We had already qualified for the next stage of the Europa League and numerous key players were left at home. For me there was a clear sign of what the game was to be used for.
Soldado was put in the team to score goals and boost his confidence. A team just relegated from the Norwegian top league could not have provided a better platform for a striker lacking goals (I think it would be equivalent to playing a Div 1 side).
The whole reason Soldado was not rested was to be supplied enough chances that he would get a goal. Surprise surprise some players had other idea's.
There is a clear split in our team and it was Sigurdsson that stood out the worst last night. There were clear chances for Sigurdsson to cross the ball in for Soldado only for him to turn his back on his team mate and then play a ball backwards or square. Then when a clear channel was presented to Sigurdsson to play the easy square ball for Soldado to slot into an open net he selfishly went for goal.
What is being highlighted is that the players do not trust that Soldado will do anything with the ball! How any of our players have come up with this conclusion is absolute insanity. A highly decorated striker that had scored no less than 20 goals a season for the past 4 years is not someone that I would doubt.
The next thing to point out though is whether AVB is allowing this to happen or if the players are doing their own thing on the pitch. Either AVB has lost the dressing room or is oblivious to his players immaturity, both of which are dangerous positions to be in.
It is one thing or another as it is plain for us all to see.
Did anyone notice that again our left back was the only figure getting in the crosses! How is that even possible? I am not sure who was actually asked to play left midfield last night as there was not anyone there, but who ever it was should be dropped.
Whatever needs to be done must be done fast. We cannot allow this continue. Soldado should now be dropped and we must begin to build him up. His frustration and lack of confidence will result in stupid challenges (as Soldado is known for this in times of frustration). Also players that are the culprits of the constant second guessing should also be dropped.
We are supposed to be a team not a bunch of individuals that just so happen to be wearing the same shirt as 10 other players!
AVB sort this out, you are supposed to be the manager, so manage these infantile poor excuse for players. Again those who refuse to be part of a team you know where the exit is and it will swiftly be followed by my boot!
COYS!!!!
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