So in what way are we better than last year?

I was looking at goal difference which is worth a point at the end of the season...............

unfortunately in our case it's a minus point this year

 

In my opinion, we are/have a better squad/team

In order for those local/Academy players to improve our present team, then the players I quoted are the ones that need to be replaced. I don't think they'd be capable of doing so.
If anyone else thinks that any of the local lads released by the club in the last twelve months could improve the present team, then they are entitled to their opinion. Personally, in my humble opinion, I don't think any of those players would. I think we have better players, capable of playing better football and will finish higher than we did last season.