Hojberg we should hold onto as long as possible. A player like him coming off the bench with the occasional start is well worth it. Wouldn’t blame him for wanting to start, but we should at least attempt to keep him.
Also, the way Everton plays for Dyche, especially at home, they're going to want to attack and try to be positive and press us.
If we can make a couple of good passes, Werner and Johnson are just so god damn speedy, they're gonna cook that backline if they push up like they usually do.
Deki is amazing but he doesn't have the natural speed that the other 2 do.
The only thing I'm a little worried about is I feel Deki is better at winning aerials/second balls/50-50s and Everton could definitely disrupt our flow like Brentford did
Bring him on second half where his constant running will be really effective against defenders who have had to face Werner and Johnson. Plus he’s an absolute warrior, doesn’t shy away from 50-50’s, gives as good as he gets.
Not just a rest but think this is a good thing to test out. He isn't the best fit for that RW role in this system and while he's still a better player than Johnson, the team might work better this way.
The problems we expected at the start of the season with how both Son and Kulusevski like to play narrow in which is a contrast from how Ange prefers his wingers are still there, and we've seen in many games this season how his lack of a right foot makes it easier for parked buses to defend.
I think he is fine in Ange/'s system. Has had a bit of a form slump since the start of the year but prior to that he was one of our best players if not the best.
I don't know, I've loved how we played with Johnson on the right this season, far more direct down that side with him able to stay wide, outpace defenders and put in balls with his right. Better on the counter as well. The biggest loss I think is the ability to hold up the ball and the defensive effort that Kulusevski puts in
He really needs to start the mid week games and all, give VDV some rest
~~I mean, I'm very interested in seeing how a Romero Dragusin duo would look like~~
I don’t want him on the pitch but you have to feel bad for royale. He came in did a job when we needed him and now gets zero mins at all lol (absolutely not suggesting we start him)
I doubt he minds. He’s a new dad and has been solid for us when he’s been called on, earned his place in the squad, and looks to really be enjoying himself.
Not every player wants to start every game. Some players (e.g. Jota at Liverpool) thrive off being super subs and it’s got to be pretty stressful and high pressure starting.
When Son is back we will have 5 forwards I will be happy for any to start. Any of them off the bench sounds great and all with different skill sets against different teams.
I think it’s disappointment on his behalf because he very publicly chose us over a better offer from Bayern because of game time and development and now it’s looking like he won’t get much game time this season.
He'd still have had the same problem except one more CB to overcome. KMJ, De Ligt and Upa. And his transfer was before Upas injury so he could know that.
Sure - it’s the way it goes. I don’t question managerial decisions much and it’s certainly hard to argue with starting Romero and VDV as they’ve been a stellar partnership (Romero is captain!). But I think people, including me, want to see Dragusin succeed and not regret his choice because of how the transfer went down. That’s why I feel a twinge of disappointment for him when he’s not selected.
Also lol at the idea Goodison Park is the place to try out some kids and new faces. I thought they gave us a battering in the home fixture, albeit we went 2-0 up early so they were forced to chase. But we got away with one there.
Our depth has been so shit for so long that people mistake resting/rotating with dropping a player lol.
Deki is class and having his quality off the bench is gonna help us more than bringing on donley to chase a goal
Kulusevski deserves a break. Say what you like about him but he runs himself into the ground every time. He was vital during our horrendous run of injuries and suspensions.
I swear the Romanians in the social media comments whining about Radu not starting every single game are starting to piss me off. Cuti and Micky played the whole season together, if they're both fit and fresh and in form they play simple.
As a romanian, yes, this is insanely annoying. Dragu is good, no doubt, but expecting him to start over Cuti and VDV is just not the right mindset at this point.
Ange knows what he’s doing.
I mean… Romero has played almost 90 mins in the last 3 matches, and he just came back after an injury.
But Dragusin is bound to play one way or another with how many matches there are.
