Xabi Alonso in action against Espanyol 300
Having earned plaudits during the 2007 European Under-21 Tournament, he’s so far fallen short of the achievements expected of him. Shades of Sinama-Pongolle and Le Tallec. Then again, maybe Rafa has spotted in him the same talents he spotted in Alonso five years ago. Let’s hope so.
If Aquilani doesn’t arrive, then many fans will hope that the line of succession bypasses Lucas and that the crown is placed on the head of Jay Spearing.
I confess that I don’t have such a downer on Lucas as most others, at least while he has the ball. But how’s this for a thought: move Gerrard back into his old position, and play Benayoun behind Torres? Or better still, put the money raised from the sales of Xabi, Arbeloa and the rest to the balance of Rafa’s transfer kitty and unite David Villa with Fernando?
Then the spine would truly have a world-class head on its shoulders.
