I was wondering whether it was just my perception because hid been watching Gross's runs from full back all match. But he ge uinely looked like he had a zip in his step. Wonder if he just needed and extended recuperation. He was playing outside that Amari (?) Character when he came on who's now...
It may have just been my perception but he seemed quick and zippy when he came on. Also big warm hug and smiles all round from De Zerbi when he came on. There clearly had an 'I want you here' chat.
Not much to learn from the end last night really. A load of kids out of position just getting an experience. They'll probably learn from it individually as part of their career progression but I can't see much the first team can learn from that.
It shows you how difficult our style of play is and how good our first team is. It's hard for those kids to do the same thing and keep trying it when they're struggling. They've got to learn it. The first team make it look so easy you forget how hard it is.
We seem to be developing a dual identity.
This is our 'control the game' team.
The starting team against Bournemouth was our 'hit quick with eviscerating pace' team.
This one feels very slow and precise in comparison.