I think we are all in agreement that we really need to go for it and get some points on the board. NONE of these games are going to be easy, but a more attacking format is IMO the way to go against these teams.

I may raise a few eyebrows, but this would be my choice...

Dubravka
Yedlin Lascelles Lejeune Barreca
Longstaff Schar
Ritchie Almiron Perez
Rondon

I fully admit I've included the two new boys without ever seeing them play. But from what I've read, Barreca is an attacking and natural lb...so surely should get the nod!?

As for Almiron...well we've needed a proper No.10 for years, let's hope hes the answer. He's highly rated, he just has yet to prove himself in a strong league. Don't get me wrong..I'm confident he's going to be a hit...I just hope there isn't too much pressure on him to hit the ground running during a relegation battle.

We need Ritchie back on the right supplying crosses and covering gaps left by Yedlin.

CM is a problem, but I think it's now a case of who partners Longstaff. With everyone fit I would go with Ki on the seasons form, but it's a position an on song Shelvey can fight for. Hayden isn't good enough and wants to leave, so if we are playing just two CB's I'd put Schar in midfield.

So then...Perez....we all agree that he hasn't lived up to his early potential, no more needs to be said. I actually think his best spell was early on when he was used as an inside forward. I think he gets picked up too easily in central areas and bullied by the position centre backs...think he'll get more space out wide/cutting in. I certainly think he would add more of a goal threat than the alternatives with Ritchie and Yedlin crossing and picking up through balls from Almiron.

Anyway. I'm sure Rafa has other plans and he knows best, but this is what I would try...thoughts?