Tins on RB

[Slack Bladder]

5 minutes ago, DaveInSA said:

 

I have a big concern that we will go backward next year. Possibly even relegation. 

That's being optimistic, I'm now worried for this season 

[marmite]

2 hours ago, INCRED said:

We are building a top 2 squad in the summer and are moving on from the top 6 squad!!

Ha ha..will we then dismantle that top 2 squad at Christmas????

[W-S-M Seagull]

47 minutes ago, Jerseybean said:

Listening to BT got me thinking about next season and who (of our established squad players and newcomers) I see as definitely part of the future.

So here goes, I’m sure this will divide opinion.

Players that I see as being definite ones for the future include:

Max O’Leary

Cam Ping

Rob Dickie

Zak Vyner

George Tanner

Jason Knight

Mark Sykes

Taylor Gardner-Hickman

Tommy Conway

Ross McCorie

Rob Atkinson

+ the new recent recruits

Those that I would happily see depart include:

Anis Memheti

Harry Cornick

All the rest I would be on the fence about that includes:

Nahki Wells

Joe Williams

Matty James

Andy King

Sam Bell

Haydon Roberts

Kal Naismith

My sense is Williams, James and King won’t be offered new contracts, Pring, Conway and maybe Vyner could be tempted by pastures new and move on. Plus a couple of others, perhaps Wells and Naismith depart.

Let the debate commence.

With the players we have secured in the recent window it looks like a new midfield with Murphy, Knight, TGH and Bird being the core.

Depending on outgoings I fancy our defence will remain as is, Max, Cam, Zac, Rob D, Rob A, Ross and George.

It’s been clear for sometime that we need another striker and as BT indicated a 23-24 year old physical and pacey forward would be ideal. Then, again depending on outgoings/incomings, they’d be joined by Conway, Sykes, Bell, Wells, Mebude (if he stays), Twine (if he stays)

I've been thinking about this all day.

I think it's an absolute must to keep James here and possibly King too, if only in a coaching role for King. 

I say this because with so many young midfielders coming in, I feel his experience will be invaluable to them. Just like how Wells has had a positive impact on Conway. 

[Jose]

15 minutes ago, DaveInSA said:

Mediocre Bristol city with their mediocre head coach, mediocre players, mediocre top management and mediocre front foot high intensity football…

…deliver mediocrity season in season out.

I have a big concern that we will go backward next year. Possibly even relegation. 

Mediocre top management? I wish they were that good. 

[Jerseybean]

7 minutes ago, W-S-M Seagull said:

I've been thinking about this all day.

I think it's an absolute must to keep James here and possibly King too, if only in a coaching role for King. 

I say this because with so many young midfielders coming in, I feel his experience will be invaluable to them. Just like how Wells has had a positive impact on Conway. 

I agree, however, I suspect they will not be offered new contracts and in part because of their history with NP. 

[lenred]

8 minutes ago, Jerseybean said:

I agree, however, I suspect they will not be offered new contracts and in part because of their history with NP. 

Losing all the experience is a big concern for me. You need to retain the older heads to pull the young ones through.  Would Scott and Tommy have progressed so well without King’s and Andi’s clear support for example. Moot I guess but I don’t think they would’ve. Also raises concerns about Manning’s management style IF we don’t retain or recruit experienced pros.  But we will see how things pan out. 

Edited February 3 by lenred

[Lrrr]

7 hours ago, cidercity1987 said:

Why did these ***** at the top literally just write the season off in October

Absolutely frikking pointless behaviour from them, Pearson needed to at least have the season

I expect we were going to be happy to let Pearson's deal run down and expire but I think Pearson probably did something which made his position untenable as to why we changed when we did, I expect something like 'give me a new contract now or you can **** yourselves', Pearson had been very vocal about wanting a new deal and we probably had no intention if giving it so Pearson probably thought why waste my time for several months with nothing to work towards for him, even if we went up I doubt he'd have got a new deal. 

[Simon79]

7 hours ago, RedReg said:

Makes me laugh how we all of a sudden have a "budget" now Nige has gone after not being able to bring anyone in when Scott was sold in the summer 

& this is my biggest gripe. Give it to a man that has been there & done it. A man that clearly had a plan. & let him get on with what most of us could see he was doing. So frustrating! COYR

[RollsRoyce]

7 hours ago, Bazooka Joe said:

Chasing rainbows - it's what we do.

More like our own tail 

[Edgy Red]

1 hour ago, Jerseybean said:

Listening to BT got me thinking about next season and who (of our established squad players and newcomers) I see as definitely part of the future.

So here goes, I’m sure this will divide opinion.

Players that I see as being definite ones for the future include:

Max O’Leary

Cam Ping

Rob Dickie

Zak Vyner

George Tanner

Jason Knight

Mark Sykes

Taylor Gardner-Hickman

Tommy Conway

Ross McCorie

Rob Atkinson

+ the new recent recruits

Those that I would happily see depart include:

Anis Memheti

Harry Cornick

All the rest I would be on the fence about that includes:

Nahki Wells

Joe Williams

Matty James

Andy King

Sam Bell

Haydon Roberts

Kal Naismith

My sense is Williams, James and King won’t be offered new contracts, Pring, Conway and maybe Vyner could be tempted by pastures new and move on. Plus a couple of others, perhaps Wells and Naismith depart.

Let the debate commence.

With the players we have secured in the recent window it looks like a new midfield with Murphy, Knight, TGH and Bird being the core.

Depending on outgoings I fancy our defence will remain as is, Max, Cam, Zac, Rob D, Rob A, Ross and George.

It’s been clear for sometime that we need another striker and as BT indicated a 23-24 year old physical and pacey forward would be ideal. Then, again depending on outgoings/incomings, they’d be joined by Conway, Sykes, Bell, Wells, Mebude (if he stays), Twine (if he stays)

I agree with almost all of your choices apart from Mehmeti. I think there is a player there who is comfortable accepting the ball and he deserves some time and a run in the team. He may come good, he may not, but we don't really have anyone else like him.

The only other one i'm slightly unsure about is Tanner. If he's a back up right back then maybe, but i just don't think he's good enough to be starting regularly.

[Superjack]

20 minutes ago, Lrrr said:

I expect we were going to be happy to let Pearson's deal run down and expire but I think Pearson probably did something which made his position untenable as to why we changed when we did, I expect something like 'give me a new contract now or you can **** yourselves', Pearson had been very vocal about wanting a new deal and we probably had no intention if giving it so Pearson probably thought why waste my time for several months with nothing to work towards for him, even if we went up I doubt he'd have got a new deal. 

