ExiledGeordie

That's probably why Mbemba has been chosen over Saylor at CB

I'd be very happy with that, but I doubt it'll happen. Especially given the opposition. Perhaps if we were against a lesser team we'd consider going a little more attacking with that CM partnership. (technically I'd dump Sissoko for SDJ, but I'd be content with either) Have to say that does sound like an excellent set up when we're up and running properly.

I can't see us signing anyone else now but I'm trying to remain hopeful that another defender will come in

Not sure but he's got a decent amount of game time for a guy with no pre season If he's not sold I still think he'll have a part to play this season assuming McClaren rates him. He's much better than Colback, and there are some games where he might be better suited than Anita if we need a more physically imposing defensive midfielder. I agree, I could see him working very well with Anita"if" McClaren can coach him back into the player he was under Hughton. When he was patrolling in front of the back four, winning the ball then just giving it to another player to distribute he was very good and it really made a difference for the defence. Pardew as with other players basically uncoached him so he went away from what he did very well picking up awful habits and Hollywood passes/shots. He may just be too far gone but he's one I'm intrigued to see if McClaren can get back to something of a decent player.

Wouldn't be at all surprised to see Advocaat walk away and who could blame him? From what I remember he was basically told if he stayed on for a year there'd be significant reinvestment, 5-6 serious signings. No wonder he's narked at the lack of action from the board. I can't stand Micky Gray either but Short banning him is Ashleyesque,

He's played 20 minutes ffs

Definitely still need defensive reinforcements. Hope at least a left back or CB arrives before the window shuts.

The big difference for me now is that my interest has been rekindled. I'll never be convinced by Ashley and I'm still very sceptical but I'm intrigued to see how the new signings develop, how are style of play develops and to see signs of quality coaching for the first time in years. Under Pardew and then Carver I'd completely lost interest to the point where I didn't even bother watching games on TV and almost enjoyed seeing Pardew suffer with losses. It's very early days but atleast there are signs of some green shoots...

If you've got great acceleration and ball control and can properly attack defenders it can open up space for others. Hoping he has that effect for Winjaldum, Sissoko etc....

If McClaren can get Tiote to anything close to the form under Hughton when he did all the simple things extremely well before he started hitting Hollywood shots and passes, I'd be inclined to have him start next to Anita in place of Colback. Anita keeps things moving very well and if Tiote could patrol the area in front of the back four well then he could just win the ball and give it to Anita, Winjaldum, Thauvin etc

No way should he be anywhere near the pitch with Thauvin, Perez and Sissoko. Maybe the odd cameo to use his speed for 10-15 mins at the end of the game but that's it.

With Thauvin, Winjaldum, Sissoko there's some serious pace in the side going forward

Looks the real deal

Great effort

Thauvin on for 30 mins surely

Coupled with a baffling ability to f*** up the most promising quick breaks Unbelievable stuff

I'd rather see a fit Tiote in there. McClaren can get him back to how he was under Hughton, doing the simple things well before Pardew talked him up as Michael Essien

He is and always has been shite

Midfield is weak as piss

It's ridiculous but you'd like to think Thauvin and Perez will see him off fairly soon.

We definitely need another CB and left back but I'd accept one before the window shuts

I agree BG. I'm excited to see this lad play. Defence still a major concern though

I'd probably agree with you to be honest

My thoughts exactly. For all Ashley's speech and McClaren taking up top 8 and aiming for a cup, the recruitment drive has fallen well short so far. Six with meaningful first team impact should be signed minimum this window.

How is this lad not playing ffs?