Squad Freshness - a reason for optimism

[a1canary 0]

Was thinking what reasons we have to be optimistic about the next few months (something I try and do on a daily basis at the moment), and think it''s worth comparing the state of the squad this time last year to the squad now.

Didn''t have too many injuries but Tettey''s form was mirroring that of the squad as we plummeted down the table while Bassong, while often performing manfully, was being virtually carried of the pitch after every game. Garrido''s early season form was also long gone and Pilkington blowing hot and cold. Only Snods, Turner and Brads could claim any level of consistency.

Fast forward 1 year and we have Olsson just getting stronger with every game, Tettey playing like he did when he first started, Bassong injury free and improving rapidly after a very dodgy start, Yobo fresh and ready for a challenge after not playing much in Turkey, a fresh Pilkington ready and raring to go after his injury, Redmond still looking fresh as a daisy after being used quite sparingly in the season... And of course a fresh Hoolahan if we''re ever going to use him.

All in all a much fresher squad than this time last year with far fewer miles on the clock. Hopefully that will be an advantage to us over our rivals in the coming months

[Yobocop 1,097]

Agree re: Olsson

His best game for us yesterday, still think Garrido is an option though but clearly Olsson playing better at the moment

[Block Y Seat 176 80]

The loss of form, lack of goals and injuries to key players should have us in the bottom three. The fact is we are not and Saturdays performance bodes well for the next few weeks when we take on fellow strugglers. All that is lacking is a bit of composure in front of goal. For me the team picks itself after Saturdays show.

H