You could probably count on one hand how many matches Sambi & Saul have started together. So it’s refreshing to see some good passing range in our midfield, combined with an energetic frontline, and a wildcard in Juanlu to hopefully see Sevilla take the game to the hosts. The backline sees the return of Nyland, as well as Marcao in a starting role. It’s not the end of Montiel’s tenure either as he slots in at RB.
It’s a steady starting XI to go into a cup match, not to mention an Andalusian derby. The team’s had a better showing of late in terms of performance. As long as the players don’t get too overwhelmed by the atmosphere, we should be able to secure a berth in the next round.
I can’t think of anyone to blame really but Pimenta. If you see your fullbacks constantly getting torched (Salas) and the other with no interest in marking, it would make sense to make changes before he did. Anyway, it was nice to hang out with @RyanMoore and his lovely family!
Now we can concentrate on the league only and saving our asses?
Personally, I’m glad we’re out of the cup, it’s a distraction, it’s more tiredness for the regulars and it’s more injuries.
Sevilla started well, ball recovery in midfield was total and then it just slowly disappeared to nothing. Kike Salas made terrible clearances and errors of judgement, placement and timing, an absolute nightmare for him.
Also, I’m not persuaded by the managers substitution choices.
Losing Ejuke was a massive blow for this season but shouldn’t he be back soon, hamstring with conservative treatment should be 6-8 weeks, I know this was a hamstring XL injury but he should be moving around by now.
