im many ways i think its better to start the season stealing results, rather than coming out like a freight train waiting for the inevitable crash. Performances will get better, and once that happens if we're right in the mix then hopes can finally be raised for a realistic league challenge. I dont think any key players should be rested until the international break, then pull them out. Take that Capello.
However, any talk of relagating our champions league efforts because of this is insane. We all know how much cash it brings in and how much of a financial quagmire the club is in at the moment. Believe me, if we crashed out on Tuesday Rafas P45 will be on his desk Weds morning, and this club cannot afford to fall into even more disarray. The next 3 weeks really will be very, very interesting