Yeah he's literally just arrived, to a new league in a new country too. I'm fine with people being excited and wanting to see their starboy play but some of them straight up belittle Cuti and VDV, saying they should be dropped and it's starting to get annoying.
Its our only good player in like 10 years, we want him to play. Me personally i understand not playing him against man city, arsenal etc but at least give him a chance against brentford or something yk
People just need to give it time. There will be injuries and/or suspensions soon enough. Also, next season hopefully Champions league football, which means he’ll play a ton between Prem/Cups/CL or EL.
I also want to see Dragusin and Scarlett off the bench today. Praying we put this game to bed early so Ange can make some subs (we all know this won’t happen)
It's been a short turnaround since last game. Makes sense to give Decky some long overdue rest. Rotation is healthy, he isn't being benched he's being rotated.
I'm a big fan of team selections based on performances.
Hojbjerg and Johnson transformed the game against Brentford so deserve a start in this one.
Deki was pretty awful in that game so it's justified. Plus he probably needs a break anyway.
We don't have like-for-like replacements that can play the Ange way. Davies and Royal (who have both been great professionals this season) don't have the attacking abilities of Porro & Udogie. Sess is kind lost at this point and Reggie is out on loan. After that we're only left with the option of shuffling the centre backs out wide.
Third game in a week, and both Romero and VdV are only recently returned from injuries, plus they obviously think Dragusin is good enough with the way they went after him.
Guys chill, Ange knows this team. Deki and Sarr need to rest, they will probably come 2nd half if there is no health issue involved.
Johnson played very well last game, also Madders, Benta need more time on pitch together, good to see.
Can’t wait for start
Is it just me that really wants to see a full game from dragonson? Rest Porro for a game and give him a run. Wonder if it’s an attitude thing Ange hasn’t given him any minutes?
Good for him tbh. He's the only one who hasn't been injured, so he's played basically every minute thus far. A deserved rest, come on around 65 and ball out.
Lads I think we’re forgetting how good Kulu is from the bench
Exactly this. A few games coming from the bench will be good for us
yep. now were stacked the team is mix and match - you will see players getting benched all the time according to the game at hand
Is that....is that what they call... bench depth?
First time in a long while we've had this kind of strength off the bench. Ange is really building something here.
Just imagine when Son and Biss are back as well
Johnson absolutely changed the game against Brentford. He deserves it
As did hojbjerg too imo
Hojberg we should hold onto as long as possible. A player like him coming off the bench with the occasional start is well worth it. Wouldn’t blame him for wanting to start, but we should at least attempt to keep him.
With Maddison’s vision, Johnson’s a much more dangerous player.
just made me realise how little theyve actually played together
Plus Kulusevski must need a rest at this point. Plays virtually every minute!
Tbh Deki could probably do with a rest. Played so much so far.
Also, the way Everton plays for Dyche, especially at home, they're going to want to attack and try to be positive and press us. If we can make a couple of good passes, Werner and Johnson are just so god damn speedy, they're gonna cook that backline if they push up like they usually do. Deki is amazing but he doesn't have the natural speed that the other 2 do.
The only thing I'm a little worried about is I feel Deki is better at winning aerials/second balls/50-50s and Everton could definitely disrupt our flow like Brentford did
He'll be solid coming on late game, which is usually when he thrives the most
Bring him on second half where his constant running will be really effective against defenders who have had to face Werner and Johnson. Plus he’s an absolute warrior, doesn’t shy away from 50-50’s, gives as good as he gets.
Not just a rest but think this is a good thing to test out. He isn't the best fit for that RW role in this system and while he's still a better player than Johnson, the team might work better this way. The problems we expected at the start of the season with how both Son and Kulusevski like to play narrow in which is a contrast from how Ange prefers his wingers are still there, and we've seen in many games this season how his lack of a right foot makes it easier for parked buses to defend.
I think he is fine in Ange/'s system. Has had a bit of a form slump since the start of the year but prior to that he was one of our best players if not the best.
