Quote ="mdean"I agree with much of what is being said - but the "new coach effect" is very short lived and Fergie endured dodgy years at Scumchester and was reportedly on his way out but for that famous Mark Robbins goal..... So I do think you need to build something - but that building has to be on the field and off.
When I think back to the Raper era, arguably when we were last modestly successful - on the field there was Vowles, Orr, Raper, Sampson amongst other- people who led the team.
When TM got us back and did well - He had Nutley, Awen, Brad around and people who have hearts like bin-lids like Donlan amongst others.....
I look on the field now and don't see anyone with that in them anymore, who is the respected figure, who's the go to man?
This is not based on players abilities, it is something inside players that makes them leaders and we don't seem to have many at the moment.... now arguably that could come from the coach too - but I think at this level people over-estimate the effect of a coach on fitness, training and the in-game stuff....... these guys do this for a job and professional pride should take care of most of these things.
Innane ramblings of someone who should work harder - feel free to ignore.'"
Good points, especially about leadership. Our signings and contracts have been baffling at times, what has gone wrong who is picking our new recruits ? TM must have some input i hope.
