#MIDFIELD DILEMMA

[f0point5]

if RBR resigns checo and merc signs kimi.... would carlos go to kick????? it feels like he wouldn't want that

also spanish outlets were reporting that carlos already signed with merc but the news isn't out yet so i wonder the degree to which that is true, because there's also rumors that kimi is confirmed for 2025

can silly season start silly seasoning please i need the drama

Spanish media have been saying that for a few weeks now…look, I could be wrong, but it’s a weird way to leak the news. Because it will have come directly from Sainz, and if it’s true then Toto yapping about wanting Max is pretty bad form if the ink is drying on a contract with Carlos. So, if it is true, that’s a messy way to have it out there.

But I kinda don’t buy it. Because Carlos would be a bit dumb to sign on for one year. Unless he genuinely thinks he can push George out. Which is…a concept. And honestly Carlos would be that confident. But still, that level of uncertainty at this time in his career is very risky. Then again, there are rumours that he doesn’t have faith in the Audi project yet.

I don’t know what Audi’s plan is, and I think that’s what we’d need to know to know what Carlos wants to do. Because how they’re going to fix the structural issues in the team is the key. I don’t think Carlos is going to be want to be in a team that’s on a 5 year rebuild plan like Williams. So unless Audi has some concrete plans to just inject cash and new personnel immediately, I’m not sure I see Carlos signing on for 2025.

What he really needs is the Aston seat. Daddy Stroll needs to give his son a hug, release whatever trust fund he’s holding over Lance’s head, and let the kid go snowboard or something. A Sainz/Alonso line up at Aston would be incredible. Upper midfield team on the rise that will be all his when Alonso retires is exactly what Carlos needs. Ughhhhh can we just have one nice thing goddammit!!!!

I do think some kind of deal with Merc is looking the most likely because there doesn’t seem to be a lot of options for him, but if he does go to Merc I think he will move in 1/2 years.

Toto’s Kimi dilemma really is causing a bottleneck for this grid right now lol.

[b-vil-bee]

could u explain more about the structure system being based around trent?

Hi anon..thank you for the ask..from what i gather,he basically have a hybrid role where it is very important in the team..like a freedom to move around in the field..i found this online

1. Towards the end of last season, Trent Alexander-Arnold began fulfilling a hybrid role that, when the Reds are in possession, permits him to drift inside from right-back to central midfield.

This in turn alters the responsibilities of Liverpool’s right-sided centre-back, the position Matip ordinarily plays when selected.

“For sure I have to think of different things on the pitch because the right-back will not be there in the first moment. We need to adapt, but at the same time we have got some more players and some new players in the midfield.

“It is obviously a different kind of situation for me now and I need to adapt. I think it will get better and better in the season,” the No.32 told the club’s official matchday programme.

2. Now that right-back Trent-Alexander Arnold has been asked to maraud into midfield in his new hybrid role, Konate is at times covering two positions on the right side of Liverpool's defence when the team is in possession.

"This system where Trent is getting into midfield and getting into more attacking positions is the key to the success we've been having recently," Konate says.

"It's important that we can involve Trent further up the field because of the quality he has in his game. We all know what a great passer of the ball he is, I'd say he's one of the best passers in the world. I think it's made us more clinical and decisive in front of goal."

 

3. As a result, some have speculated that Klopp may need to be creative in order to fit Alexander-Arnold back in around Bradley.

But with his unique game-breaking quality, Alexander-Arnold has earned the right to flip the question on its head.

Nobody in this squad can replicate his impact on the game – that’s why Liverpool had to adapt in his absence.

Klopp’s real dilemma is if he can fit Bradley in around Alexander-Arnold – the most important player in his team.

Hopefully it help to answer your question..im very happy to answer this bc we can all learn more about his role instead of just bashing him..

[theysteponyou]

Well, I've been saying for a long time that The X Files fandom has splintered into sects about Gillian Anderson/Scully reinterpretation (hello, Twitter, Reddit and Tumblr accounts about Gillian), and sects about David Duchovny and his fake public relationship with a younger girl.

The way Gillian fans interpret tfx for themselves is dishonest and pretentious, all to help her co-star in her criticism and false dilemmas of recent years, in addition to sustaining a lot of fake news regarding the treatment of David, Chris, cast and production with her (god, one has to reiterate whenever Gillian was paid the same salary as David in the revival, after all). And I take all of Gillian's literal lines and I don't know her sarcasm in interviews.

