Are we being slightly harsh with him as fans? I think he still has loads to offer on and off the pitch. Dunne has been immense and Caulker has played every game this season. He had no preseason and the 3-5-2 was ditched after 2 or 3 games. I for one would love to see Rio deployed as a holding mid. Protecting Dunne & Caulker and also starting attacks. I feel our major problem away from home is we cant hold onto the ball long enough. The CBs get pressured and just kick it long. Henry is good at breaking up play but Rio's passing range and composure on the ball is top draw. Maybe let Henry/Barton do the running in front of Rio while he sits and does the rest. He might not have the legs but like Dunne he reads the game so well. Putting Fer/Barton slightly higher up the pitch to press the midfield quicker could also work.
I know people will say "if it ain't broke don't fix it" but we have ZERO points away from home so we definitely need to try something new. Putting Vargas upfront could also work.
I know people will say "if it ain't broke don't fix it" but we have ZERO points away from home so we definitely need to try something new. Putting Vargas upfront could also work.
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