I reckon that, at the very heart of the shitshow that has been our preparation for a return to the PL, sits Stephen Bettis. The Prince cops a lot of flack, some of it well-deserved, some of it less so. But I’d have thought that much of the failure to prepare for this season, sits squarely with Bettis. We read a lot about how well-managed clubs, such as Brighton, are planning 4-5 transfer windows in advance. How they maximise the on-sale value of their squad. How they are rigorous and targeted in their recruitment. These are all strategic and medium-term management issues - areas which sit with the Chief Executive. Of course, he can’t make Ndiaye or Berge sign if they don’t want to. But for crying out loud, these issues did not jump out from behind a bush with just days to go before the new season! Even the very basics - having agreements for replacement in place BEFORE announcing the departures to the world - weren’t done, so ratcheting up the prices we needed to pay.
The squad needs new blood for sure, but if I were the Prince, or any new owner, I’d be looking beyond the playing and coaching staff, and installing professional and competent executive management.
The squad needs new blood for sure, but if I were the Prince, or any new owner, I’d be looking beyond the playing and coaching staff, and installing professional and competent executive management.