Them use white feminism to be influential on social media. David's fans live in a bubble where in the world they and David have the same friends (hello D*chovinat*cs), that they are people close to them and know more about him than their brothers; that he doesn't lie and has a deep intimate relationship with the current public relationship younger than him. Both actors lie, they are people who make mistakes and continue to make mistakes by hiding their true face. They don't deserve any of the "love" and money fans give them. They only use you babies. Meanwhile, the series turn your 30th anniversary this year and we won't have our main co-stars at the center for choices they've made and supported each other (even though they didn't want to).

It's no use putting blame on the creator or writers because they were the ones who stayed in the midfield while their stars were being very "stars" using this as a way to capitalize for them with pinky money and radfem money and with nostagic fans in their later productions.

It's a lot of idiocy for fans in what's left of the tfx fandom today. It's horrible that fans play fake news all the time. It sucks that they insist on believing lies.

The past is in its eternal glory.

[ikram1909]

Every time the press says Xavi has a dilemma in a position a player from that position gets injured. Like every time without fail. It happened in midfield and now in defense I need them to just stop talking about us all together 😭

[myimaginarywonderland]

I think the main think that we should address about the Alpha Tauri debacle is that nothing good will come out of it and this whole thing was set up to fail from the start.

Let me explain.

No one apparently at RedBull seemed fully confident in Nyck. Most convincing seemingly came from Max putting a good word in for a friend.

Alpha Tauri was bound to be a disaster with the one constant they have leaving at the end of this year, Franz Tost, which wil be the final nail in the coffin. This team has been so consistent for many years because Franz is arguably the best team principal as he builds drivers up. Not only does he managed to get them back into a place where they are believing in themselves again but by doing this he automatically makes them better drivers because they learn while not having any pressure. He works with encouragement a lot of the time and he is one of the main reason why so many drivers got to the place where we are calling them good again. Him leaving was doubt to cause this team to recline especially because of the way they are run as a secondary RB team.

Alpha Tauri has always worked as a step ladder where they are only temporary before a driver either leaves for RedBull or leaves RedBull behind to go to the midfield.

But they at least managed to always have a driver that they could use as a secondary RedBull driver which let's be honest here is what anyone in that academy will be until Max leaves F1.

They abandoned that policy though simply because Alex and Pierre left. I think there was always some believe that Alex or Pierre will be kept there for a bit to train the younger one who will ultimately step up to Max, be there for a year or two before potentially becoming the main driver once Max leaves. But then Pierre and Alex left and they didn't have a driver to be that mentor anymore. No other driver from the current grid is a.) experienced enough for that and b.) willing to leave the team. The only three close enough would be Val (who will probably like Kimi retire at Alfa), Kevin (who is chained to Haas until the devil rips that contract up) or Nico (who at that time already probably had the talks with Haas.)

I am not discrediting Yuki or seeing he can't do it but the problem was Yuki isn't fixed. They wanted to kick him out but then saw him perform better and let him stick around which is where the problem begins.

The whole purpose is to have drivers from AT that can be pushed to RB alongside Max. Yuki has been slandered so much and threatened so often to be dropped that it would just seem weird to put him there. Add to that no guaranteed contract and especially now he would jump to any other team the second he gets because it is the smartest move.

Anyway, here's the dilemma. Yuki and Nyck are not your typical young rookie/older mentor relationship and Nyck also again was never a fixed thing in RB. The move to even sign him, knowing they will lose Yuki in a year or 2 is stupid. Rightfully they should have put a rookie who could learn under Yuki and then grow to step up once not only Franz but Yuki leave which they didn't because well.

Undoubtedly Vips was supposed to be that before shit went down.

Now there's Liam who also is in this weird limbo off many just drivers where they sort of just push F1 out of their mind. He's been doing so much other stuff that he is decent in so really, the possibility to go back to F1 was slim especially with an already signed contract.

The whole F2 drivers are all either too inexperienced or truly just don't stick out and after Yuki would they really go for some that had an average junior career again?

And anyone else is not an option with the inexperience glaring.

Now we come to the big problem.