Oh I do hope so!

[Davefevs]

50 minutes ago, Jose said:

Mediocre top management? I wish they were that good. 

Too quick for me!

24 minutes ago, Lrrr said:

I expect we were going to be happy to let Pearson's deal run down and expire but I think Pearson probably did something which made his position untenable as to why we changed when we did, I expect something like 'give me a new contract now or you can **** yourselves', Pearson had been very vocal about wanting a new deal and we probably had no intention if giving it so Pearson probably thought why waste my time for several months with nothing to work towards for him, even if we went up I doubt he'd have got a new deal. 

I don’t believe he gave any ultimatum, was trying to hold-on til the end.  Believed he had something brewing here.

The ultimatum came the other way the day after Leeds - “Nige - we’d like you to resign (i.e. we are sacking you) and we will put it out as mutual agreement”.

Nige - “if you want to sack me, then you’ll have to say it as such”.

Hence the slight delay whilst they got their story straight!!!

[RollsRoyce]

28 minutes ago, lenred said:

Losing all the experience is a big concern for me. You need to retain the older heads to pull the young ones through.  Would Scott and Tommy have progressed so well without King’s and Andi’s clear support for example. Moot I guess but I don’t think they would’ve. Also raises concerns about Manning’s management style IF we don’t retain or recruit experienced pros.  But we will see how things pan out. 

This is a big issue. I have nothing against the profile of the new signings, I have never seen them play so I have no idea about their ability. But many in the game will tell you that the challenge of developing youth into the first team environment is hugely taxing and complex. Pepjin L at Liverpool talks about this in his recent book, and describes a set-up very similar to what we had (will not have) of role models and senior players guiding. I think you can can ask, would Scott have developed so well and fast without King/James/Wells around. I personally do not think so. So there will need to be some additions in the summer to fill those voids.

In my opinion, deeply flawed it seems, I had wanted evolution at the club, because I can never recall seeing so many young players develop, or other players improve (Vyner/MOL,Tanner/Prng) in my fan history, and personally, I know others, maybe many, disagree, I loved that and loved watching it play out. 

We have thrown the baby out with the bathwater and are starting a new adventure on the Lansdown tombola of how to run a football club. This season has gone, so I turn now to how we approach next year, Manning will get a pre season and whole new set of players. I want to see who will be the first player Manning develops into a first team talent the process he follows and how he turns the awful drab football he has instilled into the existing squad into a fast flowing , "front foot" dynamic version when he has a new squad to choose from. I can read that may fans are pleased with the Manning approach, it is all about opinions, and I do not agree that he is remotely the right choice post Pearson, but if others can see it, then we will see how it plays out. I don't think he will last next season. 

[Mr Popodopolous]

In respect of Blackburn the issue is perhaps Venkys being unable to get money out of India quite so readily.

Not sure if it is Protectionism as such but India maybe frowning a bit towards foreign expenditure by companies etc.

[alexukhc]

48 minutes ago, Edgy Red said:

I agree with almost all of your choices apart from Mehmeti. I think there is a player there who is comfortable accepting the ball and he deserves some time and a run in the team. He may come good, he may not, but we don't really have anyone else like him.

The only other one i'm slightly unsure about is Tanner. If he's a back up right back then maybe, but i just don't think he's good enough to be starting regularly.

I think when Atkinson comes back he will be dropped and rotated with Tanner just like we are easing McCorie in

[Fuber]

1 hour ago, Lrrr said:

I expect we were going to be happy to let Pearson's deal run down and expire but I think Pearson probably did something which made his position untenable as to why we changed when we did, I expect something like 'give me a new contract now or you can **** yourselves', Pearson had been very vocal about wanting a new deal and we probably had no intention if giving it so Pearson probably thought why waste my time for several months with nothing to work towards for him, even if we went up I doubt he'd have got a new deal. 

From what I recall Pearsons point was more communication than the lack of deal, the whole 'ask the people upstairs' presser springs to mind.

[Dullmoan Tone]

One thing that BT said (and repeated) that hasn't been discussed much, is he recognises the need for a mobile, strong and ideally experienced number 9 and yet we purchased Cornick who has neither of these attributes. HC still has a relatively long contract and while I expect not a very high earner, is nonetheless on the wage bill for a considerable period with little prospect of starting / contributing or fitting the profile.

Where is the responsibility for this seemingly desparate purchase and how can we trust the current team not to make the same mistake again when they fail to find this fantasy number 9 on a lower championship budget?

Surely we are best to loan from above like the Tammy deal - it won't be long term, but it could bring quality and a better chance of success in a key position?

[petehinton]

7 minutes ago, Dullmoan Tone said:

One thing that BT said (and repeated) that hasn't been discussed much, is he recognises the need for a mobile, strong and ideally experienced number 9 and yet we purchased Cornick who has neither of these attributes. HC still has a relatively long contract and while I expect not a very high earner, is nonetheless on the wage bill for a considerable period with little prospect of starting / contributing or fitting the profile.

Where is the responsibility for this seemingly desparate purchase and how can we trust the current team not to make the same mistake again when they fail to find this fantasy number 9 on a lower championship budget?

Surely we are best to loan from above like the Tammy deal - it won't be long term, but it could bring quality and a better chance of success in a key position?

Easy, Cornick wasn’t signed to be that type of player. 
 

Thats like asking why did we sign Twine & TGH in January if we are desperate for a striker. 

[Barrs Court Red]

2 minutes ago, petehinton said:

Easy, Cornick wasn’t signed to be that type of player. 
 

Thats like asking why did we sign Twine & TGH in January if we are desperate for a striker. 

What in the name of Clayton Fortunes first touch did we sign him to be? 

[38MC]

1 hour ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

In respect of Blackburn the issue is perhaps Venkys being unable to get money out of India quite so readily.

Not sure if it is Protectionism as such but India maybe frowning a bit towards foreign expenditure by companies etc.

It 100% is protectionism to protect their currency. Money spent in India stays there 

[mozo]

3 minutes ago, petehinton said:

Easy, Cornick wasn’t signed to be that type of player. 
 

Thats like asking why did we sign Twine & TGH in January if we are desperate for a striker. 

