League v Europa squad

It's maybe got more to do with the standard of opposition and also the fact that in many ways the pressure is off and they can just go out and enjoy and express themselves in the Europa League.

We have played easier opposition in Europe. When we played a decent team in Besiktas they were the better team by far.

You do have a point though, from the ans point of view there seems to be more excitement for europa games and maybe its the same for the players.

Playing for a team that is expected to win most of its games in the PL may be too much pressure for the current players.

Yeah i tottally agree about the level of teams that we do play, they are to a poor standard

but put it this way, how do you think our first team league squad would do against these teams also? Doesnt fill with me more confidence anymore than the europa squad.

See where im coming from? Maybe worth a go soon.

Half the team that played on thursday also palyed on sunday so its not exactly two different teams.

Lennon's

Half the team that played on thursday also palyed on sunday so its not exactly two different teams.

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Some faces were the same but the game plan was certainly different. Obviously the plaudits went to Kane and Lemala but the most influencial player for me was Demeble.

Also, Kane had a player up top with him and Townsend gave us width that allowed Kane space.

PS. Although i'm a fan of Townsend, the comment was more aimed at the tactic of him staying wide - it wasn't necessarily a pro-Townsend comment (although you can take it how you wish).

I would have liked to see that tactic at home to Newcastle and maybe we should try it at home to Stoke (next home game).

Although it’s difficult to compare when it is against lower opposition, but I definitely think we benefit when Dembele and Townsend are on the pitch. Also, could Lamela (in the short term) be used more of an impact sub? There is no denying he has skill, he can create and score but I think he blends into the background and looks below standard when he plays from the start.

I watched the Southampton highlights last night and they just looked so direct, and used pace down the wings, and I think Townsend can definitely offer this for us.

PS. I’m not necessarily saying Townsend should come in for Lamela but the 2 points above are just separate suggestions for debate.