Joe Allen

I remember when all Lucas did was give away penalties and free kicks.

West Ham were physical but I think he did well.

Agree. Allen is in a bit of a slump.

Resting Allen might be a good idea, a week off may help him recharge his batteries and refind his form.

I'd like really like to Sahin play next weekend. He is a very gifted player, and now Lucas is back to help him, I think we will see the best of him. I hope Brendan gives him a chance vs Villa

I think people forget how young Allen is, and how he was involved in the Olympics in the summer.

He needs a rest, and I am sure BR will give him a rest once Lucas has come back to full fitness.

Allen will be a top player for us for a long time. He is just a little out of form at the moment.

The midfield got outmuscled today, both Lucas and Allen struggled with the physical presence of Diame and co.
With the quick passes not flowing the players got caught on the ball and west ham midfielders strength won through.

If we are going with a nimble midfield we should be passing and moving better than today.

We've always struggled against West Ham. Sometimes passing doesn't really work and luckily we won today..

the passing wasn't the problem

once West Ham managed to consistently keep the ball off the ground we struggled

bewar criticising our young midfielders.

Lucas proved most liverpool "fans" wrong, he always had the potential he was just young, immature and struggling against crowds of 42k

Henderson, despite most fans saying they wanted shot of him during the pre-season, has been immense in his last three games, instrumental in goals, defense, and knitting play together...

and now Little joe, who is only guilty of being a bit tired... hes a great player, and hes not suddenly going to become a bad one..

but i am truley excited that we have a future midfield coming together, 3 positions with already 5 strong young candidates

Lucas, Allen, Henderson, Shelvey, Suso.

That's going to be REAL quality in years to come.

I am hoping that game against City by Joe was not a fluke. I think we need to rest him, get Sahin or Hendo to play for a bit especially with xmas round the corner.