A very good blog and right to look at it in this light. Far too much focus on the negative by some imo.
I have a different opinion about the team you picked (but then doesn't everyone?)
Need another keeper - we agree on that. Need a left back but keep developing Targett, we agree on that also. If the expected sale goes through we need 2 CB's (we needed one anyway).
I could be wrong but somewhere in the back of my mind I am sure Chambers started in Midfield so why not push him wide midfield and give Cylne some competition too? Up front I always like 2 players. Pelle and J Rod? Or any other combination.
We have 9 first team midfield players so I favour a conventional 4-4-2 switching with 4-3-1-2 and 3-5-2 (with Vic coming back) to allow the wide men to push on where the game allows. I also think Cork and Davis should be pushing for places this year.
Like I say, everyone is a critic. Good on you for a well written blog.