I get the impression RLB thinks we haven’t reached our full potential yet. Always talks about learning. Looking forward to what’s to come.
I've thought to give it 10 games into the season to see where we are,and it'll be 9 going into the next complete nuisance international break. We have 3 matches till then.....none of which are easy....and will give us a good idea of where we are and what we might expect.
I like everything RLB says,especially about solving problems which develope during the game. Also Iiked what he says about Connelly and what he brings to the game and a bit more reassured that all could go well for us and Connolly. Good to hear that Connelly is reasonably fit too and could be available for after the international break. I suppose the proof will be if or when things are not going so well for us but still can,t help but think about how far we can go this season. However there is always that element of caution when being a Sunderland supporter for more than 60 years.
I know what you mean. It's very tempting to say we are playing great football,got a fantastic squad with a mixture of youth and a bit of experience including some players we haven't even seen yet and some to come back from injury,an obviously very talented coach, everyone seems to be on the same page and we fear no-one. Then,you remember the overwhelming deja vu of seeing hopes dashed,and the absolute requirement to keep the feet very firmly on the ground!
Yeah, good shout. It’s still very early days Boro in 12th, Luton in 15th and Coventry in 19th. I still expect those 3 sides to be in and around the play-offs come May.
Coventry a bit average given the money they've spent. Saw a few of them moaning on twitter that our squad is better than theirs
9th last season and an FA Cup semi-final (which they should’ve won). I still believe they’ll be challenging play offs this season. Ben Sheaf being back for them is key.
You could be right mate....everyone will have their ups and downs....it's what makes this league so compelling.
Cup games aren't a barometer - we got to the 2014 League Cup final despite being utterly ****e in the league. Coventry should have finished higher than 9th given the money they spent (I know they lost 2 key players) and there is no evidence to suggest they will be in the play off mix this season either. Ditto Luton who have looked poor.
The only prediction I’ve made recently is that we’d beat Plymouth. Not doing that again. I’m going back to assuming the worst. Great thread as per.
Didn't hear of any.Connolly will need a bit of time,otherwise I think RLB has a couple of decisions.....I'm expecting Mepham in,Ballard on the bench,and the middle 3 as last week with Browne on the bench.
I would be surprised if he changed the starting 11, but depending on the time and score at Watford I would expect earlier subs and then potential changes against Derby
Just looking at squads and the fact there’s still 40 games to play, I believe Coventry and Luton will be up there. Anything can happen though, it’s the beauty of this league. We could still finish 17th despite a cracking start.
