𝓤𝓷𝓲𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓝𝓮𝔀𝓼

Xabi Alonso told reporters in Sydney ahead of today’s match that he has not yet decided who will be the No 1 goalkeeper ahead of the new season.

Robert Sanchez is facing new competition for the starting role this year with Belgium international Mike Penders, 20, joining the squad having impressed on loan at Strasbourg last term. Penders has yet to start training as he is also on a post World Cup break. Alonso said:

💬 “All the positions, everything is open. The competition within the squad is positive and I like that.”

Filip Jorgensen’s inclusion suggests he is not close to realising his stated desire to leave and return to being a No 1 goalkeeper elsewhere.

In any case, Alonso may appreciate his presence as a more seasoned alternative to Sanchez, with Penders on a post-World Cup holiday. Let’s see who plays between the sticks today.