FWIW and I am no coach/tactician etc. The biggest recruitment failing has been the lack of pace incoming to the team, less Niskanen, we can see what he does with direct running, but if he has to do that from a wing back position then wasted.

As has been alluded to before some tweaks and changes to accommodate others coming back e.g. Butch having to move back into midfield has affected the solidity.

For me if Mulgrew has to play then he should just sit in front of the defence and Butch moves back to CH.

McNulty is not a bad player but appears lazy and/or frustrated. Therefore feed him more chances or drop him

Clark - again not a bad player but out and out penalty box striker should not have to come back any more than 10 yards from the opposition 18 yard line to get the ball. Pace is an issue and isnt getting any younger, therefore impact sub upfront.

Midfield - Levitt when on form speaks for himself and McDonald when fitter will provide that little bit of 'foot on the ball' we need.

As for the one or two remaining slots left, we seem to have an abundance of young talent; play them. If Ross Graham is anything to go by seized his chance and hasn't so far looked out of place.
Pawlett, Harkes etc. can become the bit part players if needed.

Perhaps controversially if you need to toughen up midfield, then I believe Hoti is the man in the absence of Butch at CH. Almost similar in my opinion.

Anyway i'll get ma coat!