Obviously the criticism is in part valid, but FFS. Pre-season game. 0 goals conceded in two games bar a 5 minute spell where we conceded two, at least one of which was a bit unlucky. Young players in the side. Esp. defence when we conceded two (two new signings and a kid is hardly our fist choice back 4 as it will be a few games in).

To my mind we need to try other players in the hole, incl Zarate (but not necessarily away at the big boys). We need to get men forward better both wide and from CM. But, again, our three best strikers are a new guy, a new guy who hasn't even trained with us yet as far as a I know and a guy injured... you'd like to think that we'd look better going forward in a week / two / three.

Allardyce should not have been told to play more attacking football. He should have been told to progress (which means maintaining a decent defence whilst improving going forward.) We all know it. He knows it. I'm not ready to give up on him yet.