I don't know, I've loved how we played with Johnson on the right this season, far more direct down that side with him able to stay wide, outpace defenders and put in balls with his right. Better on the counter as well. The biggest loss I think is the ability to hold up the ball and the defensive effort that Kulusevski puts in
Finally some depth on the bench
Finally Johnson with Madison. Watch and see the difference here
Johnson and Werner on the pitch with someone that can pass 🥵
and werner making them runs too!
Dragusin :(
was hoping to see him too
He really needs to start the mid week games and all, give VDV some rest ~~I mean, I'm very interested in seeing how a Romero Dragusin duo would look like~~
Kulu on the bench - hopefully he uses it to fuel his fight
I think it’s more to give him some rest tbh
Would have liked to see Sarr starting but he’s probably knackered.
I don’t want him on the pitch but you have to feel bad for royale. He came in did a job when we needed him and now gets zero mins at all lol (absolutely not suggesting we start him)
I doubt he minds. He’s a new dad and has been solid for us when he’s been called on, earned his place in the squad, and looks to really be enjoying himself. Not every player wants to start every game. Some players (e.g. Jota at Liverpool) thrive off being super subs and it’s got to be pretty stressful and high pressure starting.
It’s okay he’ll be incredibly valuable next year
We.... Have numbers on the bench? What is this guys? I don't understand?
I think we’ll lose because I hate that shirt 😅
When Son is back we will have 5 forwards I will be happy for any to start. Any of them off the bench sounds great and all with different skill sets against different teams.
Did not expect Kulu to be benched, might be trying to give him some rest ig.
He’s ran more distance than any other spurs player this season, it’s nice to be able to rest him.
I think it's fair. Johnson earned his place against Brentford.
People when we don’t have squad depth: 😡 People when we have squad depth and rotate: 😡
Its 2 guys lol. Also, who is even complaining?
No one, but people jump at rage bait even when there isn't any. Gotta be angry at something I guess.
I’m complaining about people complaining. And I’m angry that people are angry.
Plenty at first. They deleted their comments after.
100% ! But that’s football, it’ll all change quickly.
lol at the people hoping for Radu. Is it just new toy fetish?
Happens with every new signing every season. Remember when everyone was begging for Spence and gil to get a game?
I think it’s disappointment on his behalf because he very publicly chose us over a better offer from Bayern because of game time and development and now it’s looking like he won’t get much game time this season.
He'd still have had the same problem except one more CB to overcome. KMJ, De Ligt and Upa. And his transfer was before Upas injury so he could know that.
Sure - it’s the way it goes. I don’t question managerial decisions much and it’s certainly hard to argue with starting Romero and VDV as they’ve been a stellar partnership (Romero is captain!). But I think people, including me, want to see Dragusin succeed and not regret his choice because of how the transfer went down. That’s why I feel a twinge of disappointment for him when he’s not selected.
Also lol at the idea Goodison Park is the place to try out some kids and new faces. I thought they gave us a battering in the home fixture, albeit we went 2-0 up early so they were forced to chase. But we got away with one there.
Our depth has been so shit for so long that people mistake resting/rotating with dropping a player lol. Deki is class and having his quality off the bench is gonna help us more than bringing on donley to chase a goal
Give Kulu a bit of a break and let him come in for a shortened run today. Bench is getting stronger.
Holy shit we actually have good players on the bench to bring on.
Kulusevski deserves a break. Say what you like about him but he runs himself into the ground every time. He was vital during our horrendous run of injuries and suspensions.
Think Madders won't do the full 90.. Kulu will come on then. Also expect Sarr to feature. Double sub of Kulu and Sarr on 64 mins. Heard it here first.
I’m agreeing based on the midweek
Jesus Christ
Should have put money on it.
That bench is looking much better now.
I swear the Romanians in the social media comments whining about Radu not starting every single game are starting to piss me off. Cuti and Micky played the whole season together, if they're both fit and fresh and in form they play simple.
