austsaint

I don't expect my view to be a popular one, but I'm doubting Bragg is a good enough cm to be in our "best three". That's Downes, Jander and a Charles replacement. Bragg did best last season when brought on as a sub, or often having two other midfielders with him. He strikes me as, essentially a good recycling passer of the ball with a good work rate. Hope he can show improvement this season and show more pace, box-to-box attributes and better tackling, interception, break up play technique. At 21 this is a defining season for him. The Club have been patient, Tonda obviously likes him. Is he going to develop into anything more than a Smallbone type without the goals? I think we need better, especially if we're promoted.

Uncover

Probe

There's been a lot of expectation put on this lads shoulders. At this stage Bragg looks like a safe, recycling midfielder making simple passes. Not having Charles or Jander to partner Downes has weakened us today. Bragg is not ready to be a starting cm, and on his showing today, may never be.

Young Bragg is not up to speed today.

Looks all at sea so far.

Makes you wonder why he's made the bench - hardly a shop window prospect is he? Could have put one of the U/21 midfielders in place of BBD. Let's hope Derby are still keen,

Good lineup. Would be a worry if either Downes or Bragg pick up an injury - no cm cover on the bench.

Less

With

Should help their playing philosophy this season.

Swindle

Offer

Receive

Fab's nailed on; unopposed. Ever since he was proven right about Romeu's future he's been unbearable. Pity, he writes a lot of sense in between putdowns and condescension.

Distortion

I won't be surprised if Mubama proves to be a better signing than Lankshire.

Minutes

May not be an option if Jander is injured and Charles gone, but Bragg doesn't convince me as a first choice midfielder.....just yet. He may prove his worth as the season goes on, but a Charles replacement will be needed, even if Jander stays.

Compass

Counsel

Was Edozie terrible at the end of last season? Your memory might be better than mine but I remember most of his sub/cameo appearances being impressive, including the last few games. I'd be happy if he was Scienza's understudy for the year. Equally, with his contract running down it would be understandable if the Club accepted a suitable offer. Maybe Edozie wants to move on, after all, he, like Charles was bundled off on loan by the new Foxes Manager. At this stage of their careers, I'd say Edozie at 23 is a better option than Robinson, who at 19, should benefit from more playing time during his loan period.

Garment

I hope Jander stays another season (at least) with Saints. If he does, I'm confident you'll be revising your opinion - he's the genuine article and I expect Klopp will be calling him up for Germany sooner than later.

Empire