Welcome to my Leeds United story. It is inspired by a certain blogger who's quite well known throughout the FM community, although I presumably am not allowed to refer to him by name. I've always had a soft spot for Leeds United ever since their tragic downward spiral, and they have been my favourite club to play as in the last three versions of FM. The format of my story is going to be fairly straight forward. For every six months of game time, I will post a detailed update featuring objectives, predictions, personal assessment of progress and players, etc.
Alternatively, for those who'd rather not endure my barrage of text but are still interested in the save nonetheless, I will be posting a series of screenshots at the bottom of my posts which will hopefully provide a suitable summary by themselves, thus saving you the bother of having to read through everything.
The temptation to provide an overhaul to rebuild the club early on is difficult to resist. After all, you have the resources and status to attract players that would be top notch performers in the Championship, let alone League One. With a handful of responsible signings, you can make sure that the team doesn't require a batch of newcomers again in the future when eventually playing at a higher level.
The initial season in League One is easy and promotion should be a very comfortable task. With reasonable man management, normal/stable tactics and assertive moves in the transfer market, you will most likely finding yourself dominating the division with relative ease.
I'd say Leeds United is an enjoyable choice for a medium-long term game. The club's large fanbase dictates that the manager will always have the luxury of being able to delve into the transfer market. The reputation of the team dictates that you will never struggle to bring in players good enough to achieve your goals, thus allowing you to plan ahead with your squad building and never needing to resort to "panic buys" as a result. With Ken Bates merely being 'happy to say', the only wild card in a player's plans for a medium-long term game is the future takeover. Still, why not roll the dice? It may well pave the way for an exciting chapter in your journey when trying to rebuild this great club.
The squad you inherit is definitely good enough to secure promotion, so mass changes are not needed, per se. However, in preserving the current squad, you may merely be delaying the inevitable and making things more difficult later. While in League One, the consequences of breaking up the squad are somewhat painless. However, if you wait until the Championship to make the team your own, I'd say it's much more likely that this would have a bearing on your results for as long as the team needs time to gel. In my opinion, it is better to get any drastic changes over and done with long before this point.
After experimenting during pre-season, we eventually settled with a patient but resolute 4-5-1 / 4-3-3 system.
Philosophy: Fluid
Passing Style: Shorter
Creative Freedom: More Expressive
Closing Down: Press More
Tackling: More Aggressive
Marking: Zonal Marking
Crossing: Float Crosses
Roaming: More Roaming
Personal preferences for tweaks:
*Defensive line a few notches deeper.
*Reduction in Time Wasting
*Long shots set to rarely for the DMC and MCs.
*Removal of a Roam From Position instruction for the left sided central midfielder.
Sometimes, I've played with an AMC instead of a DMC. This has seemed very useful when playing against teams packing the midfield with a 4-1-4-1, as well against those starting with or changing to 5-3-2 formations. ( http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/1943/81889853.png )
Players in:
Ludovic Asemoassa - Free
Touted as a good prospective signing in a backroom staff meeting, he seemed too good a player not to pursue. After all, aside from being available on a free transfer, he is a considerably better option than anyone else in the squad at left back. I can't help but have high expectations for this player,
He has turned out to be one of the best performers, and has been nerfing threats with relative ease. There isn't anyone playing on the right in this division who can cope with him. Apps: 26 Gls: 0 Asts: 0 Av R: 7.32
Jonas Kamper - (£475k, Bielefeld)
This transfer listed player seemed to be great value all things considered. In a very physical division, his pace appealed above all else. In addition to that, his ability on the ball is competent at this level and fairly typical of a winger in a promotion chasing team. I hope he an do well and thrive in our system.
A reasonable signing overall, even if he hasn't been entirely efficient considering the threatening positions he gets himself into on a regular basis. A decent first team player at this point, although I'm glad he didn't cost more as 475k seems just about right considering his performances. Apps: 25(3) Gls: 5 Asts: 4 Av R: 6.98
Jurgen Macho - Free
Surely an excellent and low-risk choice for a prospective free transfer. It seemed highly likely that he would excel in League One.
