Happy the midfield is theoretically solid, disappointed that Wirtz doesn’t start in front three. Mo has to deliver, last chance before he goes to AFCON as far as I am concerned, or else he can ride the bench. I am hoping he doesn’t spend the entire time crossing rather than actually trying to take people on.
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That what my missus always tells me anyway.
I’ve started calling it my Tardis…
It’s actually bigger than it appears to be 
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I have a good feeling about this one 
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Two keepers on the bench is Slot taking the piss.
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In his pre-match presser, he did mention about Villa playing a more possession based game rather than low blocks and long balls on the break. I suppose the other thing is that we play Madrid in the week.
I expect that the substitutions will be telling.
Not sure why we dropped Wirtz midweek if he isn’t starting.
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Baffled at putting Wirtz on the bench. I do not understand at all.
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U21s played earlier today so I assume it’s related to that, however when Klopp used to do it, it was related to a late decision.
Wonder if Ramsay was earmarked and went down injured as he seems the obvious name.
Who else would you have preferred to see? A defender that’s played once in 3 years for us? Kaide Gordon?
Mac starting is just as baffling. He was shocking midweek to add to his shocking collection of displays this season
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slot really is under the microscope now, and every decision and every lineup will be forensically scrutinised and debated. Welcome to the doghouse of the PL, Mr Slot.
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I don’t think anyone understands this. I also don’t know if any other manager in our situation would do without a player like Wirtz. Well, let’s see if we can discern a plan behind all this.
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I think that when discussing the midfielders, the coach is hoping to replicate last year’s stability. It’s just human nature. When facing difficulties, it is common to revert to strategies that were previously effective. even though it has not worked with macca this season
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Playing Mac Allister (who did play midweek) torpedoes my ‘get all the first team lads in dedicated training for a week’ theory.
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Hello @Livvy …do you have any links please 
Sometimes unconfirmed theories unfortunately turn out to be wishful thinking, I was hoping it would be different as well, but… maybe it’ll work next time. Thanks for trying, though. 
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But which haven’t worked this year.
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For the old midfield to work and reverting to the tried and tested, it also included Diaz and Trent which we don’t have now. Additionally MacAllister in last few games hasn’t been playing as a midfielder but further forward in a role that Wirtz would excel. Really surprised with this selection. But if it gets us the 3 points and improvement in performance, I’ll take it. Fingers crossed it works 
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You mention defensive intensity, then why does Mo start?
It’s Aston Villa. Should be seen as a victory but …