Carl Valeri v Uruguay

Carl Valeri played the Vinny Grella role in front of the back four. He screened the defence from Uruguay's attack. He pushed forward to support the forwards particularly in the second half.

At times under considerable pressure from a mobile and pressing Uruguay front six, Valeri showed excellent composure, great touch and cool distribution.

He certainly did not look out of his depth in this company.

He has been criticised this morning for not supplying killer balls to his forwards, notably by Four Four Two, but I think that misunderstands what is expected of Valeri and his importance to the team.

He is the link man, he provides release for the defence and build the momentum forward.

I think Valeri can be pleased with his performance. There is always room for improvement. A wayward tackle here and there, a misplaced pass, but this is a man who is learning his international game.

Tellingly, Arnold left him on for the full ninety. This, with his performance against China in March suggests to me that he'll be in the Asia Cup squad as back-up for Vinny Grella.

What did you think of Carl Valeri's performance?
Will Carl Valeri make the Asia Cup squad? What do you think?