For what it's worth Merson didn't rate our window, or West Ham's for that matter.
http://www.skysports.com/football/news/15205/10559733/paul-mersons-club-by-club-transfer-window-grades
It's quite re-assuring that there are some poor teams in the league this year. I don't think we'll finish above West Ham so I'm going to say Saints to finish 11th - 15th.
Three options;
- find a way to play the formation Puel wants
- bring in a player(s) who will fit the system
- abandon the system
Whatever option they go for, and they are all possible, do it sooner rather than later.
The Echo reporting he'll be allowed to go out on loan but want to sign a replacement in this window. Whether that's a loan or permanent is not mentioned.
http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/sport/14697042.Saints_will_allow_J_Rod_loan_move/?ref=mr&lp=1