The expectation is mid-table and I think the Telegraph have it about right in that respect (although some of their other pedictions seem a bit strange). They probably expected Norwich to finish mid-table last season and Middlesborough to storm the league. These predictions serve to prove very little other than that every game is worth fighting for. We have nothing to lose by aspiring so long as we remain sensible. A lot of teams probably envy our stability and team spirit - two things that can override expectations.
Agree that our defence could (and will need to) be better. It's been exposed already in pre-season. IMO one of the reasons people have so much trouble choosing between our full-backs is that we don't have any stand out players in those positions - no automatic choices, such as Fonte in the middle. Will NA feel the need to put that right after we've signed a CB?
I'm gonna try and see my glass half full for this one! Think we have enough quality to push higher in this league coupled with good team spirit and momentum. I'm also basing this on how well Norwich, Leeds and Millwall did last season. New signings (this week?) could be key as well. Our attacking options are exciting, but I am wary that we do concede some silly goals which would be nice to stop!
we mostly seem pleased with a mid table finish. What do you think Nicola Cortese expectations are? would he be happy with 13th. we would still be within the 5 year plan. personally i think if we are top 10 in January he will splash more cash in transfer window and go for it this year.
UPDATE I posted this on 31/7/11, exactly 3 months ago today. As its halloween i thought i would ressurect this thread. How things have changed - less than 100 days later and 14 games, saints are top, clear of third by 6 points. in our wildest dreams none of us could have thought that. How are the rest of the telegraphs predictions doiing - leicester top, forest second and to have pompey above saints Anyway just wanted your thoughts for the next 3 months and interested to hear from anyone who originally posted. you could definately not say we thought we would run away with the league -we were very cautious. I will revist this thread in a nother 3 months and hopefully will still be as happy as i am now - what are the chances?
Will beat some superb teams, but also lose to some abject ones. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Ouch, bad timing dude, bad timing.
well it is a fun ride - but relax - iam more nervous than ever only kidding -an absolute pleasure to watch and enjoy so far
very bold jen to predict saints would do great - i hope we can still laugh at the above comment on wednesday
Plenty has changed. I never thought Lecester would be title challengers so no real surprise there. They could still sneak into the playoffs on a late run in the unlikely event they start being sensible. I fancy Saints and West Ham top 2 with Boro and Brum definately in the playoffs. The other 2 places I reckon will be up for grabs. Palace could be the surprise package if they keep hold of Scannell and Zaha through January. What a fantastic league this is!
Whilst not top two, I'm still refusing to rule Forest out yet of the promotion picture entirely. There are so many games still to go, and Forest's squad is so strong, that I really wouldn't be surprised if they still managed to get a top 6 spot. Once they get a on roll, they could be difficult to stop. When I hear that Forest have dropped points, I do the same sort of fist-pump as I do when I've heard that West Ham or Boro or Leeds etc have dropped points.
Birmingham have been mentioned a couple of times and I think they will be dangerous. We beat them comfortably at home (that was a seriously underrated performance from us, possibly our best this season) but they still have a good squad and presumably will be out of Europe soon... Don't rule out Leicester under any circumstances, but I am pleased to see Crystal Palace, Derby and Hull mixing things up.
My opinion is that our best 1st half of the season to date was Birmingham, our best 2nd half of the season to date was Watford, and our best 90 mins of the season to date was Boro.
You want my honest opinion? This league is now yours to lose. You've had a fantastic start with an unbelievable home record. West Ham will probably pip you for top spot but who else is there to challenge for the other spot? Just as long as we don't embarras ourselves against you,I'll be happy this season. If you blow it in the play-offs ....happy days!
