Very pleased with out dealings so far. We've recruited to replace some of the gaps created by all the summer departures, and the ones who've come in look positive.
Shackleton - solid utility player, looked very tidy at RB - unfortunate to have picked up an injury on Sat but we'll see how he gets on
McCallum - excellent option providing width down the left. Pacy full back who seems to have a decent cross on him
O'Hare - looks the closest we'll get to an Iliman replacement. Extremely competent in tight spaces, intelligent passer, and showed great desire to get his goal vs Harrogate
Moore - perfect signing for the tactic we've been playing in pre-season. Big strong forward, good link up play to the supporting midfielders, can carry the ball forward himself - would have loved his header on Sat to go in, but I think we'll see great things from him
Burrows - can't complain about signing the most creative player in a division last season really. Maybe some questions about his defensive capabilities, but has history of playing more advanced roles than FB - in the 22/23 season he mostly played as an attacking midfielder for P'Boro.
Really need to focus on a goalkeeper for now. Davies has always been something of a question mark, and Grbic is a lost cause at this point. I'd be very happy with the lad Cooper from Plymouth if we could get that deal done - doubts there for now of course about funding, but maybe we'll work something out.
After that, it should be a right back. We've lost Baldock and Bogle this summer, and the only replacement we have so far is Shackleton, who we might sometimes have to call on to take a midfield spot. Beyond that we are depending on Curtis/Seriki, and while they've done fine in pre-season, that's no proof that they can thrive at present in the Championship. Would like to see someone with experience to come in and be a reliable option in that position.
Then, another CB. Only having Anel/Trusty/JLT as true first team options is a bold choice to say the least, especially when Anel could end up leaving. I'd want at least one to come in and provide extra competition, but I'd probably only be comfortable here if we were to sign 2
Beyond that we desparately need wingers. Every friendly so far, we have used inverted wingers cutting inside on their strong foot (e.g. Slimane on the left), so we need players in who are naturally capable in those roles. We have nobody to push Brooks on the right hand side at present - maybe Hampson but I feel that might be a lot to ask of someone without experience at this level. I think most desirable purchases would be out of reach financially for us, so would probably have to look at a loan.