You're not wrong, but tell me how many current PL clubs have achieved a squad of 20
quality players?
I don't think we're not trying to improve the squad as soon as we can, but the board can't wave a magic wand to make it happen when we all want it to happen.
IMO we currently have 14 fit outfield players who meet the quality criterion – the 10 who started the cup final plus Hughes, Lerma, Clyne and Devenny. Sosa is unproven but looks like he might make the grade once up to speed in the PL.
Beyond that 15, we’re struggling:
- Both Nketiah and Doucoure are injured and out for a couple of months (at least in the case of Doucoure) and then they’ll have to get match fit and will need to improve on their performances from the last time they were match fit.
- After that, we’re looking at youngsters
- Esse who looks like he could well prove himself at some point during the season. How soon, though, is the question?
- As for Riad and Franca – will they ever be serious options with their current injury records?
I’m hoping we can bring in at least 3 to cover the gaps. Yes, it will take time for them to get up to speed both with Glasner’s system and with the PL if they’re from other leagues.
The one plus point is that we can (at present) start our season with the cup winning team, a team that knows the manager’s system and don’t need to get up to speed. That has to count for something, especially as few other clubs are in that position.