Has had precious little to do in a lot of games, but has been more than dependable when called upon, hence picking up 20 clean sheets from 29 games in all competitions. Apps: 29 Conc: 11 Cln: 20 Av R: 6.92
Sergio Matabeuna - (£300k, Real Sporting S.A.D)
It was the assistant manager who recommended this Spanish destroyer. 300k for a 30 year old may seem borderline foolhardy for a club far away from the top flight, but he appeared to be a player who had the ability to play at a higher level, even if only for a couple of reasons.
Hasn't lived up to expectations so far and therefore, not as shrewd a signing as I hoped he would be. Although, due to Muamba being preferred in the middle, he has been first choice when not injured. However, providing I get promoted, I can see him regressing into a squad player at best next season. Of course, I would be very happy to see him win me over in the second half of the season. Apps: 18(5) Gls: 0 Asts: 1 Av R: 6.77
Christian Vieri - Free
Versatility immediately came to mind here. In the event of a more physical approach being deemed necessary, or even simply a forward capable of bringing midfielders and wingers into the game, the aging Vieri seemed an excellent and economic choice.
Not been used much due to the form and fitness of Harewood. Hopefully he will fare well if Harewood ends up getting injured or suspended. Even so, Vieri is arguably an unnecessary signing given the limited use of him (so far). Apps: 1(7) Gls: 0 Asts: 1 Av R: 6.52
Abubakari Yakubu - Free
Looks the part and has to be a much better alternative to Jason Crowe and Andy Hughes at right back. Most definitely irresistible for a free transfer.
Easily the best permanent transfer if performances so far are anything to go by. Yakubu has nearly been as solid defensively as Assemoassa on the other side, while his contributions going forward have been important for team moves. He has been fairly dangerous on the right and a reliable option whenever Kamper has run into trouble (sometimes literally). Apps: 24(1) Gls: 0 Asts: 6 Av R: 7.38
Nacer Barazite - (Loan, Arsenal)
I figured he would be an excellent candidate to pull the strings in the middle of the park in a playmaker role. Better yet, the fact he is comfortable in any midfield position provides depth and flexibility.
A reasonable amount of starts, although it would have been more if not for the encouraging performances of Jonathan Howson. Nevertheless, a good contributor who has also provided what has been a successful change in formation when needed. When struggling to break down opposition parking the proverbial bus, Barazite has been devastating when played in his natural position in the hole. Accomodating Barazite in this role has led to the occasional use of a 4-2-3-1 / 4-3-3 formation with him playing ahead of two central midfielders. Apps: 16(10) Gls: 5 Asts: 4 Av R: 7.14
Ritchie De Laet - (Loan, Manchester United)
This loan option looked an excellent opportunity. Even if he couldn't challenge Bromby or Kisnorbo for a first team place at centerback, he would hopefully provide solid cover at left or right back. Another boost to the squad's strength in depth, even if only for a season.
Just as hoped, a solid performer regardless of regardless of where in defence he has played. With consistently good displays and the capability of slotting in anywhere at the back, he has quietely been an asset. Apps: 23(1) Gls: 0 Asts: 1 Av R: 7.15
Marlon Harewood - (Loan, Aston Villa)
An ambitious attempt at securing a loan transfer here, but one that didn't prove to be futile. It goes without saying that I was pleasantly surprise that a player of this caliber would step down to League One.
A constant menace to any defence in the division despite being played as a lone striker. Due to the quality of service, as well as his formidable ability by this division's standards, he has thrived in his role as a complete forward. Apps: 28 Gls: 17 Asts: 8 Av R: 7.32
Fabrice Muamba - (Loan, Bolton Wanderers)
Although loan listed and with there being no interest shown by other teams, this target seemed a fairly ambitious one also. Nevertheless, both club and player were content with the arrangement.
