More stressful than it needed to be?
Probably. The first half was exceptional with the dominance we had, the areas we played in, the amount of situations and chances we created in open play, set-pieces and with our counterpress. We (did) really well there. It’s unbelievable that we didn’t score a goal. Then we started the second half a bit sloppy, especially in the first five-10 minutes with the ball.
Then the game became a bit more open and they scored. Again, we threw away everything we did in the first half and started a completely brand new game in a difficult context. The team reacted incredibly well. A lot of composure, big belief and very good clarity in what we had to do. The crowd was exceptional, the subs were exceptional and we managed to do it again.
Can see Bukayo is embracing leadership now?
For sure. That’s the maturity and steps players have to do. He’s been in the team long enough to earn the right to have that role. He believes in that. He has the capacity to change and decide games like many other players. If we want to be at the top, sometimes players have to create those moments and he’s certainly done that again today.
Did Jesus and Sterling do enough with their starts?
I was really happy. We made the changes we had to make. Everybody deserves to play and in the first half, it could have been very different for the result (if chances were taken). After, we decided to change because the energy had to be changed and we brought on three players that have the ability to do that and they really helped, but I’m pleased with everyone.
Concern that you needed a wake-up call two weeks in a row?
The wake-up call was that we conceded a goal. But the way we started the games and dominated the opposition, against Leicester we beat every (xG) record and today it will be something similar but you need to score three, four or five. If you don’t, this is the Premier League. Game on. But we had a wake-up call, the goal they scored, and it’s true we have to react to that. We did it and we did it in a convincing way.
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Does the efficiency In Saka’s game seem different to you or is it the same?
No, I think it’s another step in what he wants. Especially when – do it at home, do it big games, in not-so-big games, when the team needs him. That’s what defines a top, top player.
How do you feel Havertz’s confidence is blossoming?
You can tell. He takes the ball and he runs with the ball, he’s going full gas in the high press, he holds the ball. He’s an attacking midfielder, he’s a nine, you don’t know where he is. That’s his football brain. For sure his focus is ‘I’m gonna win the game, I’m gonna do it’. That’s a different thing.
Havertz has seven home goals in a row now. Do you see his confidence every day?
He is (confident) and he’s practicing every day because he wants more. He’s not satisfied. There is still another level from him. He’s surrounded by incredible players but something has changed in him. You really sense that confidence in him. Now he’s putting it in games and he’s winning football matches which is great.
Do we need to stop looking at Saka as a young player?
I certainly don’t do it. There are the stats and you cannot get away from that and what he’s doing at his age is unbelievable. We have many examples of that as well.
Did you get the chance to speak to Ramsdale at the end?
Just wished him all the best and Southampton all the best for the way they played as well. I hope they (get all the best) for the manager and Aaron as well because they’re a really good side.
Is there a temptation to rest Saka?
Yeah, there is. We have taken him off a few times this season. We have to manage his load, but at the moment he’s in a really good place.
If you could sign one player who would it be?
I have enough issues to resolve the reality. That would be a different problem. It’s been a very demanding period after the international break. We had a very demanding set of fixtures, especially away from home, some of them playing with 10 men. The team adapts, it’s very willing. I’m very pleased with the way the team has come through it and we’re in a really good place.
Is there someone from your playing career…
One of my sons.
