramble. Why is he better? Clark was solid last year but has looked dodgy this season at a higher level, and so has Lejuene in the last two games but he's much more comfortable on the ball than Clark. I know his job is to defend first but I'm confident he'll improve and has much more potential than Clark imo.

The new Titus Bramble He's better than Ciaran Clark.

Don't agree with that but when we don't have defensive cover he exposes us.

I honestly think we'd be screwed without this guy.

If Pardew was saying it there would be uproar with typical Alan bringing down the squad. I love Rafa and obviously it goes without saying Man United's squad is far superior to ours, I just don't see the benefit of repeatedly making a point of it in public.

Don't really like it when he continually keeps banging on about the lack of quality in the side, can't be good for the players confidence.

Held it up well when he's got it tonight.

Get the feeling we'll see Perez out wide with Diame in behind Joselu. Hopefully not.

He's not a starter but I quite like him, he's always reliable and he's half decent on the ball.

Him and Shelvey are the only two that look like creating something. Atsu isn't bad either like.

I think Joselu would be better in the no.10 role tbh, he doesn't come across as an out and out striker to me.

The Merino one is a strange one, I was very surprised he didn't start last week. I guess he must believe the shape of the team is better with Hayden in there, but I really think he has to find a way to get him in as he's arguably our best player. Possibly drop Perez for him despite Rafa liking Perez's work rate/speed.

Am I the only one who thinks everyone is getting carried away? Nothing to suggest anything is close yet

He's done quite well so far given his ability, but needs replacing at the earliest opportunity.

Dixon just accidentally said 'Mo Farah' when describing Salah's goal

I sometimes think Danny Murphy is a parody he's so dim.

People need to calm down like

I actually thought he was one of our better players today. He does moan a lot though when he should be focusing on the game.

Really?

Kevin Nolan now comparing himself to Benitez.