I go back to my question, how many have had any success since shown the door. Surely that indicates a certain accurate level of judgement previously?
Clearly BBM has had a different philosophy to his predecessors hence the number coming through last season although I'm not convinced they will all develop into the real deal.
But also look at the number let go recently. Decisions have to be made based on likely opportunities going forward, perceived ability and ceilings achievable and basic economics.
Much as we would like them all to succeed that simply won't happen.
I wonder how many will move up and make the grade in 26/27 at a higher level? And of those who performed well in 25/26 will keep it up next season?
I don't belive in rose tinted specs. I'm much more of a realist.
I tend to be a realist myself.
And as we cant re-run the past, we'll never know.
It's all ifs, buts and maybes.
A player leaves and drops down the leagues, plays with less able players and gets lower quality coaching. He wont develop in the same way as he might have if he'd been kept.
Yes, we let a lot go this year. There isnt room for everyone. But we kept some, promoted some. Its more than we've done for a long time.
One person responsible, the manager.
How many managers in the last 5+ years would have played Lawlor? He'd soon be gone, and certainly wouldnt have signed a 4 year contract.
Colin, Mick, Erol? None would have played Lawlor. They'd all have gone for 'experience'. Saying that, Mick could have played him. There might have been room in his 5 CB defense.
How many of Ashford, Davies, Kpakio, the Colwills, would have had game time? We'd have spent good wages on 'experience'.
As I said, ifs, buts and maybes.
I know which option I'd prefer.