League One - Questionnaire - Teams M - Y
Huddersfield Town story posted by Sean Makin on 07/08/2009
This is the second part of the Terrier-Bytes League One questionnaire with team from M through to Y. MK Dons, Norwich City, Oldham Athletic, Southampton, Southend United, Stockport County, Swindon Town, Tranmere Rovers, Walsall, Wycombe Wanderers and Yeovil Town.
MK Dons Thanks to Camdenite of mkdonsforum.org
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc. 0
Better than expected, but still felt gutted that we failed to get out of a pretty ordinary League One (after seeing the quality of football from Doncaster & Swansea in previous season, I don't think any team matched that consistently last term) Best day was a 4-0 win at The New Den and worst had to be the play-off semi final penalty defeat or maybe the frustrating flat performances in draws at Swindon & Yeovil during the run-in.
How do you think you'll do this season?
Hopes, final position? A tougher proposition than a very average L1 last season IMHO. We look like we're full of goals, but it may take a while to click. Play-offs again should still be attainable, but if the new lads are as good as we think they are, then it could be a fantastic season. I'm a lot more confident than I was before Ince returned. I'll go with 2nd place.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
Loads of new arrivals and one or two returning (Jemal Johnson (released by Di Matteo) & Jason Puncheon (another season long loan). It looks to have loads of attacking flair, but possibly light on numbers defensively still.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
None right now after shipping Mark Wright off to Brighton, but I think Richie Partridge will be the one who's going to have to prove something quickly. He's looked like Wright MkII, from what we've seen so far
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season? Probably Sam Baldock (if he gets the minutes on the pitch), although most of them are youngsters.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
A lot more thoughtful and considered in his opinions than most give him credit for. Plays the game the right way and gives the players a lot of belief in themselves. Who knows what'll happen next May. We're used to losing someone every year, but this year I don't think we can lose out. He'll only get an offer of another crack at the Premiership if he takes us up, and if that happens then he'd go with my blessing again.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Delighted with Winkie. He's coming good on his promises and is backing the manager with the cheque book (wages though as opposed to transfer fee's). As for the backroom staff, Karl Robinson's now Ince's assistant after serving as coach here and at Blackburn. Alex Rae has joined to do the intimidating shouting bit at training.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
None really, but it'll always be good to put one over Wycombe and Swindon are one we have had a few run-ins with. Posh was developing into a decent little rivalry, but that'll have to wait for another year at least.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions:Leeds
Runner Up: MK Dons
Playoffs: Southampton
Relegated: Wycombe, Walsall, Stockport, Yeovil
Norwich City With thanks to yellow rages of pinkun.com forums
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Best moment when Lee Croft scored a long range effort against Ipswich (Who else?) Worst - Relegation at Charlton, We just didn't turn up
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Looking at our form pre season for what it is worth, I would like to think a top six finish is realistic but with a number of new signing still all getting to know each other, we could also buckle under the pressure to go back up.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
They all seem pretty good so far, but again this is based on the pre season fixtures. We are definitely a stronger side physically and we have more depth throughout. We are also fortunate to have only one loanee as opposed to I think nine at one point last year.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
I would like to say Jon Otsemobor (Right Back) because he does have quite a few no-shows and his defending can be questionable but on his day he his outstanding and scares the life out of the opposition with his pace. So probably Jamie Cureton. A great consistant goal scorer at this level and above in his day but his day has passed and you just don't go as long as he has without scoring regularly if you have anything left to offer. He is now missing sitters quite often and it doesn't matter what level you play at, the ball will always be round and the goal frame doesn't get any bigger. He is 34 this month and age has definately got the better of him.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Chris Martin (Striker) probably. He went on loan to Luton last season and did will there. He has come back and is looking sharper, slimmer and more hungry. His performances so far have reflected this and will buy him a fairly regular place in the team. I would also look out for Tom Adeyemi (Midfield) but he may still be a bit wet behind the ears to earn a regular spot. Maybe next season for Tom.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Bryan Gunn is a Norwich legend mainly due to his part in the 90's side that did so well in Europe and the initial Premier League. Since becoming manager after holding another position within the club, he has brought in his own managerial team also consisting of ex Norwich players. He has done very well with the side he has grouped together for this season but we have had three managers in very short succession, so he will need time to build his side and will be constrained to a limited budget. A tough test but one I think he will thrive on. He will be here come the end of the season.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Not happy with the Chairman at all. The cook (Delia Smith) has limited finances which put us in the mess we are in now. Whilst willing to sell up, she refuses to do so to any investor outside of the County, which makes our chance of investment very slim. So for now we are stuck in limbo, despite the great pies.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Probably Colchester. The most local of our rivals, so this is the new derby game for league one. It's also the opening game, so a good start would go down well.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions:Leeds
Runner Up:Norwich
Playoffs:Millwall
Relegated:Walsall
Oldham Athletic Thanks to Eyresoafc from oafc.co.uk (a member of the messageboard)
How did you fare last season?