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/bristol-city-nigel-pearson-cornick-8136202

"We signed him as a player we know is versatile but the simple answer to your question is, I think he will offer a very interesting threat for us down the middle. Just because of his aerial prowess, his ability to run and he's got good pace too."

[Davefevs]

31 minutes ago, mozo said:

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/bristol-city-nigel-pearson-cornick-8136202

"We signed him as a player we know is versatile but the simple answer to your question is, I think he will offer a very interesting threat for us down the middle. Just because of his aerial prowess, his ability to run and he's got good pace too."

Yep, was gonna disagree with @Dullmoan Tone and @petehinton, the expectation was to give us something for the bits and pieces up top…it didn’t work out unfortunately.  He wasn’t our first choice though…Ogbene was.

[cidercity1987]

Not in any way suggesting Cornick is the answer but I don't think we've ever really seen him and Conway on the same pitch together , certainly not in more central positions.

Something I would like to see as Wells cannot play every game 

[Dr Balls]

10 hours ago, Alessandro said:

Bristol City - "Building for tomorrow, when we'll build for tomorrow again"

A tomorrow that never comes to anything - except yet another rebuild!

[chinapig]

1 hour ago, 38MC said:

It 100% is protectionism to protect their currency. Money spent in India stays there 

As I understand it a relatively recent law means the Venkys would have to apply for emergency permission to transfer money out of the country. Though I imagine greasing the right palms might help.

[cidered abroad]

3 hours ago, RollsRoyce said:

This is a big issue. I have nothing against the profile of the new signings, I have never seen them play so I have no idea about their ability. But many in the game will tell you that the challenge of developing youth into the first team environment is hugely taxing and complex. Pepjin L at Liverpool talks about this in his recent book, and describes a set-up very similar to what we had (will not have) of role models and senior players guiding. I think you can can ask, would Scott have developed so well and fast without King/James/Wells around. I personally do not think so. So there will need to be some additions in the summer to fill those voids.

In my opinion, deeply flawed it seems, I had wanted evolution at the club, because I can never recall seeing so many young players develop, or other players improve (Vyner/MOL,Tanner/Prng) in my fan history, and personally, I know others, maybe many, disagree, I loved that and loved watching it play out. 

We have thrown the baby out with the bathwater and are starting a new adventure on the Lansdown tombola of how to run a football club. This season has gone, so I turn now to how we approach next year, Manning will get a pre season and whole new set of players. I want to see who will be the first player Manning develops into a first team talent the process he follows and how he turns the awful drab football he has instilled into the existing squad into a fast flowing , "front foot" dynamic version when he has a new squad to choose from. I can read that may fans are pleased with the Manning approach, it is all about opinions, and I do not agree that he is remotely the right choice post Pearson, but if others can see it, then we will see how it plays out. I don't think he will last next season. 

Continue for another two months with league results (Forest won't let us win the replay) the same as January and he'll be gone. If the SL family bottle that decision, we'll be enjoying Third Division local derbies again.

 

[Dr Balls]

7 minutes ago, cidered abroad said:

Continue for another two months with league results (Forest won't let us win the replay) the same as January and he'll be gone. If the SL family bottle that decision, we'll be enjoying Third Division local derbies again.

 

But we still get the media fluff, promoted by the club, that Manning is a “bright young coach”, while of course the club were quite happy for Pearson to be painted as an aging dinosaur, when the truth was nothing of the sort. Personally I would prefer experience over promise, but of course that doesn’t suit the owners!

[Swede]

12 hours ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

Why us Pring, contracted until 2026 getting sold seemingly.

We are not under pressure to sell as such, we know this. I know sometimes it can be inevitable ie Scott but that should've been the last big sale for a while IMO.

Accept Conway is a greater risk given the lack of contract progress but maybe just maybe one year after 2 seasons of heavy lifting keep your best, add a bit more depth and go for the top 6, more specifically the playoffs.

Because Mr Pop contracts mean nothing if West Ham or bloody Bournemouth dangle £15M or £20M in front of SL. Also Cam's agent will be pushing to cash in on a big pay day and lastly, Cam's head will be turning at the chance of a massive wage increase and set up for life.

At this point City would do well to argue to justify any increase on any transfer price simply because we may not get a percentage of any future dealings if he goes on a free in the future, just like potentially Lloyd Kelly. They got him for a snip at £18M plus we negotiated a sell on clause. All pie in the sky if he runs down his contract.

[Mr Popodopolous]

4 minutes ago, Swede said:

Because Mr Pop contracts mean nothing if West Ham or bloody Bournemouth dangle £15M or £20M in front of SL. Also Cam's agent will be pushing to cash in on a big pay day and lastly, Cam's head will be turning at the chance of a massive wage increase and set up for life.

At this point City would do well to argue to justify any increase on any transfer price simply because we may not get a percentage of any future dealings if he goes on a free in the future, just like potentially Lloyd Kelly. They got him for a snip at £18M plus we negotiated a sell on clause. All pie in the sky if he runs down his contract.

Jordan James.

Birmingham are in no better a P&S position than us, perhaps a tighter one but they are intending not to budge on him...contract had 1.5-2.5 years.

Mowbray speaks of £30m for him which seems fanciful, then of course it comes down to SL.

Looks like Kelly will go on a free but that can still change.

Edited February 4 by Mr Popodopolous

[SydneyCity]

12 hours ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

League of Ireland, League Two loan and I forget what level Aldershot are but sign and loan back from Non League.

It's a big leap.

Listened to a podcast with Stephen McGinn yesterday. He told a story about coming down to Watford from the SPL, when Watford were in the Championship. When he was about to make his debut, Sean Dyche - the assistant manager - asked him how many times he’d played before in the SPL. Stephen told him, around 90 times in the league and 15 times in the cup. Dyche replied: “So this is your first professional appearance then!” and walked off laughing. By his own admission, he found the step up from SPL to Championship to be very big.

[Bobtherobin]

17 hours ago, Bat Fastard said:

These are both big leaps but we often send promising talent to places like Bath City (a lower level that the Irish or National leagues)to get experience of men's football. They have both flourished at that level and shown that they are top talents in their respective leagues.  If they train regularly with our first team, they will have a chance to bridge the gap.  Our coaches seem to know how to develop young players so I am pretty confident that these lads will, along with our new flying winger, hopefully be first team players for years to come.

We also send a lot of players to places like Bath City who never make the first team. In fact most of them dont make it, so as much as I admire your confidence, I dont share it. 

