217 Adjustments Part 2 (2/2)
In response to the manager's question, Fàbregas looked up, his breath suddenly becoming steady. He shook his head. ”It's no problem. I can deal with it.”
Wenger smiled and made no move to strike at the youth's pride. But that was in spite of what he could see; Fàbregas was not performing well in the face of George Wood. Wood surpassed him physically. Perhaps if it was Patrick Vieira playing, the situation would be different. His experience, technique, and fitness would all allow them to regain control of the midfield. Unfortunately, Vieira had gotten injured before the start of the season.
”Good. In the second half, make sure you reduce your time in possession of the ball.”
Fàbregas nodded. It was a first for Fàbregas to be met with such a setback twice in a row against a no-name player like George Wood.
Wenger knew what Fàbregas must be thinking, but said nothing. Instead, he turned to the Captain, Henry, to discuss their successes and failures in the first half. With one watching from the manager's seat, and the other experiencing the match in the field, both of them had to put their heads together to discuss their thoughts.
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On the other side, the atmosphere in Forest's locker room was not as exultant as one would expect. Tang En's brows, which were still tightly furrowed, were noticed by the players coming in. His expression made them unsure if they had done badly in some way, and all of them to quieted down.
Fortunately, Tang En quickly answered their unspoken question. ”Do you know why I'm still frowning? You guys did very well, and I should commend you. But I hope you realize that the match still has 45 minutes left. A one-point lead is not much insurance, and after the goal in the first half, we spent put way too much effort into defense. In the next half, we need to make some changes…”
He pointed to the tactical board, which was already drawn up with the formation of both teams.
”Ribéry and Ashley Young. When we're in possession, I want the two of you to cut inwards and allow Baines and Chimbonda to come up into the wings to pull on the full backs from Arsenal. When you have an opportunity, try to cut in from the sides of the penalty area.”
Tang En drew an arrow as he explained, ”Demi, your mission is to send the ball to the same area in their defensive line. If the opponents start taking notice of your position, send the ball straight to the mid path.”
Albertini nodded in affirmation as he looked at the crisscrossing arrows and lines on the tactical board. He felt good about his condition in the match; it should be no problem for him to send out such a ball.
Tang En then looked at Wood and said, ”George. When we are attacking, your main priority is to protect Demi. You know what to do, right?”
Wood nodded.
”Excellent. Everyone knows what their target is. Don't slack! Our opponents are not of a League One team. I hope we can all celebrate a victory together when the match is over!”
Tang En clapped his hands and held up his fist.
”Let those who looked down on us go to hell!”