It’s definitely a weaker league this year, and with the acquisition of Brittain and the departure of Ritzmeier we are a stronger team.
More than that, I think several members of our squad have done a hell of a lot of growing up since joining our squad. Andersen in particular but you can pick your position right across the pitch. We’re just more confident and experienced than last season. Who’d have thought that a bit of continuity might pay off?
Don't buy that it's a weaker league particularly. The three that have come down are pretty strong, and two of the three promoted sides are capable of giving anybody a game on their day. It's the Championship, and it's one of the toughest leagues in the world. Has been for a while.
I don't buy this "we can only beat the lower ranked teams" as well. Struber had a brain fart at Middlesbrough, we were unlucky at Reading, didn't turn up at Cardiff City, should have had a penalty against Brentford, threw the three points away at Stoke City and couldn't hit a Camel's arse with a banjo v Bournemouth.
Good man management and a positive change in mentality is what big Val has brought to the team. Alot of players have stepped up and improved but I think Styles and Brittain have been the key players so far this season. A couple of quality additions in January in the right areas should cement our place as a mid table championship team.
The key for me will be identifying the next Brittain, Mowatt, Styles and Woodrow. We need to be pro-active in the transfer market to move forward so we aren't left back at square one if and when they depart.
I know mate, but we shouldn't be getting carried away. We're on a good run since Valerien took over, we're in a good vein of form and in a good position for this time of year. Let's enjoy it while we can because it could turn at any point
The difference between the team now and the team we had at at this time last season is massive. Sollbauer, Helik, James, Frieser all coming in. Woodrow and Mowatt with another year behind. You can debate the quality of one or two of those players, but it's no longer literally men against boys this year.
True we could have another Bournemouth type result this weekend. Swansea are a good side. It's important to remember that.
Exactly SD. I know how good Swansea are. Playoffs last season and top 6 this - that isn't a fluke in my book
Yeah, my playoff comment was a bit tongue in cheek. If I'm honest, I'm still constantly checking the points gap between 22nd and us after every game!