Dalek2003

I would agree with your sentiments up to the point of ' a lot on here didn't expect'. My impression is that a 'lot did expect' and they have now changed their tune. One explanation, which is plausible, is they were the vocal minority.

The trouble with goalkeepers is that they thrive on confidence. The more they play at the top and the more clean sheets, the more the confidence grows. Until Bart gets a long run, it will always be a case of self doubt.

I think we stopped at the bus stop but the people expected to get on had already taken a taxi before us.

Again ? Well I said back in May that we would not be making lots of high profile signings only to be shouted down by the mob ! Who, incidentally assured me that it would happen at the end of June, then the 1st of July and then the middle of july and then the end of July etc. So, who, is looking silly now ! Still, we will wait and see. I'll mark your card and return throughout the season to your prediction.

Fair enough, I could push it to 17th.

Now there is someone who speaks sense. pity we did not re-appoint Hoddle in 2004, but of course the vocal minority got their way !

A bit slow off the blocks after my rest. Yes he is the best manager since WGS, but next season will be the big test.

I think we are in for a long hard season but we will survive. 19th after flirting with relegation.

At the start of June most agreed that we needed to significantly strengthen the squad. Indeed we were assure this was gpoing to happen and I was lambasted many times for my sceptical attitude. At the start of June i said we would struggle with this squad, i said 19th and i see no reason to change my prediction.

More wishful, thinking than reality.

Last minute.com. 19th we will finish !

Actually I think Norwich is a very good comparison. Similar sized provincial club with similar sized support.

Re -write history if you like. Get a stick of Tippex, erase out Brighton and add another 10 points. BINGO.

I would agree had we walked the league. We did not ! Norwich City were League 1 champions and did it with ease, yet they strengthened their squad almost immediately with very decisive and shrewd signings. IMO Paul Lambert has done this again over the summer and i think Norwich will hold their own in the Premier league. If we do not strengthen I stand by my prediction of 19th and a season were we are looking over our shoulder not up to the promised land.

Sturrock got the sack because he was ****e !

This is a good debate. In May and early June most fans agreed that the team was good but needed strengthening for the new campaign in a higher league. This has not happened (yet). If it doesn't happen is it fair to say that this was not what people expected ? Therefore, of course fans will lower their expectations. I agree that Cortese want us to become a premier league. In which case if we do not strengthen he is either a. Supremely confident in the squad we have already. b. Has a plan to strengthen...although time is running out before the start of the season. c. Will strengthen in the windows. d. Is hoping for a bit of luck and a minor miracle. All will be a lot more clear come the end of August. FWIW I think we should have strengthened the squad early on. So, I hope i am wrong but i see us finishing 19th.

Good shout, except i would replace Forest with the Foxes. Where would you place Saints ?

Stop being a troll.

Your point ?

I know. Back in late May and early June we were going to sign a shed load of high profile star players.......apparently. Then when that didn't happen some of us were lambasted for being impatient and it was all going to happen in early July, now it will be in August....apparently. Anyway, those people with high hopes need not worry as their blushes have been spared by the closure of the rumours site. Oh, how easy it is to re-write history on a fantasy forum !

OK, It looks like I was right back in June and we won't be making many significant signings. So I'll stick my neck on the line and say we will finish 19th.

The rumour was that you had been banned.

We need to strengthen the team. If we get a couple of significant signings then I reckon Playoffs are a possibility. otherwise a bumpy season. 14t to 17th place.

Or even Glenda on the way back......Groundhog Day.

I think its connected with the Glenn Hoddle conspiracy.