Was a little tongue in cheek. I genuinely don't think we'll win. If it was anyone other than your boys, I'd be extremely confident, but unfortunately, its you, and for whatever reason, doesn't seem to go to plan.
Us playing it at the back really can be terrifying at times but really helps us score alot (and potentially means we're also open at the back), have to say it's so effective now where it wasn't quite so much in the early days with McKenna because of the attacking talent on the pitch. At the start of last season we had Harness and Ladapo in 2 of the attacking positions and not much to bring off the bench, we've got that talent up top now to really hurt teams and stretch the game, in McKennas early days we didn't and we just seemed to pass it around for the sake of it, which at times was pretty dull. If we get the PL or not I'd like to see us do what we've done since McKenna has been here and evolve the squad not buy a whole new one. If we get there the players deserve their chance and there's alot to be said for this teams mentality and also quality. I know you reference Burnley but I thought they've gone out and spent alot of money on alot of players. I'd much rather do a Luton where they've supplemented their squad with a few quality and more experienced players and integrated them into their team. We've got such a good culture we want to evolve not gamble. In terms of Mick part of me thinks he deserves alot of credit for what he did at Ipswich, clearly the best manager especially in terms of man management we've had since Royle and like Royle if he'd had a bit more cash I'm sure he could've got us to the PL. I also have an inherent dislike for the man because of the style of play, even in our playoff season it was turgid to watch (much like many of his teams). Its interesting also given the amount of time he was at the club and the relative success given the situation he didn't really warm to the fans, to me it always felt he had an us vs them mentality rather than we're all in it as a big community like we are now. It definitely felt like he worked for Evans not the club. Football has really changed the past few seasons with the majority of teams now nearly at every level playing out from the back and being tactically sound and I think time has moved on from Managers like Mick, whether he'd adapt to that is another question.
Good summary, have to say I think majority of our squad is capable at this level, we can certainly improve particular defensively in the wide positions but hate to single out 1 player but Jackson is not a Championship standard player. Its also interesting how Harness hasn't been used in recent games, McKenna would rather leave Hutchinson on the pitch and change his position.
Cracking game the other night lads; it's been an enjoyable season and I really hope you get promoted automatically. I reckon you'll be alright in the Prem too with a few decent buys. From a jealous Saints fan (born in Ipswich).
I didnt like the way Downes got Morsy booked in the first half, he kicked Sam a couple of times and when Sam went in a bit hard in retaliation he made sure Sam was booked and then he low fived a couple of their players, i really dont like that it reminded me of when Derby County players were congratulating each other after taking turns to kick Jonny Williams off the pitch, we really dont need it.
He does tread that fine line between hard and dirty.I love the guy to bits but sometimes think he invites yellow cards cheaply.
All teams know he is a dynamic, game changing midfield general who leads by example. Wind him up, verbally and physically, get him yellow carded and reduce his effectiveness. He is our Egyptian king and has lead us to the summit!