Has been excellent in his ball winner role in the middle. In addition, a few good performances also as a holding midfielder while covering for Matabeuna. Simply put, an excellent and reliable performer. Apps: 27 Gls: 4 Asts: 4 Av R: 7.15
David N'Gog - (Loan, Liverpool)
The most pleasant surprise of all the loan deals, despite only being a 3 month option due to the rule pertaining to long-term loans of players aged under 23.
Given how potentially destructive a partnership with Harewood may have been, I began contemplating the use of a formation with two strikers. However, N'Gog was only able to play 2 games before picking up an injury that would leave him sidelined for 6 months, thus exceeding the intended loan term. Apps: 1(1) Gls: 0 Asts: 0 Av R: 6.70
Tom Bender - (£140k, Colchester United)
A discovery from scouting Under 18s competitions. Arguably a risk at 140k, but one which would hopefully provide a fitting return in the future.
The second highest performer with an average rating of 7.13, but only a marginal improvement in ability so far. Still optimistic about his development for now.
Sean Morrison - (£160k, Swindon Town)
Another prospect picked up by a scout with decent overall ability for an 18 year old. Almost certainly a bargain of sorts and a possible back-up option this season.
Very good progress in training and has done well in all three of his appearances in the first team. Already 4th choice at centerback with a reasonable chance of being more in the future. Swindon Town's loss is almost certainly my gain.
Player out:
Casper Ankergren - (£275k, West Bromwich Albion)
Luciano Becchio - (£1.4M, Torino)
Josh Falkingham - (Released)
Andy Hughes - (£65k, Sassulo)
Tresor Kandol - (£220k, Modena)
Neil Kilkenny - (£1.6M, Malmo FF)
Rui Marques - (£55k, Bellinzona)
Andy Robinson - (300k, Derby County)
Jonathan Webb - (Released)
Progress in all competitions:
After conceding just 1 goal, yet scoring 22 in the first ten league games, it was blatant from the onset that season 1 isn't going to be a challenge. On the cups front, there is the Johnston's Paint Trophy North Final vs Rotherham United (local rivals) to look forward to, as well as a meeting with Scunthorpe United in the third round of the FA Cup. After completing outplaying them on their own patch, defeat to Ipswich Town via penalties in the second round of the League Cup was frustrating.
Unbeaten Run:
It's been under threat in a few of the draws, particularly againt Millwall where apparently Christian Vieri dived in order to win the penalty that provided the equalizer. In short, I feel that luck has been a factor in retaining the '0' up to this point, as well as the fact that the squad is easily the strongest in the division. Nevertheless, I think it's unlikely that the team will remain unbeaten for the second half of the season, but it will certainly be fun trying.
Transfers:
Very happy with them overall. Harewood, Muamba, Macho, Yakubu and Assembeossa have been brilliant, while Sean Morrison looks like a very good prospect. David N'Gog next to Harewood would have probably produced absolute massacres. The jury is still out on Matabeuna and, to a lesser extent, Kamper. However, for the time being, Vieri has been the only blatantly poor and/or unnecessary signing.
Youth:
Quite bland and typical of the division. Shall hopefully rectify this in the event of identifying some decent and affordable newcomers.
Objectives for the next six months:
Win the league with a tally of 100+ points.
Win the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
Maintain the unbeaten run for as long as possible.
Identify realistic transfer targets for FC, MC and possibly AML in advance for next season.
Pick up a couple more young prospects either in January, or at the end of the season.
