austsaint

I don't think Tonda wants to play Russball. But without THB, Charles, Jander and Downes you're left with too many habitual sideways and backwards passers. Unfortunately Bragg is a serial offender. Strengthen midfield and find a ball playing CB and a faster style of play will reemerge.

Akachukwu was the one bright showing for Saints. Though a different style of midfielder he is going to put pressure on the limited Bragg for the 4th cm place in the squad - assuming Jander stays and Charles is replaced. Noticeable how the "form" of Bree and even Peretz seems to have dipped; likely Peretz' performances affected by THBs absence.

Hardy could share the laurels with Nelson.

Still plenty of column to come on this one.

Yep, like him a lot; and Dobbin. They're both going to be major contributors this season. The fact that Man City didn't include an option to buy tells you something about their regard for Mubama.

That would do. Can Akachuckwu play RW?

Problem is, everything has gone up way beyond inflation, (supply shortages, price gouging etc) making sporting and entertainment tickets more of a discretionary spending item (for many) than ever before. On the pitch, I wonder whether the two WPs will feature for WH. Both likely to receive a good reception as popular Saints players. KWP, one of my all time favourite Saints.

Wails

Based on what I've seen of Akachukwu it will be a shame if his pathway is blocked by someone like Edozie, who, as. someone mentioned is out of contract at seasons end.

Edozie is four months older than Fellows. I'd say their crossing ability is on a par and if you measure decent shots by goal tallies there's only one winner.

I'm only operating on memory but Edozie, at 19, made nearly 20 appearances in the Prem the season Ralph was sacked. Then prior to that injury v Norwich in early 2024 he had scored 6 goals and provided as many assists. He was then bundled off on loan by Martin, and prior to being given a life line by Tonda, hadn't played much for Saints at all. It's true he's been at the Club a while but injury and Managers like Martin and Still not rating him has limited his opportunities. I like Fellows but there is a predictability about his game. Very seldom tries to take on a defender down the line and has a habit of cutting infield and running into dead ends. Last time I looked he hasn't troubled the goal statisticians either. I'd be happy if both are in the squad when the window closes.

He was having a very good season for us in the Championship prior to that horrendous ankle injury early 2024. Acquitted himself ok in the Prem as a 19yo. I've never understood the negativity towards him; still only 23, and to my eye looks a better wide player than Tom Fellows. If he stays will be a very useful squad player having an impact off the bench. One of the few direct runners we have, and willing to take defenders on. Hope he stays.

Mumble

You’ve mentioned two of Jack Nicholson’s roles there; what about his role in Chinatown as a private investigator? Recommended…..he and Faye Dunaway are memorable. Also, Broken Flowers, with Bill Murray, where in a depressed state he sets off to visit a handful of ex girlfriends.

Just the same, the space he gave Saints old boy Gallagher before he crossed for the Galbraith goal was way too casual. If we could combine the tight marking of Wellington with the attacking crosses and passes of Manning we’d have an excellent LB.