AVB is resting players for Cups. Rightly

After all the fuss regarding weak teams and strong teams (we don't really have them now by the way), it seems AVB is wholly in favour of giving his Prem XI (at that particular time) a starting rest if possible. There seems to be a misconception on here that resting the current Prem XI means playing 18yr olds, and not utilising the other 14 very good senior professionals in our squad.

8 changes v Villa

8 changes v Anjhi

Of the ones that did start the league games too, they were largely because of injuries in the squad leaving us short, and a necessity.

Barring one or two MINOR quibbles - playing Rose in the Tromso game, Dembele possibly playing a bit more than he should with his problems, and the subs last night - I think AVB is going about things in the right way, and should be commended.

We all waxed lyrical post-August about the strength of our squad, and AVB is giving cup minutes to virtually every available outfield player who didn't start the previous league game. Keeping them match-fit and able to step in when necessary, whether that be loss of form, injury or suspension to a player holding the shirt at that time.

We play every available midweek and weekend (providing we beat Hull in the LC) between now and FA Cup 3rd round day (excluding the two international breaks), so squad management will be key.



LAST NIGHT'S GAME


I watched from HT onwards and caught the HT analysis.

I thought Lamela showed exactly why he isn't ready for the PL just yet with the sloppy passes and play in the 'highlights' of the first half. Much improved in the half I watched though. He should be pencilled in for starts in the remaining four EL games, and the probably two LC games before Xmas. There's no rush whatsoever for him - a league sub cameo here and there when we are comfortable or chasing perhaps.

I thought the sub CF for them looked like he had some potential, Traore. 6'8 and a real handful. Looks like he has all the tools to be a formidable PL striker once the rough edges are sanded down. There's been talk from his agent he's available in January - if Ade is on his way I'd be more than happy to see him come in.