Shambolic is clearly far too strong a word. But I think the issue is that we need more players than all these other clubs because we had a small squad to start with and then lost around 10 first team players. If we want to move forward this year, then a decent start is really important to get away from any possible relegation trouble. And we are going to need significant improvements to the squad - both depth and quality - if we are going to have a good season. You can't get through a season with only around 13 or 14 senior outfield players
I don't think it's unfair to say we are behind where we should be at this point of July. And I reckon the club expected to be further ahead too. They need to be judged before the Leeds game because that's when it counts, not the start of September.
This I agree with, and I am not saying otherwise. But once again, we can't ignore the context of the club's situation and need for transformation.
TFG bought the club in December and took over a shambolic organisation from top to bottom. People may say it's been seven months, but let's be realistic
We have brought in a much developed backroom staff with knowledge, expertise and experience that puts the previous organisation to shame.
This has, however, took time to do and that has meant certain areas, such as contract renewals and transfers, were not taking place in early 2025.
Many transfers are organised months in advance, but we couldn't do that. Yet, we have to consider the long-term impact of having these staff in place.
Realistically, the squad is thin because we have made the conscious decision to release the likes of Doucoure, Young, Virginia, Holgate and Maupay.
I doubt you'll find many who advocate for some or all of them being kept. Dom decided to leave as well, whereas we offered him and Dukes deals.
Then there are the loans of Harrison, Lindstrøm, Mangala and Broja being severed, which again were deals that most aren't particularly fussed with.
So while we may all wish to have a much deeper squad, the reality of the situation is that we made the conscious decision to release most of them.
Adding to the squad is not as simple as having it all done before Brighton, because of a) the backroom staff change and b) we want the right players.
While starting strongly is important, personally, not wasting the precious money we have is far more important, so I want the club to buy wisely.
I am confident we will see a number of key acquisitions over the coming weeks, with the squad being in a much stronger position by September.
Next year, once we've had a full year of preparation and a healthier league position, things will be more in line with what fans may dream / hope for.
In terms of links to players, our new owners are far more sensible than our previous structure, therefore the leaking to the press has dried up.
