Fernandinho Injury

[Lancet Fluke]

I would try Bernardo there...great engine, ball control, distribution and has improved on tackling.

Really think it would be worth giving him a game or two there over the next few weeks, see how he does. As you say, stamina second to none, ball control and distribution excellent, tackling ok but crucially for that position very difficult for opponents to pinch the ball off him. The reality is though is that Pep will almost certainly not try it, in which case I'd give Kev a go there. I'd rather Stones, Gundogan and Danilo weren't the fall back options when Dinho is injured, don't think any of them offer what we need in that position.

 

[wythenshaweblue£££]

Surely Gundogan or Danilo can play there or even Delph do we know how long Fernandinho is out for.

 

[blueju]

Delph

 

[decmancity]

It will be Gundo, Delph isn't going to come out of the cold and be thrown into this game. Swansea at best for him to keep Gundo fit (depending on Fernandinho).

 

[Newtoncc]

KDB could play there and given his 'rustiness' it may help him get his passing range back on track, i suspect he won't but worth a try.

 

[Andrew___K]

Double pivot (Gundo+Danilo/Delph/KdB) could be a good temporary solution, as we're playing 3-2 at the back in possession anyway.
Pep occasionally uses this system, the last time was vs Arsenal: Ferna mostly played as DM alongside Gundogan. Worked just fine.

Another alternative is using Zinchenko as a hybrid LB/DM to help Gundogan. Would add some passing options in the absence of left-footed Laporte.

 

[jonah62]

Think Danilo could do a job there

 

[tony adcock]

Jamie Pollock is a free agent - surely worth a shout ?

 

[Roachy]

Double pivot (Gundo+Danilo/Delph/KdB) could be a good temporary solution, as we're playing 3-2 at the back in possession anyway.
Pep occasionally uses this system, the last time was vs Arsenal: Ferna mostly played as DM alongside Gundogan. Worked just fine.

Another alternative is using Zinchenko as a hybrid LB/DM to help Gundogan. Would add some passing options in the absence of left-footed Laporte.

Zinchenko would use a lot of fuel in that role.

 

[Bill]

could we end Kante's loan early?