04 Sep 2013 09:31:07
All about getting to grips with the Premier League and gelling as quickly as possible then we should be ok. At times last year we had the world-class game changing of Bale yes but, when Lennon was injured or Ade away with Defoe mis-firing that was about it for attacking options, until Sig popped up near the end of the season. Now we've lost Bale but have all the above plus a poacher in Soldado, a lively improver in Townsend, potential with Chadli (not sure about him yet) and definite talent and excitement around Lamela and Eriksen.
Defoe looked direct and a bit of a threat off the bench Sunday but always had 6 bodies or more in front of him as they parked the bus. Ade can still be devastating on his day, look at the last few games of last season. Inconsistent and an enigma yes but, make him feel important and a bit loved and you get a real handful.
This time last year we had 2pts from 3 matches with 2 home games included, today we have 6 after going away twice including the derby. After 12 matches of 12/13 we had 17pts so, if we get 12pts from the next 9 games we're ahead of last year. That's got to be the first aim and, can be achievable whilst being plenty of games to find our way (and a few cup matches in there to keep other squad players involved).
They won a mini-battle on Sunday due to our own ineptitude, not because of any improvement on their part, the war is a long one yet!
COYS
Simmo

1.) 04 Sep 2013
Well said, Simmo, obviously a disappointing result on Sunday but certainly still cause for optimism.It will obviously take time for the new look side to gel, the 2 week international break doesn't help either.If we can beat Norwich next time out then 9 points out of 12 is a sound start.
Although I think we have a better all round squad this season I am still worried about the left back position, Rose does seem to get exposed at times.I suppose JV is an option to slot in there if needed now we have the Romanian lad but obviously JV is important to us in the middle of the back four.I am sure AVB will make the right decisions.
Keep the faith.COYS

Hythe Spur