Excellent tonight
Just like all our full backs, he can’t cross a ball.
Does give energy, and is a threat, of sorts, on that side.
Azpilicueta is awful. Had a really poor season.
Need to give the young lad, Reece James, a chance, next season.
He’s one of the greatest defenders we’ve ever had at this club, he’s far from awful. Shame if he ends up getting the same stick another legend in Ivanovic got towards the end of his time at the club, just cos he’s not as good as when he was younger.
Azpi’s had an iffy season at times and this role doesn’t necessarily do him favours at this stage of his career, but he’s probably got the best cross of any centre back I’ve ever seen.
Shit penalty taker though
Never held that against JT
That was the first one I can recall him missing.
It wasn’t a bad one, just a good save from the keeper.
He is a full back, and is awful at crossing from out wide.
He has had a poor season. He needs resting.
He has been one of our greatest defender’s, I never said he hasn’t been.
Playing every game for the past three seasons has caught up with him, and has shown in his performances, especially since the turn of the year. Never gives anything less than 100%.
He’s still a defender, not a wing back or a winger which is what he’s being asked to do because he’s the best option we’ve currently got, unfortunately.
Don’t disagree with the second part of your post, still think it’s unfair to call him awful given that.
He’s chipped in with a load of good assists over the years, which given he’s a defender (not a modern, marauding wing back) is good going. He reminds me of Brana in that respect, he gets stick for not being amazing at an element of his game that he shouldn’t really have to be anyway. Defending is almost barely a requirement for Full backs nowadays, it seems (Moses being a prime example of someone who did a decent job as a wing back despite not being able to defend)
He has been a great player for us, one of my favourite in recent times, but right and left back would be two positions I'd be looking to strengthen. I'd 100% keep him due to his experience, versatility and professionalism but wouldn't want him as automatic first choice.
I’d go along with that
As much as I love Azpi, hes not suited to a Sarri side. I've had my doubts about him all season at RB and wondered if he was worth a try as a CB in a back 4. Can safely say he should never be played at CB in a back 4 again after that horror show last night at CB for half hour or so. Not using Cahill as a sub was bizarre from Sarri.
I am with you ossie, that Reece James could be ready to make the step up in to the first team next season let alone just the squad. I have high hopes for him.
Aina has done very well in Italy this year - can see Sarri involving him in the squad next year, as he can play RB or LB.
Reece James..