Lenny

Fair

I genuinely think his biggest strength is his confidence and how he backs himself. You can see it in how he talks and how he carries himself - there's no doubt in his mind that he's going to successfully do what he's trying to do. I can't imagine you can easily coach such unwavering self belief into a person.

It was an outrageous finish, but you could only really appreciate it when watching back the close up replay. Initially, I wasn't sure if it was even Wilson that made the connection.

I thought he was superb, but he did make some mistakes that stand out because he's held to such high standards. His passing is world class; he and Bruno are on a different level to everyone else in that regard.

Thoroughly enjoyable overall, that. Very promising performance even if we can improve our end-product. We play some really nice stuff, I can't get used to it

I think it's strange that his "footballing ability" or technique or whatever is being called into question. His finishing, based upon his time at Chelsea and his frequent offsides, maybe, but whenever I see him he seems to have good vision, a crisp pass and a decent touch. All characteristics of a technically sound player. Throw in his engine and [I presume therefore] his ability to press from the front, I think think he'd be perfect for Howe's play style.

He'd better not play through any injury this time...

Impressive that kid met Fraser's high five in these conditions.

Wood is so cumbersome with his movement.

If only Shelvey hadn't mistaken Ritchie for Usain Bolt, then.

Eh?

Good half, that. Benfica are the better side but we're showing promise. Both of our goals were very well taken. I really do hope Almiron can keep this up, his biggest flaw since Rafa left is his lack of belief in himself. With the increased confidence will come increased decisiveness, and as I've mentioned, he should get plenty more chances with the players we now have, capable of using his movement.

Whilst I think I'm going to remain realistic in terms of the level and volume of players we can bring in this summer, my tolerance of the poorer quality players is going to be quite minimal. Harsh maybe, but with increased ambition comes increased expectation. Mistakes such as Lascelles recklessly abandoning his position, and the likes of Longstaff being forced into errors as we've seen are going to tire quite quickly. Thankfully, effort is no longer all we can expect, and those that aren't good enough rightfully should and ultimately will be removed.

I really hope we can find a way to play without isolating the striker this season. Feels like we've done that for years (probably because we have).

I just think between them they were a touch out of sync.

Longstaff simply isn't good enough. He just can't keep up.

Very good save.

Bit of both IMO, ASM probably waited a touch too long.

Almiron could be a major beneficiary of players like Trippier and Bruno that can spot a pass this season. His pace and movement will see him get plenty of chances. He just needs to finish them...

Very nice goal that. Excellent spot from Almiron, a composed pass as you'd expect from Trippier and a neat finish.

Almiron did superbly there, lovely goal.

They look a good side.

Intensity seems noticeably higher this game.

Almiron will benefit massively from Bruno this season (providing he stays).