RedBull have always had the golden boy thing. It was clear since his Monza win that Seb would be at that team. It was clear they would only win with him. Then after Seb, I truly believe Daniel was brought in as Webber replacement and place holder until they would finally shift to Verstappen who they planned to pushed probably since 2014. No driver really stood a chance between the Seb/Max transition because they weren't meant to, simple as that. Now, the interesting thing is Max bringing up retirement and no doubt running away with the next 2 or 3 titles probably. What people also tend to forget that in 2025 Max has been in the sport for 10 years. Not to mention he was as a literal teen. He was forced to grow up and be that star. Would it be really surprising if after establishing himself among the greats he would want to be somewhere else where he could win? No.

This now begs the question of who will be there next golden boy and well really this is what it ultimately boils down to.

While I do think Liam is a great driver you can't help but wonder that the reason they didn't choose him is simply because they don't think he will carry that greatness over to F1 and the lack of trust makes it obvious he isn't the next golden boy.

Apparently Enzo is a RB junior driver? Didn't know that but yeah it ain't going to be him either. Would be happy if he even got a chance at Haas for a season they will teams refuse to give rookies a chance.

Jak Crawford has a pretty unspectacular carting/racing record so there's that.

Isack Hadjar is still young but compared to most of the RB former talent pool again pretty uneventful.

Dennis Haugher looks okay but still compared to the achievements required to be golden boy probably not?

Ayumu Iwasa is apparently the most hyped? He has a good record from what I could find I guess? Stands out that he mostly switched between series so maybe that's more damaging to me.

For the little good, Formula experience he has and the regional titles he won I am surprised more people aren't considering him? To me he sticks out most from the F2 drivers but then again looking at talent pool we have had none of them truly feel like they are what RedBull saw in Max and Seb.

There also the F3 drivers of course so let's look at them. On a second thought let's not because really nothing stand out and you can barely find stuff.

For the F4 drivers you can truly not find any statistics so yeah.

Why did I make this long detour?

To show you that really RedBull doesn't have junior drivers they seem confident in or that have the promise their main stars, Seb and Max had. But even drivers like Pierre, Alex, Daniel showed overall more impressive or at least interesting records than most of the RB juniors.

In that regard getting Nyck makes sense. It doesn't make sense though considering that the possibility that Max leaves in the next 5-8 years is inevitable and there's no one they have who will stay long to carry teams leader. Perez will leave, Nyck was never supposed to be longer than maybe 2 or 3 years, Yuki probably will move to a midfield team and Alex likely will become a driver at another top team. They should have promoted a junior or even Liam up to see how they do. Give them 2-3 years at AT to see development while also getting a second junior after a year or 2 in that team so they can learn to develope as driver and team leader if they show potential.

Yet they went for Nyck, knowing the incredible shit AT is in and the unstable environment it would be + they already had no faith in him.

And before I see anyone suggesting Daniel: no. Yuki was bound to step up as team leader and supposed to try out the mentor role. That is what they wanted him to be. With Daniel that would have never worked out. + He made it very clear he wanted nothing below Alpine so of course they didn't consider him. He didn't make himself an option.

Anyway the long story short:

This entire line up was bound to fail and is undoubtedly the first of many steps that will lead to 90% of RedBull juniors being tossed aside without a chance. This is the first of many reactions to the fact that the RedBull will not promote their juniors, they will instead discard the problem and presumably get Norris once Max makes it clear that he isn't going to be racing much longer. There's no doubt in my mind none of the current RedBull juniors will never be considered an option and that the next RB golden boy will be someone of the current grid and not of the RB family.

[alexbkrieger13]

https://www.tumblr.com/alexbkrieger13/766433458215059456/httpswwwtumblrcomalexbkrieger137664237852514?source=share

Elin was out injured after the World Cup. It took her a while to play in Houston due to that injury.

We do have a tough competition in the national team. Asllani, Angeldahl, Bennison, Kafaji, Zigiotti and even Björn when she's called up as midfielder and not as a defender. We have talents coming through the ranks too.

What many people miss, is that the generational change is happening organically. While Peter doesn't care about age in any direction, he isn't holding on to older players just for the sake of it. Right now the core of Swewnt consist of U19 Euro winners in 2015 and 2012.

Rant of the day: this fixation with age and equation mark some people put between young players = good players are frustrating. According to that logic Luxembourg would've defeated Swewnt easily since their average is 21 and Swewnt's 27. Not to forget that Japan had a much younger team than us in the World Cup. Rant over.

yea since the seger dilemma we've had quite a gradual bringing in of young players over the last year. Like we've kept the main core of the squad but like the age average went from like 33 to 27 that's good for Sweden.