Best moment, worst moment etc. :Last season was going very well up until Stockport away in November. Sheridan panicked and got loads of loans in, didn't know his best team which led to poor morale and our horrible end to the season culminating with his sacking along the way. Best moment was the return of Big Joe Royle for a final brief spell at the end.
Worst moment was the dogs incident and the 6-2 drubbing at MK Dons
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Since Dave Penney has come in I have been nothing but impressed. The guy is professional, knows his football and is a real honest guy. The squad in general is decent and with a bit of luck I'm hoping for the play-offs. Deep down I think finishing around 9th would be okay given his first season. However, I honestly don't fear any team in the league and I know our team will be demanded to give 100%. No 'gaffers mate' anymore and with a bit of luck I think we may well do it this season.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
Young, fit, pace and can play. Been impressed by all the signings especially Dean Furman, star man this season.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
Any from Reuben Hazell, Chris O'Grady, Danny Whitaker and Kelvin Lomax
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
:Dean Furman - 21 yr old midfielder with a great range of passing, energy and class. STAR MAN.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?:
Top class. Professional, honest and keeps an eye on players everywhere unlike his predecessor who only had his old team mates as contacts.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
:Brilliant. Have kept the club going and funded many a manager continuously despite poor crowds. Also trying to fix us up a new stadium in Failsworth which, although the location wouldn't be the one chosen first hand by fans, is needed to keep the club going in future and one which many fans are behind.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds - to dent their arrogant fans hopes and put one over on the cocky Simon Grayson and Ken Bates.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions: Huddersfield
Runner Up: MK Dons
Playoffs: Oldham, Leeds, Millwall, Norwich
Relegated: Gillingham, Exeter, Yeovil, Wycombe
Southampton Thanks to Abe Hawken the editor of Southampton vital football
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Pretty bad season to be fair, we never really got going and when we entered administration we had hit rock bottom and were resigned to relegation. Best moment was finally getting taken over by the Swiss group which ended speculation that we'd go out of business. Worst moment - entering administration.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
I have a feeling that this season could go either way, if we go on a run and confidence is high, I feel that we have a good chance to reach the play-off's. That is the most optimistic I can be!!! We can't let the fact we're on -10 (points) get us down and we have to power through!
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
We've let players go this window, the likes of Bradley Wright-Phillips, Jason Euell and Stern John have all departed St. Mary's. Rasiak and Saganowski are still in talks with the club and I'd love to keep those two!! We've just signed former Reading skipper Graeme Murty who will hopefully strengthen the squad, and we are in talks with Raidi Jaidi who will also bolster our defence.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
I wasn't bothered when Wright-Phillips even though some fans were. He is a lazy player who has the potential, but he needs to pull his finger out! We got Anthony Pulis from Stoke City last season, and he seems like he isn't up to much! I can't say I'd be annoyed if he went!
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
We've got a young academy player could Oscar Gobern who featured at the end of last season, who looked the part. He's a speedy winger who works his socks off. I'd love to see him do well next season.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Alan Pardew!! I was delighted when we appointed him. We had Mark Wotte (some Dutch bloke) last year, who wasn't up to much. I think most of the Saints faithful were glad when Wotte finally went. The majority of fans are pleased with Pardew's appointment, and can't wait for the season to begin. I'd love to see Alan here for the long run, and I'm sure he can take us back to the Prem!
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
We don't really know much about them! Some Swiss group - led by some billionaire called Markus Liebher. But all I do know is that they saved our club! So in everyone's eyes they are heroes! I just hope that the billionaire puts his money into the club!!