[ChippenhamRed]

20 hours ago, luke_bristol said:

Interesting that they’re buying for next season and essentially writing this season off.

They should put “Jam Tomorrow” on the club crest.

[red panda]

8 hours ago, Dr Balls said:

But we still get the media fluff, promoted by the club, that Manning is a “bright young coach”, while of course the club were quite happy for Pearson to be painted as an aging dinosaur, when the truth was nothing of the sort. Personally I would prefer experience over promise, but of course that doesn’t suit the owners!

It's amazing how successful the club has been in spreading this myth that LM is well-respected, sought-after, bright young coach etc right across all of our independent national media. Especially as in all other respects, many posters seem to think those running the club are completely useless.

Or, just a thought, may be all of those independent media outlets actually say what they think. Surely not? 

[RedM]

20 hours ago, Red-Robbo said:

 

To be fair, all clubs do that. Even successful ones. 

Yes clubs always have to look ahead. (Not quite like F1 when drivers for 2025 have been signed before 2024 has even started). But I think the point that many fans are getting frustrated with is that our tomorrow never seems to come.

We get good players but fail to be able to keep them, the pull of the Premier League is obviously too strong. But they also must believe that we aren't going there any time soon either.

[Graham76]

Having had a listen it all sounds rather positive to me, but clearly the plan was never about kicking on this season. 
 

This under 16s he mentioned sounds promising too. 

[Galley is our king]

10 hours ago, Dullmoan Tone said:

One thing that BT said (and repeated) that hasn't been discussed much, is he recognises the need for a mobile, strong and ideally experienced number 9 and yet we purchased Cornick who has neither of these attributes. HC still has a relatively long contract and while I expect not a very high earner, is nonetheless on the wage bill for a considerable period with little prospect of starting / contributing or fitting the profile.

Where is the responsibility for this seemingly desparate purchase and how can we trust the current team not to make the same mistake again when they fail to find this fantasy number 9 on a lower championship budget?

Surely we are best to loan from above like the Tammy deal - it won't be long term, but it could bring quality and a better chance of success in a key position?

Apparently, according to BT, the coach or manager is offered a choice of 3 players identified by the recruitment team for a certain position.

Pearson picked Cornick but we will never be told who the other 2 were will we?

He also cost apparently £300k, so what were we expecting?

 

[MarcusX]

20 hours ago, Sir Geoff said:

He had a right old go at TGH. Never a good sign of harmony, players arguing amongst themselves. 

I dunno, wouldn’t read too much into it. Even the top teams used to argue with each other - listen to the Arsenal / Utd players talk about the early 2000s they would argue like mad after a defeat. That’s not necessarily a bad thing.

20 hours ago, TV Tom said:

Hull and Coventry are going to do it this season

Forest did it too within the season.

19 hours ago, GrahamC said:

Be interested in the name of a striker that you think we could have got for £300k to replace one sold for £9m.

Wasn’t much unhappiness on here when we signed Mehmeti, he just hasn’t made the step up. Not sure anyone (Tinnion or Pearson) could have known that.

In fairness most people were excited about Mehmeti, it certainly wasn’t seen as a waste at the time

[Meh]

My major concern is (once again) one of the Lansdowns friends has massive power at this club and when it comes to the first team and knowing what it takes in this league the guy takes a then wipes the middle region of his arm

[Sir Geoff]

13 hours ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

In respect of Blackburn the issue is perhaps Venkys being unable to get money out of India quite so readily.

Not sure if it is Protectionism as such but India maybe frowning a bit towards foreign expenditure by companies etc.

Not frowning. Blocked foreign investment. Venky' s have to put in a special appeal to release money.

[LondonBristolian]

15 hours ago, Jerseybean said:

Listening to BT got me thinking about next season and who (of our established squad players and newcomers) I see as definitely part of the future.

So here goes, I’m sure this will divide opinion.

Players that I see as being definite ones for the future include:

Max O’Leary

Cam Ping

Rob Dickie

Zak Vyner

George Tanner

Jason Knight

Mark Sykes

Taylor Gardner-Hickman

Tommy Conway

Ross McCorie

Rob Atkinson

+ the new recent recruits

Those that I would happily see depart include:

Anis Memheti

Harry Cornick

All the rest I would be on the fence about that includes:

Nahki Wells

Joe Williams

Matty James

Andy King

Sam Bell

Haydon Roberts

Kal Naismith

My sense is Williams, James and King won’t be offered new contracts, Pring, Conway and maybe Vyner could be tempted by pastures new and move on. Plus a couple of others, perhaps Wells and Naismith depart.

Let the debate commence.

With the players we have secured in the recent window it looks like a new midfield with Murphy, Knight, TGH and Bird being the core.

Depending on outgoings I fancy our defence will remain as is, Max, Cam, Zac, Rob D, Rob A, Ross and George.

It’s been clear for sometime that we need another striker and as BT indicated a 23-24 year old physical and pacey forward would be ideal. Then, again depending on outgoings/incomings, they’d be joined by Conway, Sykes, Bell, Wells, Mebude (if he stays), Twine (if he stays)

My hope is there won’t be that much change in defence and midfield in the summer, bar the business already done.

I agree James and King are off but I think we’d need at least one more midfielder or the squad would be thin and I can see that being a new deal for Williams 

I think it will be hard to keep Conway and I reckon Wells could go if we got two new forwards in. I reckon we could keep everyone else - bar Twine - and I think it would be a good strategy to do so as it would enable the recruitment to focus on the two positions that desperately need it.

I can see our squad next year being:

GKs

1. O’Leary 

2. Poss Bajic if Manning genuinely rates him. 
3. HWR or whoever is next on conveyer belt if HWR isn’t kept on

Defenders 

1. Tanner

2.McCrorie

3.Pring

4.Roberts

5.Naismith

6.Atkinson

7.Dickie

8.Vyner

 

Midfield:

1.Bird

2.Knight

3.Murphy

4.Williams

5.TGH

 

Attacking midfielders/Wide forwards

1. Key signing 

2. Stokes

3. Mehmeti

4. Sykes

5. Mebude (if a success)

Forwards

1. Key signing 

2. New back-up or Wells

3. Bell

 

Moved on:

Conway 

James

King

Cornick

Weimann

Maybe moved on too:

Wells (I rate Wells - this is just a hunch)

Bajic

HWR (only listed as his contract is up and I have no idea where the club feel he is in terms of his development)

Edited February 4 by LondonBristolian

[City oz]

3 minutes ago, LondonBristolian said:

My hope is there won’t be that much change in defence and midfield in the summer, bar the business already done.

