Loved it! Thought the shape was interesting with a back 3 in possession (two different versions of it, Porro inverting and Bentancur dropping in) and to the point mentioned above, Udogie on the left helps as he was often taking up an advanced position high on the left, almost on the same line as Johnson on the right, and sharing that with Odobert.
And then the intention, the passing forwards, the half turn; the tempo, it was all there. Even when down to ten, the players had the confidence and / or the conviction and clarity to attack the spaces and get more goals. They were making runs they were just not close to making against Chelsea.
I think they felt liberated, which is why I go back to thinking a large part of the struggle before this game was confidence and players internalising and over rotating on a cautious message that has come from Frank. But I am sure the discussions since Chelsea were clarifying, I think the players know that they can try more offensive movements within Frank’s system, and I would also want Frank to trust the players more.
The interesting thing for me is this phased approach that Frank talks about. He’s always talking about adding layers, starting with a solid foundation, making sure we are solid first. I get it, and it seems logical, but I do wonder if he’s spent too much time emphasising it and didn’t move on to another phase quickly enough for the capability of the squad. I think the players believe they can do more. And the proof will be in the coming games. Can we attack the spaces that open up against United, even if we play a more reactive game than against Copenhagen? If so I’ll be happy. Ditto if we can play out when they press us, maybe by innovating between a back 3 and 4 depending on what solutions we need to find.
