P302Rivals Football - Chelsea FC
Alonso
by No1_is_Robert_Fleck, 21/09, 09:06

Alonso also flourished in Italy where the game is played @ a slower pace, he needs to get used to the kick and rush tactics of the top division here. Most teams here have direct pacy players out wide who will exploit in behind. As you say he needs a few more games before he is sent out on loan next season. :-D

What pisses me off more is Ryan Bertrand being shipped out when Ashley Cole was starting to look his age. We had a ready made left back for ten years but the board showed no interest in thinking ahead. I seem to remember Bertrand stating that he was being mentored by Cole also. Who better to learn from?

Since that decision we've looked rudderless in the fullback positions and Bertrand has flourished at the Saints. He may not become an Ashley Cole, but he looks a much better option than what we have and had since Cole left.

We've also been spoilt over the last 15 years a defence that once consisted of a JT in his prime, Carvalho, Gallas, Alex, Cole, Paulo etc, has not been replaced sufficiently and its bloody hard to do so. Arsenal have been trying to find a defence for 10 years since Adams, Bold, Dixon and Winterburn.

I actually don't think any of the defences in the top six now are as good as ours ten years ago there does seem a genuine lack of talent being purchased and coming through at youth level.

Few more seasons and windows of pain to come I think. JT will need replacing next season.