I agree James and King are off but I think we’d need at least one more midfielder or the squad would be thin and I can see that being a new deal for Williams 

I think it will be hard to keep Conway and I reckon Wells could go if we got two new forwards in. I reckon we could keep everyone else - bar Twine - and I think it would be a good strategy to do so as it would enable the recruitment to focus on the two positions that desperately need it.

I can see our squad next year being:

GKs

1. O’Leary 

2. Poss Bajic if Manning genuinely rates him. 
3. HWR or whoever is next on conveyer belt if HWR isn’t kept on

Defenders 

1. Tanner

2.McCrorie

3.Pring

4.Roberts

5.Naismith

6.Atkinson

7.Dickie

8.Vyner

 

Midfield:

1.Bird

2.Knight

3.Murphy

4.Williams

5.TGH

 

Attacking midfielders/Wide forwards

1. Key signing 

2. Stokes

3. Mehmeti

4. Sykes

5. Mebude (if a success)

Forwards

1. Key signing 

2. New back-up or Wells

3. Bell

 

Moved on:

Conway 

James

King

Cornick

Weimann

Maybe moved on too:

Wells (I rate Wells - this is just a hunch)

Bajic

HWR

You are on the correct path. You have forgotten one vital component Mr Lansdown

[Floatn Over]

10 hours ago, Dr Balls said:

A tomorrow that never comes to anything - except yet another rebuild!

This is the point I’m struggling with now that “the future” is back as the catchphrase and the narrative has been smoothly changed for us to lap up again.

In 1976 I was there watching Clive Whitehead’s goal deliver the prize.

Different times of course but is repeating this really the aim or “rinse and repeat” and continually sell the gems to the likes of Bournemouth.

[And Its Smith]

5 minutes ago, LondonBristolian said:

My hope is there won’t be that much change in defence and midfield in the summer, bar the business already done.

I agree James and King are off but I think we’d need at least one more midfielder or the squad would be thin and I can see that being a new deal for Williams 

I think it will be hard to keep Conway and I reckon Wells could go if we got two new forwards in. I reckon we could keep everyone else - bar Twine - and I think it would be a good strategy to do so as it would enable the recruitment to focus on the two positions that desperately need it.

I can see our squad next year being:

GKs

1. O’Leary 

2. Poss Bajic if Manning genuinely rates him. 
3. HWR or whoever is next on conveyer belt if HWR isn’t kept on

Defenders 

1. Tanner

2.McCrorie

3.Pring

4.Roberts

5.Naismith

6.Atkinson

7.Dickie

8.Vyner

 

Midfield:

1.Bird

2.Knight

3.Murphy

4.Williams

5.TGH

 

Attacking midfielders/Wide forwards

1. Key signing 

2. Stokes

3. Mehmeti

4. Sykes

5. Mebude (if a success)

Forwards

1. Key signing 

2. New back-up or Wells

3. Bell

 

Moved on:

Conway 

James

King

Cornick

Weimann

Maybe moved on too:

Wells (I rate Wells - this is just a hunch)

Bajic

HWR (only listed as his contract is up and I have no idea where the club feel he is in terms of his development)

Agree with all of that but would add Palmer-Houlden to the forwards list. Takes it to 25. 

[FNQ]

I reckon Pring could be snapped up before Tommy…either way both will move on to greener pastures.

[Bat Fastard]

1 hour ago, Ryan said:

We also send a lot of players to places like Bath City who never make the first team. In fact most of them dont make it, so as much as I admire your confidence, I dont share it. 

Of course some will not make it because the Championship is a very demanding level. Most will have some kind of career in the game and the 10% to 15% who do make the grade will eventually make the academy profitable.  Young players already playing regularly in men’s football at a level higher than Bath City are playing at a level that is more demanding than playing in our U21s. Young players who are exceptionally good at this level must be worthy of consideration because they are arguably already ahead of our academy players. Yes, I remain optimistic that this is a good place to find potential first team players - albeit they may need extra physical development and coaching.

[fisherrich]

21 hours ago, Alessandro said:

Bristol City - "Building for tomorrow, when we'll build for tomorrow again"

This club is going backwards. Disappointing.

[Red-Robbo]

1 hour ago, RedM said:

Yes clubs always have to look ahead. (Not quite like F1 when drivers for 2025 have been signed before 2024 has even started). But I think the point that many fans are getting frustrated with is that our tomorrow never seems to come.

We get good players but fail to be able to keep them, the pull of the Premier League is obviously too strong. But they also must believe that we aren't going there any time soon either.

 

This will always be the issue while we remain a consistent midtable side. 

[GrahamC]

1 hour ago, LondonBristolian said:

My hope is there won’t be that much change in defence and midfield in the summer, bar the business already done.

I agree James and King are off but I think we’d need at least one more midfielder or the squad would be thin and I can see that being a new deal for Williams 

I think it will be hard to keep Conway and I reckon Wells could go if we got two new forwards in. I reckon we could keep everyone else - bar Twine - and I think it would be a good strategy to do so as it would enable the recruitment to focus on the two positions that desperately need it.

I can see our squad next year being:

GKs

1. O’Leary 

2. Poss Bajic if Manning genuinely rates him. 
3. HWR or whoever is next on conveyer belt if HWR isn’t kept on

Defenders 

1. Tanner

2.McCrorie

3.Pring

4.Roberts

5.Naismith

6.Atkinson

7.Dickie

8.Vyner

 

Midfield:

1.Bird

2.Knight

3.Murphy

4.Williams

5.TGH

 

Attacking midfielders/Wide forwards

1. Key signing 

2. Stokes

3. Mehmeti

4. Sykes

5. Mebude (if a success)

Forwards

1. Key signing 

2. New back-up or Wells

3. Bell

 

Moved on:

Conway 

James

King

Cornick

Weimann

Maybe moved on too:

Wells (I rate Wells - this is just a hunch)

Bajic

HWR (only listed as his contract is up and I have no idea where the club feel he is in terms of his development)

Good post & I think a lot of what you say will happen.

My hunch is Wells will stick around & see out the last year of his deal though. Think he’s settled here & if Conway goes it will be useful to have an experienced, proven back up to whoever we sign as our main CF.

