For me this is a slightly more intense preaseason. It took us time to get going, but when we did, we utterly destroyed them. I really do not understand how we only scored one.
Observations:
a. Fred can deputise for Matic. We may be slightly weaker defensively, but he allows us to bring up the ball like we usually do. It means that Matic can get lots of rest and Fred can get lots of minutes.
b. Mata can be an option in our attacking rotation.
c. We still need some more consistent creativity on the flanks. Greenwood was good as always, but he is essentially a striker who can play on the flanks. He will have a spot when he is ready, regardless of who is at the club. But we need that consistent create threat there as Rashford can be very patchy at times. Signing Sancho would benefit us in this regard, but even Grealish would suffice.
d. Martial seems to be getting to that level now....that world class peak level. It's something to watch out for. He's starting to consistently create chances for himself, its getting scary. It's something to look out for.
e. We all know Williams isn't good enough to start, so we need to make a definitive decision on that position. Shaw is clearly good enough, but he can be patchy. His injury record means that trust in his ability to play consistently needs to be analyzed. If we do decide to move forward with him, signing a higher quality back up may help us curb the uncertainty of his injuries. If we decide it's not him, then we should cut our losses and sign a fitter left back. AWB is always fit, so Williams can back up for him during games we want to give him a rest.
f. We need to make sure we give Pogba a new contract, superb performance throughout.
g. Finally, both Lindelof and Bailly are capable as short term partners for Macguire. Smalling is better than both in my opinion, but I am not sure that option is still available for us. A centre back who is good at dealing with aerial threats and covering Macguire's lack of pace would be sufficient. Make no mistake, I honestly believe Macguire is one of the top centre backs in the world.