It does seem obvious doesn't it? SURELY we're aware of this. I've no doubt that Patrick bloody Vieira of all people understands what a combative central midfield looks like. There was a point when Doucouré had a chat with the ref when he was already on a yellow and Ward was there to offer a little diplomacy, no doubt intently aware that his defence only had Doucouré as a shield.

It seems we took a gamble and went all-in on Gallagher becoming available. I have a suspicion that even in September we were still taking a gamble that he wouldn't get games at Chelsea and would become available in January. Unfortunately he does seem to be getting enough appearances at Chelsea to justify staying for some time yet. I suspect we've moved on now so maybe there's someone awesome out there who costs not a lot.

Also, regarding Doucouré - he's only played 8 premier league games. Look at how long it took Partey and Xhaka to learn how to boss a midfield.

As I've indicated above, I don't think he protects the ball well enough or passes forward enough. Plays too many square or backward balls. He's been ok but pure class is a real stretch in my opinion. And not being noticed playing centre mid is hardly a plus point.

We played with the same set up last week with Eze and Olise in front of him.

Most of our problems today came when we had possession in our own third rather than Leeds bringing the game to us.

Edited by Rachid Rachid Rachid (09 Oct 2022 11.21pm)

Just wanted to mention - Something happened at the back yesterday, or Vincente saw something that needed reporting to PV - on about 15 minutes (just after their goal) Vincente said something to a ball boy who took it directly to the dug out - maybe that had something to do with his wayward clearances for a short time ?

PVs post match comments on Eze after the game,"There's still much more to come from Ebs," Vieira said.

"He just needs to find the right position, to be a little bit more high on the field, because he has the ability to score goals and to create chances, so it was a good performance from him and he's getting better and better."

Err, number 10 role, heres a clue its already on his back

“That’s a joke son, I say, that’s a joke.” “Nice boy, but he’s sharp as a throw pillow.” “He’s so dumb he thinks a Mexican border pays rent” “ “Son… I say, son, some people are so narrow minded they can look through a keyhole with both eyes.”__ Forhorn Leghorn

Agreed

“That’s a joke son, I say, that’s a joke.” “Nice boy, but he’s sharp as a throw pillow.” “He’s so dumb he thinks a Mexican border pays rent” “ “Son… I say, son, some people are so narrow minded they can look through a keyhole with both eyes.”__ Forhorn Leghorn

if only PV, would do that, because we will have a bid for him at the end of the season, we can't refuse, 100m plus, make the most of him while we still have him, he will score goals like yesterdays every game if we give him the opportunity

“That’s a joke son, I say, that’s a joke.” “Nice boy, but he’s sharp as a throw pillow.” “He’s so dumb he thinks a Mexican border pays rent” “ “Son… I say, son, some people are so narrow minded they can look through a keyhole with both eyes.”__ Forhorn Leghorn