If Knight moves back into a more conventional centre mid role than maybe him, Bird & TGH is enough if we see Murphy as a possible. The lesser spotted Naismith has another year & could play there as well.

If one of the midfielders OoC is going to be offered anything it is almost certainly as you said, going to be Williams.

Re the keepers I’m pretty sure Wiles-Richards is out of contract & I don’t expect he’ll get another. Impossible to know the thinking on Bajic as through no fault of his own he hasn’t played.

Edited February 4 by GrahamC

[Natchfever]

11 hours ago, Dr Balls said:

But we still get the media fluff, promoted by the club, that Manning is a “bright young coach”, while of course the club were quite happy for Pearson to be painted as an aging dinosaur, when the truth was nothing of the sort. Personally I would prefer experience over promise, but of course that doesn’t suit the owners!

Always a gamble signing an inexperienced player from L1, so no reason why the same shouldnt apply to a coach  particularly when his overseer/mentor is a dud like Tinnion.

He may well succeed of course, or he could be indulged like Johnson and nearly ruin us.

Time will tell as Manning is here unless relegation is a real danger in the seasons to come. The Lansdowns dont acknowledge failiure easily do they.

[Davefevs]

2 hours ago, red panda said:

It's amazing how successful the club has been in spreading this myth that LM is well-respected, sought-after, bright young coach etc right across all of our independent national media. Especially as in all other respects, many posters seem to think those running the club are completely useless.

Or, just a thought, may be all of those independent media outlets actually say what they think. Surely not? 

Remember when 442 magazine wrote that LJ was the 7th best young coach in Europe…LJ quoted it himself!

[TomSutton]

2 hours ago, LondonBristolian said:

My hope is there won’t be that much change in defence and midfield in the summer, bar the business already done.

I agree James and King are off but I think we’d need at least one more midfielder or the squad would be thin and I can see that being a new deal for Williams 

I think it will be hard to keep Conway and I reckon Wells could go if we got two new forwards in. I reckon we could keep everyone else - bar Twine - and I think it would be a good strategy to do so as it would enable the recruitment to focus on the two positions that desperately need it.

I can see our squad next year being:

GKs

1. O’Leary 

2. Poss Bajic if Manning genuinely rates him. 
3. HWR or whoever is next on conveyer belt if HWR isn’t kept on

Defenders 

1. Tanner

2.McCrorie

3.Pring

4.Roberts

5.Naismith

6.Atkinson

7.Dickie

8.Vyner

 

Midfield:

1.Bird

2.Knight

3.Murphy

4.Williams

5.TGH

 

Attacking midfielders/Wide forwards

1. Key signing 

2. Stokes

3. Mehmeti

4. Sykes

5. Mebude (if a success)

Forwards

1. Key signing 

2. New back-up or Wells

3. Bell

 

Moved on:

Conway 

James

King

Cornick

Weimann

Maybe moved on too:

Wells (I rate Wells - this is just a hunch)

Bajic

HWR (only listed as his contract is up and I have no idea where the club feel he is in terms of his development)

Do wonder whether this team has the potential to lack experience pros.

could possibly see Naismith being moved on too not down to ability but more his availability concerns.

If Naismith was to move on your most experienced players within the squad would be Dickie, Vyner, Williams (if kept on), O Leary and Sykes.

This of course is in terms of age and not games played but having played under different managers and systems can be all the more beneficial to the squad like King is atm, evidenced by how he appears to be always one of the first to greet the new player and take them out socialising with the squad. 

By no means do I think that moving on the likes of Weimann, king, James is the wrong decision but we do not want to end up with a squad solely made up of 20-25 year olds I personally feel.

[redsquirrel]

5 minutes ago, Natchfever said:

 

Time will tell as Manning is here unless relegation is a real danger in the seasons to come. The Lansdowns dont acknowledge failiure easily do they.

weird innit, they dont like good successful ones either

[Guest]

23 hours ago, luke_bristol said:

Interesting that they’re buying for next season and essentially writing this season off.

Interesting that “writing off the season” halfway through the season seems to be the norm these days but we are all expected to still by season tickets 

[TomSutton]

1 minute ago, LoyalRed said:

Interesting that “writing off the season” halfway through the season seems to be the norm these days but we are all expected to still by season tickets 

Suppose it’s all done on hope really,

Always the part that kills you.

[Natchfever]

2 minutes ago, redsquirrel said:

weird innit, they dont like good successful ones either

I do find it odd that a man with so much money and a desire to be loved seems hellbent on leaving a meh legacy.

[Glen hump]

3 minutes ago, Natchfever said:

I do find it odd that a man with so much money and a desire to be loved seems hellbent on leaving a meh legacy.

I find it astonishing that a man who’s been so successful continues to make the same mistakes over and over when it comes to the football club, the penny never seems to drop, it’s almost like he’s ego won’t let him change.

[TDarwall]

1 minute ago, Glen hump said:

I find it astonishing that a man who’s been so successful continues to make the same mistakes over and over when it comes to the football club, the penny never seems to drop, it’s almost like he’s ego won’t let him change.

I think he desperately wants success. However he won't relinquish control & that's what's held us back.

He should have looked a BCFC like a business acquisition where he was buying into a sector where he had no knowledge.  The smart thing to do would be to hire the best people you can afford to run the club & then get out of the way & let them get on with it.

 

[LondonBristolian]

1 hour ago, GrahamC said:

Good post & I think a lot of what you say will happen.

My hunch is Wells will stick around & see out the last year of his deal though. Think he’s settled here & if Conway goes it will be useful to have an experienced, proven back up to whoever we sign as our main CF.

If Knight moves back into a more conventional centre mid role than maybe him, Bird & TGH is enough if we see Murphy as a possible. The lesser spotted Naismith has another year & could play there as well.

If one of the midfielders OoC is going to be offered anything it is almost certainly as you said, going to be Williams.

Re the keepers I’m pretty sure Wiles-Richards is out of contract & I don’t expect he’ll get another. Impossible to know the thinking on Bajic as through no fault of his own he hasn’t played.

You could well be right re Wells. I certainly would be neither surprised or unhappy if he was here next year and, in many ways, it would be better to focus on bringing one forward in and getting the budget for that right.

It's an interesting one re Williams - in a way 4 midfield options plus Naismith is enough but, in another, the squad I listed out still comes to 24 (25 if you count Palmer-Houlden, who @And Its Smith pointed out could well be in contention too. In isolation, I think 8 defenders is enough and I think 4 midfielders plus a defender who can cover is enough but I'm not sure if 12 players across those 6 positions gives us enough cover across the season so I'd still keep Williams, especially as Murphy's development is a bit of an unknown.

