Gary67
Well-known member
Having watched Lille's last 2 games on BT Sports I think we are in for a very difficult game on Thursday. They play a very attacking, high pressing 4-4-2 and are still unbeaten this season. Lennon's dilemma is go as strong as available or do what Rodgers did for Leipzig away a couple of years ago (when we had the Hearts semi at Murrayfield 3 days later) and play fringe players, youngsters and those needing game time.
Given the strength they have in wides areas, Aroura and Bamba the wingers linking up with Celik and Barbaric their attacking full backs, and Renato Sanchez the playmaker from central midfield, I'd be tempted to either match their 4-4-2, if Eddy available, or go with a 4-1-4-1 if he's not. I'd double up the full backs, Frimpong in front of Elhamed (if fit) and Laxalt ahead of Taylor.
I'd rest McGregor for Sunday and play Bitton (again if fit) sitting in front of the back 4
Barkas
Elhamed Duffy Ajer Taylor
Bitton
Frimpong Ntcham Turnbull Laxalt
Ajeti
Given the strength they have in wides areas, Aroura and Bamba the wingers linking up with Celik and Barbaric their attacking full backs, and Renato Sanchez the playmaker from central midfield, I'd be tempted to either match their 4-4-2, if Eddy available, or go with a 4-1-4-1 if he's not. I'd double up the full backs, Frimpong in front of Elhamed (if fit) and Laxalt ahead of Taylor.
I'd rest McGregor for Sunday and play Bitton (again if fit) sitting in front of the back 4
Barkas
Elhamed Duffy Ajer Taylor
Bitton
Frimpong Ntcham Turnbull Laxalt
Ajeti