We do seem to be targeting "we'll probably go down" players, which is sensible, if unexciting. I'd imagine we might take a punt on a "let's see if we can stay up" couple once the Euros finish.
Bednarek and Stephens are entering the final year of their contracts. Wouldn't be surprised if Bednarek wants to leave/we want to get a fee for him if he doesn't want to sign a new contract. He's been here a long time too. Don't think those things are as pressing with Jack as don't think he would bring in much of a fee anyway, nor do I think he can really do any better than us so although they are both going into their final year, I see their situations as being a bit different.
Chuck in Lallana too for the last 30 mins of a game and we are up to more than 7-800We saw in our relegation season that not having experience through the core of the team can really hurt. Bedders and Stephens won't pull up any trees in the PL but they are experienced there. For me, it's the little 'in-game' experiences that can swing a result. The little details. Knowing when to slow things down, take a yellow, feign an injury etc. etc. that could gain 2 or 3 points in a season. The exuberance of inexperience doesn't always appreciate the need for these things.
Those two have ~300 PL games between them. Add KWP and we're up to ~400 PL games. If McCarthy plays then it's ~500 PL games. They may not be superstars but they're no mugs at this level either.
I'd like to keep Bedders and Stephens for this season at least.
We do seem to be targeting "we'll probably go down" players, which is sensible, if unexciting. I'd imagine we might take a punt on a "let's see if we can stay up" couple once the Euros finish.
Hmm, as much as I enjoyed last season there is a huge amount of financial pressure for relegated PL teams to go back up within 2 seasons. We do need to stay up this time.I am totally chilled about getting relegated this year. I enjoyed last season so much, it really was the reset I needed as a fan who was getting a bit disillusioned with Saints and the Premier League.
Don't think knowing when to slow things down will be a problem for us?We saw in our relegation season that not having experience through the core of the team can really hurt. Bedders and Stephens won't pull up any trees in the PL but they are experienced there. For me, it's the little 'in-game' experiences that can swing a result. The little details. Knowing when to slow things down, take a yellow, feign an injury etc. etc. that could gain 2 or 3 points in a season. The exuberance of inexperience doesn't always appreciate the need for these things.
Those two have ~300 PL games between them. Add KWP and we're up to ~400 PL games. If McCarthy plays then it's ~500 PL games. They may not be superstars but they're no mugs at this level either.
I'd like to keep Bedders and Stephens for this season at least.
Spend a year forcing him into 3rd choice. Plays 5 games. Gets another contractYou must log in or register to see media
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Just read his farewell message in The Echo. Top class message to the fans. Really sorry to see him go.Good man. Little bit gutted to be honest.
His performances merit it, he came good and surprised most if not all with his ability and attitude.Spend a year forcing him into 3rd choice. Plays 5 games. Gets another contract![]()
His performances merit it, he came good and surprised most if not all with his ability and attitude.
That is the thing. As back up it is a great move. Its free and we know his level. But the rumour was that he was only willing to sign as a regular starter.Yeah, 100% deserves another season. Not gonna get a better Back up at least.
Isn't he also pretty good at sprinting? Bad doping record though.Ben Johnson going to Ipswich when his West Ham contract expires. Wouldn’t have minded him, gives me KWP vibes
His brother was a **** prime minister.Isn't he also pretty good at sprinting? Bad doping record though.
He also wrote some nice literature.
"Farewell, thou child of my right hand, and joy;
My sin was too much hope of thee, lov'd boy.
Seven years tho' wert lent to me, and I thee pay,
Exacted by thy fate, on the just day."
Bazunu to come back just in time for the relegation dogfight.You must log in or register to see media

Bazunu to come back just in time for the relegation dogfight.![]()