The question is what different midfield selections we're using. If we go as far in the CL as last season, our players are looking at up to 60 odd fixtures this season, plus international duty.
Based on history Partey's good for at most half that, and if things go like 23–24, he's good for a quarter. His performances are poorer returning from injury layoffs, and his performances decline if he plays a lot.
Get Merino and we have a fair bit more strength in depth. Biggest drop is if Øde goes out—and that's where Nwaneri needs minutes and experience.
