25 Feb 2024 14:48:37
I'm hoping for/ expecting a large dose of pragmatism on Wednesday night from DF. This team hasn't got anything to prove to anyone - and the players don't need the 'experience' of playing at Stamford Bridge! The HT and Stoke games are far more important. Rutter said post match on Friday that he was tired and CS was subdued during the game. Gray's physicality and resilience is extraordinary for his age but he surely needs a rest at some point? We don't want either Rodon or Ampadu getting injured. Joseph and Geldhart need game time, ditto Anthony and Bamford seems keen to get his sharpness back. I'd even be tempted to give Creswell a run out.
25 Feb 2024 15:19:33
Na go for it I say, 3 games away from a final.
25 Feb 2024 15:32:05
Everything you say except BamFord. He is one of the last people we need getting a knock. Gray in place of Gio, Roberts to start. Cressy and Coops at the back too.
25 Feb 2024 15:45:27
With Manston on this. Focus on the league. We've played many games recently. Tiredness inevitable but can be cured with a bit of rest. Start with Roberts, Baby, Anthony, Piroe and Joseph. Bring on the big guns after 65 minutes.
25 Feb 2024 16:21:57
It’s a fine line isn’t it, we are in such a good position in the league we don’t want injuries and fatigue to be a problem but equally we want to keep momentum and winning mentality . I think for me I would certainly give Rutter, summerville, Rodon and Ampadu the night off .
25 Feb 2024 16:27:37
Unfortunately I believe Roberts is cup tied. And I hear what you say Bright - but I think Bamford is keen to play to get his sharpness back - so he needs some time on the pitch. That said - Piroe clearly needs game time for the same reason!
25 Feb 2024 17:02:55
I think we should just ask the FA if we can forfeit the game! ??♂️.
25 Feb 2024 17:11:04
Great idea Danum! Start a petition quickly! I will sign immediately! ??.
25 Feb 2024 17:14:36
Firpo definitely to start, pitch him up against PL attackers. It'll be a good barometer to see if he has actually improved this season or not.
25 Feb 2024 17:15:04
Professor footballers getting tired at playing 90+ minutes a game, regardless that it my be 3 times over several days a week. try working 8 hours + a day.
25 Feb 2024 17:45:49
100% agree with doug and Mezz. Have a go. We get to the 5th round of the F. A cup and some want to give it up and some want to put out an under strength side and get hammered. Someone can get injured in any league game. Anyway Chelsea will be knackered after today’s league cup final. Keep the winning run going.
25 Feb 2024 17:56:45
I was being sarcastic, by the way! ?.
25 Feb 2024 17:57:00
Roberts not cup tied.
25 Feb 2024 18:08:49
Not sure bright is though! Manston you said this team has nothing to prove to anyone. Yes it has. We haven’t won anything yet or got promoted yet, so it has plenty to prove.
25 Feb 2024 19:42:48
Play the kids. Worked for Liverpool.
25 Feb 2024 20:14:51
You lot need to wash your mouth out son, you know the rest lol. Come on let's go for it, he who dares Rodney.
25 Feb 2024 20:28:58
Totally and utterly tongue in cheek Clarke and Jones!
25 Feb 2024 20:39:59
Roberts only couldn't play replay in last round as he was signed after 1st game. He should be available and should get the start.
25 Feb 2024 20:50:46
Pragmatism my arse, I don’t respect Chelsea at all, let’s see what they have to offer.