The semi-final build-up thread

[johnly]

Just like the Mars advert says, BELIEVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[simey85]

we stand a chance if stevie g and alonso get the finger out and show more intensity and invention going forward. everyone has to do this but im singling them out because they are our most talented and inspirational players, we really need them to step up tomorrow because chelsea are resigned to losing the prem this is their big one now aswell!

[SB]

Starting XI vs the Chavs, 2nd leg

The most anxious part of the lead up to this match is who Rafa will start with. Many think that Rafa got it wrong in the first leg so who do you think will start this one. I'm no expert but I'd go with this side if Finnan is fit.

Pepe

Finnan Carra Agger Arbeloa

Pennant Stevie Masher Riise

Kuyt Crouch


Subs

Padelli ( couldn't go with Dudek on current form IA)
Sami
Xabi
Bellers
Zenden
Momo

Xabi on the bench may surprise some but I feel that we need Pennant on the right and Stevie back in the middle and Masher has been near on man of the match in every game lately so we either play the lone striker and a 5 man midfield or it's Xabi to miss out for me. Bellers doesn't deserve to start IMO so no surprises that I've gone with Kuyt and Crouchy. Arbeloa deserves another chance after a sub par performance last week.

So what do you think?

[enema of the state]

what about 3-5-2 with finnan coming in

if we go 4-4-2 itll be with pennant on the right and kuyt + crouch up front

[JRC]

An early goal might jolt them - for those that remember St Etienne, they were back well in control beause Keegan's goal was so early; their away goal was not unexpected when it came.

If it is still 0-0 at half time, I see Chelsea sitting back to conserve energy. A late - 70 mins - goal for us would mean they might struggle to pick up the challenge, and we win it in 90 or ET.

The crowd needs to be patient, I feel. 0-0 at HT is definitely game on. Even 0-0 at as we go into Injury Time means it's still on.

[Michael]

It could be a possibility that Ste G plays on the left but has Elisha been posting about that somewhere else ?

ES a very good source of information, but I havent seen anything from him..... but if he is also saying it then I'm sure it will happen!

In which case I will be giving myself a pat on the back and going for the Bolton job! If I havent already

[brikkis]

Pepe

Finnan Carra Agger Arbeloa

Pennant Stevie Masher Riise

Kuyt Crouch

I'd love to see that line up but I can't see Rafa starting without Xabi

[redlancer]

Pepe

Finnan Carra Agger Arbeloa

Pennant Alonso Masher Riise
Stevie
Crouch

Could see this aswell.

[Guest]

ES a very good source of information, but I havent seen anything from him..... but if he is also saying it then I'm sure it will happen!

In which case I will be giving myself a pat on the back and going for the Bolton job! If I havent already

Well, Michael Bolton in charge would be great.

[SB]

Someone tipped Stevie to start on the left and switch with Pennant at times. The problem with Stevie is that he gives us no width and leaves the fullback exposed at times. Must start this match in the middle IMO.

[Reece]

As long as Zenden starts i'll be happy

[simey85]

id be surprised if he leaves xabi out though i think he needs to for this one! because gerrard is doing f*** all on the right!

[SB]

Pepe

Finnan Carra Agger Arbeloa

Pennant Alonso Masher Riise
Stevie
Crouch

Could see this aswell.

That side crossed my mind on numerous occassions but it would be hard to omit Kuyt.His work rate is 2nd to none.

[KK07]

Pepe

Finnan Carra Agger Arbeloa

Pennant Alonso Masher Riise
Stevie
Crouch

Could see this aswell.

You just beat me to it Lancer mate.

[SB]

id be surprised if he leaves xabi out though i think he needs to for this one! because gerrard is doing f*** all on the right!