Reflecting on the performance last night it occurred to me that we had just played 3 games in 6 days , Chelsea where we gave absolutely everything followed by a superb high energy performance at Brentford & then last night a roll up your sleeves effort in strength sapping conditions resulting in a fine win . The fitness levels & the rotation of the team plus clever use of substitutes all are major factors but all in all I think they have been magnificent over a very testing 6 days.
I might be remembering this wrong, but I had a feeling Ismael criticised our fitness levels when he first arrived. Strubers press was very high energy, so to think he expected more from our fitness, well, I just didn't think it was possible. Seemingly, it was.
I think you right DW , I think he did but they must have put the work in to get to the fitness levels they have now & in fairness they do look super fit .
We’re playing almost like an ice hockey team, changing the lines out. Only difference is we can only change it once. It makes sense to try and get 2 teams of 3 that work well together that both have quality (rather than saying the best 3 start and then the other 3 come on) that can be changed out as a unit.
Theres a really good interview in yesterday's programme with the new Head of Sports Science, Jonny Northeast. Looks like another very good appointment by the club.
In one interview, which was shared on here, Valerian said that the Derby postponement gave him a good opportunity to get more time on the training ground with the players. I think that shows in these last 3 performances.