RE: Although playing devil's advocate... With respect it's on a bit of a different scale. Howard had a good pedigree, having come through Southampton's renowned youth system and being linked with Chelsea at one stage. Foster had spent a number of years playing at Crewe under Gradi, so you knew he must have a degree of ability. This lad is completely raw and has a reputation as being lazy and uninterested whilst playing for a poor conference team. He has scored 1 goal since the turn of the year in 19 appearances. Now he's signed for a Championship club he must think he's won the lottery. I hope I'm very, very wrong but I doubt it. I'm just getting more than a little concerned at our lack of a decent signing or two.