I was pleased to see the 4-2-3-1 back last night, with Ya Ya in advanced central midfield slot. It was great to have our great big daft lummux filling that great big lummox shaped hole for us, and he made the goal and had two or three of his trademark runs. I think that's the right formation for us for the harder games, predominantly the aways. It makes us much more solid, having Nige winning tackles there next to Barry at the back of the midfield. Milner, whilst he's got more "drive" than Nige, he just doesn't win the ball like he does. It really solidified us against a good side last night.
I think the other 4-2-2-2 formation, with Ya Ya deep-lying alongside Barry, will still be used for the home games, allowing us to play 2 strikers and get the best from Silva. But I think it was the right tactical decision to play 4-2-3-1 and I'm sure we'll see more of it.
I'll say it again. Nasri is currently a liability. We saw the problem with him yet again last night. Too many touches, not enough penetration. WE could have broken very fluently when they had a go at us last night but he stopped it on several occasion. And the other thing I say every game is the fullbacks. Clichy and Richards every time for me. Great to have them both playing. What a back four that is.
So I'd go with Aguero in for Nasri but otherwise I liked the shape of last night's team a lot for the rest of the season (away from home). Well done Mancini, you got it right. I feel very excited for the league campaign again.
