12 Sep 2026 19:15:13
If Nyoni is truly the replacement for Jones, as all the Liverpool based media has been claiming, then he needs to be utilised now.
Grav, for a man that was developed in the Ajax youth system, which prides itself on passing and combination play efficiency, genuinely struggles to play anything other than a simple pass. No line breaking passes, he does utilise the occasional pirouette to get out of danger, but it really does looks like he has regressed badly.
Szobo, another player who struggles with the art of passing. He works his socks off, I will never question his work ethic. But, his positional play, breaking the lines, and understanding of where he needs to be in relation to his teammates, is not suited to a top team. He causes more trouble than most when he goes out to press because he leaves a large chasm behind, which the opponent exploit.
Macca is the only one that appears capable in this position. And, this was a man who was so poor last season, that many (myself included) wanted him gone. Yet, whether due to his desire for a new contract, or, desire to make himself look attractive to other potential suitors (Latter more likely), he has provided some stability to a midfield that is simply all over the place and, seemingly, playing the role they want rather than has been instructed.
Nyoni has shown a willingness to progress the play at the right moment, contribute to the defensive phase (Particularly with coverage and interceptions) and will be desperate to make an impact. I really hope Iraola sees fit to use him soon. A midfield of Grav and Szobo simply does not work, neither wants to sit deep and provide balance. Nyoni will, and he'll also be comfortable receiving in deep areas, unlike those two.
I really hope Nyoni gets a chance soon because if we persist with the same disjointed midfield, it will open up chances for our opposition again and again.
12 Sep 2026 20:56:27
Grav was exceptionally poor today. He showed absolutely no quality in any aspect of his midfield work it almost made me chuckle at times.
12 Sep 2026 21:01:05
The balance in midfield is just way off. I just don't see a combination in midfield from our current squad that allows us to play Wirtz in the 10, its way to attacking and not only does it leave us exposed and easy to play through but it also doesn't allow us to dominate the midfield. If we are being overrun and outpassed in the midfield then our attackers are starved as we saw today.
This isint necessarily a dig out at Wirtz just a case of balance and we don't have a functioning midfield. During midweek the 2nd half press was much better as the whole team pushed up and to be honest Athleti kinda played into our hands by being so open, the Premier League is way more physical and you need a proper industrious midfield or your going to get found out.
12 Sep 2026 22:15:53
I'd give Nyoni a go if only for the reason he can't be any worse but he never should have been the replacement for Jones. But sure we'll be grand we didn't need a MF.