Precisely. We could’ve started with Mosquera at right back and Timber at left back if we REALLY wanted to be defensive. But we didn’t.
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We could have played 11 defenders if we REALLY wanted to be defensive. But we didn't. Just because there were more defensive options available doesn't mean the key selection decisions (at 10 and to an extent on the left) were conservative.
sep 2, 2025, 11:49 am • 0 0 • view
Martinelli wasn’t selected for his defensive contributions but to offer pace in behind a makeshift right back. The fact he also offers defensive stability isn’t the crucial factor here. I wanted him picked as our quickest player behind full backs who bomb on.
sep 2, 2025, 11:50 am • 1 0 • view
I also believe that Martinelli usually has his odd good game against Pool. A few of my pool friends said that as well. But he didn’t seem to have his good odd performance that day either. So I think that was a factor into him starting too.
sep 2, 2025, 12:18 pm • 1 0 • view
Funnily enough our two goalscorers at Anfield last season were Martinelli and Merino, the two players everyone is complaining Mikel selected. Might also have been part of the thinking for picking them.
sep 2, 2025, 12:22 pm • 1 0 • view