That’s where I’m at (still). I think the results will come, but no mistake, the pressure at this level with the money on the line is ridiculous, so the longer we go without getting the odd win puts the manager completely in the spotlight.
And I’m totally 100% on board with Tony’s, Dan’s, and GP’s philosophy in terms of blooding young players. Lamptey, Connolly, Alzate, White, Molumby, Sanchez..
I think we’re now starting to see real improvements to existing players, which is surely a sign of good coaching. Solly has gone to another level this season and is reborn is his new role. Ditto Biss, who was lucky to get a run of games under Hughton (kept out by Dale... I remember having some arguments with folk on that.
I don’t think the development of the younger players can be denied as a massive plus in GP’s favour.
However, they were all a year younger when Hughton was here, and Stephens remains the right call at the time. Bissouma has come on leaps and bounds under GP.
Bissouma is a lot more reliable in possession now, whereas under Hughton he frequently lost the ball cheaply.
As I have said numerous times, I had no problem with Hughton’s defensive tactics, which were necessary at the time. We survived with a bottom three budget, which was an achievement in itself despite poor purchases.
Potter is now suffering from the same recruitment challenges, and also achieved in season 1.
However, it would be a disaster IMO if we were relegated, and I don’t know of many ‘master plans/strategies’, which involve effectively starting a journey from the beginning.
It really is a massive shame Nunez chose Benfica.
We remain very close to being a good little team, but just need something more.
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