I think there is a balance to be had between the two. There must be ambition to evolve to a better position. I think we started out OK with that plan before. Players like; Fer, Snodgrass and Howson. Good additions of younger players who could enhance the team not just for the season but moving forward. On paper Wolfie didn't look a bad gamble and attempt to take the next step. It was in my book a transitionary transfer within our theoretical means, but look at the stokes of the time, they were still spending more. The trouble I think we have had in that transfer and ones like Naismith too is the lack of significant enough relegation clauses. I accept that maybe we would miss out on theoretically established players like Naismith if these drops were too much, but as long as you stress that they will be allowed to leave if the wish in such an event (Subject to perhaps a buy out clause to at least cover the initial outlay) or even staggered wage reductions in line with club income drop. If Naismith was now on 40% of his original signing wages I reckon he would have done himself and the club a favour by now and completely pissed off.
Bah!