The only set up where Ward and Ayew work from a positive attacking standpoint would be in a back five with Ayew and Mitchell as wingbacks. However this is not a preferred option of PV.

Olise offers so much more than Ayew up the field and picking an attacker to help out a defender is so negative in my opinion. I understand why it is done but I think it’s more important that the right midfielder helps out Ward rather than the right side attacker. Of course, this does not mean Olise has no defensive duties but he should be making sure their fullback/wingback is fully occupied and doesn’t overlap.

In many ways as Ward gets slower the ideal position for him is centre half however PV wants his passers in this position which is the main reason why Anderson Guehi is the nailed on pairing and I doubt we will try a 3.

If my memory is correct, he still plays for PSG.

Probably right. If Olise does get picked to start then you will know he continues to grow in PV’s eyes. PV is not stupid he knows who the most progressive player is but will pragmatism prevail?

Guaita; Clyne, Andersen, Guehi, Mitchell; Hughes, McArthur, Gallagher; Olise, Edouard, Zaha.
If Ward starts it’s a joke. And no sane judge of football can say Schlupp is better than Jimmy Mac.

Only changes will be Eduaord and Ayew for Mateta and Olise

I don’t think anybody has?

Schlupp is a great asset, he can run with the ball has noticeable strength and speed but also can put his foot through the ball which is useful for shots and low crosses. I’ve just always seen him as a cameo player and a bit of a utility man, not sure if that’s unfair?

Love Jimmy Mac to the extent I could bang on endlessly but looking at the full 90minutes I’d rather have JM starting with Schlupp an option on the bench than vice versa. Just my two cents!

COYP

Now Zaha's got a bit of green grass ahead of him here... and finds Ambrose... not a bad effort!!!!