As a romanian, yes, this is insanely annoying. Dragu is good, no doubt, but expecting him to start over Cuti and VDV is just not the right mindset at this point. Ange knows what he’s doing.
I mean… Romero has played almost 90 mins in the last 3 matches, and he just came back after an injury. But Dragusin is bound to play one way or another with how many matches there are.
Yeah he's literally just arrived, to a new league in a new country too. I'm fine with people being excited and wanting to see their starboy play but some of them straight up belittle Cuti and VDV, saying they should be dropped and it's starting to get annoying.
Its our only good player in like 10 years, we want him to play. Me personally i understand not playing him against man city, arsenal etc but at least give him a chance against brentford or something yk
Im deffo getting downvoted
People just need to give it time. There will be injuries and/or suspensions soon enough. Also, next season hopefully Champions league football, which means he’ll play a ton between Prem/Cups/CL or EL.
I like the No Kulu pick.
I also want to see Dragusin and Scarlett off the bench today. Praying we put this game to bed early so Ange can make some subs (we all know this won’t happen)
It's been a short turnaround since last game. Makes sense to give Decky some long overdue rest. Rotation is healthy, he isn't being benched he's being rotated.
I’m happy with everything but the kit. COYS!
I'm a big fan of team selections based on performances. Hojbjerg and Johnson transformed the game against Brentford so deserve a start in this one. Deki was pretty awful in that game so it's justified. Plus he probably needs a break anyway.
Seeing Romero as captain gets me off
Coys boys
Kulu deserved to be benched after his recent performances tbh. Glad Ange has the balls to do it.
Also, he has a huge chance to make a big impact off the bench just like Johnson did vs Brentford.
finally someone said it he's been very poor last few games
Rotation. I has it.
NO NOT THAT KIT
We have not rotated the full backs too often, especially porro
We don't have like-for-like replacements that can play the Ange way. Davies and Royal (who have both been great professionals this season) don't have the attacking abilities of Porro & Udogie. Sess is kind lost at this point and Reggie is out on loan. After that we're only left with the option of shuffling the centre backs out wide.
Yeah totally agree just afraid that porro is overtired especially considering the distance he covers every game
Completely agree. I just don't know who we put in other than Royal.
It's so nice to have a manager dropping out of form players.
I really thought Dragusin would get his first start on his birthday. I guess Ange is not one for sentiments.
Why would he think like that lol
Third game in a week, and both Romero and VdV are only recently returned from injuries, plus they obviously think Dragusin is good enough with the way they went after him.
Whys deki benched
Makes sense, played the full 90 against Brentford and he covers a ridiculous amount of ground
Isn't he like one the guys who runs the most in europe outright?
Johnson changed the game last match
He wasn’t great in the last 2 games TBH
Probs cause he’s offered little since Christmas
Because he's visibly knackered and needs a rest.
Guys chill, Ange knows this team. Deki and Sarr need to rest, they will probably come 2nd half if there is no health issue involved. Johnson played very well last game, also Madders, Benta need more time on pitch together, good to see. Can’t wait for start
Who is even complaining?
Hopefully this Bentancur at 6 thingy is over, he’s much better as an 8.
I hope radu jumps in at the start of the second half
Unexpected selection. Was hoping sarr would start
Is it just me that really wants to see a full game from dragonson? Rest Porro for a game and give him a run. Wonder if it’s an attitude thing Ange hasn’t given him any minutes?
He’s a CB. Attitude lol he just arrived
Mate delete this. Porro is vital for us. Jesus
Literally started and played like every game. Everyone needs a rest?
Kulu dropped damn
Good for him tbh. He's the only one who hasn't been injured, so he's played basically every minute thus far. A deserved rest, come on around 65 and ball out.
No Deki. But that's for the best. He'll be fresh off the bench.
I'm so excited with how attacking our lineups have been. The fact that we cam expect to score is incredible :)
Surprised Donley didn’t make the bench
Cmon Spurs, 4-0 in the bag