Yes there were but sadly was never going to last and it probably won’t for clubs like Brighton and Brentford. Obviously last season wasn’t good but then that is what happens if you have 3 managers, players off form and key ones injured .
Chateauroux lost 17 players during the close season, either because loan spells ended, or contracts finished. They had 3 defenders and 4 midfield players left, no keepers or attackers at all. They also lost the head coach and his staff. They had tried to employ players who would take them back to league 2, but as individuals they never gelled into a team. They overspent, and were in danger of a further relegation because the proposed budget for 2023/4 didn't add up. The club President called a meeting with some supporters and explained what had happened, and how the model would have to change. A new coach was appointed, who had been at the club previously. His first spell was not exciting, but he was a safe pair of hands. New players have started to arrive, but they are mainly out of contract players from other clubs looking for somewhere to play. At the first press conference given by the head coach, he stated that although he knew fans wanted to see promotion, stability had to come first, and promotion was not number one on his list. I have set this out as what I can see is some similar and some dissimilar happenings at Watford. It was obvious that none of the coaches made an impression on some players. A grand clear-out was needed. The owner really doesn't like having to explain things to fans. Out of contract players are being brought in to fill the gaps. But the big thing is a question. Would the fans accept that the club is not planning for promotion, but needs a season to stabilize? Judging by some comments seen, the answer is no.
Tbh I get the feeling the attitude and mindset is different between those who go to games (home ) and those who vent online during matches and afterwards. The online warriors tend to be those belittling others as they aren’t storming the directors box demanding answers or hurling abuse at players . Maybe drink and drugs doesn’t help the mood of away supporters particularly if the team isn’t playing well which was a common factor last season. Of course last season was particularly disappointing and obviously the club were rightly criticised - not helped by Luton going up . I am not sure what fans want but I know they will spend all the time saying how rubbish we are but then be annoyed we aren’t pushing for promotion. Guess everyone can just be fickle at times and opinions change from week to week almost . I just find it strange we have fans who complain the manager doesn’t get time and a chance from the owners whilst at the same time doing just that even before he takes charge of one game ! Still convinced Munoz for example was partly quickly removed due to a bad reaction from fans to a couple of ropey performances by a newly promoted side in “the toughest league in the world “( Trademark ) That worked out well !
New away kit now on sale. To be honest, I prefer this to the horror that is the home kit - although I'd rather that ridiculous logo wasn't there.
Both kits much worse than last season. I thought all three kits last year were great, and fit the theme of 100 years at the Vic. This just looks like the West Ham training top, and the home kit doesn't have enough yellow or red.
Sounds like Wesley from Villa is now going to Stoke . Our fans don’t seem that bothered for now as he had a dodgy injury record . But cue meltdown on 19th when he nets the winner !
Twice bitten, four times shy? After Hause and Davis I wouldn't be risking another signing from Villa.
No and his goal scoring record wasn't great plus had injury issues which we already could have with Healey. I presume Ince is injured as he hasn't played in Pre-season. Probably do need to get a couple in though as Bayo and Healey plus the kids like Tobi won't be enough.
I didn’t realise these new academy guys were as old as 16. They will be in the first team squad soon.
A photo of Ince I saw made me think he is overweight but maybe injured as well. I guess we will find out soon.
We’re delighted to confirm that Daniel Bachmann has signed a new five-year contract with the Hornets, running until the summer of 2028. Valérien Ismaël has also appointed Bachmann as our new Club Captain!
Gone down as well as I predicted! Guess he is has been hear a while and is obviously valued by the club and managers unlike fans . Also : “Ismaël has announced a leadership group too. Daniel Bachmann (Club Captain) - Wesley Hoedt - Jake Livermore - Imran Louza - Ken Sema” Presume this means they will all start !
The fans (including some I sit with) want a 30yr old Ben Foster If he was available he would probably cost the total of our expenditure in this pre season (as a signing on fee)
As a keeper, like all of them, he makes a mistake, and it is obvious for all to see. Last season he saved us on many occasions from embarrassing defeats. Not perfect by any means, but as good if not better than some in the Championship. Not sure about the club captain though until I wonder who else. Unless you make a signing of someone with that job in mind, you tend to go with someone who knows the club.
Yes I think it’s more the fact he has been given a new contract and the captains job that has upset people. Most probably knew he was going to start . Mind you hardly as if there are many other options out there and well what is a contract these days ? Can easily be ripped up or moved on if required .
It seems that a long contract is used to prevent players moving on for a free. Kylian Mbappé is a good example. Continue to be well paid by PSG for this season, then they lose out on a very large transfer fee when his contract runs out.
Twitter invited me to listen in to live discussion about DB a little while ago, hosted by someone called Uncle Ron. I listened for about 30 seconds then bolted, thinking who is this nutjob with his little band of idiots.
They all seem to love Porteous. Well maybe he looks tough and committed but he has been part of the same defence people keep complaining about so he is far from perfect . Seen him dive in and get caught out . Tbh all the players should lead in their own way and work as a team without needing someone to shout at them . Maybe Bachmann isn’t the most obvious choice but there aren’t many clear candidates.
