Let’s not forget that teams understand just how important Fernandinho is to the way we play. Hell, Pep said he would like a team of 11 of him!
So, if he receives the ball in tight spaces, sometimes he is immediately surrounded by two or three opposition players trying the immediate counter. It worked perfectly tonight and they nicked a goal.
The problem is, as has been said, he knows this and should either play a one touch pass away from him, or move away from the position he is holding so not only he can’t receive a pass, but to create space for others.
Never been a fan of Ferna and Gundogan playing together in the middle, because I don’t think either one plays their best with the other stealing some of their operating space. However, the ineffectiveness of our “bolstered” midfield against a fast, pressing opposition is eye watering at times. Makes you realize just how well Stones and Laporte play at times, even if they make the occasional mistake that costs us a goal.
Love Ferna, but I’d sit him for a game or two. Give him a rest and come again in 10 days....maybe David Silva, too!
