Most has been discussed already but just a few points:
1. Think we're playing well and the goals will come soon. Couldn't be happier with what Neil, Amit & Tony have achieved in a short space of time. We have a first 11 that can compete at this level which is great. Still think the squad as a whole needs strenthening but I certainly am not complaining! The players that have come in have gelled quickly and will no doubt improve as their understanding of each other gets better. Barton will be an inspirational leader.
2. I like the midfield balance which is giving our defence a lot of protection. Derry was immense first half against Villa but perhaps looked a little tired second half? Faurlin has been a revelation.
3. We look better at the back than we have done for years. Ferdinand and Young have made a real difference. Traore looks like an excellent signing. Perhaps a little to learn defensively but a great attacking full back. Thought Warnock's reaction was harsh and even if he's going to say that it should have been done in private. He's young, he's learning and although it was a slightly reckless challenge it wasn't malicious and was just a silly mistake. I put it down to being over-eager.
4. First half against Newcastle and Villa SWP was getting into space and running at defenders. In both second halves he seemed to come more central and had less of an effect. I think he needs to get at defenders more. A few poor touches and passes let him down but once he gets back to full 'sharpness' he'll be fantastic for us.
5. Bothroyd excellent at holding up the ball and linking play. Strong and good in the air - I like what I see. Seems a little bit lethargic though and would like to see a bit more urgency to make the runs and get in the box when players around him have the ball. Also need to get SWP & Taarabt running off him. DJ Campbell looks very eager to make an impression and would like to see him given some proper game time at some point.
6. Taarabt coming into his own and seems much more of a team-player this year. Would like to see him take defenders on and get into the box more.
7. We need to sort the attacking set-pieces out.
8. We are going to have plenty of disappointments this year. We'll lose games we think we should win but let's not get at the team. First year in the Premiership is always difficult and they need to find their feet. We're playing some good football and will give most teams a good game. Let's be pleased with what's happened so far under the new leadership, get behind the side and enjoy it.
1. Think we're playing well and the goals will come soon. Couldn't be happier with what Neil, Amit & Tony have achieved in a short space of time. We have a first 11 that can compete at this level which is great. Still think the squad as a whole needs strenthening but I certainly am not complaining! The players that have come in have gelled quickly and will no doubt improve as their understanding of each other gets better. Barton will be an inspirational leader.
2. I like the midfield balance which is giving our defence a lot of protection. Derry was immense first half against Villa but perhaps looked a little tired second half? Faurlin has been a revelation.
3. We look better at the back than we have done for years. Ferdinand and Young have made a real difference. Traore looks like an excellent signing. Perhaps a little to learn defensively but a great attacking full back. Thought Warnock's reaction was harsh and even if he's going to say that it should have been done in private. He's young, he's learning and although it was a slightly reckless challenge it wasn't malicious and was just a silly mistake. I put it down to being over-eager.
4. First half against Newcastle and Villa SWP was getting into space and running at defenders. In both second halves he seemed to come more central and had less of an effect. I think he needs to get at defenders more. A few poor touches and passes let him down but once he gets back to full 'sharpness' he'll be fantastic for us.
5. Bothroyd excellent at holding up the ball and linking play. Strong and good in the air - I like what I see. Seems a little bit lethargic though and would like to see a bit more urgency to make the runs and get in the box when players around him have the ball. Also need to get SWP & Taarabt running off him. DJ Campbell looks very eager to make an impression and would like to see him given some proper game time at some point.
6. Taarabt coming into his own and seems much more of a team-player this year. Would like to see him take defenders on and get into the box more.
7. We need to sort the attacking set-pieces out.
8. We are going to have plenty of disappointments this year. We'll lose games we think we should win but let's not get at the team. First year in the Premiership is always difficult and they need to find their feet. We're playing some good football and will give most teams a good game. Let's be pleased with what's happened so far under the new leadership, get behind the side and enjoy it.
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