02 May 2015 10:26:04
All this talk of 4 or 5 new players is exciting but will it actually work? We signed 6 last year but Shaw, Falcao and ADM haven't played much. Integrating 5 players into a team (50% of outfield players) is a lot in 1 go. I'd love some big signings but too many and we're back to tying different formations and groupings whilst we find the best 11 and structure.

It will be a nice problem to have I guess but if we want to challenge next year, 5 new 1st team players is perhaps too many.

However, Shaw looks much fitter and is showing his potential so I see him as a regular. I've been really impressed with McNair every time he has played (would prefer him in midfield) and hopefully we will have a lot fewer injuries. I think a RB, a CM and a CH will suffice with possibly a winger thrown in. Even 4 is still a lot to throw in together.

1.) 02 May 2015
02 May 2015 11:27:49
A pre season with the team would be the best option even if we sign 4-5 players. They would have 2 months to bed in. It makes it easier if wesign players with PL experience. Clyne, Ings are already familiar with the premier league.

2.) 02 May 2015
02 May 2015 12:05:02
As Rohanarora8 says, we should have a far more productive pre-season this year and, possibly more importantly, I'm sure the entire team will be much better prepared in terms of mind-set after a relatively positive end to this season. I'm sure that the job of integrating new signings this summer will be a less complicated task than last year. That's the way I'm hoping it'll turn out anyway! :-)

3.) 02 May 2015
02 May 2015 12:09:12
We need the players imo, but we will struggle with the integration. It's a catch 22.

I suppose getting it right is what the manager is paid so handsomely for. He didn't do a great job last summer (there were mitigating factors granted), he needs to do much better this summer. He has done well getting good performances from our lesser players, but that doesn't win you titles, it's getting the best from the Elite players we have that he needs to work on.

If the players we signed last summer were available this summer, how much would you expect to pay to get them? I think half the amount we forked out at most.

4.) 02 May 2015
02 May 2015 12:16:57
I think 3 first team players is the maximum a team should go for over a summer. Anymore unbalances the team. That's not to say you can't sign three starters and add strength in depth with two or three squad signings

5.) 02 May 2015
02 May 2015 16:13:09
Beast. Lesser players don't win titles? How about SAF's last title or maybe the class of 92? They were lesser players who won't win titles, eh Hansen?
The only 'Elite' player LvG needs to work on is Di Maria as Falcao won't be there. As regards the players we bought and what they are worth, forget it. Its done, can't be changed and we have to move on, you included.