It has been amusing reading this thread! The predictions about players like Boufal coming good have proved to be wide of the mark although I would have to own up to thinking that Valery would be the one player to watch this season and that Obafemi would emerge as a potent forward. The smart money for 20/21 suggests that Che Adams will be the one grabbing the headlines in 20/21 for Saints. Given that there is now only a 5 week break until the new season starts, I would expect that the predictions for 20/21 should be a bit more accurate. It will be a significant season for Saints and I feel that we will improve upon this season's finishing position. Conversely, I think that the bottom of the table is likely to be dominated by the likes of Leeds, Brighton, Sheffield Utd , Villa and Palace. My money is on Roy Hodgson either not starting the season at the helm of Palace or him being the first managerial casualty. I cannot see Liverpool winning the league again and they will be pipped by Man City although I would add that I think Manchester United will be making some marque signings next month and will push Liverpool for second place. I cannot see United continuing to be so far off the pace for another season. The most obvious headline in 20/21 will be Mourinho leaving Spurs.
I cannot imaginé Villa will be that bad again. A more savvy manager than Smith would have got more out of them. If I were Villa, I'd go and get Gerrard and McAlister.
I think Smith has done a good job. He did at Walsall and Brentford too. It's rare that the team that comes through the play-offs stays up. No guarantee Gerrard would be any better; much less experience.
It's been interesting to see a significant number of new managers with different tactics develop their sides: Smith, Wilder, Potter etc. A different breed from past recycled journey men.
What idiot said Valery would be our player of the season? Bury this thread please. Well done to everyone who got our finishing position right though.