Screenshot summary of the 6 months:
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/7433/99686854.png
http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/2926/42635044.png
http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/8638/92140238.png
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/3230/80842512.png
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/994/45027554.png
http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/3236/50438951.png
http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/3576/25039279.png
http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6059/62059793.png
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/2158/43329670.png
http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/9858/17651438.png
http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/175/23846825.png
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/2073/99927737.png
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/9475/40036243.png
http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/7900/43614215.png
http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/6641/67048479.png
http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/9492/30078958.png
http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/6551/20800998.png
http://img532.imageshack.us/img532/4353/72977478.png
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/9664/99726228.png
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4370/91639081.png
That's all for now. I'll post another update after I have gone through the next 6 months of game time. This will most likely be in a week or two. Thanks for reading!
Alternatively, for those who'd rather not endure my barrage of text but are still interested in the save nonetheless, I will be posting a series of screenshots at the bottom of my posts which will hopefully provide a suitable summary by themselves, thus saving you the bother of having to read through everything.
Season 09/10 - Part 1 of 2
Initial transfer budget: £1 million
Initial wage budget: £88,000 p/w
Board expectation: 1st
Media prediction: 1st
Estimated value: £11,250,000
Leeds United on FM10
Granted I've not pursued a long-term game with them yet on FM10 until now, the challenge has blatant similarities to previous versions. You start off with a good squad in proportion to the standard of League One. Only Norwich City and Southampton have comparable squads. The temptation to provide an overhaul to rebuild the club early on is difficult to resist. After all, you have the resources and status to attract players that would be top notch performers in the Championship, let alone League One. With a handful of responsible signings, you can make sure that the team doesn't require a batch of newcomers again in the future when eventually playing at a higher level.
The initial season in League One is easy and promotion should be a very comfortable task. With reasonable man management, normal/stable tactics and assertive moves in the transfer market, you will most likely finding yourself dominating the division with relative ease.
I'd say Leeds United is an enjoyable choice for a medium-long term game. The club's large fanbase dictates that the manager will always have the luxury of being able to delve into the transfer market. The reputation of the team dictates that you will never struggle to bring in players good enough to achieve your goals, thus allowing you to plan ahead with your squad building and never needing to resort to "panic buys" as a result. With Ken Bates merely being 'happy to say', the only wild card in a player's plans for a medium-long term game is the future takeover. Still, why not roll the dice? It may well pave the way for an exciting chapter in your journey when trying to rebuild this great club.
The squad you inherit is definitely good enough to secure promotion, so mass changes are not needed, per se. However, in preserving the current squad, you may merely be delaying the inevitable and making things more difficult later. While in League One, the consequences of breaking up the squad are somewhat painless. However, if you wait until the Championship to make the team your own, I'd say it's much more likely that this would have a bearing on your results for as long as the team needs time to gel. In my opinion, it is better to get any drastic changes over and done with long before this point.
Tactics
After experimenting during pre-season, we eventually settled with a patient but resolute 4-5-1 / 4-3-3 system.
Philosophy: Fluid
Passing Style: Shorter
Creative Freedom: More Expressive
Closing Down: Press More
Tackling: More Aggressive
Marking: Zonal Marking
Crossing: Float Crosses
Roaming: More Roaming
Personal preferences for tweaks:
*Defensive line a few notches deeper.
*Reduction in Time Wasting
*Long shots set to rarely for the DMC and MCs.
*Removal of a Roam From Position instruction for the left sided central midfielder.
