Most crucial summer since

The last one! But in all seriousness this club is at a corss-roads this summer and how we respond could make or break us for the next few years. Personally I think that whilst it might not have been refelected in the results (and leaving aside the Ipswich debacle) I have seen some real progress in the manner and style of our play since the defeat at Bramall Lane that leads me to be quite optimistic about things IF Roeder is allowed to do his stuff in the summer and get the players he wants. Looking at what we need I think:

Goalkeeper - despite some fans seeming to hate him I think Marshall is comfortably good enough for us at this level and in fact one of the best keepers in the division. Gilks might go which is a shame but understandable. I hope that we can promote the youth team guy (whose name escapes me but is supposedly decent) to reserve keeper rather than have to waste money on another back-up keeper.

Defence - key signings needed here. One is Bertrand and the other a dominant centre back. With those additions I feel we are in good shape as I rate Semi (subject to the coaches working on his concentration) and think the Doc also gets a hard time. Shack is adequate back-up. Taylor would be great if he has recovered from the eduardo incident.

Midfield - In reasonable shape if Hucks and fozzy re-sign. Would also like to see another creative central midfielder and a winger brought in (Hucks successor). Hoolihan would be excellent but think everyone will be after him! If Croft leaves he will need replacing but if not him and Chad are decent options for the right side.

Attack - This will need the most attention. Ched back would be excellent but we will still need a couple more. I see Curo as possibly coming off the bench next season so we need to find a new 1st choice partnership. Richters looked useful in his short time here and may be a possibility. If anything in the Kevin Philips rumours that would also be amazing. Otherwise I think we will be looking for a target man to step into Dion's shoes. Not sure who there is out there in this mould!

Posted By: Jim, Apr 27, 15:05:48