Player ratings vs. Fleetwood

I understand that wasn't Fleetwood's first 11, but against the team put out before us, that was a very good and effective performance.

Here are my ratings:

Ward: 7 - Made a decent save early on, then was largely a spectator. Some good distribution with the ball at his feet.
Amartey: 7 - Keen to get forward but doesn't really offer much when he gets there. Untroubled.
Morgan: 8 - A unit at the back and confident enough to step forward and play. The fact he was subbed suggests that he'll start against Liverpool.
Evans: 7 - Doesn't look a particularly dominant force but quietly went about his business. Passing isn't as good as I was expecting though.
Fuchs: 10 - Brilliant goal, brilliant assist and generally excellent throughout the match, particularly in the second half. Crossing remains a joy. My choice for our MOTM.
Iborra: 8 - Started off a bit dodgy as he gave Fleetwood possession in dangerous areas twice, but tightened up and took control of the game.
Silva: 8 - Actively sought out forward passes. Not everything comes off for him as he makes many passes without looking but controlled the midfield well with Iborra.
Ghezzal: 7 - Taking too many touches for my liking, and I don't think he'll get away with that in the Prem. Also his crossing needs a lot of work. However, he tried hard to leave his influence on the match and scored a cracking goal after coming very close a few minutes earlier. From the way teammates and management spoke to him, he looks like a player who needs an arm around his shoulder and I worry how his confidence might go if fans get on his back.
Okazaki: 7 - Brought back memories of the title winning side with his pressing and his ability with his back to goal. Put in lots of nice touches in midfield to build fast attacks. Frustrating as ever in the final third, but he really encapsulates the style of football that won us the league.
Albrighton: 8 - Got a bit greedy later on with the band around his arm but joined Okazaki in pressing very effectively and caused a lot of problems for Fleetwood down our left flank.
Iheanacho: 8 - Kept on until he scored a deserved goal. Worked hard for it in the first half with some good movement that Fleetwood couldn't track, although it just wouldn't work for him in the box.

Gray: 7 - Always looks effective against lower league teams as he's too quick for them. An enjoyable outing.
Benkovic: 6 - Didn't really get to see much of him. Tidy enough although not particularly tested.
Diabate: 6 - One nice and entertaining run. Joined in a rampant team.


I'm always pleased to see a good win in situations like this, even if it was up against a poor opponent. More than progression in the cup, it gives some of our reserves the chance to put some pressure on the first team, to remind them that they're there and ready to step in at any given moment. In particular tonight, Silva, Iborra and Albrighton left that impression, while Okazaki reminded us that he still has something to offer - and indeed what Maddison doesn't offer in the same position.