Definitely agree sometimes there is too much emphasis on young players to do everything when realistically you do need more experience in certain games situations

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] Source: ISL Hyderabad, November 30: Mohun Bagan Super Giant produced sparkling fireworks to light up the commencement of the festive week with a sublime 2-0 victory against hosts Hyderabad FC at the G. M. C. Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Gachibowli in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 tonight. The Mariners moved to the second place in the points table upon garnering 13 points from six games, behind top-placed Bengaluru FC (16) by only three points now. Hyderabad FC, on the other hand, who were seeking a second successive triumph, are now positioned 11th in the standings with four points from the six games they have played thus far. The Jose Molina-coached team rounded off this victory with utmost professionalism, bagging a goal each across both halves and diligently defending as per their plans to keep Hyderabad FC’s fast-paced attack at bay. The visitors capitalised the chances they created, demonstrating neat finishing and playing to their strengths to secure the three points. After a cagey start that comprised of defender Subhasish Bose getting booked in the 28th minute, the Kolkata-based club made their first headways into the game courtesy of a Manvir Singh strike in the 37th minute. The two sides were battling it out for possession in the centre of the park, before midfield dynamo Anirudh Thapa opted to unleash his creative genius by piercing open the Hyderabad FC backline with his crafty through ball. The delivery was launched towards Manvir, who was on his sprint already – fighting an incredible dilemma altogether. Before this goal, he had found the back of the net four times against Hyderabad FC, which is his highest such tally against any opponent in the league. However, the attacker had gone seven games without finding the back of the net against them too, and he snapped that streak by picking the ball with his feet, showing exemplary control to round it off goalkeeper Lalbiakhlua Jongte and slotting it home from the centre of the box to open the scoring for the game. Mohun Bagan Super Giant were a force to reckon in the attacking half and hence numerous opportunities were bound to come their way. It came in the form of a free-kick in the 55th minute; when up stepped attacking midfielder Greg Stewart, who curled the ball with the perfect pace inside the box, which was then met and hammered home by Bose to double their lead in the match. The Mariners resorted to consolidating their advantage thereafter, playing a rather safe game to see off the rest of the 40-odd minutes and walk back home with another critical win in their kitty. Key Performer of the Match Manvir Singh (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) Manvir completed 28 out of his 34 attempted passes tonight. He made one tackle, three interceptions, four crosses, and showed impeccable composure inside the box to strike the aforementioned goal. What’s next for both teams? Hyderabad FC will next play against Kerala Blasters FC on November 7, whereas Mohun Bagan Super Giant will be squaring off against Odisha FC on November 10. Brief Scores Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2 (Manvir Singh 37’, Subhasish Bose 55’) – 0 Hyderabad FC The post Mohun Bagan Super Giant sparkle with festive fireworks to secure 2-0 win over Hyderabad FC appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] Source: ISL Hyderabad, November 30: Mohun Bagan Super Giant produced sparkling fireworks to light up the commencement of the festive week with a sublime 2-0 victory against hosts Hyderabad FC at the G. M. C. Balayogi Athletic Stadium in Gachibowli in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 tonight. The Mariners moved to the second place in the points table upon garnering 13 points from six games, behind top-placed Bengaluru FC (16) by only three points now. Hyderabad FC, on the other hand, who were seeking a second successive triumph, are now positioned 11th in the standings with four points from the six games they have played thus far. The Jose Molina-coached team rounded off this victory with utmost professionalism, bagging a goal each across both halves and diligently defending as per their plans to keep Hyderabad FC’s fast-paced attack at bay. The visitors capitalised the chances they created, demonstrating neat finishing and playing to their strengths to secure the three points. After a cagey start that comprised of defender Subhasish Bose getting booked in the 28th minute, the Kolkata-based club made their first headways into the game courtesy of a Manvir Singh strike in the 37th minute. The two sides were battling it out for possession in the centre of the park, before midfield dynamo Anirudh Thapa opted to unleash his creative genius by piercing open the Hyderabad FC backline with his crafty through ball. The delivery was launched towards Manvir, who was on his sprint already – fighting an incredible dilemma altogether. Before this goal, he had found the back of the net four times against Hyderabad FC, which is his highest such tally against any opponent in the league. However, the attacker had gone seven games without finding the back of the net against them too, and he snapped that streak by picking the ball with his feet, showing exemplary control to round it off goalkeeper Lalbiakhlua Jongte and slotting it home from the centre of the box to open the scoring for the game. Mohun Bagan Super Giant were a force to reckon in the attacking half and hence numerous opportunities were bound to come their way. It came in the form of a free-kick in the 55th minute; when up stepped attacking midfielder Greg Stewart, who curled the ball with the perfect pace inside the box, which was then met and hammered home by Bose to double their lead in the match. The Mariners resorted to consolidating their advantage thereafter, playing a rather safe game to see off the rest of the 40-odd minutes and walk back home with another critical win in their kitty. Key Performer of the Match Manvir Singh (Mohun Bagan Super Giant) Manvir completed 28 out of his 34 attempted passes tonight. He made one tackle, three interceptions, four crosses, and showed impeccable composure inside the box to strike the aforementioned goal. What’s next for both teams? Hyderabad FC will next play against Kerala Blasters FC on November 7, whereas Mohun Bagan Super Giant will be squaring off against Odisha FC on November 10. Brief Scores Mohun Bagan Super Giant 2 (Manvir Singh 37’, Subhasish Bose 55’) – 0 Hyderabad FC The post Mohun Bagan Super Giant sparkle with festive fireworks to secure 2-0 win over Hyderabad FC appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[sa7abnews]

