The ramblings of a confused and tormented mind.

I get a sense that today has seen a subtle shift in the overall Hughton debate, which reflects my own turmoil. I suspect a lots would stop short of saying they want Hughton out, yet wouldn't be disappointed if it happened. (Except feeling bad for CH)

I admire Hughton off the pitch, as a man, steward of our club and as a transfer operator. But currently on it we look bereft of style, tactical nous and confidence. Overall, we seem confused. Starting Hoolahan in a monsoon at Palace, but not at home to Swansea or Fulham. Playing four central midfielders away at Hull, but only two away at Everton.

The trouble is that mid Jan, seems such a difficult time to make a change given the transfer window. It is so hard to know what is the right thing to do now.

Take 40pts as target to stay up - we need 19 pts from 17 games. The question is, what do we see as the best way to achieve that?

With last four vs Man Utd, Liv, Chelsea, Arsenal - all rational thought says that is 0/1pts max. So we might need 19pts from next 13...

That represents quite a leap in form. So anyone who confidently says there will 'definitely' be three worse teams is just guessing, simple as.

So for the first time for me, if we lose next week to Hull, then choosing to keep CH would be as much of a gamble as sacking him. I think we then have a max one week window for David McNally to make the decision - are we going to stick or twist for the season?

Will we gamble that can injured players come back and make an immediate impact?, or can we pull a major transfer coup? Or do we hope the new manager bounce will save us?

Whatever, barring stunning end to the season, happy to say the time will be right to say thank you and goodbye in May. Regardless of whether we stay up.

Posted By: canary_don, Jan 11, 18:20:15