Very true. It's like when I look back at the league one goals from time to time. I may not like Lallana or Fonte now, but I don't let that stop me remembering those days with anything but fondness.
Some might like this... https://www.not606.com/threads/the-curse-of-southampton.354186/#post-11063003
But the facts show he's one of the most successful managers we've had in a generation. You constantly like to see how he lucked his way to 6th but never seem to mention his first season. Funny that... I'm not saying he's one of the world's top managers or anything but it's ludicrous to suggest he didn't do a good job here as the facts show he did.
I think that there was a lot geared towards his success from day one. Much as like with Everton, he came into a team that had great players and star individuals. With us he also came into an environment and team that were brilliantly drilled and set up. Hence with both clubs he had a decent first season, but then when he's had to continue a task and 'make it his own' he's had some serious struggles, and fallen out with people left, right and centre, whilst playing golf. I don't think he's a terrible manager by any stretch, but I really don't think he's any more than average (or any better than Puel/Pellegrino etc). I wouldn't want him back, even if we were struggling.
I disagree with that comment. Although there were some left the main ones all left in the summer that he joined. I don't like the guy but give credit where its due he had to re-build Saints in his first transfer window and then try to get through some major leavers in the 2nd
Just to try and explain my Koeman thoughts a bit better.....possibly..... I always felt like the team was in control of his destiny, rather than him being in control of the team's. That's a feeling I never, ever got with Poch. Does that make any sense? It does in my head, but I can see how it might not on paper.
I understand what you're saying and it's what I believed happened to Martinez at Everton among others. I think he's better than average, though I agree I wouldn't have him back. Very much right man at right time for me.
We were all hurt/stunned/disappointed/nervous when Poch left. Koeman provided a calming influence, especially when players left. Overall he did well for us....the manner of his leaving was the problem....not what he did here. We will never know if he could have done better for us in Europe than Puel....but shame we never got to find out. His leaving ruined what could have been a nice restful summer looking forward to a European road trip.
Maybe, but he was helped by Pelle, Tadic, Mane who he may of had some influence in bringing in, I think he needs be awarded some credit