Nine

I think everyone on here realises that he has limitations, when he’s not covered by a physical LCM his lack of pace and agility can be exploited as we’ve seen. Hes another player we have that people tend to focus on the negatives of far to much again though imo, you mention his frame being a detriment to his longevity which is fair. But his height is actually also a big reason why he fits in so well when dropping into a back 3 when we go forward, it means we are generally defensively covered aerially down that side if needed in quick transitions.. and with Joelinton in front of him that left side is defensively solid all round. No balls over the top, no through balls. I’d be surprised if he’s not our starting LB next season, obviously in an ideal un restricted FFP world the position could be seen as upgradable and no doubt he’d be replaced.

Because we had a stable team selection last year, and he was well covered by Joelinton on that side. He is still capable of solid, consistent performances in a team that isn’t massacred by injuries leaving no mobility in midfield.

And yet he was a starting LB in the best defence in the league last season.

Man City is the club to worry about coming in for him imo, because Bruno’s profile is perfect for that midfield.. you’d see the best of this player in a side that is typically dominant in possession high up like the pitch like that. Pep rates him highly. £100m is huge money for any player, and trust that IF he does leaves it will be reinvested very well. Whether he does go or not the current stage of our development as a club means that some of our best players will leave over the next 3/4/5 years.

The Pope injury cost us far more points than any other

Here we go..

At 65 minutes, when we need to take risks and chase the game.

But he doesn’t, because he’s obviously deemed not ready. If Howe felt he was capable at the moment he wouldn’t be starting an injured Longstaff. He sees this kid day in day out in training, what more is there to say.

Good lord

Would have solved our limited midfield selection how?

People get emotional because we dont commit to our full bore press away from home with a half fit Longstaff and Anderson starting in midfield. What do you expect us to do?

Great timing Point still stands, patient ball over the top game is looking okay here..

It’s literally got us the two best chances of the game, we stay patient and there’s a good chance we get Isak clean through. They are struggling with his movement in general.

He’s alright

Back to back FA cups for city then