Full notes from Hughes' pre-game press conference: - No proper discussions about his future beyond the end of the season - Obviously if things go well for both parties then there will likely be a conversation about that - Good group here, talented players - Lack of direction, the players need more direction and drive - Some people commented on the intensity of training - He was surprised that the intensity of his work has surprised the players, but it's how it's going to be now - We need to be more intense in matches too - His only focus is on making sure we stay in the Premier League - He is going to take the FA Cup match seriously - We just need to bring out the best elements of our players - We need to make our attacking play more effective - We need better movement and creativity in the final third - The team need to understand where to put the ball, where to attack, how many more people need to attack - That is my focus for this weekend, I want to see us creating chances to win the game - In the league, draws and losses are not good enough - We must win the league games, not focus on trying to take a point - There's an argument for saying that players now have a fresh start - Any grievances people had with the past manager should now be forgotten - Let's start afresh and see if people take their opportunities - As an opposition manager I know a lot about the place I've come to - The key for us now is that if you perform well, you will be keeping the shirt - The standard needs to be higher if you want to keep the shirt though, it's not been good enough - The fans are going to be massive for us now - Over 4,000 at Wigan is massive support, we need to show the fans and give them something to grasp onto for the rest of the season - We want to change how they feel - I've been speaking to Charlie Austin, he's not going to be involved this weekend - We think we can get him involved for short periods next week - He could get some game time if things go well - He is encouraged and we will look at speeding up his progress - But I do not want to put too much pressure on Charlie, but if we can get him ready for West Ham that's great - There is no right or wrong way now - The only way for us is to win these football matches - I can only judge the guys on what I see in training - I am pleased with them - You always feel apprehensive in scenarios like these when you come in - But I haven't seen fragmented groups, lack of confidence or lack of belief in ability - Now we can focus on work - I don't have the luxury of a bit more time to build relationships and slowly grow things - We're in a situation where I have to and will step on people's toes - We don't have time to waste - If I upset people along the way, then they will have to accept it - All I care about is that when we look back on this period, we view it as a success and the club is safe - I do like the energy here, everybody is pushing in the right direction, but it must continue until the season ends - The cup can be a real positive influence and give us confidence and momentum - I do not see a game against Wigan as a hindrance, this is a positive for us
Thanks for that. It was a treat to hear a Saints Manager talking the language of English Football, he talks the talk, now let's walk the walk.
I'm sure Beef hinted at this a while ago too. Tread on peoples toes, steam roller them for all i care, i think its needed. I think our squad got a little bit comfortable and took the'r foot off the gas. First impression of Hughes is a good and positive one. Starting afresh as he said, will Forster be back in goal ???
I like the following comments from Hughes, especially the “more people need to attack” line. “We need to make our attacking play more effective - Weneed better movement and creativity in the final third - The team need to understand where to put the ball, where to attack, how many more people need to attack - That is my focus for this weekend, I want to see us creating chances to win the game”
I like the fact that he didn't see fragmented groups....that could prove to be crucial. One team, one aim. You can't escape relegation if there is in-fighting. But, as he said, he hasn't time to build relationships....which I take to mean that he has no time to deal with anyone who has a grievance and wants to be cuddled. They have to suck it up as only one thing matters....EPL football next season. If they train well and look willing, chances may come next season if not this season. I hope to see improvements in all players, but especially Tadic, Romeu and Cedric. They are talented and we want to see that come out....perhaps, under a different manager and style, it will.
We’re on the right track, clarity of purpose, method of attainment and expectations of and from each player. Agree with this entirely but not sure why people getting paid £0000’s per week need this. Just shows how much of a gap exists between them and the rest of us. Very positive though about this approach.
Why aren't they motivated when they are paid thousands....because they are human beings. Losing or at least failing to win week after week....when they have done what has been asked by the manager during the week....will depress anyone and make them lose hope. A new person coming in and changing things will produce a lift in spirits....at least temporarily. A change in results will be needed to produce a more permanent effect. How much you are paid has little to do with it as they get paid anyway.
Should have known from Jonny really, but only read quickly at the end of my break ........I need a holiday