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds - it's always a big game and everyone likes to get one over on them. Their fans are up there with the best and when they come to St. Mary's there's always a special buzz around the ground. Plus my best mate is a huge Leeds fan and I always want the bragging rights!!!
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions: Leeds
Runner Up: MK Dons
Playoffs: Charlton, SAINTS, Millwall, Norwich
Relegated: Stockport, Yeovil, Hartlepool, Exeter
Southend United Thanks to Matt the shrimp at shrimperzone.com
How did you fare last season?
A curate's egg of a season... a dire run leading up to Christmas saw us enter the new year in 17th. However, shoring up our defence saw us surge up to 7th during the first three months of 2009, only to miss out on the playoffs in the final furlong. We finished 8th.
Best moment? Two stand out:
1. Peter Clarke grabbing an 87th minute equaliser at Stamford Bridge to send 6,500 Shrimpers into delirium.
2. Franck Moussa grabbing the winner at Colchester United's Weston / Meccano Homes stadium.
Worst moment? Allegations of racial abuse against Franck at Colchester were pretty bad. Losing at home again to our bogey side, Franchise MK Mongs, was also a bit of a sickener.
How do you think you'll do this season?
We'll do OK. I don't think we're the best side in the division, but we're not the worst either; and with Tilly at the helm, anything is possible.
Hopes, final position?
I hope we'll make the play-offs, but I've predicted we'll finish 13th.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
New signings? Hmm, that's a bit of a sore point around here. We've made plenty of loan signings this summer - Heath and White (for a month) from Colchester (which sticks in the craw a little), Sawyer from Chelsea for 6 months and Mvoto from Sunderland also for 6 months. Very happy about the latter two. The squad looks very solid in midfield and has decent competition up front - albeit one or two of them being a bit injuy-prone (notably Barnard & Freedman) - but we still look very thin at the back. We've been crying out for a replacement for Spencer Prior ever since he retired a few years ago - experienced and peerless in the air. We're still looking.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
None of them, really. They're a decent bunch of lads, all of whom seem committed to the club and who want to succeed for Tilly & Brush. The person I'd like to get rid of is the tax man, and the bill that hangs over our heads...
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Franck Moussa. Last year was his break-through season into the first team; this year I hope he consolidates his place and shows us the embarrassment of passing riches at his disposal. He could be a great player for us.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Tilly is a legend, and I bloody well hope he's here at the end of the season, or else we're in trouble.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
On the whole, yes. Ron Martin has had to keep an enormous number of balls in the air in terms of taking on, together with a voracious property developer, a club saddled with debt; buying out that property developer by taking on more debt; finding financing for a new stadium; and finding a purchaser for Roots Hall. Occasionally, he drops a ball - such as with the recent debt owed to the tax-man - and one gets the feeling that he doesn't always speak entirely candidly about his plans and how he proposes to finance them in the long term. However, he remains a successful businessman; we still appear to be solvent; we have the best management duo whom we've held onto, fending off suitors; and if he really does build the stadium for which we've all seen the designs, he should be given the freedom of the town. Let's wait & see.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Colchester United, to remind them that there's only one team in Essex.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions: Norwich City
Runner Up: Leeds United
Playoffs: MK Dons, Wycombe Wanderers, Huddersfield Town, Millwall
Relegated: Exeter City, Gillingham, Yeovil Town, Stockport County
Stockport County With thanks to Sam Burn, the editor of Stockport vital football
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
We started the season under the best manager possible (Jim Gannon) and a superb squad of fit talented young players, and by Christmas we were 5th in the league. But having to sell Anthony Pilkington to you lot (Huddersfield Town) as well as a number of other players to stave off administration, we slipped down the table and ended up with a 10 point deduction for entering admin. Harsh on Gannon, because the squad he built was torn apart. I'd say our best moment was getting to 5th in the league on Boxing Day. A massive achievement for a club of our size.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Well Gary Ablett's come in and has been looking to dteady the ship, but we're out of admin now and no longer need to sell players. Our squad is heavily depleted, but if we can find the right balance of experience and talented youngsters on loan, I hope we can survive. Anything from 20th upwards would do me.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
No new signings as of yet, Michael Ricketts was let go after failing to impress Abblett. Our squad is very thin on the ground at the moment, but with such talent still here, like Owain fon Williams, Oli Johnson, Carl Baker and Peter Thompson, it would look a decent line up with the addition of a few good loanees.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
I'm happy with pretty much the whole squad, and it's a case of taking what we can get for the time being. (Although if Jim Gannon offered to take Michael Raynes to Motherwell with him, I wouldn't object.)
