Whataloadofballacks

Same. I also wasn't a critic of Sarri. I have been desperate since the early Abramovich days for us to stick with a manager and give them a proper chance (and I think, in the board's defence, they have wanted the same thing and their hand has been forced to some extent). I don't think the praise is OTT for Lampard. I think it has been pretty balanced. I didn't expect him to do well but he has done undeniably well. I don't see the point in criticising him because Sarri was unfairly criticised. It's completely illogical. I have suspicions deep down that Lampard may not ever be a great manager but whilst he is doing so well, the least we can do is support and back him and not unfairly criticise him. I am buoyed by the fact that his underlying philosophy is one of "hard work will ultimately produce results". I think that is a generally a great philosophy.

A dogmatic approach to debate resulting in some fine logical gymnastics.

Bit harsh but I have to say I can't really disagree. There was a point where he ran into loads of space and Mount ignored him presumably knowing full well that as soon as Emerson encountered a defender he'd cut back and then pass backwards.

so much so I said it twice.

I thought red as well but maybe it's only considered last man when there's no outfield player covering. I'm not sure. I thought it was a red.

So why do so many of us disagree with you? A cretinous post following a 3-1 opening day win.

People were (rightly) complaining about the defending last season. The CBs were both solid this game. There was an occasion where I think Dunk got a free header but thats about it. The goal should've been a routine save for Kepa as much as I feel sorry for the bloke. If anything, we looked short of attacking ideas and I can't help but feel that's to do with the fact we were playing Loftus-Cheek who looks utterly shot and Pulisic wasn't available. Havertz was also poor but can hardly be blamed after being with the team for a week. Whether you think Frank is up to the task or not, this match is not a good example to support the argument that he's not.

?

Just listened to The Guardian football podcast and Barry Glendenning has tipped us to finish 6th.

Admittedly only watched him on YouTube, which can make anyone look like a world beater. However, one thing you can tell is that he has a great number of strengths. Great touch, great passer, fairly quick, strong, good in the air, good finisher. Not sure about tackling but he looks like he has everything. Our attack will be frighteningly good next season.

Apparently so!!

Hope Timo doesn't turn into the next Mateja...

If I didn't, that really would be embarrassing and naive.

I think it's embarrassing and naive. It's obviously the right thing to do. The selling club doesn't know whether Leverkusen have to sell Havertz (or to what extent that's the case) and until he's sold they haven't got a massive pot of cash available. Praying for them to be relegated because they're looking out for their own interests in a negotiation is childish.

Haha - bit harsh!