Exclusive: Hansi Flick’s plans with the Barcelona midfield once injured players return

New Post has been published on Sa7ab News

Exclusive: Hansi Flick’s plans with the Barcelona midfield once injured players return

Barcelona’s midfield dilemma is shaping up to be one of the most interesting challenges for Hansi Flick in the coming weeks.  As several key players, including Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong,…

... read more !

[douxlen]

Exclusive: Hansi Flick’s plans with the Barcelona midfield once injured players return

New Post has been published on Douxle News

Exclusive: Hansi Flick’s plans with the Barcelona midfield once injured players return

Barcelona’s midfield dilemma is shaping up to be one of the most interesting challenges for Hansi Flick in the coming weeks.  As several key players, including Dani Olmo, Frenkie de Jong,…

... read more !

[cebozcom]

West Ham's Tactical Dilemma: Ward-Prowse or Paqueta? | www.ceboz.com

A tactical analysis of West Ham's midfield options for the upcoming clash against Tottenham Hotspur.

[thebehindpost]

Season previews: Melbourne (6th)

Last season: 4th (16 wins, 7 losses, 125.2%), 5th after finals Notable ins: Jack Billings (St Kilda), Caleb Windsor (no. 7 draft pick), Tom Fullarton (Brisbane) Notable outs: Angus Brayshaw (retired), Brodie Grundy (Sydney), James Harmes (Western Bulldogs)

All eyes are on Melbourne in 2024. Take any one of the burning questions surrounding the Demons and it would be enough to fill the back (or front) page of the paper and keep talkback radio lines busy for a day. Add them all together and it means there is no more fascinating team heading into the season. With their backs against the wall, Melbourne could rediscover the form that led to success in 2021 and win a flag for the ages. Or under the weight of scandal and scrutiny, they could fall right apart and tumble out of the eight. Placing the Demons at 6th is having a bet each way but until we see if they can put the summer from Hell behind them and play some football, it's hard to take a bold stance in either direction.

What happens if Max Gawn gets injured? It would not be lost on Melbourne that we fret over who backs up the big man now, when less than 12 months ago debate raged over how they could possibly have Gawn and Grundy in the same team. The Grundy experiment failed: he finished last season playing for Casey and will start the new one with Sydney. The dilemma is that Gawn is at his best when he rucks solo and if he is playing, only needs pinch-hitters that can perform other duties. A quality ruckman recruited to wait in the wings would be no happier playing in the VFL than Grundy was, so the best they could get last trade period was Fullarton (19 games in five years). Grundy may not have been the solution the rest of the season but Melbourne sure seemed happy to have him when Gawn went down with a knee injury last year. The Dees won three of the four games he missed. Will their on-ball division fare so well this time using a ruckman cobbled together from spare parts?

