Right, back to the players (in the new kit) and the aspirations for the exciting season ahead. Who has any hunches about any of our players lighting up the top league? OK, there may be some new signings, but just a little distraction from the kit hullabaloo. I think Chung could be very useful (great pace and technique) and Guly may find himself with more space to express his silky skills. Also Jay Rod, just cos I want him to and he has a fine name. What are your thoughts?
Morgan, could stick about £10m on his value if he performs to potential. I have a feeling Jos will excel again this season and I agree Tadanari might just be explosive too. Don't rule out the sniffer that is Billy Sharp either. If he sticks in the box, I can see him getting goals (if selected)
Schnederlin will be one of our key players this season, no doubt about it. Rodriguez with his pace should cause problems for defences, especially as he's partnering Lambert up front. Their link up play should be very effective (hopefully!). Lallana will keep the RB's busy.
It sounds like an obvious choice but I really think Lallana can do very well. Both he and Morgan will feel the benefit of playing in the lower leagues on a regular basis. Adam has been man marked and doubled up on in the last few seasons so although playing against better defenders he will find a little more space and with his close control if we can give him the ball in oppo penalty box anything can happen.
Just compiled a little list of players that I think will take the league by storm... http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/page/ProfilesDetail/0,,10280~40888,00.html
I think we'll move Lallana into a more free role in front of the 2 midfieders as seems to be all the style with attacking playmaker types. Can see him, Morgan and Cork all doing well if we play like that. I do think Fraiser Richardson will surprise a few people with his willingness to overlap. Individually, we don't have the best players, so preseason will focus on teamwork and ball-retention. I think we'll have to bite the bullet and lose an out and out striker because we'll be on the receiving end of some big beatings if we stick with the 442. PL defenders giving more space is a falacy. They perfect the art of getting in attackers' faces without letting them past. Attackers might have slightly more time, but the defenders are a lot harder to beat and don't just stand off and let players play. Lallana and Morgan do have the ability though to jink defenders and make themselve a bit of space, so we'll see.
Despite the fact that half our fans want to ditch him, I think Richardson - if given the chance - will once again rack up a pile of assists.
Although it is a bit further away than normal because a leap second is being added onto today at 23:59:59...so that's an extra second in bed.
I reckon it will be the "new" defender, the "new" GK, or the "new" midfield dynamo, whoever they may be. Watch this space.....
Guly I think will relish the prem. Despite his relaxed gait, which has led some people to think he's lazy, he has the pace, athleticism and control to flourish at this level.
We have many good players but our strength is as a team organized by Nigel. Recently the press have been full of what is needed to improve the England team and I kept thinking we do that, we do that, we do that. NC wants us to be known for our style...lets hope that that is also successful in the PL.
De Ridder and Sharp to have outstanding seasons. I can see them (along with Lallana and Lambert) lighting up the Premier League next season.
