24 May 2026 18:28:28
That loss to Sunderland more or less sums up why we have had such a poor season. Our umteenth player sent off for stupid foul and a tap in for Sunderland's second by Gusto. or seemed almost deliberately stupid!
A draw would have got us Europa League and reckon that may have been ok compared to Conference League. But having failed badly to. make Champion League havin no European football may suit us and - it's rumoured this is what Alonso wanted.
Ok so since Blueco took over our points tallies have been 44, 63, 69 and 52. Surely, surely we can and must get well into the 70s next season. And Chamions league place a minimum aim.
24 May 2026 18:46:48
Jbs, as you point out in your post, we looked to be slowly improving, but this season we have, probably for a few reasons, taken a step backwards.
I doubt Alonso didn't want European football, but he now has time to work with his players, and that should be an advantage.
24 May 2026 18:52:28
Well, we have ended up where we deserve to be: mid-table mediocrity, as most of us predicted when LR was appointed. What I find galling is that qualifying for the Champions League this season should have been a doddle. Next season will be a crossroads for us. The owners have made a positive step by appointing Alonso, who imo was the best available candidate.
However, they must continue with change by allowing the manager significant influence in signings. I can't see Sanchez suiting Alonso's style of play, and I am not sure if Penders is ready for the no 1 spot.
There could be a lot of ins and outs in the summer, but tbh I really don't care who leaves: this squad has no mentality. Alonso has got his work cut out.
24 May 2026 19:05:59
Jimbo, I agree. Alonso has to work on players'
attitude and mentality. I think he will bring about massive improvement, and, like you, I am very positive about next season.
24 May 2026 19:13:37
Tom, I am more positive for next season than for a while, but the ins and outs will be interesting.
24 May 2026 19:22:14
Jimbo, yes, this window could end up being our most important for many a long year.
24 May 2026 20:51:40
Tom, Jimbo, I'm with you both in feeling good about next season. Alonso was a great pick up, and making him manager rather than head coach is a big plus. JBS, I think you might be right that no European football might help us next season. Onwards and upwards we go.