Infinitely Content

I've noticed that, for large spells in recent games we've pretty much played with a front 2, Perez often going beyond Gayle or beside him. It's probably an effort by Rafa to get them linking up more often than not when we spring on the counter. Perez's movement off the ball is absolutely fantastic imo and creates many chances, largely because he's playing so close to the striker - pulling defenders and midfielders around leaving space to exploit.

Lascelles & Lejeune should be our starting CBs next year if we can help it. No reason to intervene in what is a promising partnership. Lascelles does a very good job of playing the cover role when Lejeune steps out to close down attackers as he's inclined to do. Can't underestimate the importance of a duo that actually compliment & understand one another's game. We have that with these two. In my opinion, centre back is one of the last places I'd look to improve in the squad, much more priority in nigh on every other area.

Fair play, I won't claim to know much about him other than clips on YouTube & somewhat blind trust of Rafa's interest. I just get a good feeling about him for some reason, but can see clearly why people would get the opposite inclination too.

Sad isn't it. Barring injury the only NUFC player at the World Cup will be Mitro. I'm biased as hell but I would have both Shelvey and Jamaal on the plane if I were Southgate. I agree. It's likely that neither would start, but both have what I would consider invaluable assets to bring to the squad & tournament. Jamaal's attitude, desire & commitment is as good as anything I have seen in my years following football, and I truly believe Shelvey would be the best passer of a ball in the squad - as biased as I am.

Not sure we know enough to conclude he is a 'big lump' like. Looks mobile & quick enough on YouTube clips fwiw.

Probably because we often have predisposed attitudes towards players and particularly strikers coming from the Eredivisie. I feel good about Jørgensen however, and trust Rafa's judgement to the hilt - he knows what he's looking for.

Pleasure to watch him play last night. I said it during the game and stand by that he was best player on that pitch against a side littered with key international players who will all be in Russia. None of them showed the same quality over 90 minutes as Shelvey did, yet someone like Livermore may go instead of him. Just wrong.

Also think we may, and should go back in for Jørgensen. Rafa obviously rates him and he does seem the type of mobile yet physical striker we need to play up on top on his own. He seems to have a decent eye for a pass too albeit via youtube clips, so he doesn't seem too one-dimensional either.

Hudson-Odoi of Chelsea is supposed to be excellent. Chelsea will probably be looking to send him on loan and they will like how much playing time Rafa gives his loan signings (Atsu, Kenedy).

Genuinely one of my favourite loanee signings we've made. Dubravka up there too so it's not been a bad season at all on that front.

u wot m8?

The gold sponsor clashes with the pink terribly there imo.

Good games from Dubravka & Lejeune again too, as well the obvious three who are always excellent.

Howay Jos son.

Seriously? Nah, TP is a big Murphy fan iirc.

Don't blame him for taking it on instead of looking for Perez. Good effort Jacob.

Murphy coming on.

Shelvey's probably been the best player out there tonight from either side.

There's plenty reason for optimism imo. We've been the better side here against one of the countries best teams for a start.

True that.

Such misery Lighten up lad, it's good for your health

Similar to him in style but completely, totally and utterly different in every technical & mental department please. Also someone who could shoot like they want to score a goal would be just grand

Mo is such a fucking boss man. Absolutely love the bloke.