IMO we lack any real leadership on the pitch. Dawson is great when paired with Gallas or King, but give him the reins and he seems to doubt himself. VDV is probably the next best, but tries to do everything himself and often is unable to last the full 90 mins.
Parker will at least offer some bite, while the return of Sandro should give us added steel.
That said, Harry seems to constantly big up other teams, belittle our chances, and contradict himself. His tactics are odd to say the least and lining up with a midfield three of Modric, VDV and Kranjcar was asking for trouble. It may sound controversial but the signing of VDV has unbalanced the team and meant that we play a lone striker despite not having one that can perform the role. If we had a Drogba then maybe, but Crouch and Pav are too weak. Hopefully Adeybeyor will hit the ground running, but I can't help thinking that we should be looking for another CF to offer us more threat and put away the chances that we create.
We might not be able to attract the best, but there has to be one or two that will improve us, and are willing to take the measly £75k or whatever it is we offer a week.
Ruiz is a good player, versatile enough to play on the flank (and offer a threat to Lennon), as well as being big enough to play up front (he's over 6ft) and has decent pace and strength. Leandro Demaio is an outstanding, if unproven at this level target man who we have been chasing for months. We have an agreement with Internacional and should utilise this to sign him up as he will end up joining a top team before very long. Again, he can play the lone ranger role if required and is within budget.
Parker will assist the midfield, whilst Cahill or Samba should be approached for the added experience and defensive abilities that we sorely lack. King is only ever going to be a bit-part player and Gallas constantly picks up injuries.
In short (and I know I'm making this look easier than it no doubt is, but let's face it we have had plenty of time to get players in), if we can get say Parker, Cahill and Demaio we should be fine. Add in the return of Sandro, loanee Adebeyor and one of Gallas/King and we may even do well this season.
Of course, Harry needs to pick the correct formation and be proactive rather than reactive in his tactics, but that's another story entirely.
Oh, and learn to stop spouting off to the media... it's making us look even more desperate.