25 Feb 2026 15:19:23
I get why we have head coaches and not managers now, the days of someone like Ferguson or Wenger managing teams from top to bottom are over. But, those who do the managing these days, the football directors of this world, seem to take zero responsibility for the failures. It never seems to be their head on the block.
I've recently questioned depth at midfield, making it clear that we have nothing past the three starters, no one, at least, who can stay fit. Investment is needed.
I've also said, on more than one occasion, that past Colwill, our CB options could be torn up and started again. Fofana is the next best option, but fitness issues mean he can't start multiple games in a week and, understandably, that's impacted the consistency of his performances. Chalobah is a decent enough pro, but where are you finishing in the league if he starts 15-25 games a season? The rest are, at best, average EPL CB's. Investment is needed.
There's common themes at GK, LW and ST. Investment is needed!
How much grace do acquisitions like Palmer, Estavao and Joao Pedro buy the recruitment team? Apparently, more in the eyes of the board than the fans! Investment is needed in around two thirds of the positions on the pitch, and not just general squad building investment. The investment that's needed is key starting 11 players, of a quality that's going to push us up a level. They're years into their project, they've been through several head coaches and, from a league season perspective, how much progress has there been?
25 Feb 2026 16:12:44
J, I personally don't recognise the need for circa 11 players, but I can see the need for three playing areas that need upgrades. One of those areas we already have joining in the summer. We also have a new CH at the Club and another supposed top prospect on loan. I haven't seen enough of either to make a judgement about their abilities or leadership qualities.
The goalkeeper issue will be interesting to watch. I think Sanchez has improved, and I still have no solid view on Jorgensen. So, I think I would go for a top keeper. I have wanted Costa for ages, and I still live in hope.
25 Feb 2026 17:06:32
We don't need much, J, the squad is decent. A top centre back is my preference. The key component is getting the right head coach to get a tune out of them.
25 Feb 2026 19:12:26
Sanchez has improved, I don't disagree with that. But, much like my feelings on Chalobah, you don't win the league with him starting every week. Big question mark on spenders being ready next season. Sarr and Anselmino are both good prospects, but we need at least one top quality, win-now, CB - some would argue two. The three starting CMs are top class, we have little depth below them. Neither of our primary LW options has proven to be anywhere near the level needed; again, we need a top-class, win-now, player there.
I like Joao Pedro at 9, and Emegha could be good business (an upgrade on Delap and/or Guiu), so striker maybe isn't an issue. I'm ultimately happy with our options at full backs, RW, 10, and satisfied-ish with our striker options for next year. There are big gaps elsewhere, so I don't think the squad is in that great a position. I did want Maresca gone; I've made my feelings on that clear, but I didn't want Rosenior, and question marks over him remain. Question marks over another head coach appointment made by the same people.
25 Feb 2026 21:19:36
I think EF will go to Madrid. So, I think we will sign another CM, and I hope it's Anderson. My big prediction for next season is that Lavia will be the fans' choice as POS.
25 Feb 2026 21:27:09
Who knows if LR will survive, but one thing we do know is that Maresca did a runner. I believe we still need a top-class GK, CB, MF, and ST. Will we get them? Of course not. Our SDs, or owners, not sure which, continue to raid children's nurseries for the next "gem".
All I can say is roll on 2030. Maybe that's when the owners will sell, obtain a permanent FOS, or indeed realise they need to do something with the stadium.
25 Feb 2026 22:19:45
Bill, really? Come on, you know that wasn't true, but if it fits your ongoing agenda, then fair play to you.
26 Feb 2026 06:50:32
I only really follow one club, but it appears to me that a lot of clubs are looking more and more at young players as value for money options. I'm not sure a new owner would look to change our current owners' BP. Before our current owners, I couldn't see us building a new stadium, but I can see our current owners increasing the capacity of SB.
FOS sponsor has been done to death. We haven't got a clue what's gone on, but I'm pleased we have managed to find a sponsor for at least the remainder of this season. Just a small win is sometimes worth a smile.
26 Feb 2026 09:46:03
J, I agree with your posts. SDs are obviously here to stay. They remind me of senior civil servants. They are driven by personal ambition; they hop around in various positions without ever making a mark, and when they reach the pinnacle, they lose the ethos of whatever drove them to start their careers. In our case, we have two who appear to be untouchable whatever the failures.
As for FOS sponsors; yes, it has been done to death but that is because it is an ongoing problem. I will be very disappointed if we don't have a new long term deal in place by the start of next season. I also think Enzo will go to Madrid and wouldn't be surprised if Palmer is off as well.
26 Feb 2026 13:19:08
Tim Maresca knew what he was doing when he attacked the club. There was only going to be one outcome. It happened with Nuno at Forest and I'm sure it will be the same with Glasner shortly. If you are going to say something, you do it in-house.
26 Feb 2026 21:45:36
Who is "Tim Maresca"?
27 Feb 2026 10:20:40
Or next manager, Tom? Lol!