What is our squad capable of?
Ok, so on the back of Ghost saying our squad is capable of finishing tenth if used properly (not a dig, by the way), where do we think we sit in terms of quality and likely finishing position? All other things being equal, a team finishing tenth should be looking up rather than down.
But, as we know, with us, all other things aren't equal.
i would argue that we have the worst forward line in the league. Rafa's first choice attackers-so far- are Joselu with Perez behind him...an appalling combination which surely can't be better than anyone else's? We haven't seen enough of Muto or Rondon and they might ultimately prove to be the difference.
Our midfield consists of the inconsistent Shelvey, the wildly inconsistent and ageing Diame, Hayden who isn't very good and doesn't want to be here and Ki from a relegated club and plays like it.
Our defence is a full-back injury away from disaster although at CB I think Fernandez is a more than capable replacement for Lejeune (came from a relegated club but doesn't play like it.)
Meanwhile, every team below us in last season's table has strengthened, whilst of the teams who have come up, Wolves look well-placed to finish above us, Fulham will be ok and Cardiff are going straight back down.
Add to that, Rafa did a fantastic job-imo-to get a tune out of a knackered fiddle...will he be able to do the same again? I think most agree that we over-achieved last season and I don't think it will happen again. As I've said before, I think injuries, suspensions and loss of form will hit us harder than it will other teams because of our paper-thin squad.
I think we're a bottom third squad with a middle third first team if Rondon or Muto get game time and start scoring.
Thoughts (unless you've lost the will to live reading this XD )