When it comes to a Champions League group stage game against a smaller side, both managers and fans see it as an opportunity for new faces.
Managers are desperate for the chance to rest players, while fans are always keen to see young players given a chance.
Sometimes all of us – fans and coaches alike – need to be reminded this is the biggest competition in the world, and no matter who you’re playing against they will be as motivated as it’s possible to be. If you’re complacent in your selection or your performance, you will be punished quickly – and that’s what’s happened tonight.
A strong team, albeit with a few changes, is 1-0 down to Dinamo Zagreb and not looking like scoring. If we don’t win tonight, the rest of this group stage is going to be a nightmare.
Let’s hope this team has learned their lesson in the first half and come out fighting in the second period.