What's up with Lehmann's kicking?

[naggi]

I watched the replay of the 'boro last night and was amazed to see Lehmann softly lob his clearances. In the entire match, only 1 of his clearances and goal kicks reached the other half of the pitch. Does anyone know if he is injured or something?

[Boro_lad]

i noly remember him cocking up 1 kick, the others looked intensional, however he is *#*#*#*# so maybe thats y he cant kick

[phishy]

Originally posted by Boro_lad
i noly remember him cocking up 1 kick, the others looked intensional, however he is *#*#*#*# so maybe thats y he cant kick


kraut nazi bastard?

[AmericanGunner]

i don't think its particularly bad and if that's the sole weakness in his game, I'll be happy.

[Chippy]

He got caught out at Leeds but overall his kicking has been good. I don't think too many expected him to settle in so quickly and play so well.
Once again Wenger knew when to let go (Seaman) and bring in a quality inexpensive replacement (Lehmann).

[naggi]

Originally posted by Boro_lad
i only remember him cocking up 1 kick, the others looked intentional...

I'm not saying it wasn't intentional as he clearly he lobbed them on purpose. I was just curious why he is playing his kicks short. A couple of times he played the ball to a man surrounded by opposition players in his own half, which is not good. I was wondering if anyone has any speculation.

Back when he started the season, I remember thinking that he had a very strong foot. But his kicks have been losing distance over the year.

[tmaker]

Originally posted by naggi
I'm not saying it wasn't intentional as he clearly he lobbed them on purpose. I was just curious why he is playing his kicks short. A couple of times he played the ball to a man surrounded by opposition players in his own half, which is not good. I was wondering if anyone has any speculation.

Back when he started the season, I remember thinking that he had a very strong foot. But his kicks have been losing distance over the year.

I'm watching the Boro game again, and I see what you're saying. Definitely lobbing the ball intentionally.

My unorthodox opinion is that he is playing the ball short because he doesn't trust the midfield's aerial prowess anymore, and looking at the Leicester and Leeds games, I can understand that. Or maybe he's giving them practice ;)

Lehmann's foot is still quite strong. He just uses his strength less. Maybe Le Boss is working on a "concept."

[michaec]

Lehmann has had a tenedency of late to play short passes out to his defenders and put them in trouble. Maybe he has to get used to the high pressure style of game in England where opposition forwards constantly close the goalkeeper and defenders down rather than letting them have it at the back? I don't think he can be afraid of Arsenal not winning the ball in the air when he kicks long. Goal kicks are usually aimed at Henry who has the beating of any central defender I've seen on long goal kicks when he puts his mind to it. He might not be as tall as then, but he has a great spring. And Vieira's not exactly short is he?