I think the key word there is 'potential'. In time he could be, but from what little we've seen so far, he doesn't appear ready. Mind'st you, I said the same about Bowen and KLP, so who knows. Here's hoping.
Jones- Greaves- Seri- Tufan-Traore- Oscar- Tetteh are good players at this level. LR will get them fit and ready for the season. No idea what the last bloke did with them as we looked so unfit and had to play constant catch up which resulted in so many injuries. I’ll see who we bring in before I make any predictions as the Championship looks stronger than last season.
I think Simons looks a receiver and neat passer , hasn’t really shown or has the strength to be a ball winner IMO , his game after the Fulham game was much less expansive he sat in and did the simple stuff- that’s a skill in itself .I honestly think Rosie is going to play possession , press and wear them down , dominating the last half hour . The reason Pep likes Grealish is not the goals , but his ability to keep the ball , occupy a couple of men allowing the team to re adjust , get in possession , or simply take the pressure off when needed . Dare I say it if Ebiowei had had heart he would have done the same to some extent I think .
Simons needs a run of games, he is lacking nothing but experience of this level in my mind. He has the potential to be a very good player for us.
Last season we had Shota, not really knowing what his plan was, being provided with umpteen new signings of various quality and fitness. We now have Liam with a very clear plan, with players capabilities and limitations he is fully aware of. He has rooted a few out and will bring a few in - hopefully of better quality. With last years line up I think we’d definitely be top 10 with an half decent chance of the play-offs. This years league looks stronger, so I’d be happy with a top half finish - with the play-offs in real sight for the majority of the season.
Well I’ll give credit to Rosie and Acun , they've not been pilloried yet for no buys , can’t believe how patient you’ve all become! LOL We obviously have faith !
That’s the problem “next season” never comes, next season he hasn’t played enough games this season. So we still don’t trust him, I think we get lost in “football bullshit flannel” what if we get promoted then simons doesn’t get in again
Traoré if he stays fit is the best 10 in the division, Seri is probably the best technical player in the division and slater brings the energy. Definitely a top 6 midfield
Traore’s impact was significant, one of the best players on the pitch whenever he played. You have to remember this was without a proper preseason and without a proper striker to feed. Think he’s going to be the stand out player this season.
We finished 15th in the league, and whilst we defended well we don't create enough chances. We don't have any height in there or have any grit/physicality. Of course it's not a top 6 midfield, we wouldn't have finished 15th if it was.
