In a nutshell.Darlogramps wrote: The point we're arguing about is the extend to which TW was responsible for his poor results in the opening dozen games.
I think we were all a bit deluded as to how good the squad was based on last season but the warning signs were there in the latter half of that season. I particularly remember Curzon embarrassing us defensively, that was one of a few times it happened
I'm not saying TW is blameless for his poor start, or that he is the messiah - but I have definitely changed my opinion as to what extent he was responsible now I have the benefit of hindsight, now I can see he's brought in some better players than we already had.
As always the truth probably lies in between the two opposite opinions. I think it's unfair now to say that TW changed nothing. True nothing changed results wise, but he certainly changed lots including the playing staff, formations, just it didn't have any effect for a long while.Once we started losing regularly and TW changed nothing many were in denial I think a lot of people are trying to rewrite history by essentially laying all the responsibility at MG's door, and that Tommy Wright was having to clear up his mess.
I think he definitely did have an idea, which was 3 at the back with 2 wing backs and a more passing style. Ultimately it didn't work, injuries didn't really help, and we haven't looked back since reverting to a flat back 4. It's clear that the players prefer that and TW seems to have learned that.I don't agree with that and don't think TW had any idea what he wanted to do when he took over.
Yes he should have been leading us to upper mid table given the budget cut and player movements in and out. I'll be fine with that.That meant it took too long for this side to be performing to the level it should, endangering our league status. It made a bad situation even worse.
If TW gets us into upper mid-table, I don't think that warrants him being hailed as the new messiah, as some are doing. In reality, that's what he should have been doing anyway. But TW will, deservedly, lead us into next season. There can be no excuses or blaming MG after that.
Next season I can't see many people blaming the ghost of MG as Tommy will have had plenty of time by then. But we need to see what sort of budget we have, then set and manage realistic expectations, and judge him based on that.
MG may raise his ugly ferret face now and again if we can't add to the squad because certain players were given 2 year deals by him and if they aren't performing and can't be moved on, a few fingers may be pointed in his direction but other than that I think he'll fade away.
Apart from when I laugh my bollocks off at him getting sacked by York, then getting the Hartlepool job and fucking that up too. I'm sure Raj will not be bothered about the million pound hole in his pocket after Gray has had the scattergun out.