Willock and Nelson - still the best thing about yesterday is that they started. It's a huge step, and if they're to make a serious contribution this year they will both need to develop in many ways. I was happier with Nelson, BTW, as Joe to me only played well in the first 30 mins, while Reiss was growing into the game, and though it didn't quite go well - he kept trying hard, which is a step forward.
Defense - yeah, well, it was Newcastle. there certainly are positives, I agree, but imagine this team playing pool or city. This time Joelinton turned and ran through them to shoot freely would have happened 10 times during the game, and we'd have suffered badly. A point in that regard - Torreira is way more switched on in helping D in such incidents.
AMN - what can you say? doesn't fit easy categories, and the rule on him (in a way befitting his game, and perhaps personality) could easily swing. Brain moments which you simply can't be sure will disappear with experience - and an amazing, undeniable talent on the other hand. Terrible start and last minutes yesterday, amazing in between (still enough to be my MOTM, ahead of Auba and Chambers). Bottom line: I love the kid, though I know there will be times I'd feel like screaming (last week's own goal: did it make a difference?)
Leno is class. We should pray he's never injured.
WTF was the story with no yellows for Newcastle? it felt like they could ride a bike with knives toward our players and still get away with it.
Xhaka and Miki were better than their usual self (Miki in the second). But while I can take Xhaka (squad), I just can't stand the sight of Miki.
Ceballos was poor (yes. He was), but I'm not worried. He has to start. ATM our worry is midfield, and I expect him to be the answer.
Don't know if that was discussed here: how stubborn is the boss with playing that stupid, transparent drill from the back?
I appreciate it's part of his philosophy, but - some common sense! two guys lurking on the edge of the box, everybody know exactly what is about to happen, and still Leno has to pass to Sokratis.... we're 1:0 up! that just looked so ridiculous, I couldn't believe we persisted. It really was a relief when he just kicked the last 2 or three. Too rigid, never a good idea.
