Phil Jagielka

[bluestevon]

Jags read the game well - Holgate had a great game as did Mori the three at the back worked well - Holgate looked the most alert what worries me is when Williams comes in will Holgate drop out and we lose that pace?

Maybe holgate will go where McCarthy played?

 

[davek]

That's a fair point mate. Most managers do have a preferred system. I think Koeman is unique as what differentiates him is his tactical flexibility.

I also suspect with our defensive frailties we will use 3 at the back as quite a stock option this season. I don't think Baines or Coleman are defensively solid enough for Koeman. I don't think he trusts our wingers to player wife players in front of a back 4. I also suspect he feels Lukaku isn't fit enough to play up front alone.

This can be solved longer term with major surgery but helped shorter term by a formation change.

This doesn't mean Jagielka stays. I thought he was good yesterday. However so was Mori. I think after last season I would not object to any player being sold.

That could well be. But here's the germane point that goes back to the origins of this debate kicked up over three at the back: if he does wish to be flexible and go with three it doesn't necessarily mean they're three lumbering CBs. It can be two CBs and a DM or FB who drops in there. Isn't that what he preferred to do at Southampton with Bertrand making up the numbers in a three?

Dragging the whole debate back to the beginning: that means that Kone/AN Other (if they arrive) + Funes Mori + Williams (+Holgate if required) would be more than enough to play both systems and Jagielka is surplus.

 

[mkrudden]

Boss.

 

[Toffeelover]

That could well be. But here's the germane point that goes back to the origins of this debate kicked up over three at the back: if he does wish to be flexible and go with three it doesn't necessarily mean they're three lumbering CBs. It can be two CBs and a DM or FB who drops in there. Isn't that what he preferred to do at Southampton with Bertrand making up the numbers in a three?

Dragging the whole debate back to the beginning: that means that Kone/AN Other (if they arrive) + Funes Mori + Williams (+Holgate if required) would be more than enough to play both systems and Jagielka is surplus.

If and it is a big IF, Kone and or A N Other comes in. Not looking at all on ATM about 40% IMO. In which event jags is staying. IF only our dearly beloved ex manager would play ball.

 

[LinekersLegs]

 

[Saint Domingo]

Still class. Refuses to be written off.

 

[germanblue]

Happy birthday, my skipper. Hopefully some more years with you, so my son Phil could see his Dad's favourite all time player.

 

[Caolam]

If Jags is part of Koeman's plans and is going to play a fair percentage of games this year then of course he should stay. However if he is not we shouldn't hang on to a player of his stature just as cover. He has served our club well and deserves some respect. If he is going to get a game for us fine, if not let him go somewhere where he will play.

 

[mkrudden]

How many times does he have to play like this to prove himself?
Stopping that counter attack was absolutely awesome. Led Holgate through the game. Gave Baines a rinsing in for being caught napping.

Absolutely brilliant.

 

[snipellis11]

Great again today, what a player he has been for us, so underrated.

 

[Tennessee Blue Mike]

Quietly steadfast. Glad he is still on his game. All business.

 

[MurphyEFC]

Brilliant again today, underrated by a lot of people

 

[nsno-chris]

A fantastic defender

 

[germanblue]

I'm so in love! What a fantastic defender. His block for the counter attack in the last minute was absolute boss. Jags is still the man

 

[Chimpy Glassman]

Two of the best players lost 2-0... HA. Oh you got me sinigin' the blues...