21 Aug 2021 18:12:09
This was always going to be a tough fixture with Benitez at the helm, however a point is a good one. Our defending is not good, Cooper can always bring something to the table, at times, but I’ll be happier with a fit Llorente in his place.
21 Aug 2021 18:37:15
Hmmm yes a refreshingly well balanced post from OP
I 100 % concur with you OP re Llorente replacing Cooper in starting 11 : it is also vital that LLorente plays vast majority of the season he is our best defender by far
Cooper should NOT really ever be in our first 11 when two of Llorente, Koch or Struick are available to play but will Bielsa do so
if so then KP ( or Ayling) to be team captain.
21 Aug 2021 19:03:15
I will take that as a good point after falling twice behind, and the bit of negativity around after last week. Got to give Llorente and Koch a go at the back for me, plus another good signing wouldn't go a miss, but I feel a lot better now we have a point on the board. Hopefully we can get a win next week although it will be tough, then an International Break before Liverpool. UTW.
21 Aug 2021 20:05:11
Liam Cooper playing and captain in the premiere league! NEED I SAY MORE!
21 Aug 2021 20:54:03
Gotta say that having spent the money, then surely the plan was always Llorente and Koch as first choices. I can’t wait to see them have a long run together. Coops, for all his failings, did have a very good season last year, and Pasc is definitely a future star.
21 Aug 2021 20:56:33
Bielsa is too loyal Cooper is captain can't see him dropping him unless he gets injured or as 6/ 7 stinkers that will cost us.
21 Aug 2021 21:50:58
I’d have Cooper above Pascal at this current time.
21 Aug 2021 23:33:28
Not me Cork, Cooper is far too reliant in holding etc and always has been. Struijk is stronger and a better header.
Coopers only saving grace is his supposed communication. Can't say it stood out to me with no crowds (ayling seemed far more vocal to me) and with crowds we'd never know.
22 Aug 2021 01:15:43
Agree. Struik is not as good as cooper.
22 Aug 2021 01:25:41
Be good to see how Llorente and Koch play together and I 2nd Phillips for captain.