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
I'd love to say Matty Mainwaring, a very talented young midfielder who joined us from Preston Youth team, before that he learnt his trade with David Beckham in Beckham's BBC show on teaching young footballers a few years back.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Not sure. Gary Ablett came in just after Gannon was made redundant, so comparisons between the two never stop and are quite unfair in my opinion. We'll never get another Jimbo, but Ablett's his own man and with the help of John Ward, his new assistant, I think he can steer us to safety. I'd say he'll almost definitely be here at the end of the season.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Well, Jim Melrose has only just completed his takeover, so I guess time will tell, but he seems a very genuine and down to earth guy.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
A tough one, but after the rivalry we built up last season, I'll go for Oldham.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions: Huddersfield
Runner Up: Leeds
Playoffs: MK Dons, Millwall, Brighton, Southend
Relegated: In no particular order...Yeovil, Gillingham, Hartlepool, and I'll go for Tranmere to be the surprise relegation candidates for this season.
Swindon Town Thanks to Rich Pullen, the editor of Swindon Town vital football website
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Not well - sort of a nothing season. Maurice Malpas' tenure as manager was truly dreadful. He made 3 signings that couldn't be attributed to anyone else.
1. Lilian Nalis - Not the decent player he once was. Now retired.
2. Mark Marshall - Signed from Eastleigh, not good enough for this level, probably won't feature much.
3. Kasali Yinka Casal (See '...Happily get rid of')
Danny Wilson eventually arrived and guided us to safety with some shrewd loan signings in Gordon Greer, Hal Robson-Kanu and Owain Tudur Jones.
Simon Cox proved far to good for both Swindon Town and our division with 29 league goals. We wish him well.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
We have to improve on last season! As long as we give it a good go I doubt they'll be much anger from the terraces... Well, not much anyway. I predict about 10th place.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
We've improved in most areas.
We've got 3 goalkeepers this season which could create decent competition. David Lucas has come in from Leeds United while Polish-U21 international Jakub Jesionkowski has come in from Zagłębie Lubin.
The arrivals of Gordon Greer and Scott Cuthbert should improve the defence. Greer was brilliant during his loan spell while there's a lot of promise in Cuthbert who's a U-21 with Scotland.
Wilson has done well to bring in Jonathan Douglas on a free transfer while Alan O'Brien has come in from Hibs. However, we have problems in attack. Simon Cox has gone and we also released Barry Corr, Blair Sturrock and Ben Joyce. This means we only have one fit striker, Billy Paynter. His partnership with Cox was good but he's not prolific. Lee Peacock is our other option but he's on the long-term injury list.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
Kasali Yinka Casal
Maurice Malpas' ultimate panic buy. With MM unable to convice Charlie Mulgrew that Swindon was a better destination than SPL's Aberdeen, he went for the former Fulham youth who had a decent but brief spell in the MLS with DC United. He found himself in Holland with Cambuur Leeuwarden and was earning the attention of several clubs, most notably in Hungary. But in came Malpas, actually paid money for him and the rest his history. Watching him play against QPR in the League Cup highlighted his inability to mark. Since then he's disappeared from the first team and if truth be known, he's not even getting in the starting XI in the reserves!
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Sean Morrison: Big defender who's already played 20+ plus for the first team. He's still only 18 but he'll feature a lot this season unless the Premiership re-emerge - they've been around already.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Danny Wilson isn't regarded highly in Hartlepool these days but I feel that we have a more than adequate manager with plenty of experience at this level. Heaven forbid this campaign Swindon Town might finish the season with the same manager who started it!
