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Smokie's Posts and Other Poster's Replies To Smokie's Posts
To Smokie's last 5 banter replies
01 Aug 2026 14:49:30
Xabi Alonso on Mudryk:
"I remember watching him at Shakhtar, the impact he had, how good he was in one-v-one situations. He could create a lot of situations on his own. He is a special player. To be honest, we were not expecting to have this great news at this moment, but we were happy."
01 Aug 2026 14:45:29
I have been involved in football for years, as a manager and former player, and have always regarded pre-season friendlies as a way of:
1 Improving match fitness.
2 Looking at trialists.
3 Implementing tactics.
4 Avoiding injuries.
1 was achieved.
2 was achieved, with 1 or 2 impressing.
3, a few signs.
4 achieved.
01 Aug 2026 08:38:23
Incredibly naturally gifted player. Speed for days, and the ability to strike the ball perfectly with both feet. Decision making was naive, but capable of brilliance at times.
Always felt he lacked conviction. Lacked the mental belief. Also, factor in that he came to Chelsea at the start of the Russia + Ukraine war, and found it difficult to settle.
Clearly shy by nature, most of his battles were mental.
Is there a player in there? 1000%. Could Alonso unlock something that previous (mainly awful managers) couldn't? Perhaps.
Would love him to succeed. Whether at Chelsea or on loan.
Always had a soft spot for him. Not sure what happens with him, but everyone loves a comeback story in sport and a second chance in life.