20 Sep 2018 15:08:22
Ed01 Thoughts on Sturridge up top with Firmino in behind. The formation we used against Brighton on the last day of last season when Solahke started up top.

{Ed001's Note - against a team that will sit back it would be perfect.}

1.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 16:53:35
I think we are more likely to see Shaqiri behind Firmino with Sturridge saved for the league cup game next Wednesday.

2.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 17:23:12
Cheers ed.

{Ed001's Note - welcome mate.}

3.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 18:01:44
It's the kind of setup I'd like to see us playing against Utd! we'd rip them a new one.

4.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 19:00:39
I thought the same, can easily play both when there is less space, keep the wingers wider, Firmino into the hole and an out and out striker. If you play Shaqiri off Firmino he would have to learn where to be when Firmino drops off, or Salah or mane cut in not too get in the way!

5.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 20:19:45
Excellent idea and certainly worth trying. I was looking at Firmino's "heat map" for the entire 17/ 18 season, and the bulk of his activity was at the midway point between the half way line and the penalty box. Evenly distributed across the width of the field. So he wouldn't have to change his style of play at all. Imagine the terror in defenders' eyes in having to face Salah, Sturridge, Mane and Firmino. The big question is whom do you take out from the midfield and how much does it affect the balance of the team? Which of Milner and Wijnaldum do you take off? (Suddenly, it's not so easy 😉) .

6.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 21:32:07
ArAy, would it be much different to when Couts played is AM and fed Studge, Sterling and Suarez? Bobby is a great ball winner and reader of the game. I'm not advocating changing the role he has though, it works.

7.) 20 Sep 2018
20 Sep 2018 23:45:00
I like the idea too. It would maybe give Bobby more opportunity to shoot from range which he rarely does. He has such a wicked finish I'd like to see him shoot more. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining. I love firmino. He likes to work the ball for an easy finish or pass for a definite goal but his finishing is top draw. Sturridge is also too good to waste away on the bench. I think Bobby could play the fekir role in our midfield.

8.) 21 Sep 2018
21 Sep 2018 00:04:48
It’s difficult with Sturridge I think. I get frustrated watching him as his closing down is so half hearted. He gives the CB more time to pick a pass and so the press falls down before it’s begun.
I find myself comparing him to Bobby in that respect which isn’t really fair as there’s not another player on the planet who’s as good as Bobby at what he does off the ball.
This might be a way of shoehorning both into the team but whilst we are winning why bother?

9.) 21 Sep 2018
21 Sep 2018 01:28:16
Is this a joke 🤣

There have been some who have constantly said firmino at number 10 would be amazing, it would suit him down to the ground because of his style and the way he positions himself.

10.) 21 Sep 2018
21 Sep 2018 11:34:15
Only worry is that Sturridge also likes to come to the ball when he is not getting a touch playing up front and they might end up on top of each other.
Sturridge looks sharp and he is one of my favourite players when he is at so have loved seeing him involved so far.
I have a feeling it might still be best to keep his time on the pitch limited to get the best out of him in the long run and ensure he stays fit and ready to contribute.
Id be surprised to see him start two games in one week.