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
As far as off-the-pitch is concerned we've got an amazing chairman and board. Compared to the previous regime they're saints. They've done a lot and it's so good to support a club that won't go into administration or out of business tomorrow. Long may that continue. On-the-pitch however, we've stagnated - Chairman, Andrew Fitton was too patient with Maurice Malpas and they spent an eternity replacing him. I think with Wilson at the helm things could/should improve. It's a learning curve for them and I'm glad that they're continuing to support our club.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Oxford United in the 1st Round of the FA Cup would be lovely. It's always fun beating Bristol Rovers... We've been kind to Leeds over the past two seasons giving them maximum points at every opportunity so a point would be good against them. We still have this old squabble with Gillingham but I think beating Southampton would be enjoyable.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
It's not going to be easy, I'm not a fan of making such predictions but I'll give it a go.
Champions: Norwich City
Runner Up: Leeds United
Playoffs: Charlton Athletic, Southend United & Milton Keynes Dons
Relegated: Stockport County, Yeovil Town, Hartlepool United, Carlisle United.
Tranmere Rovers Many thanks to Mike Jackson
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
We just missed out on the play-offs with two minutes to go at Scunthorpe when they equalised (needing only a draw when we needed a win) to pip us to 6th place - us finishing 7th. The best moment was probably the home win over Leicester City (2-0) ending their 23 game unbeaten run in the League - a special night indeed! The worst moments were both at Scunthorpe - a last minute defeat in the JP Trophy in December and then the 88th minute play-off despair on the final day in May.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Under a new management team it really is anyone's guess how we will do. Our squad is wafer thin and the defence looks terrible at the moment. Barnes is trying to play football the right way but it looks like we don't have the right players to be able to pull it off. I would hope for a relegation battle being avoided all season and would settle for mid-table this season if I'm honest. What's your squad like, new signings, etc? As mentioned above the squad is thin with just 17 professionals of which four or five have little or no first team experience Two of our new signings have been players returning to the Club (McLaren and Mahon) whilst we've also added John Welsh and Luke Daniels.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
At the moment we can't afford to get rid of any but Craig Curran hasn't impressed too much in pre-season so far so he would be a prime loan candidate.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season? Ryan Fraughan has performed well in pre-season and if he gets the chance he could certainly impress.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Early days for Mr Barnes as he was only appointed in July. The way things are looking though the fans may well want him out before the end of the season which doesn't bode well.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Again it's early days. They're saying the right things and want to play the right way but whether that brings the results remains to be seen.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why? Most fans would still say Oldham after the recent Ronnie Moore based rivalry. Leeds United and the bigger teams like Southampton, Norwich and Charlton would probably be the others.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions: Leeds United
Runner Up: Norwich City
Playoffs: Huddersfield
Relegated: Yeovil, Wycombe, Stockport, Walsall
Walsall thanks to Croydon Saddler of the upthesaddlers.com forum
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Jimmy Mullen Going, Jimmy Mullen Arriving and signing up Chris Palmer
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Mid Table
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
Alright, not as good as last season, but solid enough. Hughes is a good replacement for Gerrard but Zaaboub and Ibehre haven't been replaced. good to see local Boytill come back though.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
If i had to choose Gilmartin but wouldn't be too bothered as he's only 2nd choice keeper and has potential. This question should have been asked last season : Hughes (fat CM not our new CB), the infamous lazy Michael Ricketts and one of the worst players I have seen in a long time Chris Palmer. Fortunately those three have all left
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Troy Deeney. Our only hope for our Attack (we have none) and getting 20+ goals although Taundry looks quite useful on right wing and Sean Geddes looks to be decent player
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Great Manager and Assistant O'Connor (played for us). If anyone can make up for are Chairman then they can. Optimism for season only comes through their ability to draw decent players on our severely cut down budget due to the pension fund of the Mr Jeff Bonser
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Ummmmm......no. Hasn't given us back the leasehold of our own Stadium, we pay extortionate rent to boost his pension fund, sells of all of our best players at the end of the season for cheap, has told all of the fans to basically f*** off and go support Rotherham and Bournemouth instead, does not answer any of the questions we write to the club, has stopped fans being part of WFC, all of profit we make from the hotel and Bescott market goes straight to him as well, gives our managers shoestring(not even the string if you ask me ) budgets, lies to us about ambitions for WFC and other stuff. I cannot emphasise enough how much the majority of supporters despise Mr Bonser's running of the club
