The Times are reporting this morning that Howe has had a recent meeting with Trippier, assuring him he'll remain a key player and a big part of his plans, if only he'd please please stay... Even some mention of a possible contract extension.
As much as I want to keep EH, there’s a part of me that wants a new manager just to get rid of the dregs
Howes priorities. 1. Good in the dressing room. 2. Banter. 3. Hard work. 4. Loyal. 5. Grafter. 6. Smiles. 7. Effort. 8. Attitude. If there’s any talent it’s a bonus. I knew we’d get into this power struggle. It’s just posturing now, Howe doing what all English managers do and being obstinate, “I’ll show you even if it kills me and even then I’ll believe I was right and needed more time”. Going to be a wet fart of a window with Mitchell wanting players like Todibo and Howe lamenting missing out on Kilman. Team should do too 10 but Howe will be sacked before Xmas. Looks a bit weird now, Mitchell’s been handed the power so for Howe to start puffing his chest out as if he has any leverage is mental and quite damaging.
I'd prefer to keep him and sell Longstaff... Longstaff is probably the only player that's way off the standard. Right back would need looking at if Trippier is sold because that would leave Livramento only. I'm reached a point where I'm pretty sure the RW and CB signings are all that's required to push on.
I think you’ll be lucky to get that. I don’t know that Howe sees Almiron and Murphy as a problem. I can see him doubling down on his allies and keeping the likes of Almiron, Schar, Trippier, Wilson and Longstaff for as long as he can. You’re also hearing that Mitchell wants a pathway for youth, yet our first choice back five has an average age of over 30.
Anyone asking for patience need to look at Man U. Ashworth has signed more players in his fortnight than the team of Nickson,’Howe and Howe have managed the whole of this year.
I get that Liverpool, Arsenal and City haven’t. But we’re nowhere near them. By contrast, all those around us have. Literally all of them.