A few comments regarding the previous match :
That was an authentic football experience as far as I am concerned - and an outstanding performance by the Saints. The whole team reflects a sense of familiarity with a certain game plan, the level of maturity, composure and confidence displayed on the pitch was nothing less than impressive. No doubt Southampton have improved significantly, as a unit as well as individually. The midfield structure especially provides stability and control while Armstrong's and Redmond's tactical flexibility helps the team to implement a variety of offensive ideas...
Limitations? Central defense is a concern, I think the way they set up aims to provide cover to the CD duo. And I also think their manager will pray for much more consistency from the man beside Ings, and a bigger impact from Armstrong too...
Bad day at the office for Anceloti and his men. A couple of comments :
- The Colombian fella is not yet fully fit (and during this week he missed training sessions, as I heard). For Anceloti, stability is a priority so let's say I understand the logic behind the way he uses him tactically so far. Temporarily or not however, Carlo should not underestimate the danger : Bertrand had a free pass on Everton's right flank, practically throughout the match. Missing Coleman made things even worse, cannot imagine Anceloti being satisfied from the guy replacing him...
- I still remember my shock the day I read Barcelona were investing in Lucas Digne. Probably because at that period I still respected Barcelona's transfer strategy, I suppose. Anyway. The guy has indeed improved, I won't deny it. Nevertheless I still believe pace is his biggest quality. Not to mention, I still have serious doubts regarding his football intelligence...
- Anceloti is a fair guy, his players will get opportunities, all of them. Tonight Iwobi probably wasted his though, and not for the first time. Despite his inconsistency, Everton missed Richarlison badly...