Here's the
presser
Joe Go training for first time today
Curtis/Wata available to play in that position
How perfect do results need to be for 5th place?
Close to perfection because we are 4/5 points behind and we are not doing that currently
[2:30]Sunderland unbeaten at home. How is confidence?
Credit to players, they've lots of hits, we haven't got what we deserved but have come back and played strong three days later. We have only been outplayed significantly in 3 halves this season [WTF!]; Crystal Palace, City and Arsenal. However even with Arsenal it was even only half of the half. Sunderland have had great season and great at home
[4:00]Have you had bad luck this season?
Yes sometimes it feels like that. Even players we sign that don't play get injured! [Re: late goals] Maybe bad luck but maybe we are to . I've tried many things; defensive substitutions ball went in, didn't change and ball went in. We will find out in 3-4 months
[5:40] You say you've had 5-6 right backs what impact would you say that's had?
You say that but we shouldn't focus on just RB I've had to change things in many positions. When Dom plays RB I change midfield. Injuries, bad luck etc all comes together. Main thing is it took a long time to get everyone in a place where they could play a game every three days. Able to press more this time vs City versus earlier in the season
[7:00] Calvin Ramsey queried. Why not put round peg in round hole?
Had to explain the expression. If you don't play a player they always seem to appear better to the people. I chose the best players until now and I'll do that again tomorrow
[9:00] Allison's passing? Accuracy dropping off?
Nah, more to do with him trying more long balls which are less accurate. Stats aren't always helpful. Shot stopping more important and he does really well
[11:30] How challenging this season?
Yes by a mile. Previously never lost 2 matches in a row. Not used to so many draws. So more challenging. I look at how much improvements we make. IMO everyone is now able to play every 3 days and performances have improved. Remember first 6 games were weekly so since then it got harder. Can't compare last season to this. Harder to lead a team after multiple losses.
[14:20] Is it important to get CL qualification for this season to be success?
Yes, it is. .....Then made the comment re Chiesa being only person they could sign after EL season so maybe contact important here
Above not a transcript. Just me typing whilst listening