This is a great exchange. I'll take a crack at it with the proviso that I think/hope this will be our best starting XI on 1 March:

Edouard

Zaha Eze Olise

Hughes Gallagher

Mitchell Andersen Guehi Clyne(?)

Guaita

I thought you'd put Edouard in goal and Eze at sweeper for a minute, then I saw that we'd just changed ends!

The key is, as you say, that the team we have for the final stage of the season may be noticeably better than the one that started it, principally due to Eze returning.

Unfortunately I doubt Eze and Gallagher will play more than a few games together. 10 if we're lucky.

Yes, i agree McArthur and Hughes i suspect will play 50/50 if don't stay fit, definitely Eze in midfield not wide, the problem with McArthur is his age, which is obviously not his fault

“That’s a joke son, I say, that’s a joke.” “Nice boy, but he’s sharp as a throw pillow.” “He’s so dumb he thinks a Mexican border pays rent” “ “Son… I say, son, some people are so narrow minded they can look through a keyhole with both eyes.”__ Forhorn Leghorn

Did his opening caveat not cover that? All fully match fit and hungry to start.

But your comment does ram home one remarkable point. For the first time since I have supported this team, we have gone all out to buy a player, but the squad is now so good they may not start, even if fit.

The best team will reflect the opponents. Yup, I'm copping out.

IMHO and with PV appearing to favour a 4-3-3 i would replace Macca for either Olise or Eze (or even Zaha if he continues with the sulking) . Without Macca i can see our midfield being overrun.