This is still a long term fix for Jürgen, so trying to be realistic about this. We don't have tonnes of goals in us at the moment so if we're to get three points here today I think a clean sheet is very important. We've seen improvements in the defence already but we still have those moments of madness. Sakho is a man reborn but Skrtel needs to step up. Clyne is well rounded but Moreno needs to improve on his defensive game. Can in midfield gives us the engine and support for the lads at the back and Lucas beside him keeps it tidy, and limits the balls that get into the final third.
After that it's as simple as banging in a few goals. That simple... Benteke, Origi, Coutinho, Milner, Lallana, Ibe and Firmino all need to start contributing in the goals department. If we're to go with one up top it has to be Benteke (provided he's fit enough). Origi has been thrown in at the deep end, and although he is not horrendous, he's not confident/natural enough at goal scoring at this moment. Southampton are well drilled so chances won't be easy to come by, we need to take the ones we do get. Bournemouth in mid-week may suit Origi better to start.
In the support roles, Coutinho has been poor, Firmino has been hampered by injury and adaptation to the english game. Ibe has suffered an understandable dip in form and confidence and Lallana, although he has not been playing badly, is just not clinical right now. Milner has been hit and miss but not a stick to beat him with, who in our squad hasn't been!
If we're going with one up top today I would go with Benteke with Milner, Lallana and Ibe behind him. It won't be pretty but it's a work man like attack that will be direct and aggressive.
The cautious optimist in me says 2-0. Benteke and Lallana. Take the first step today lads!
Come On You Redmen!!!
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