Of course we could still be sat here in another 5 years debating the same issues...
I know this thread is about attendances, but with Wilson and Clough we've played in a certain way, backed the manager and never quite done it.
We've brought kids through, we've had talented players and the two things we've focussed on are playing neatly and being fit
So unless Adkins can get us playing to a level beyond what we've had in this time then we need something else to succeed.
I personally think we need a majorly physical side and/ or pace. Pace and power seem to work in this league.
So whether clough or Adkins started the season as gaffer was not going to affect the attendances. There weren't huge calls for clough to go, though there were dissenting voices. There were calls to improve the squad mainly at centre half and centre forward. Plus with the players going like Doyle, Wallace never being fit and with Baxter facing a possible ban - a centre mid. Baxter being available and Wallace apparently fit, probably reduces this requirement
We've not seen the expected transfer market moves for two centre halves and a striker. Had clough been here we'd all be going mad about this but many have faith in Adkins to turn Collins and perhaps higdon into the players we need. I don't hold this opinion myself, higdon is perhaps a Steve Davies on his day but not sure he's that answer.
If Adkins is comfortable with Collins, Alcock, MaGahey and MacEveley as centre halves then I think we need to sit and see this out, but I wouldn't be surprised if we were dipping back into the market before the end of August.
It's slightly puzzled me that we've brought a winger in as we have a number of options there and it's not a priority, but I understand the need to bring in players that'll do a job.
So, regarding attendances, I think whether it's clough of Adkins, the attendances were never going to dip too much at the start of the season, but could drop off a lot if we're struggling in October-December.
Good post Swiss . On attendances , last season was the first season , i actually thought to myself watching the blades , what am i doing here . The Yeovil performance away ,near on topped it for me .
Its the fantastic away support we have , which will i think , carry on being consistent .
However we go back , renew tickets and look forward to a new fresh dawn .
Transfer movement , does get you , the good feel factor , and the lack of movement at the moment , could be down to --
1.SUFC have not got the pulling power finance we all perhaps thought they had.
2.Players we have / are interested in , do not want to drop down from the championship.
3.No one is willing to take a risk on big money signings , in case we fail ( again )
4.The loan market is to be used , with players on a season long loan, and still in negotiation.
I do have a gut feeling we are in negotiation for Harry , and if so great . I do know a bid from SWFC did fail.
Bringing the right sort of players in , and good positive home performances , will bring the "sat on the fence" fans back to the Lane .
I think we will average around 17 to 18,000 which is still a good gate.
We just need the feel good factor , then club , team , fans , will be as one , and certain signings and a good start will definitely help.
The rumours / ongoing talk of Sharp / Henderson , we will just have to wait and see , but CB , attacking forward , are still to be resolved , especially as it was Adkins ( we already know ) , who said the squad is not good enough for promotion.
UTB
