From Richard M : Come on, Graham !
Dear Graham,
Your stats & argument have been repeated before and it takes no account of a number of managerial failings which cannot be apologized for.
1. An inability to define, train, prioritize and maintain defence. Could this season prove it even more than previous?
2. A failed youth policy that has left the club with incredible wage bill for less than average squad players.
This is where comparing Arsene’s wage bill with other squads fails – Chelski, Citeh, ManU may pay more equally to more talented squads.
We have deadwood costing a fortune.
3. An inability to switch formation depending on the game. hy 4-3-3 incessantly? Giroud & Theo make an interesting pair up front in 4-4-2 mais non?
4. Stark refusal to buy the type of player needed and I am not talking stars here.
For seasons we have needed a decent hard man in midfield, a strong left back etc etc etc.
5. The total denial that experience counts –
” It is not my business what Chelsea do but, if they don\’t renew Frank\’s contract, someone else is going to get a really good player for a few years. Once your Terrys and your Lampards are gone I think they\’ll be appreciated even more. That\’s the way football is.
“It\’s a bit similar at United when Scholes and Giggs eventually move on. That\’s the reason Alex Ferguson is holding on to them. If someone of his calibre -– someone who\’s achieved what he has in the game and with his knowledge – knows how important it is to keep those players it tells you how important experience and top pros are.â€
– Steven Gerrard (Quoted on 101greatgoals.com)