Churchlawtonblue
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- 17 May 2009
- Messages
- 15,022
Firstly I don't think Delph can fill the gap - brilliant as a stand in left back, he lacks a couple of key ingredients to be the fulcrum of our midfield. Mainly he lacks the instinct of when to release the ball. Fernandinho and similar players seem to know when to pass and also when to move into space. Sadly Delph, as good as he's been, doesn't have this and often holds onto the ball for far too long which negates space for others to work in and, if we lose the ball, results in him being out of position and scrambling back. In my opinion, the way we play now, Fernandinho despite being 32, has another 2-3 years at current levels - I think when Yaya was playing alongside him he had to do far too much extra work - this year we are seeing Kev cover so much ground as a direct comparison to Yaya (since 2014). In fact moving Kev from out wide, and adding the work rate of others - will definitely prolong Fernandinho's career. Pep knows this and I think we have seen a massive change in everyone's work rate. Long winded way of saying we are not carrying anyone.
Fernandinho will be replaced and I think looking at his current fitness and form it will buy us next season to allow someone younger to bed in. Similar to David's form allowing Bernardo to take his time to adjust to the PL and our system - Pep is one clever manager!
Can't disagree with much of that, a well thought out post. The only thing I would question is that I think you are being a tad harsh on Delph not releasing the ball. I still think he could do a reasonable job. But hey ho its all about opinions.