Can the Demons fix their forwardline woes? They are the complete package down back and through the middle but goals were simply too hard to come by in 2023. They kicked just sixteen goals across both finals and lost those games by a combined nine points. The ball use going inside 50 was haphazard, sent to the boundary in areas not dangerous to the opposition or bombed over the heads of their forwards. A powerful key forward would help but plenty of teams have found goals by using system to overcome a lack of personnel. The positive is that Melbourne have spent an off-season clear on what they have to work with and what they do not, so should come in with a better plan of attack.

Where is Clayon Oliver's football at? Oliver's career had been near-flawless right up until the moment he suffered a hamstring in round 10, 2023. Probably the best pure midfielder in the game, his CV at 26 already contains four best and fairests, three All-Australian selections, two AFLCA Player of the Year awards and a premiership medallion. He was on track for a Brownlow medal and had probably only been denied one already by sharing votes with Gawn and Christian Petracca. If personal issues had at all been a factor for Oliver prior to last year, it had been impossible to tell on the field. The last six months though have been shaped by concerns over fitness, innuendo around "lifestyle choices" and mental health, briefly finding himself on the trade table and then spending most of the summer training away from the main group… all before his seven-year multi-million dollar deal even officially started. Reports are that Oliver is now back in the fold and available for Opening Round, which is a positive for both club and player. They badly need his brilliant best and he needs the distraction football brings, as it was only when injury took that away that the rest of his world started to fall apart.

Is there a drug culture at Melbourne? The answer at times feels like a version of the Narcissist's Prayer: "No there isn't. And if there is, it's not that bad. And if it is, it's not a big deal. And if it is, that's society's fault. Oh and by the way, every other club has one too." The coach, Simon Goodwin, says there isn't one but will admit to challenges. Their captain's proof there isn’t was hair-testing reports he has probably never seen, bringing to mind Sergeant Schultz. And CEO Gary Pert says that this side has the best culture he's ever seen in football (not the highest bar given Pert's previous role was at Collingwood during the hard-partying 'Rat Park' era and the period of time captured in the 'Do Better' report). They may well all be right. But the facts are that Melbourne are the only club with a player stupid enough to test positive to cocaine on game day then be found with text messages on his phone asking an unspecified number of teammates if they'd like to buy drugs from him. As for the coach himself, it is hard to recall a figure in football that's had to deny as many rumours of illicit drug use as he. Many are just fictions spread on social media but at least one source is Glenn Bartlett, their former president. Bartlett has an axe to grind with the club but it's hard to believe he would simply invent tales of such nature.

Winning papers over a lot of cracks and the Demons would love to start the season strongly to quiet the noise. But they are close to breaking point and cannot afford any more negative headlines. Melbourne will be praying for no further damaging revelations to emerge from Joel Smith's case at SIA, Oliver to keep his head down and some early wins (they have a tricky opening schedule with Sydney, Port Adelaide and Adelaide away and easier-beats Hawthorn and Bulldogs at home). Despite the public denials, one hopes that Melbourne take issues with their culture more seriously internally. If heads stay in the sand there much longer, then heads will roll.

[ghanashowbizonline]

Sports Today - Who should solve England’s defensive midfield dilemma?

Ghana Sports Today; bringing you all trending sports news as it happens. Get daily comprehensive summary of the recent sports – football news that have rocked the online scene. Check out the news below. Gareth Southgate faces a major decision on his midfield this summer, as England head to the European Championship as one of the favourites for success. Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham are…

[jfbuckley]

A most disappointing result, but I would have thought that many football pundits would not have been surprised - such are the depths that United have sunk to these days.

The loud booing that accompanied the substitution of Hojlund with Martial attracted the attention of the pundits. It was taken as a show of dissatisfaction with Ten Hag. I disagree somewhat, I think it was more an expression of frustration that Martial is still here. He’s become a prime target because of his perceived laziness. However, like it or not, the manager had little choice because he needs Hojlund to be fit for the next match, and Martial is the only striker left to replace him.

As for Ten Hag and Sancho. It wasn’t very diplomatic of Ten Hag to publicly pick out Sancho for lack of effort in training, even if true. Such matters should be kept behind closed doors. I hope he’s learned his lesson and that it won’t happen again. However, two wrongs don’t make a right, and Sancho was completely wrong to blast off as he did, and I don’t think he should play for the club again.

