Yes. mental as far as confidence is concerned, but probably the reason for poor league performances is physical. The Euro Cup is contested by some pretty ordinary sides early on and even in the latter stages there is often a pace to the game which gives all teams a chance.
We do also tend to over rate some of the main Euro sides. Clever players no doubt, great individual skills, but they are far more vulnerable than their reputations might suggest. I can't think of any decent Prem side who would crumble so quickly against normal pressure as the Italians did in the second half of that final.
Fulham didn't, and that probably typifies the difference. Our Prem is the hardest in Europe, possibly the world, and to do well consistently requires a higher degree of mental and physical conditioning. This comes from the manager and his staff.
Look back at the past good Pool sides. Look at the more recent top teams What they all have in common is the ability to play well at pace and the fitness to sustain it. The players the Reds have right now seem happier playing at a more leisurely speed?
Mourinho as gracious as ever 4133zAz (Dan) Why would I try and have a decent point with someone who beleives that his club well be up there again because they were once the best...
LC