15 minutes ago, TomSutton said:

Do wonder whether this team has the potential to lack experience pros.

could possibly see Naismith being moved on too not down to ability but more his availability concerns.

If Naismith was to move on your most experienced players within the squad would be Dickie, Vyner, Williams (if kept on), O Leary and Sykes.

This of course is in terms of age and not games played but having played under different managers and systems can be all the more beneficial to the squad like King is atm, evidenced by how he appears to be always one of the first to greet the new player and take them out socialising with the squad. 

By no means do I think that moving on the likes of Weimann, king, James is the wrong decision but we do not want to end up with a squad solely made up of 20-25 year olds I personally feel.

This might be a good reason why Wells does stay, and it's why I reckon Naismith could too. As you say, Naismith's availability is a concern but less so if there are decent numbers in the squad - plus his availability could also make it harder to get another team to get on his contract so we might end up paying a chunk of his wages even if he departed so I think it is pragmatic to keep him. 

In terms of James and King, for me it's less so about wrong or right so much as what I expect. I rate James and can see what King brings as a presence in the squad but, based on King's partner's comments and the signing of Bird, I just don't reckon either will be here next season. Like you, I don't necessarily think that it's the wrong decision but I'm yet to decide that I think it is the right one either. 

[Dr Balls]

6 minutes ago, Glen hump said:

I find it astonishing that a man who’s been so successful continues to make the same mistakes over and over when it comes to the football club, the penny never seems to drop, it’s almost like he’s ego won’t let him change.

Well in the case of LJ and MA, perhaps there are even bigger bullshitters in football than there are in finance and business. Which having seen the interview episodes on the Apprentice, when their CVs are scrutinised, really makes me wonder!

The problem is that frequently SL has gone for managers with potential, who have had a bit of short-term form, without actually achieving anything significant (McInnes, Johnson Jr, Manning) or the cheap internal option (Tinnion, Millen, Holden). Strangely the only ones who I would have described as successful from his list of managers are those with previous tangible success (Johnson Sr, Cotterill, Pearson) although I accept that Coppell was a miss, while SO’D was a useless manager, but he did lay the groundwork for the Academy and some of the players that shone under Cotterill and LJ.

The point is that none a single one of them has gone on to bigger and better things elsewhere, which again suggests a poor record for picking managers.

[GrahamC]

24 minutes ago, TomSutton said:

Do wonder whether this team has the potential to lack experience pros.

could possibly see Naismith being moved on too not down to ability but more his availability concerns.

If Naismith was to move on your most experienced players within the squad would be Dickie, Vyner, Williams (if kept on), O Leary and Sykes.

This of course is in terms of age and not games played but having played under different managers and systems can be all the more beneficial to the squad like King is atm, evidenced by how he appears to be always one of the first to greet the new player and take them out socialising with the squad. 

By no means do I think that moving on the likes of Weimann, king, James is the wrong decision but we do not want to end up with a squad solely made up of 20-25 year olds I personally feel.

I can’t see any value in keeping King, obvious that he’s not getting a coaching gig now Nige has left & whilst his availability to be a sub this year has been useful, he’s 36 next season & we need a better option.

Personally I’d keep James even in front of Williams (Weimann has effectively already left) but I’d be amazed if we did.

[supercidered]

On 03/02/2024 at 11:37, Leabrook said:

This summer could see us lose James, Williams, Conway, Wells, Pring, Twine, Cornick and King from the current squad. Some rightly and some wrongly but that is 8 senior players.  Another summer of overhaul.  

And then cue the same old lines from whoever within the club (take your pick). 

We've lost some players (see above) and we have some targets to bring in.

We can't compete with teams in this league with our budget.

We are looking to strengthen early so they get a full pre season and then bed themselves in to how we play.

Evolution not revolution.

We are making progress and getting the messages across in good training sessions.

Lets look at the Academy first.

Our aim is to be at least in the top 6 come May 2025.

I could go on but I think you get my drift.

[TomSutton]

1 minute ago, GrahamC said:

I can’t see any value in keeping King, obvious that he’s not getting a coaching gig now Nige has left & whilst his availability to be a sub this year has been useful, he’s 36 next season & we need a better option.

Personally I’d keep James even in front of Williams (Weimann has effectively already left) but I’d be amazed if we did.

Agree on King gone, without Pearson who was allowing him to transition into his coaching role and to be moderated while coaching I imagine with the academy boys which is necessary to complete your FAW and FA coaching badges like Kings done, it means he has no real role currently. From my understanding he’s a very popular figure but as is Williams and they cannot simply be kept on because of this.

I remember reading on Bristol Live when LM first came in that King was strictly a player as Manning wanted to be in complete control around who coaches the first team hence Hogg and Krause coming in. It is clear that Kings legs have gone so I doubt he will play 2 or more games again this season (possible cameo against forest?) 

With AW OOC as well as MJ and JW all our more experienced players within the squad this will leave us 4 players over the age of 28 at the start of next season under contract these being.

Wells (34)

Dickie (28) 

Cornick (29) 

Naismith (32) 

Bar that we have many players entering the “prime” of their careers RE Vyner, Pring, Sykes and co but that will not leave us with many experienced heads who can act as a point of call for both the management to consult with (haha as if) or players to turn to for guidance like with Alex Scott and King.

[Davefevs]

14 minutes ago, TomSutton said:

Agree on King gone, without Pearson who was allowing him to transition into his coaching role and to be moderated while coaching I imagine with the academy boys which is necessary to complete your FAW and FA coaching badges like Kings done, it means he has no real role currently. From my understanding he’s a very popular figure but as is Williams and they cannot simply be kept on because of this.

I remember reading on Bristol Live when LM first came in that King was strictly a player as Manning wanted to be in complete control around who coaches the first team hence Hogg and Krause coming in. It is clear that Kings legs have gone so I doubt he will play 2 or more games again this season (possible cameo against forest?) 

With AW OOC as well as MJ and JW all our more experienced players within the squad this will leave us 4 players over the age of 28 at the start of next season under contract these being.

Wells (34)

Dickie (28) 

Cornick (29) 

Naismith (32) 

Bar that we have many players entering the “prime” of their careers RE Vyner, Pring, Sykes and co but that will not leave us with many experienced heads who can act as a point of call for both the management to consult with (haha as if) or players to turn to for guidance like with Alex Scott and King.

