Forum
Thread

Season perspectives
at 08:07 4 May 2025

Great result yesterday against Sunderland. Credit to the players, the staff, and especially the 1000 or so amazing fans who made the trip – that kind of support, in a game with nothing riding on it, speaks volumes.

I’ve been reflecting over my morning coffee and just wanted to share a few thoughts. I know not everyone will agree, but hopefully it comes across in the spirit it’s meant – as a long-time fan trying to see the full picture.

Marti deserves credit for keeping us up last season – he did the job he was brought in to do. But this season, we saw many of the same problems. We started with tactics that didn’t suit the squad – too passive, too deep, no real cutting edge. The players looked unsure of their roles and lacking confidence. When we eventually changed approach, results picked up – but it took too long, and the early damage was done.

From what I’ve heard, he wasn’t well-liked behind the scenes either. Stubborn, slow to adapt, quick to deflect when things went wrong – and very happy to take the praise when they didn’t. He’s clearly a good coach, but I don’t think he was ever truly the right fit for this club. I won’t miss the terrace songs.

On the other hand, I think Christian Nourry deserves more credit than he gets. He’s only 28, but age doesn’t define ability. He inherited a tough job – tight FFP limits, a small budget, and a club that’s been firefighting for years. And yet, recruitment has clearly improved. Not every signing will be an instant success, but all have contributed, and a few could add real long-term value – which is crucial for us as a selling club. They’ll take time to adapt, but there’s a shift in thinking, and that’s progress.

The Ben Williams situation clearly had an impact – he was offered a big opportunity abroad and took it, which is understandable. But the void it left in the football department was felt. That said, I’ve heard that’s now been addressed for next season, which is good news.

Of course, there’s a lot to do this summer. We need a head coach who suits the group, a more consistent playing style, and a couple of clever additions. But I genuinely feel more hopeful than I have in a while. There’s a bit of stability creeping in, and for once, it feels like we’re not just lurching from one short-term fix to the next.

One thing we do need to change though – the way we treat some of our players. Madsen’s taken stick all season, often when he’s done little wrong. Now it’s Dembele. It’s like we always need someone to have a go at. These lads are human. They need support, not abuse. Confidence matters.

Anyway, that’s just my view – take it or leave it. I’m not pretending everything’s perfect, but I do think there are a few more reasons for quiet optimism than people give credit for.

Thanks again to Clive – this board remains a brilliant space, even when we don’t all agree. Have a great summer everyone – and here’s to next season, hopefully with a new head coach who can take us forward on this mad old rollercoaster we all insist on riding.

COYR’S

Forum
Thread

New to this.
at 09:33 22 Apr 2025

Morning all. Happy Easter! Long time fan (Season ticket holder) and reader but never posted. Favourite Cheese? Probably a strong Chedder.

Please log in to use all the site's facilities

charlieB

Site Scores

Forum Votes:	-83
Comment Votes:	0
Prediction League:	0
TOTAL:	-83