Irrespective on who we sign up front ,do most of you think we will do better this season re :goals scored with the departure of Dembele and the possible moving on of Mc C, I personally dont think so, but I would be happy if we we scored say 15% less and conceded 50% less. This could put us in a good position at the end of the season, maybe challenging for promotion or at least in the top half of the table for a change
First and foremost we need to stop the rot in the defense. We appear to have the players to do this in the coming season, which is a massive step forward. Dependent on our tactics we have and continue to have a good offensive midfield and attack. I have wondered too often whether McC, despite he goals helps our general play. He has to be playing if we have him, I have the feeling we would often do better as a team, without. Overall I think we will be much improved this season although with the addition of a Huth-like CB and a physically strong lone striker, we could make a real challenge for promotion. Today's friendly will be a good test.
Clean sheets will be the key to getting out of this division - you only have to look at 'Boro last season. A confident goalie who commands his area will help the back 4/3 with their own confidence as will the experience (and by that I mainly mean, the ability to read the game) of McDonald in front of them. Sure we need to score as well but I'd rather see goals coming from across the team rather than continually relying on one man. As you say 2whites, today's game will be a good test. Well remember a pre-season game at the Cottage under Jol when they gave us an absolute drubbing. Time has moved on of course, let's hope we have as well with the new lot. Noted though that Betis beat the very same 'Boro 2-1 just a few days ago.
