A recurring mention on this and other related threads is that people seem to think that after the current list of tough fixtures is completed things will get easier when we enter a new phase of 'winnable' matches.

I think this is deluded optimism. What makes one think that games with teams below us will be a good source of relegation-saving points?

I disagree because of our lack of goals and even more our lack of chances created. I do not have much faith in Mateta, Edouard and Ayew but if they don't get the service it's hard to pin the blame on them.

The manager keeps on about 'not taking our chances' but his team selection and often nonsensical subs is not helping. I thought the introduction of two new, young midfielders would help to rectify this problem but his negative outlook mitigates against them. Persevering with Schlupp and Mateta is becoming laughable. Ayew has his moments but he is a proven non-scoring No.9.

The teams presently below us seem to be enjoying a renaissance and I fear we will in the thick of the relegation struggle come the end of March if PV doesn't become more pro-active instead of his current re-active default.

My only positive is the hope that the return of Zaha (our talisman) will turn the tables for us.

Not really the only team below us who you would say are in a false position is Leicester, the rest are pretty poor and all struggle to score goals, Everton have lost Gordon who was by far their best player tho dyche will see them up, still dont see Southampton and Bournemouth picking up enough points. West ham have to deal with a pointless European competition. I'd favour us against any team in the bottom half.

I’ve got a little story about that day as well, I was looking after two youngsters and the whole game this larey palace fan was bumping and barging against them as we were close to the fence separating us from the Arsenal fans and he was mouthing off to them constantly. As we walked depressed out of the ground after we see the larey palace fan laying on the floor with blood all over his face.
It was an early lesson for the youngsters with me, if opposition fans are close enough to see the whites of your eyes, keep your mouth shut and don’t act like a complete bellend, I know he was palace, but he thoroughly deserved the smack in the chops someone had obviously given him

He has some culpability and I share your frustration about Schlupp's continual selection whilst the game passes him by.

But there seems to be a general consensus that our full backs, forwards and midfield aren't good enough. That's a lot of players.

Edited by Rachid Rachid Rachid (19 Feb 2023 3.28pm)

My predictions, null and void, if PV goes

“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

I didn't go to the game yesterday so can't comment but by all accounts we were seconds away from a very important, confidence boosting win.

Against Brighton last week we started out playing 442 and a more direct game but we didn't have the players to hold the ball and get us playing in Brighton's half.

Mateta was pretty useless but I thought Edouard was worse when he came on and appeared to be a fully signed up graduate of the Benteke school of laziness.

In my opinion, Viera has neither been given the personnel options to attack direct or defend deep. However, it's a results business and I'd agree that the point may come where a change will be needed to shake things up.

Our record over the last dozen or so games is terrible and confidence will have been eroded. The idea that the games will become easier is fanciful in my opinion.