Not buying that. He's been gash since the international break, but to put that down to other players being rotated is stretching the "rotation is bad" concept to breaking point
Because they were desperate. He was quite obviously not fit. The fact he played two games doesn't then equate to him being fit. He has been crap since then - don't know why - but its not down to not playing Vs Portsmouth. MIght be more as a result of England playing him when injured. You are going around in meaningless circles.
Its an excuse. And if its one the players are using then they aren't the right players. It might apply to Crouch, but most of the "big" players that have been available have generally played, and been poor for the last half dozen games. Agree with Mike - when he has rotated he has got key positions wrong in a couple of games.
Very different kettle of fish. Nothing earth shatteringly perceptive - really just a feeling. I still see them struggling against some of the more agricultural sides. I don't think they've rid themselves of the habit of wanting to walk the ball into the net. They lose a few important players in the ANC. They've had a good start, but I think they'll drop plenty of points.
Everton will bring the best out in Gerrard, and hopefully the rest of the team. We're playing crap, but Rafa has a couple of weeks breathing space. Couple of wins and we're back on track. Its great being rational, but increasingly difficult.