Sometimes, I've played with an AMC instead of a DMC. This has seemed very useful when playing against teams packing the midfield with a 4-1-4-1, as well against those starting with or changing to 5-3-2 formations. ( http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/1943/81889853.png )
Season so far:
Pre-Season results:
Leeds vs Hearts 1-1 [H]
Leeds vs Guiseley 4-0 [A]
Leeds vs East Stirlingshire 2-1 [A]
Leeds vs GH Academy 4-1 [H]
Leeds vs Stade Rennais 2-2 [H]
Leeds vs Racing Club 3-0 [H]
Leeds vs Nuneaton Borough 5-0 [A]
Leeds vs Chesterfield 5-0 [A]
Leeds vs Farsley Celtic 5-0 [A]
League One:
Good start:
http://img695.imageshack.us/i/17651438.png/
http://img695.imageshack.us/i/17651438.png/
Current table:
December 19th: Completely dominant and comfortably at the top of the table. Memorable highlights include defeating main rivals Huddersfield Town 3-0, managing to concede just 1 goal in the first 10 games, as well as being 1-0 down away to Wycombe Wanders at half time, before going on to win 4-1. Defeating Tranmere Rovers 4-0 with Nacer Barazite scoring a hatrick was also a very nice, even if unlikely highlight. In-game stats have tended to be very favourable indeed, especially possession which has been peaking at 70% on occasion, but this is fairly typical of a 4-5-1 / 4-3-3 with the right personnel. Performances have dipped slightly in the previous couple of months, while goals are being conceded a bit more often than earlier on in the season. Hopefully this doesn't lead to a slump of sorts going into the second half of the season, but time will tell.
Leeds vs Hearts 1-1 [H]
Leeds vs Guiseley 4-0 [A]
Leeds vs East Stirlingshire 2-1 [A]
Leeds vs GH Academy 4-1 [H]
Leeds vs Stade Rennais 2-2 [H]
Leeds vs Racing Club 3-0 [H]
Leeds vs Nuneaton Borough 5-0 [A]
Leeds vs Chesterfield 5-0 [A]
Leeds vs Farsley Celtic 5-0 [A]
League One:
Good start:
http://img695.imageshack.us/i/17651438.png/
http://img695.imageshack.us/i/17651438.png/
Current table:
December 19th: Completely dominant and comfortably at the top of the table. Memorable highlights include defeating main rivals Huddersfield Town 3-0, managing to concede just 1 goal in the first 10 games, as well as being 1-0 down away to Wycombe Wanders at half time, before going on to win 4-1. Defeating Tranmere Rovers 4-0 with Nacer Barazite scoring a hatrick was also a very nice, even if unlikely highlight. In-game stats have tended to be very favourable indeed, especially possession which has been peaking at 70% on occasion, but this is fairly typical of a 4-5-1 / 4-3-3 with the right personnel. Performances have dipped slightly in the previous couple of months, while goals are being conceded a bit more often than earlier on in the season. Hopefully this doesn't lead to a slump of sorts going into the second half of the season, but time will tell.
Transfers
Hopes for the player's role in the team / hopes at the time of signing = RED
Assessment of the player and his performances over the past 6 months = BLUE
Players in:
Ludovic Asemoassa - Free
Touted as a good prospective signing in a backroom staff meeting, he seemed too good a player not to pursue. After all, aside from being available on a free transfer, he is a considerably better option than anyone else in the squad at left back. I can't help but have high expectations for this player,
He has turned out to be one of the best performers, and has been nerfing threats with relative ease. There isn't anyone playing on the right in this division who can cope with him. Apps: 26 Gls: 0 Asts: 0 Av R: 7.32
Jonas Kamper - (£475k, Bielefeld)
This transfer listed player seemed to be great value all things considered. In a very physical division, his pace appealed above all else. In addition to that, his ability on the ball is competent at this level and fairly typical of a winger in a promotion chasing team. I hope he an do well and thrive in our system.
A reasonable signing overall, even if he hasn't been entirely efficient considering the threatening positions he gets himself into on a regular basis. A decent first team player at this point, although I'm glad he didn't cost more as 475k seems just about right considering his performances. Apps: 25(3) Gls: 5 Asts: 4 Av R: 6.98
Jurgen Macho - Free
Surely an excellent and low-risk choice for a prospective free transfer. It seemed highly likely that he would excel in League One.
Has had precious little to do in a lot of games, but has been more than dependable when called upon, hence picking up 20 clean sheets from 29 games in all competitions. Apps: 29 Conc: 11 Cln: 20 Av R: 6.92
Sergio Matabeuna - (£300k, Real Sporting S.A.D)
It was the assistant manager who recommended this Spanish destroyer. 300k for a 30 year old may seem borderline foolhardy for a club far away from the top flight, but he appeared to be a player who had the ability to play at a higher level, even if only for a couple of reasons.
