It's the Europa league that's going to handicap us next season. Unless, of course, we get lucky and win it.
I feel pretty confident that relegation is not an issue, although wouldn't be surprised if we finish below last season's position because of the Europa League.
Very true. But we could also be knocked out before we even reach the group stage's in September. Europa League doesn't have to be a hindrance if managed properly, which I have faith in Koeman that he will.
I said we would finish around 9th before the transfers hit. I still think we will be around there but am worried by the defence. We may be looking at changing our shape to negate the loos of Morgan and certainly Classie is less of a holding midfielder. I see a few holes in front of the defence this year.
We had that incredible start to the season last term and that allowed us to kick on. I think we're going to need another strong start to get confidence going in the squad and the opening fixtures are generous I know the club are talking down the impact of Europa, but I just can't see us being top 4 come Christmas this time around. I'm prepared for a reasonably bland league season and hopefully the cups will be exciting
Oh but if we win it, then we have to go and sign more players for the CL; do we want to bother with all that hassle?
Oh but if we win it, then we have to go and sign more players for the CL; do we want to bother with all that hassle?
If anyone thinks that Gaston will add anything to this coming season that are having a laugh...he has proven over the last couple of years that he can't cut the mustard. I would rather give Hesketh the opportunity than him. Martina is yet to prove himself and nobody appears to be confident he will make the step up from second choice in the Dutch league to EPL I am not so worried about our attacking thread (although I would love Charlie Austin) but defensively and central/defensive midfield I am worried without significant investment. We saw last season how injuries and suspensions left us threadbear at the turn of the year
Oh, I still can't get these sandals off, so I am going to predict no drop in league position next season. Why would I? I don't know how long it will take to get a Champions League berth but as we are run in a sustainable manner we will just just wait until economic reality befalls those around us.
Exactly why you'd expect another 2 CM's and a starting CB. Reed has a year under his belt now, which is good. Koeman said that he's expecting good thing's from Stephens this season too.
I think that Yoshida and Fonte will be the starting CB's. I'll be surprised if we sign a CB to come into the starting lineup. If you compare the two squad's, this season and last, 2 CM's is unlikely (after Clasie). Ramirez is still a decent squad player, if we forget about his wages.
Good things in terms of progress or suddenly going from a league one CB to a dominating premier league CB? I can't see him being first or second choice. We need a CB a level up from Maya. Maya as first back up.
Why wouldn't we? If we were reported to have bid £14.2 million for Alderweireld, I think we'll be looking for a starting CB alongside Fonte.
Good things as in becoming a squad player I think. Hence why I said we would be after a starting CB alongside Fonte.
Yes tougher because: 1. Teams started to work out how to play against us as the season progressed; 2. We still lack a creative player to unlock defences; 3. Europa League; 4. Defensively, as yet, we need to fill the gaps left by Toby and Morgan - obviously we have time to resolve this; 5. Our nearest competitors have stolen the march with Summer signings to date - need some catching up and have time to do so; 6. League position, as it stands with current squad; 10-12th - with players of equal calibre to those lost - 8-10th.
