Sheffield Wednesday, Championship, Danny Rohl, football tactics, possession football, League One promotion, pragmatic football, Norwich City, West Brom, Steel City derby
Alasdair Lamont believes Neraysho Kasanwirjo could be a better option at centre-back than Robin Propper if Leon Balogun is unavailable for certain matches. While Kasanwirjo has mainly played as a full-back since joining Rangers, his speed, athleticism, and defensive intelligence make him a strong candidate for a more central defensive role. Lamont suggests that Kasanwirjo could step in for Balogun, especially given Propper’s struggles in the position. Despite limited opportunities, Kasanwirjo has consistently delivered solid performances, and with Balogun approaching the latter stages of his career, it might be worthwhile for manager Philippe Clement to rest him occasionally, giving Kasanwirjo a chance to shine.
Adam Idah may not be with the Ireland squad this week, but he’s still proving his worth at Celtic. His £9 million transfer fee is often brought up when assessing his performances, but it’s unfair to judge him solely on that figure. Brendan Rodgers has emphasized the importance of having versatile options, and Idah plays a key role in providing that flexibility. Despite the high fee, Idah has contributed significantly since joining, with his five goals this season showcasing his ability to find the net in crucial moments. Whether it’s his clever positioning or his physical resilience, Idah has shown that he brings more than just his price tag to the table. With each contribution, he’s proving to be a valuable asset for Celtic—one that justifies the investment, especially as the team continues to pursue trophies.
Sunderland’s international break has come at the perfect time, with Millwall looming as a tough test next Saturday. The team will be missing several key players, including Jobe Bellingham, Alan Browne, and Patrick Roberts, but there is hope with the return of Eliezer Mayenda and Dan Ballard. Millwall’s physical, high-ball tactics have caused problems in the past, but this season, Sunderland has shown greater resilience against teams that try to bully them. Despite injuries and suspensions, manager Régis Le Bris has kept the team unbeaten in eight games, and the break gives him valuable time to prepare for a strong away performance.
As Leicester City prepare to face Manchester United in the Premier League this Sunday, manager Steve Cooper is grappling with three crucial selection decisions that could impact the outcome of the match. After a heavy 5-2 defeat in the Carabao Cup last week, Leicester should be buoyed by the knowledge that they were capable of causing United problems, despite the loss. With Cooper set to name his strongest XI, recent performances—such as the draw with Ipswich—have likely shifted his thinking on some positions.
One of the most debated decisions is who should start at centre-back. Writers Amie Wilson, Josh Holland, and Jordan Blackwell each offer different perspectives. Wilson favors the established pairing of Wout Faes and Jannik Vestergaard, citing their solid partnership last season and Vestergaard’s passing ability as key assets. Holland, while appreciating the Faes-Okoli pairing, argues that Vestergaard’s experience could offer the defensive stability Leicester need, especially against United’s quick counter-attacks. Blackwell, on the other hand, leans towards a faster pairing of Faes and Caleb Okoli, suggesting that pace might be critical to neutralize United’s threat on the break.
Another major dilemma is whether Boubakary Soumare should start in midfield. Soumare has shown glimpses of his potential, particularly in his recent performances, but consistency has been an issue. Wilson is tempted to include him for his strength and dribbling ability, especially given the departure of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, while Holland believes Soumare could add the necessary defensive solidity and drive Leicester need. Blackwell, however, insists that Soumare’s lapses in concentration mean he should start alongside the more disciplined Harry Winks, to provide defensive cover.
Finally, the question of whether Jordan Ayew should start or remain a substitute is dividing opinion. Wilson feels Ayew’s best work comes late in games, when defenders are fatigued, while Holland thinks his recent contributions make him a natural replacement for the struggling Stephy Mavididi. Blackwell, however, argues that Ayew’s qualities are most effective when coming off the bench to exploit tired legs.
With so much at stake, Cooper’s decisions could shape Leicester’s approach to what promises to be a challenging encounter at Old Trafford.
Steven Schumacher looked on as his successor guided Stoke City to a crucial 2-1 victory over Derby County, kicking off a November that could shape their season. With a tough start behind them and a recent managerial change, Stoke has struggled to find form, winning just three of their first 12 games. However, this latest result leaves them six points from the top six and three points clear of relegation. Schumacher, reflecting on the win, noted, “This month is going to be key for them. It wasn’t a brilliant performance, but Stoke found a way to win.”
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