Maybe. It was a tight 1-0 game against a team who press well and like to be physical. I think Arteta managed the rotations well. You can only change so much without disrupting the team. Injuries have taken a toll on the squad. Spots where you’d like to have rotated we haven’t been able to.

I don’t think he was signed as anything more than an insurance policy. It was evident early on in the season when we rested Zubi and played Rice at the base that he was third choice DM.

If you look at the roster size, it adds up. Curious to see how many players will leave now. Happy the main core of the team is set for the start of the season

Read them all today. Great work summarizing the current roster. I don’t think we’re missing a whole lot outside of a couple signings in attack + Zubimendi. The rest is cosmetic. I do agree that maybe a combination of Zubi, Rice and MLS for the DM role with a signing at LB would make the most sense

Was this the “going backwards” clip?

Great show as always. Any chance Ted can get Neel a podcasting microphone? It’s difficult to understand and hear at times. Just something I’ve noticed and thought I would provide the feedback.

Do we not have a clear role for a young player behind Odegaard? Nwaneri I feel like is more of a forward than midfielder

Even before today, it’s been pretty evident he is still raw in these high leverage situations in the PL games. Give the kid time to develop, fans need to have some patience here.

It’s our kryptonite no doubt but I thought we played better in the second half than at any point in that Newcastle game.

I do wonder if Merino was signed as a Rice backup and utility player to have in the squad rather than regular starter? The long term replacement at the base comes when Partey and Jorginho leave after this summer. It makes sense in terms of squad building when you look at this season only

Been saying this very thing since last year. I know it’s been a hard start to the season but this team is really really good. Enjoy them while we can.

Start fresh :) … I loved your analysis and write ups on Statbomb

I don’t think Partey helps but it’s not all down to him. If you check the schedule in the back end of the season plus our start to this one, I think it has more to do with that than anything. Tough games = more chances

I agree with what Tim was saying on the pod, I really think we need to give Saka and Rice proper rest post international break. If they have to miss the first week, so be it. I know it’s must win games but we have to keep our best players fit for the whole season, not just two months.

The problem is we will already be coming into the match with fitness issues. Questions at LB, CM and RW. I really hope one of Sterling or Jesus steps up during the next two months, would be much appreciated.

I was just thinking that earlier. The real test will be on match day and what kind of experience it will be on here. Good or bad, the best part of Twitter is the discussion in and around games as they happen.

I thought it was more like a Twitter list. Nice to have the ability to see the people to follow and the posts right there for the one you sent for example. But thanks for clarifying

How do the starter packs work? I clicked on the link you sent but it never gave me the option to add it on my feed or anything? Just the ability to follow everybody on the list? Is that what it’s meant to be?

I’m new to this site. How do you use a starter pack? I clicked the link and it didn’t give me any options to join?