I didn't do the Soton game, I was working, but didn't McNulty get good reviews? Seen nothing from Cranie, Ramage or M'Voto to suggest they are any better at defending. And none are as good as Hassell. But hey, let's ignore Jim and Bobby, and replace the keeper. Again.
I'm certain that Flitcroft said McNulty needs to train fully each week and have a run of games before he gets into his stride. We have seen that he has ability when he hada run in the team (and stays clear of injury), but those times have been few and far between. If the manager is not going to select him regularly, it doesn't sound like he is the type of player who can step in and do a job for us. On this basis, I'm puzzled as to why he was retained in the summer.