We were playing better last year without him, he's my favourite player but its not an excuse. I expect us to continue playing attacking football and picking up points.
Come on we know Gayle will come off after about 35mins of his start - but yes if he could stay fit, he could do a job. I must admit I think Gayle is half decent. His movement and energy is superb. I can see why Rafa liked him when playing counter attack. He runs channels really well and works hard. So he was useful without scoring too. I lost count of the number of times he'd run in a channel towards a corner flag, and Matt Ritchie got allowed into a better position as a result. Quite an intelligent and selfless forward. His goal record when stripped back to account for starts and sub apps, is actually ok. I'm not against taking a youngster coming through and chucking them in if Gayle does get injured. Surely we must have someone?
Think Fraser is the obvious choice to replace Wilson in the right inside forward role playing off the flank. Him, ASM and Miggy flying at defences will be enough to cause a few problems with their speed. If not Gayle or, personally for me, Joelinton are next on the list although maybe Murphy could be an interesting option and has a few goals off the wing. Think Joelinton is actually the most natural to play in that role and may benefit from not being the out and out CF focal point but will give us something to try and hit on the long balls as that is probably his strongest attribute.
The switch in formation has meant that Wilson's role has become a little less about leading the attack, which suits both Gayle and Fraser. Straight swap for me, and no time to panic. If we switch into 4-2-3-1, Gayle or Carroll could be of use. For a team with aspirations of finishing 17th, we should still have enough.
With Roland I usually just skim it to discover whats driving him mental today With Pouch i pick out the bits I agree with, nod and pop him a like if im feeling generous.