27 Sep 2026 09:40:19
I was told that Gittens has picked up a bad injury while in England U21 duty?
That would be a shame. As I have said before, in my opinion the lad can play a bit. As I also said when we signed him he does tend to play with his head down but nothing that good coaching couldn't put right. Hope it's not too serious.
27 Sep 2026 12:22:47
He got a kick on the ankle Tom and was replaced by Tyrique George. Seen on crutchez.
Pender also got injury.
Gittens is way down pecking order and won't play much under alonso and will be sold or loaned.
27 Sep 2026 14:27:09
EbW, according to many pre season reports Gittens had impressed Alonso in pre season. Unfortunately he got yet another injury and that stopped him getting the mins his pre season form deserved.
As I mentioned weeks ago, I'm struggling to see how Alonso can play both Roger's and Palmer at the same time. The only way I can see that happening is if Alonso plays with an extra midfielder.
I can see Alonso giving Gittens a run as a Roger's replacement. I can't see how we play two talented players who only operate in one segment of the pitch. I very much hope I am wrong and Alonso finds a solution.
27 Sep 2026 14:48:37
Tom, I think ED01 has come up with a solution to our defensive woes in an earlier post when I asked him a question about 3 or 4 at the back.
By having a solid backline of Hato, Levi Colwill, Josh and Reece James we could protect them with Jordan Henderson and MoisesCaicedo then you also get another forward in like Estevao or Neto or your man Gittens.
27 Sep 2026 18:13:05
I also noted Ed01 mentioned my historic point about playing Roger's and Palmer.
In my opinion our best defender so far this season has been Josh. So for me he has to play.
I'm am not a fan of three at the back. I would play 433 or 4312 but if that happens he can't play Roger's.
In years gone bye we had players who could cover for a player like Hazard but as good as those players were they couldn't have coped with two players who are not prepared to do the hard work.
JBS and I have been having debates on this issue since virtually the start of the season. This situation is why Alonso gets paid the big bucks. As I've also said, Jose would have made the call a few weeks ago.
27 Sep 2026 21:41:10
I agree with you Tom, Jose would of sorted this but surely we give Alonso a chance before you change him?
27 Sep 2026 22:15:39
I have never suggested replacing Alonso. I am a believer in giving people a long time before I make a decision about their abilities.
Also, just for the record, I would definitely not want Jose back as our manager.