With the appointment of CH, a lot has been discussed of who he may bring in, but what about the players we have. CH is on his holibobs watching hours and hours of NCFC games from last season (probably a holiday most of us would like) with the intention of identififying our weak areas. So when he comes back and is in a meeting with McNally, who is he likely to say is surplus to requirements. He holds no personal grudge, or has sentimental issues with any of our players. He doesn't care that they played in league 1 and the championship before the PL, and doesn't care that they may have been an ever-present in the team. If he doesn't think they good enough, then he will let them go. So will he keep the likes of Hoolahan, as he may not care to play a Diamond formation to utilise his best position. Will he think that Surman may be too lightweight or Lappin just doesn't cut it at this level. He may feel that Bradley Johnson is not required, or may think that Holt just isn't worth keeping around. (just plucking names out the air there!) Whose head do you think could be under the guillotine??? Oh, and has Tierney left this planet or is he in Frozen in carbonite somewhere to be released for the new season. What is going on with him???
Ward, Lappin and Crofts will definitely be moved on IMO. Players he would probably like to replace will include Drury (age), Martin (at RB - keep as CB), Johnson. Will need to target a new starting rb, striker and possible a winger to compete with Bennett and Pilks. If Drury is moved into coaching possible a LB to compete with Tierney.
Can't agree with Johnson. I thought we were better when he played. Adds steel to our midfield. Hooly,Surman,Fox,Howson etc all too lightweight.
I think we need a Where's Wally style competiton for Tierney - Gentlemen, Photoshop at the ready.... Howson too lightweight? Really???
Ward has just signed a new / extended contract hasn't he, as has Rusty? Neither will leave in my opinion. some of the other squad players may get to stay, as we have a smallish squad compared to the rest of the premier league. It's almost impossible to know what he will do - the likes of Chris Martin will probably get another chance under the new gaffer.
It really is quite exciting not knowing what is going to happen. I for one, have faith in the new manager, and believe that he make the right decisions, and turn this club into comfortable mid table team. Hopefully when finances allow for big money transfers, we can push for top 8 team, and cup runs to the semis and hopefully finals of competitions.
I think he will be happy to bed in for the first season. I don't envisage too many changes in the summer apart from those wishing to leave. I would expect January to be the place where any major changes could take place if needed.
I agree that he will probably just bed down. The fact is someone pointed out the other week that arriving to our squad must be like getting a Christmas present. There is only one real hole and that is at right-back. Even then, it's not disastrous because Martin has proved that he can cut it there, as long as he has Bennett helping out. Realistically, though, I think Hughton would be satisfied with this summer if he: a) Kept Holt. He's right, this is his major priority. b) Signed a right back. As long as no players are lost, I really don't see anywhere that needs strengthening majorly, so beyond the above I will view as a bonus.
I don't know what Chris Hughton is planning, but, we need to shore up our defence. We can't give away 60 plus goals again in the coming season. We had two season when we just knew we could out score most teams, so it didn't really matter if we gave away a couple, but now is a different story. We are still missing a real leader in the back four. Also another proven striker would be useful. ILD OTBC
I would call R Martin a good leader. But, I agree, out scoring te opposition may not be the best idea. For example, Norwich 4-2 Newcastle, but will we be able to continue this under Hughton.
ILD - Pretty much sums up my views on where we need to strengthen. I'd quite like to see another winger as cover for E Bennett and Pilkington, as IMO, we always looked more threatening when those 2 played. I'm not convinced the 'Diamond' works so well in the Prem, so I would say let Hoolahoops go, or keep him as a sub primarily. The only ones I would let go would be Ward (assuming we get Davies or someone similar), Crofts and Lappin and aim to get more or less direct replacements. I think Holt will end up going, but I hope the others on PL's shopping list will rebuff him and continue to play in Yellow and Green!!!! PS - Interersting to see that both C Martin and Wilbraham cuold be playing for Palace next season!!!
