It's more about the lack of impact from the bench. Ideally for those 3 positions in behind Lambert, you want atleast 5 capable players. Gaston/Lallana/Puncheon are good enough, Guly has done a good job when he's been used this season, but not great, and beyond that it's De Ridder, who is appalling. If we could get another player to challenge our first choice 3, then I think that would be enough.
If we stay up I would have thought Punch and Morgan will sign new contracts.