Hasn't lived up to expectations so far and therefore, not as shrewd a signing as I hoped he would be. Although, due to Muamba being preferred in the middle, he has been first choice when not injured. However, providing I get promoted, I can see him regressing into a squad player at best next season. Of course, I would be very happy to see him win me over in the second half of the season. Apps: 18(5) Gls: 0 Asts: 1 Av R: 6.77
Christian Vieri - Free
Versatility immediately came to mind here. In the event of a more physical approach being deemed necessary, or even simply a forward capable of bringing midfielders and wingers into the game, the aging Vieri seemed an excellent and economic choice.
Not been used much due to the form and fitness of Harewood. Hopefully he will fare well if Harewood ends up getting injured or suspended. Even so, Vieri is arguably an unnecessary signing given the limited use of him (so far). Apps: 1(7) Gls: 0 Asts: 1 Av R: 6.52
Abubakari Yakubu - Free
Looks the part and has to be a much better alternative to Jason Crowe and Andy Hughes at right back. Most definitely irresistible for a free transfer.
Easily the best permanent transfer if performances so far are anything to go by. Yakubu has nearly been as solid defensively as Assemoassa on the other side, while his contributions going forward have been important for team moves. He has been fairly dangerous on the right and a reliable option whenever Kamper has run into trouble (sometimes literally). Apps: 24(1) Gls: 0 Asts: 6 Av R: 7.38
Nacer Barazite - (Loan, Arsenal)
I figured he would be an excellent candidate to pull the strings in the middle of the park in a playmaker role. Better yet, the fact he is comfortable in any midfield position provides depth and flexibility.
A reasonable amount of starts, although it would have been more if not for the encouraging performances of Jonathan Howson. Nevertheless, a good contributor who has also provided what has been a successful change in formation when needed. When struggling to break down opposition parking the proverbial bus, Barazite has been devastating when played in his natural position in the hole. Accomodating Barazite in this role has led to the occasional use of a 4-2-3-1 / 4-3-3 formation with him playing ahead of two central midfielders. Apps: 16(10) Gls: 5 Asts: 4 Av R: 7.14
Ritchie De Laet - (Loan, Manchester United)
This loan option looked an excellent opportunity. Even if he couldn't challenge Bromby or Kisnorbo for a first team place at centerback, he would hopefully provide solid cover at left or right back. Another boost to the squad's strength in depth, even if only for a season.
Just as hoped, a solid performer regardless of regardless of where in defence he has played. With consistently good displays and the capability of slotting in anywhere at the back, he has quietely been an asset. Apps: 23(1) Gls: 0 Asts: 1 Av R: 7.15
Marlon Harewood - (Loan, Aston Villa)
An ambitious attempt at securing a loan transfer here, but one that didn't prove to be futile. It goes without saying that I was pleasantly surprise that a player of this caliber would step down to League One.
A constant menace to any defence in the division despite being played as a lone striker. Due to the quality of service, as well as his formidable ability by this division's standards, he has thrived in his role as a complete forward. Apps: 28 Gls: 17 Asts: 8 Av R: 7.32
Fabrice Muamba - (Loan, Bolton Wanderers)
Although loan listed and with there being no interest shown by other teams, this target seemed a fairly ambitious one also. Nevertheless, both club and player were content with the arrangement.
Has been excellent in his ball winner role in the middle. In addition, a few good performances also as a holding midfielder while covering for Matabeuna. Simply put, an excellent and reliable performer. Apps: 27 Gls: 4 Asts: 4 Av R: 7.15
David N'Gog - (Loan, Liverpool)
The most pleasant surprise of all the loan deals, despite only being a 3 month option due to the rule pertaining to long-term loans of players aged under 23.
