Has Grant finally learned?
That said, it is encouraging that he seems to have learned from the mistakes laid bare during that game. Let’s hope he doesn’t have any more pangs to try experimental formations during such an important one-off match again.
First to the obvious — beating West Ham so convincingly was even more pleasurable because of the “we support our local club” and “West Ham ‘til I die” cacophony that lasted exactly 22 minutes. Once Ballack’s half volley hit the back of the net these so-called “loyal supporters” couldn’t leave Upton Park quickly enough.