Forgetting the result for a second, it is clear that something is still very wrong inside the squad. [Jean Clair Todibo](https://www.claretandhugh.info/todibo-bust-up-far-from-an-isolated-incident-for-lopetegui/) ‘didn’t travel’ – whether as claimed he is injured or as, widely rumoured, thanks to a training ground bust – up this time with [Konstantinos Mavropanos.](https://www.claretandhugh.info/mavropanos-challenge-grows-tougher/)
Just what is going on when one of the club’s top defenders gets left at home on the ‘naughty step’ – meaning that we had only two front line centre backs in the squad with Kaelan Casey being the substitute. It is surely unacceptable for Lopetegui to keep overseeing these fallings – out with his own players. Especially when it means that Mavropanos gets a start in Todibo’s place and gives away the dumb, clumsy free kick that led to the equaliser last night.
Brilliant free kick through.
However there was much to be positive about: The debut for Scarles, the game time for Fullkrug and a few minutes for Kaelan Casey. Lopetegui’s substitutions made an impact and there does seem to be a cohesiveness, a team spirit and some ‘fight’ at the end when Bournemouth were pushing for a winner.
In addition the previously porous midfield looks much more fit for purpose. More combative, still the passes are going astray but the energy levels, pressing and ‘desire’ looks much improved. Now we need to see this every week. I won’t even go on my usual whinge about VAR’s shortcomings and that dreadful penalty decision.
Take the positives. And hope for the same level of energy and effort against Brighton.