Anyway, my football correspondent was at the match to witness the debacle:

hi - united resumed their season after an irritating international break - they'd played 4 games - 2 wins against inferior opposition - 2 defeats in London against better opposition - Brighton have beaten united in the last 3 league meetings so united looked to have a tough task

it has been a quiet NOT break for manager ten Hag - sancho has been exiled due to a 'disciplinary issue' - apparently it is ok for a manager to criticise a player in public but not for the player to respond in kind - there is probably more to this than meets my eye

antony also was absent - some ex girlfriends have gone public with some complaints - he denies it and has been allowed time off to clear his name -

in a similar vein mason greenwood is now playing in spain - with amad injured and both pellestri and garnacho not trusted to start ten hag had a few selection dilemmas - also absent were varane, shaw, mount, malacia, mainoo and amrabat

united started vigorously in front of a noisy supportive crowd - brighton defended stoutly - after 20 minutes the storm faded as brighton got to grips with united's diamond formation - welbeck exchanged passes with adringra and ambled into the box - no one picked him up and welbeck sidefooted the cross for 1 - 0

there was a period when brighton played keep ball - when united had possession rashford was the main threat - he had an effort deflected onto the post - sometimes he shot when he ought to have passed and vice versa - on 40 minutes he did the right thing by getting to the by line and crossing for hojlund to score a debut equaliser - i was behind the goal and i was fearful that rashford had let the ball run out of play - VAR confirmed my fears and the goal was ruled out

managers go on about small margins - well an inch or so had again denied united a goal (remember garnacho's 'winner' at arsenal)

8 minutes into the 2nd half brighton worked the ball down the united right and rolled the ball across the area - gro'B' arrived at same time as martinez went to clear - gro'B' sold martinez a dummy leaving the defender on his backside - a low drive and it was 2 - 0

on the hour it was 'martial time' - normally he goes off but being a sub he came on - he replaced hojlund to a storm of booing - i judged this to be a reaction to hojlund's departure - usually when 2 down you don't take off your main striker but there is a bigger picture at play - hojlund has been injured, missed pre season and needs careful handling - we've signed him for 5 or 6 seasons not a few games - the boo boys should remember that

on 71 minutes another brighton attack, another ball pulled back to a midfield runner, another goal conceded by united - this signalled a mass exit by many a disgruntled fan - they missed a fine debut goal by sub hannibal (that's what united call him but bbc think it is mejbri - bit like cricketer wasim akram i suppose)

brighton competently managed the rest of the game and might have scored again but onana made a few good saves - by the end the noisy supportive crowd had dwindled to a few diehards

so united lie 13th in the table and at this early stage are well off the pace - manager ten hag is going to find out how tough it is being a united boss when results go against them - he has a few issues to resolve - onana doesn't look an upgrade on de gea, the defence is leaking 2 goals a game on average, the midfield isn't right often leaving casemiro isolated and no one is tracking opposition runners whilst up front rashford's decision making is questionable

next up is a trip to harry kane's bayern munich in the champions league - i'd expect a loss - united can recover from that in the other group matches - what would be more concerning is if united fail to get a positive result in next saturday nights match at burnley

bye

[soccerdailyuk]

Arsenal star Takehiro Tomiyasu willing to play anywhere to force way into Arteta’s plans

 Arsenal star Takehiro Tomiyasu willing to play anywhere to force way into Arteta’s plans Arsenal's defender, Takehiro Tomiyasu, has expressed his willingness to play in any defensive position as long as it guarantees him regular playing time.  Despite losing his starting spot at right-back to Ben White last season and facing fitness issues, the Japanese international is now back in action.  During the Gunners' pre-season tour of the United States, he has featured in both games, taking up roles at right centre-back, left centre-back, and left-back, despite being primarily a right-back.  However, Tomiyasu doesn't mind this positional versatility as long as it secures him a spot in manager Mikel Arteta's plans. “For me, it’s the same thing,” the Arsenal man told Football.London when asked if being played in many positions is a concern. “I just want to be on the pitch. I want to play as much as I can and help the team. Which position, I don’t care. “I haven’t spoken to the manager about it, I don’t know. I just want to help the team.” Next season, Tomiyasu will face competition not only from Ben White but also from the newly signed Jurrien Timber, who is expected to be the preferred choice due to his attacking abilities.  Moreover, Tomiyasu will also have to contend with other players in different defensive positions, such as Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kieran Tierney, and Jakub Kiwior at left-back, and William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, White, and Timber as options for centre-back. Despite the challenging competition, Tomiyasu is likely to be confident in his abilities, and this presents a positive dilemma for manager Mikel Arteta.  Arsenal's defense conceded 43 goals in the previous season, with only Manchester City and Newcastle United conceding fewer. However, Arteta aims to achieve a similar defensive record to Manchester City's ten goals less than Arsenal. To bolster the defense, the addition of Declan Rice in the midfield should provide much-needed steel and protection.  Overall, the competition for places in the team is expected to keep Tomiyasu and his teammates motivated to perform at their best and improve the team's defensive performance for a stronger challenge next season.  Arsenal star Takehiro Tomiyasu willing to play anywhere to force way into Arteta’s plans Read the full article

