You’re right about Dike, he will make a noticeable difference when he is fit, he could make a big impact. Unfortunately, that impact will likely only last for about 60 minutes. I’m not usually that optimistic!
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Many genuinely welcomed Lai when he came in and I was at Palace when free scarfs were given out which impressed a fair few! I don't blame Patel one bit for getting the club at a bargain price - anyone would! My point is - i'm not trusting like many who are kissing his butt and think he's Jesus. I will judge him at the start of the season and I certainty don't expect star signings but I do expect like for like replacements and i'm sure Carlos does too - otherwise he would be gone as shown at Huddersfield.
People who say Patel saved the club and it could have gone bust are talking s hite! Even if the club had gone into administration like Derby someone would have seen an opportunity - perhaps with a points deduction but that's it!
I am not bothered about Asante or Townsend as didn't rate either to be honest. Wish someone would take Wallace or Swift on their wages but it won't happen and many know exactly why!
Still don't think we will be weakened as Carlos is not stupid - his reputation on the line! Lets face it - loyalty means little as life is about ambition and protecting your family financially.
So surly your second paragraph shows Patel as being genuine because although he got the club at a cheaper price had he waited until the end of the season we would have gone into administration and he might have paid less but we would have been in a worse position player wise because players like Fellows and Palmer would have had to be given away, the problem we still have is our wage bill is still pretty high compared to our income so any player brought in will have to be on lower wages we also need to use the loan system better than we have done in recent seasons, also IMO CC will not be that bothered about the players that have left we can still put out a decent 11 to start the season but we need to make some additions before the end of the transfer window.
The jury is out on Patel for me until the start of the season which for me is sensible. I don’t think for one moment that Carlos would stay if he thought the team won’t challenge again as he could go anywhere! So that’s the hope!
PS - if a business went into liquidation it could actually fetch more money for the owner than if he didn’t - wheelings and dealings etc. In liquidation it could also be sold by sealed bids which a new owner might not want to risk!
With the media speculation of £20m+ loss, this season’s rebuild will be quite a reconstruction! However, I for one (or two with SWMBO) have our STs and will be behind the Club as the foundations are laid.
(I may actually clap Barts…occasionally :O)