[Ska'dForLife-WBA]

To add to that, although I'm not enamoured of Irvine's recent selections or the dire display against Newcastle, he did show in the wake of the Everton disaster that he was willing to make changes, i.e. bring Lescott in for Olsson, and it worked for us. I'm hoping the bloke's got the sense to see that the furrow he's been ploughing this autumn isn't the way for the long-term, and that we need to go more adventurous at home with the likes of Varela once he's fit.

That'll be the time and context in which to judge him. I hope he doesn't let stubbornness be his downfall.

---

In fact, this is a top post from Signor_Maresca on .com which sums it up eloquently for me:

There is no doubt in my mind that AI is a highly professionally and diligent man. We’ve heard much about the work and preparation that goes into preparing the side, in terms of pure coaching and also in terms of opposition research. Nearly every Sunday when watching the games on the box you’ll spot AI at one of them, note book in hand, scribbling away, it’s his attention to detail and hard work which really makes me respect and warm to him.

However, I want to start seeing him being bolder and more enterprising in his team selections and make worth of his undoubtedly assiduousness work. He has had his hands tied to a certain extent with injuries etc but I think the next month will be telling. Is his conservative approach at home going to continue, especially in regards to picking a rather un-dynamic, predictable yet hard working midfield quartet? Or will he be courageous and exploit his diligence work on opposition and pick players who are capable of tormenting opposing defenders like Varela, Sessegnon and Blanco.