Tiredness and rotation

[DeeTheDog]

Was last night the fruits of challenging on two fronts? Whilst previously, we were out of league contention and probably would have fielded a weakened team against Fulham after a two-game international programme. We played our strongest team and had to play deep into injury time.

After a bright start we fizzled out, still plenty of chances were created during the first half. The second half was in stark contrast, we were devoid of ideas, and tired passes easily cut out. Essien was highlighted for his excellent job on Gerrard, but how much did Essien's freshness from his long layoff and Gerrard's niggling injury/tiredness play their parts. Indeed, both Carragher and Skrtel suffered badly against a hungry and rested Drogba. Whilst on the flanks Arbeloa and Aurelio struggled to contain the previously derided Kalou and Malouda.

With a massive game, early on Saturday against a very physical and long ball team, what do we do? Do we rest players or field or strongest team?

[tsb]

Strongest team. Barring a miracle next week, why would we need to rest anyone?

[BobTheCharmer]

Rest/drop Skrtel and play one of the other two centre backs, both of which would have merits against Blackburn.

Also bring Spearing in for Lucas. A fresh pair of hungry legs could just be the job.

[DeeTheDog]

Strongest team. Barring a miracle next week, why would we need to rest anyone?

Because as detailed above, I believe many players looked extremely tired and in need of rest. We have a game early on Staurday, followed closely by a game on Tuesday, in which we will need to throw the kitchen sink at Chelsea.

Do we risk a bigger injury for Gerrard? Further, do we bring players like Babel and Agger in, who are more offensive and may be required on Tuesday, in order to give them game time?

[kev776]

I dont get this tiredness bollox, during the season, the match fit players do little in training apart from a warm up/down exercise, tactics and maybe some ball work, shooting, pens etc. These guys are athletes and should be able to maintain a high energy level twice a week fo matches, why do they need rotating to stay "Fresh" ?

[tsb]

Because as detailed above, I believe many players looked extremely tired and in need of rest. We have a game early on Staurday, followed closely by a game on Tuesday, in which we will need to throw the kitchen sink at Chelsea.

Do we risk a bigger injury for Gerrard? Further, do we bring players like Babel and Agger in, who are more offensive and may be required on Tuesday, in order to give them game time?

Chelsea made us look tired by shutting us down in midfield. The ball wasn't getting to the usual places and as a result we were second best on the night.

Ivanovic made the most of the lack of application from our defenders and Drogba picked up a goal as we were chasing the game.

These guys are fit enough and we need 3 pts first and foremost.

[cream]

Chelsea are a powerful team, Rafa under-estimated them.