I expect Kelleher in goal, back to “his” competition.
We’re in a hectic schedule so there’s enough games for Alisson to gain rhythm. Plus, he looked good so far anyway, I don’t think he needs this game.
In defence we’ll see what we can do, but I think we’ll start with all senior players. Potentially rest someone in the second half. Maybe Nallo or Norris to come on.
Mac is certain in midfield after resting for two successive games (plus Jones getting a knock in the last one) and in that case, we can have Endo alongside him.
We’ll see if Morton is back to provide some minutes off the bench if needed.
Hopefully we have no problems if it’s Quansah at RCB and Endo at RCM, with potentially another change at RW.
Up top it could be either Nunez or Jota from the start. Elliott will surely start, only depends where, at RW or #10.
So there will be a few changes, but certain situations (like Mac and Jota) will allow us to have some key players to provide us quality and balance.
I’ll be up at 7am despite not really giving a shit. Mind you if it’s 1-1 at 80 mins I’ll definitely be caring.
The contradictory world of the football fan
It’s not horrible, this is the definition of a tin pot cup. We have far bigger fish to fry this season, and we could potentially fuck it up for a bastard Carabao Cup.
I don’t think there’s another fanbase on the planet that stresses about fatigue and burn-out as much as we do. I’m as guilty as the next man.
However, providing we haven’t picked up any injuries since Saturday (possibly Robbo) we will only be missing the 3 defenders by Sunday and I don’t think Tsimikas is too far away.
Our fixture list is kind over Chrimbo and New Year and we have an easy FA Cup draw, plus we wont be playing the 2 extra CL matches.
I’d certainly be mixing things up if we reach the Carabao semi-final but I don’t see any reason why we can’t have a good go at it. Injuries at the time will be crucial though.
And let’s be honest, these games are the perfect opportunity for those on the fringes to get themselves some good playing time, not to mention the opportunity for the likes of Jota and Chiesa to ease back into playing.
EDIT: Seen from elsewhere (didn’t watch the press conference myself), Jota didn’t train, will not start but may be involved. Chiesa can’t play full 90 because he’s been out for so long, but if he trains well today he will get minutes.
I like the Carabao cup for this reason. Enjoy seeing the young players get a run out. I don’t see this as not giving it a go. We won the thing with the kids last year!