I think he’s missing a huge trick in not keeping King around.

Assuming James goes, he is the one person in the whole of the club with PL nous, how to get to the PL, and what makes a PL player.  A city fan too!

It would make sense to retain that in whatever shape and form he can….hes low cost.  He has his badges, he might even bring practical experience to a head-coach who’s never played professionally, a coach-analyst (Krause) who hasn’t either and the assistant (Hogg) who had a minor career at Hibs.  He’d also provide that young player / new signing mentoring, he is young at heart too.  And although his legs may have gone when he has played he’s shown that the brain is just as important.

But I can understand the threat of a Nige-man in the camp.  Although the best teams handle that for the good if the team.  Good teams like challenge, weak teams have followers.  I sense that Manning, Hogg and Krause are so aligned they may not see the things that an “outsider” might.

Maybe Kingy doesn’t want to stay.

From the outside looking in it looks like an error.

Edited February 4 by Davefevs

[TomSutton]

5 minutes ago, Davefevs said:

I think he’s missing a huge trick in not keeping King around.

Assuming James goes, he is the one person in the whole of the club with PL nous, how to get to the PL, and what makes a PL player.  A city fan too!

It would make sense to retain that in whatever shape and form he can….hes low cost.  He has his badges, he might even bring practical experience to a head-coach who’s never played professionally, a coach-analyst (Krause) who hasn’t either and the assistant (Hogg) who had a minor career at Hibs.  He’d also provide that young player / new signing mentoring, he is young at heart too.  And although his legs may have gone when he has played he’s shown that the brain is just as important.

But I can understand the threat of a Nige-man in the camp.  Although the best teams handle that for the good if the team.  Good teams like challenge.  I sense that Manning, Hogg and Krause are so aligned they may not see the things that an “outsider” might.

Maybe Kingy doesn’t want to stay.

From the outside looking in it looks like an error.

I can’t see a way he stays on, seemed very clear that Manning didn’t take King being suggested as a coach too kindly and shut it down instantly.

From my perspective it appears to be he has a close circle of people he can trust and delegate responsibility too but if your not in that, then it’s extremely difficult to get into and that is where I believe king is now.

I am imagining King would ideally want to have at least a house here still in the south west and if we were to offer him a deal as a coach I’m sure he would accept it I wonder whether theoretically he could aid with the u18s who appear to be a very talented group (5th round of FA youth cup coming up). His experience as a guy who’s had both success in his career as well as difficult times like in Belgium can only enhance his ability to guide the younger lads.

will it happen probably not, would I like him to be kept on as a youth coach yes, would King see himself as just a youth coach though or would he want a more managerial role up to him in the end.

*Also agree on having the premier league experience and is a great point of call for those in the first team looking to get there 

Edited February 4 by TomSutton

[maxjak]

2 hours ago, fisherrich said:

This club is going backwards. Disappointing.

Haven't you herd about our "Tremendous potential?"  &  "A Premiership club in waiting"   Considering we have owned those opinion's for 20 years? 

[Davefevs]

3 minutes ago, TomSutton said:

I can’t see a way he stays on, seemed very clear that Manning didn’t take King being suggested as a coach too kindly and shut it down instantly.

From my perspective it appears to be he has a close circle of people he can trust and delegate responsibility too but if your not in that, then it’s extremely difficult to get into and that is where I believe king is now.

I am imagining King would ideally want to have at least a house here still in the south west and if we were to offer him a deal as a coach I’m sure he would accept it I wonder whether theoretically he could aid with the u18s who appear to be a very talented group (5th round of FA youth cup coming up). His experience as a guy who’s had both success in his career as well as difficult times like in Belgium can only enhance his ability to guide the younger lads.

will it happen probably not, would I like him to be kept on as a youth coach yes, would King see himself as just a youth coach though or would he want a more managerial role up to him in the end.

*Also agree on having the premier league experience and is a great point of call for those in the first team looking to get there 

Don’t get me wrong I don’t see him staying on either…Mrs King’s insta infers that it’s already decided.

I just think it’s a bad decision.

[Redtucks]

3 hours ago, LondonBristolian said:

My hope is there won’t be that much change in defence and midfield in the summer, bar the business already done.

I agree James and King are off but I think we’d need at least one more midfielder or the squad would be thin and I can see that being a new deal for Williams 

I think it will be hard to keep Conway and I reckon Wells could go if we got two new forwards in. I reckon we could keep everyone else - bar Twine - and I think it would be a good strategy to do so as it would enable the recruitment to focus on the two positions that desperately need it.

I can see our squad next year being:

GKs

1. O’Leary 

2. Poss Bajic if Manning genuinely rates him. 
3. HWR or whoever is next on conveyer belt if HWR isn’t kept on

Defenders 

1. Tanner

2.McCrorie

3.Pring

4.Roberts

5.Naismith

6.Atkinson

7.Dickie

8.Vyner

 

Midfield:

1.Bird

2.Knight

3.Murphy

4.Williams

5.TGH

 

Attacking midfielders/Wide forwards

1. Key signing 

2. Stokes

3. Mehmeti

4. Sykes

5. Mebude (if a success)

Forwards

1. Key signing 

2. New back-up or Wells

3. Bell

 

Moved on:

Conway 

James

King

Cornick

Weimann

Maybe moved on too:

Wells (I rate Wells - this is just a hunch)

Bajic

HWR (only listed as his contract is up and I have no idea where the club feel he is in terms of his development)

No mention of Ayman Benarous???

 

[Northern Red]

1 minute ago, Redtucks said:

No mention of Ayman Benarous???

 

Because he hasn't played for 2 years and we have absolutely no idea how he'll come back, if he even does.

[The Swan and Cemetery]

18 minutes ago, Davefevs said:

I think he’s missing a huge trick in not keeping King around.

Couldn’t agree more. Fine to argue about whether or not Pearson/Rennie/James/King were getting the job done, but having some folk around with PL experience seems likely to be helpful! And King isn’t a fancy dan, his unique record of L1/Championship/PL winning with the same club says to me that giving up that unique experience is foolhardy, particularly given he’s a City fan as well. Also agree he’s going, but think it’s a poor decision.  

[Sir Geoff]

Swapped loads of PL experience for some League one experience. mmmmm wonder where that will lead ?