This is the first game in the series I have played since around 2002 and it is definitely much harder now than back then. I share your frustration that some sequences of results don't make much sense; that team talks and morale boosting has so much effect (mainly because I find repetitive mouse...
Loads of people seem to play months without saving, I find it amazing - if I have to play the same game twice that save is ruined for me as I can't believe in it any more - saving takes 10 seconds, I do it after every game on a 6 file rolling basis - maybe I'm a bit over cautious!!
Yes just don't use the filter if you have a decent amount of budget left. And players attitude to signing will soften if the closer you get to deadline day if they have not had other offers. I have picked up many an "out of reach" player by just waiting and hoping.
I'm very much enjoying Chester who start in BSN. Definitely no money there, but a stable club with a chairman who will pump funds in if needed. Every time I have asked for the wage cap to be increased the chairman has complied. Good attendances for lower league, currently in L2 and getting 80%...
I start the same way as you and share the same general frustration, it seems to me the game does not acknowledge your success and change your reputation automatically as you progress through the game. I love the fact that it makes the game harder in the beginning but you can spend 10+ years...
Start unemployed and take the first job offer. Work upwards until you win the World Cup or be the best on your continent or whatever goal you want to set.
I believe determination helps all players.
I have 3 goalies but my keeper with the highest determination performs the best even though his goalie stats are slightly lower.
I tried this but was not offered any jobs - after 9 months I gave up waiting - i had all england leagues down to bsn / s - any clues as I'd like to try this route?
In 2015/16 season I have been recruited by Melbourne Victory (Australia), from Woking Town (League 1), and find myself up against Ryan Giggs who is manager of the Newcastle Jets.