With the Manchester United game to come, and two good results against Malmo in the bag, we are in the strange position of having a lot of very good central midfielders essentially battling it out for two positions.
A clear favourite to start surely has to be our most successful passer Leon Britton. Not only does his presence in the team provide a nice shield to the defence but it also means that we tend to hold onto the ball for longer, but give the quality of the additions this offseason even Leon must be looking over his sholder now.
Shelvey looked excellent in pre-season, and I’d start him with Britton against Manchest United. Shelvey is strong and very direct, but does not let the team down at all in terms of possession of the ball, he can pass short and long, indeed he pings a lovely long ball, this really being one of his main strengths.
Then there is Ki, largely the forgotten man in recent months, but against Malmo in the second leg he reminded everyone what a talent he is. Cool, calm and assured, he will get lots of game time as the season unfolds.
Don’t forget de Guzman, the cultured touch and eye for goal, always make him an exciting prospect, but I just don’t get the impression he’s up to speed yet, so lets bring him slowly through as the season unfolds.
Canas looks like a real rival to Brits for the main defensive position, but again like Ki and de Guzman I think he needs a few more games before he’s up to speed.
Then there is the real wild card of the squad Pozuelo, this boy looks like he has creative juices running through his blood. For now I’d keep him as an option to bring off the bench, particularly as I’d be worried concerning his defensive contribution, but this one looks like another excellent Laudrup signing.
so for Manchester United, my midfield would be Britton and Shelvey, with Michu then up front bheing Bony and routledge and Dyer out wide
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