If you devide the league in 3 ... a top 8, middle 8 and a bottom 8...then I will be ok with a middle 8 finish. It would show progression and a staedy build. It would not unduly pressure either Manager or players, and would begin a good founding of a decent side.
Mid table respectability Plus a decent cup run would satisfy me . Steady & sustainable progress would keep this miserable , old , git happy .
Me too. On goal difference. No ambition for anything better, because we really don't have the money to compete.