Ange Postecoglou is a knowledgeable manager who very rarely makes mistakes. His game management has come under fire this season with many fans believing he turns to his bench too late or uses the wrong personnel but I have been defensive of this.
Ange hasn’t had the luxury of a bench full of talent and has often named two keepers on it but has players have returned from injury I believe he has used his options wisely. Tonight he demonstrated that.
Postecoglou turned to his bench and used four of the players sitting on it. Scales, Bitton, Johnston and Giakoumakis were the four called upon and all performed well when brought onto the field.
Scales was brought on after Montgomery looked to be struggling with cramps. He finished the game and has put his name in the ring for the left-back role.
Bitton entered the field of play at a crucial time, playing in midfield he calmed the game down as Ferencvaros looked threatening.
Johnston came on and stunned the fans. He was electric. The winger made a few runs beating the Hungarian defenders. If he can stay fit, he can help the attack out this season.
Giakoumakis looked sharp when he was subbed on, it will be interesting to see if he has done enough to earn a place in Saturday’s starting XI.