Given how potentially destructive a partnership with Harewood may have been, I began contemplating the use of a formation with two strikers. However, N'Gog was only able to play 2 games before picking up an injury that would leave him sidelined for 6 months, thus exceeding the intended loan term. Apps: 1(1) Gls: 0 Asts: 0 Av R: 6.70
Tom Bender - (£140k, Colchester United)
A discovery from scouting Under 18s competitions. Arguably a risk at 140k, but one which would hopefully provide a fitting return in the future.
The second highest performer with an average rating of 7.13, but only a marginal improvement in ability so far. Still optimistic about his development for now.
Sean Morrison - (£160k, Swindon Town)
Another prospect picked up by a scout with decent overall ability for an 18 year old. Almost certainly a bargain of sorts and a possible back-up option this season.
Very good progress in training and has done well in all three of his appearances in the first team. Already 4th choice at centerback with a reasonable chance of being more in the future. Swindon Town's loss is almost certainly my gain.
Player out:
Casper Ankergren - (£275k, West Bromwich Albion)
Luciano Becchio - (£1.4M, Torino)
Josh Falkingham - (Released)
Andy Hughes - (£65k, Sassulo)
Tresor Kandol - (£220k, Modena)
Neil Kilkenny - (£1.6M, Malmo FF)
Rui Marques - (£55k, Bellinzona)
Andy Robinson - (300k, Derby County)
Jonathan Webb - (Released)
Personal summaries
Progress in all competitions:
After conceding just 1 goal, yet scoring 22 in the first ten league games, it was blatant from the onset that season 1 isn't going to be a challenge. On the cups front, there is the Johnston's Paint Trophy North Final vs Rotherham United (local rivals) to look forward to, as well as a meeting with Scunthorpe United in the third round of the FA Cup. After completing outplaying them on their own patch, defeat to Ipswich Town via penalties in the second round of the League Cup was frustrating.
Unbeaten Run:
It's been under threat in a few of the draws, particularly againt Millwall where apparently Christian Vieri dived in order to win the penalty that provided the equalizer. In short, I feel that luck has been a factor in retaining the '0' up to this point, as well as the fact that the squad is easily the strongest in the division. Nevertheless, I think it's unlikely that the team will remain unbeaten for the second half of the season, but it will certainly be fun trying.
Transfers:
Very happy with them overall. Harewood, Muamba, Macho, Yakubu and Assembeossa have been brilliant, while Sean Morrison looks like a very good prospect. David N'Gog next to Harewood would have probably produced absolute massacres. The jury is still out on Matabeuna and, to a lesser extent, Kamper. However, for the time being, Vieri has been the only blatantly poor and/or unnecessary signing.
Youth:
Quite bland and typical of the division. Shall hopefully rectify this in the event of identifying some decent and affordable newcomers.
Objectives for the next six months:
Win the league with a tally of 100+ points.
Win the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
Maintain the unbeaten run for as long as possible.
Identify realistic transfer targets for FC, MC and possibly AML in advance for next season.
Pick up a couple more young prospects either in January, or at the end of the season.
Screenshot summary of the 6 months:
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/7433/99686854.png
http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/2926/42635044.png
http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/8638/92140238.png
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/3230/80842512.png
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/994/45027554.png
http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/3236/50438951.png
http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/3576/25039279.png
http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/6059/62059793.png
http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/2158/43329670.png
http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/9858/17651438.png
http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/175/23846825.png
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/2073/99927737.png
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/9475/40036243.png
http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/7900/43614215.png
http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/6641/67048479.png
http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/9492/30078958.png
http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/6551/20800998.png
http://img532.imageshack.us/img532/4353/72977478.png
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/9664/99726228.png
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4370/91639081.png
That's all for now. I'll post another update after I have gone through the next 6 months of game time. This will most likely be in a week or two. Thanks for reading!
Last edited:
