Irrespective of whether the team he announced actually is the one that takes to the field on Friday, Leeds manager Marcello Bielsa's mind games don't seem to have had their desired effect on David Moyes as he prepares to take his Hammers team up to Elland Road.
Although being aware of the opposition's capabilities is important, paying too much attention can have a detrimental effect, so a balance of awareness and pragmatism is required. Moyes has already said that Bielsa mght be bluffing, that naming teams well in advance is quite common place in Europe and finally knowing another team's line up doesn't really make much difference!
Well, Moyes might be telling porkies to a similar degree as Bielsa, of course knowing how a team are going to line up days ahead of a fixture is indispensable knowledge, he will however be mindful of Bielsa doing the 'old switcheroo' just ahead of the actual game.
The only element involved ahead of the game that Moyes really needs to prepare his team for is Leeds United's impressive attack minded midfield and a very mobile forward line, concentrating on who is there or not in Leeds' defence
could literally result in taking 'eyes of the ball' collectively.
The Irons need to treat Leeds with respect for this fixture, but not too much respect! -Ed
Comments
It’s one of those games Nev
It’s one of those games Nev that we have to win. We don’t usually bounce back from defeat well, if we’re going to shake off the tag of under achievers this and Newcastle should be good wins for us.
Tough game imo
They are an exciting team,but have lost a few lately....watched them v Everton the other week what a game that was end to end.But as Betty says if we are moving in the right direction this is a game we should win!
Well, job done. A remarkable
Well, job done. A remarkable result considering we were playing with 10 men. Would’ve been better going with a false 9 for the second half, but Moyes obviously sees something we don’t. Still it’s sort of working atm so mustn’t grumble too much. I think we would play more football if we had an outlet, we can’t hang on to the ball to build play up,but I’ll take 5th and half way to safety, besides what else is there?