Contrary to the masses, as time ticks by, I actually don't think we need to bring in many or even any, part of the problem is we've been overloaded in some positions and have rotated players and positions too much which has not allowed anyone to settle. Lampard has only been in for a few weeks and is still reviewing the resources he has at his disposal. In my opinion, the players are a talented bunch and just need to settle down, gain some continuity and confidence.
Lati is a good professional but I think him leaving could help settle things down in both defence and midfield as we can stop trying to slot him into different positions and instead leave the others to build partnerships on the pitch, it will take time and require enough patience for the players to own their mistakes when they happen. For example, a back two or three made up of Thomas, Binks and Kitchen, I think will become pretty strong once they get a run of games together, and while we still need a stonger midfield, I really rate Torp, especially as he seems to have become stronger, more physical, and vocal, he will only improve. Rudoni clearly has talent and works hard, and isn't afraid to get stuck in, while Eccles is steady and reliable as is Allen, but neither are quite dynamic enough to lift the teams performance level or be match winners, and thats what we need. Add an experienced head into the mix and we've got a talented midfield.
Losing Lati and Sheaf (more likely to injury than sale) could actually change the dynamics and help to balance out the team, clearing the way for other players to step up and take responsibility.
Then all of the forwards, including BTA, have a lot to offer in my opinion, I think we have a good mix talent, it's just finding the right combination and sticking with it for a run of games.
The only thing we lack is experience and some belief, but this only comes with time, I also think the players need to back each other more, and build some spirit. If we add anything it needs to be this, and preferably in a CM position to help steady things.
To me this is transition season number 2 followingon from last year where we probably overacheived, and therefore the less in and outs the better, just the addition of one or two calm heads to pull it all together, I think next season we'll see a different team.
I also think Lampard has a point to prove and that we could be the team that turns his management career around, I like what I've seen from him so far, his passion is something we've lacked for a long time.
Whether you guy's agree is your opinion but some of the abuse and knee jerk reaction towards the team and especially particular individuals is embarrassing and naive. It's also pretty clear that some of the apparent ITK info is at best made up of 5% truth, 95% fantasy to fuel egos, 2+2 does not equal 5.
Nothing happens overnight in football and nobody is an instant and consistent success, so as frustrating as it is, we have to be patient in the knowledge that the skillset is there we just need to manage it properly to acheive success.
Whatever way you look at it, we are in a much better place than we have been for years especially when you compare the players we have now to those a few years ago, we should recognise that fact and get behind the team and management, including the owners.
