It is impressive how the MF is playing right now. The control of the ball and space, the tempo change, and the timing of the penetration for attack is marvellous. It is like the 80's, but more. It's just two games but the MF was very adaptable, and control teh games in a calm fashion. Spurs played a high line and was easily bypassed. Cardiff tried to hold the MF but was gradually forced off. The passing and movement that compressed the opponents play, switching sides, creating space to run into, really really good. Sometimes there's still a slight bit of hesitation from one or two players, but there's almost no more premature attacks which loses the ball.
The HAL combination is very promising. All three are very intelligent footballers that are forming the core to control the game. This is ealry days still. I can't imagine what it'll be like when they flow even more fluently, and with the rest of the team clicking in even more. It's leaving me salivating.
The backline is also linking up very well. Playing the ball out of defense so nicely. Sure there were glitches, but most of the time very composed. Even Skrtel is passing theball better now. And Sakho is showing good linkup with Lucas.
The control, ball retention and ability to quickly regain the ball with the smart pack hunting are really frustrating, intimidating even to the opponents. Allen and especially Lucas break opponents play and regain the ball in their half, that creates unrelenting pressure. No wonder Paulinho blew his head.
Suarez was going it alone quite often last season, perhaps lacking other real options. But now he's well supported and gelling more with the team. With the forward three clicking in with the MF, it's no wonder there's so much more goal threats the team is posing. Almost everytime we get the ball, there's a genuine goal threat at the end of the passing cycle.
Early days, let's have more, much much more!