Well everything we did last season has to be allied with our dire [away] defence, and the midfield plays a part in that. He was phenomenally disciplined after he picked up his ninth yellow. I was astounded that he'd make it through that many games without putting in some stupid tackle or being forced to make the foul.
I think playing in a 3 (or even a diamond) would have worked infinitely better than playing with two in the middle as we did. It was always going to make it harder.
I don't think he plays for himself when things go wrong, but rather that he trusts no one else. I think saying "plays for himself" gives an impression of selfishness which I don't think is true. Same with the whole "Hollywood Ball" thing. He just doesn't do it to any great extent anymore, unless he feels he has to force something.
Either way I'd be surprised if he didn't retire after this tournament. Unless he feels like he has to make up for his header![]()