22 Jul 2026 11:18:23
I think we're approaching the point where we have a Very good starting 11 on paper.
Depends on formation obviously but in Colwill, James, Caicedo, Enzo*, Palmer, Rogers and Pedro we have what should be a strong spine added to which you'd have Estevao, Palestra, Hato, Quenda and (in theory) Lavia who are all demonstrably top class albeit young players operating outside of that consistent/experienced bracket.
If Enzo goes it's important to add the same quality and experience (which I think's achievable at a profit), and we have the likes of Neto, Gittens, Gusto, Sanchez, Trev, Fofana, Essugo who are all probably OK but in an ideal world need upgrading.
Add to that very promising young players like Josh, Barco and Penders and we have a very strong squad taking shape.
A top class centre back (or maybe 2) should be added shortly with Lacroix seeming likely plus a left back and we are ready to go.
It may have taken several seasons to put together and may still take another window or 2 but I can now see us being a real threat again especially with Alonso as our manager.
22 Jul 2026 12:26:36
Ebw, I totally agree, mate.
22 Jul 2026 13:02:38
I agree with most of that as well, but would add that we still need a top class goalkeeper.
Diogo Costa apparently had a release clause in his contract of approx £50 million, pay it.
22 Jul 2026 13:05:48
I agree we have a good team on paper, but as Brian Clough reminds us: "We had a good team on paper. Unfortunately, the game was played on grass."
22 Jul 2026 14:34:38
Seems certain that Trevoh C will be sold if not already by the time I write this.
There is also the question of back up striker/s? Plus, is Sanchez a good enough keeper and/or Penders ready to be a challenger or replacement?
Yes, on paper - and despite longlasting doubts about the fitness of 3 players in RJ, WF and RL, i.e. quite a few! - we do have some quality players. We also have what most of us feel is a big upgrade as a manager. But we will still have to see who will partner LC in heart of defense, plus what the back up is there if injury; ditto if James is injured at RB - or will Alonso play three at the back and a RWB - and how Palestra adapts to the EPL (and is Gusto going or not? Can Alonso get him back to best form), plus who will be a Cucurella replacement LB/LWB alternate to Hato: Pep Chavarria? Hall?.
Then back to the back up striker option... will this be Emegha, Jackson or Delap (assuming Guiu is loaned out?).
Having said all that, and given we are 'free' of European games this season, we should certainly have the talent - especially if Enzo stays or is replaced with someone who can help shore up midfield, as I reckon Rogers and Palmer will need this as primarily attackers and Essugo is still relatively untested - to be at least challengers for a Champions League place.
22 Jul 2026 17:36:23
And interestingly, we keep putting James down as one of the key men in the spine - he has to start staying fit for that to be the case.
22 Jul 2026 19:27:20
Kazblue, I'm not really sure where James fits in with a back three. He isn't a wing back and CB is his worst position. Obviously there will be times when we play a flat back four or change formation during a game. We shall see.