[dailyrugbytoday]

Six Nations Rugby: Scotland stunning win over England at Twickenham

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The Daily Rugby

https://thedailyrugby.com/six-nations-scotland-stunning-win-over-england/

Six Nations Rugby: Scotland stunning win over England at Twickenham

Six Nations Rugby Scotland got their campaign off to a stunning start with a third successive win over England in a superb match at Twickenham.

Duhan van der Merwe, having already scored a spectacular solo try in the first half, finished off a multi-phase team move in the 75th minute to take home a deserved 29-23 victory. The challenge for the Scots, as it was last year, is following up that success with victory over Wales in their next game.

They have not won their first two matches since 1996, when the tournament was the Five Nations, but this time they face Wales at Murrayfield rather than in Cardiff.

Six Nations Scotland back up stunning win over England?

France amplify their winning run – simply, Ireland damage Warren Gatland’s return and Scotland entire the Calcutta Cup hat-trick against their oldest rivals England. The opening weekend of the 2023 Six Nations had the whole lot from stunning solo tries to exciting comebacks.

So what are the key speaking points from the opening spherical of the opposition?

Scotland are one of a kind this yr, I assume they may win” said former Wales captain Sam Warburton at the BBC’s Rugby Union Daily. “They do not get bullied any greater. They could be so disillusioned if they do not win three video games this championship but they have to be aiming for four.

John Barclay, former Scotland captain, delivered: “I am now not saying they may win the championship however this organization has beneath-introduced and to go two from two might be a big step within the right course.

There’s a developing maturity and all of the speak popping out of the camp is they have to win once more subsequent weekend.

England show signs of recovery but lots to work

England were booed off at Six Nations Twickenham when they have been quite simply crushed through international champions South Africa in Eddie Jones’ very last game in price in November.

But new head educate Steve Borthwick’s side confirmed sufficient suggestions of higher matters to return no matter the defeat. Max Malins inspired with his first international attempts while Ellis Genge carried, rucked and scrummaged tirelessly before powering over for England’s third.

They perhaps lacked the clinical edge of Van der Merwe, with Finn Russell pulling the strings from midfield, and could want to enhance their defence after conceding 4 tries.

There’s plenty to paintings on, with possibly the biggest dilemma for Borthwick being whether or not to stick with gambling both Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell, or to just play one of the two and bring in a ball-sporting centre.

“I do not assume they’re the purpose England misplaced,” stated former England wing Ugo Monye. “The internet capacity and the increase when they get related is astronomical, so I’m seeking to study it in a fantastic experience.

“Fundamentally they observe the sport and play it otherwise, however how can they get that experience of concord to deliver out the best in each person else?

“It is a conundrum. They are two global-elegance players and you are no longer seeing them fulfil their capability.”

Dynamic Italy to bring their attacking game to Twickenham

Italy may additionally have won the undesirable Wooden Spoon – given to the side that finishes bottom in the match Six Nations- within the remaining seven years, but their new attacking ambition has to be admired.

Sometimes it’s miles to their detriment, as they attempted to transport the ball huge from deep interior their own 22 in opposition to France and often spilled it forward as they tried to dump.

But their style brought about a primary win over Australia remaining autumn and in returned Ange Capuozzo they’ve a finisher to in shape their endeavour.

Expect flair rugby at Twickenham on Sunday with both sides trying to illustrate their dynamism in assault.

“Italy will fancy their possibilities wherever they cross,” said Monye. “They play with such freedom and have a bounce from 2022. This is a huge step within the proper path.

More News :: Welsh rugby in turmoil as Scotland await