So what's gone wrong already? For starters, pre season was poor. Pre season plans should be in place before the end of the previous season. We had nothing, with players unsure when they would be returning. It meant the friendlies were a bit last minute, and the opposition not what was needed.
Secondly, the players-last season our 3 best players were Cook, now sold to Bournmouth, Bridcutt, loan finished and weeks of negotiating to re sign him, and Charlie Taylor who has so far played like he wants to be anywhere but here since requesting a transfer. The players in have potential, but need time to gel. Without doubt we need Bridcutt, a new centre back and another striker..
Players were booed on Saturday-something I never like to see, especially kids like Viera who is only just starting out. The frustration of the crowd is clear-but we need to get behind the team-at least during the game. Visiting teams should be walking into a cauldron, not coming here knowing that a few misplaced passes will turn the crowd.. I would love to see the crowd supporting the players for the full game-and if they haven't performed, let them know afterwards if needed.. However, I get the argument that we pay a lot of money and its every fans right to criticise.. Years of frustration I think had made us this way.
Finally, it's imperative that Cellino stays calm and doesn't do anything stupid. Give Monk time, let him get the players in he needs and let the players adapt to his style-there have been glimpses of what we can do, especially attacking.
My pre season optimism is wavering already, but I think we'll come good.. We just need a few more bodies to help..