Rafa - Play for your places

[bazza76]

I think that against Villas usual 4-3-3 we should play ideally with two wingers and a Masher - Gerrard partnership in the middle as Villa are not exceptionally strong in the middle.

But like bazza says the upcoming friendlies will probably be a good guide.

I think it may be too early for Mascher though, is he back training with us yet?
If not, I think it will Momo and Xabi in the middle, with Stevie playing advance midfield or on the right.

[dww]

I think it may be too early for Mascher though, is he back training with us yet?
If not, I think it will Momo and Xabi in the middle, with Stevie playing advance midfield or on the right.

I had forgotten about Maschers Copa America exploits. You are probably right in that case although if Alonso returns to the form of the season before last I might risk it with him and Gerrard in the middle. We really need to hit the ground running and Villa are the sort of team we should get used to turning over away from home.

[Lee]

“Now the idea is to show the same in the games, but we must remember everything now is about preparing for the Premiership game next week.”

Music to my ears is that. Doesn't it sound good to hear those words again

[Los Rojos]

I had forgotten about Maschers Copa America exploits. You are probably right in that case although if Alonso returns to the form of the season before last I might risk it with him and Gerrard in the middle. We really need to hit the ground running and Villa are the sort of team we should get used to turning over away from home.

I've been impressed with Alonso ine the pre-season games. He looks back to his best IMO.