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds...just because. Other than that the Franchise because of what they did to Wimbledon
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champ:Norwich ( I was born there so i can support them as well but only as second team)
RU:Leeds (got to go up some time)
PO:Millwall, MK Dons , Southhampton(mate supports them who told me their team is alright 10 pts isn't that much anyway) and Walsall (Blind optimism)
Down: Yeovil, Exeter, Wycombe, Gillingham
Wycombe Wanderers with thanks to Jonny Saunders
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Wycombe finally won promotion from League Two back to League One, albeit by a single goal and despite losing to Notts County on the final day. But the league table doesn't lie and Wycombe deserved to be there after setting the pace for the first half of the season with an excellent unbeaten run. The best moment was the turning point of our season, winning in the last minute at Darlington. The worst moment for me was losing for the first time of the season at Aldershot.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
The first hope for this season is to stay up and get to 52 points as soon as possible and then build on any success after that. If we get anywhere in the top half, we will have done well.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
The new signings look decent initially, but we'll have to wait and see. Peter Taylor brought in some good players last year and knows what he's doing so I'll trust his judgement. Michael Duberry is the most high-profile signing, and an important one to replace David McCracken.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
No-one. It doesn't help towards supporting the team to talk like that.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Matt Phillips. He's a winger who's been improving a lot.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Peter Taylor is a man with a solid game-plan. His tactics aren't to everyone's tastes because they are defensive, but he knows how to get results. I hope he is still with us come May.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
There's been quite a transition behind the scenes with Steve Hayes taking complete ownership. It's a shame that the supporters have no say anymore or ownership of the ground. If Steve Hayes does get the club running at break-even level, that would be an improvement.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Colchester. They are the sworn enemy from non-league days.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions: Southend
Runner Up: Norwich
Playoffs: Brentford, Huddersfield, Leeds, Exeter
Relegated: Gillingham, Colchester, Carlisle, Tranmere
Yeovil Town many thanks to Fred Few
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
We stayed up which is all we could hope for. Best-Beating Peterborough away when they hadn't lost in about 10 matches. Worst-Sacking Russell Slade and the subsequent turmoil of 6 games and only 1 point.
How do you think you'll do this season?
Hopes, final position? As a 8 year season ticket holder cannot bring myself to predict relegation so 20th.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
As our budget is probably lowest in League One we have usual assortment of released players and players coming to end of careers. Couple of loan signings from Spurs. If as good as ones we had last yr will be major figures for us.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
Gary Roberts-On transfer list due being repeatedly drunk at training-A real shame as capable of playing at Coca Cola Championship level and only 21.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Ryan Mason-Spurs loanee
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Ex Captain and 10 year servant Terry Skiverton-An unproven figure-Everyone hopes he succeeds and will get fans backing but totally inexperienced.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Without doubt worst aspect of club. Crowds have dropped from 6.6k average in 1st year of League One to 4.3k in last year, our 4th in League One.Absolutely no management or marketing skills and common comment is League One on the pitch and Conference off it.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds-In first match against Leeds 2 yrs ago they got tickets in home end and there were numerous incidents!!
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions:Charlton
Runner Up:Leeds
Playoffs:Huddersfield
Relegated:Wycombe,Exeter,Tranmere,Stockport.
Terrier-Bytes would like to thank everyone who filled in this questionnaire and got it back to us, we appreciate your time.
All the best for the new season.
MK Dons Thanks to Camdenite of mkdonsforum.org
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc. 0
Better than expected, but still felt gutted that we failed to get out of a pretty ordinary League One (after seeing the quality of football from Doncaster & Swansea in previous season, I don't think any team matched that consistently last term) Best day was a 4-0 win at The New Den and worst had to be the play-off semi final penalty defeat or maybe the frustrating flat performances in draws at Swindon & Yeovil during the run-in.
How do you think you'll do this season?
Hopes, final position? A tougher proposition than a very average L1 last season IMHO. We look like we're full of goals, but it may take a while to click. Play-offs again should still be attainable, but if the new lads are as good as we think they are, then it could be a fantastic season. I'm a lot more confident than I was before Ince returned. I'll go with 2nd place.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
Loads of new arrivals and one or two returning (Jemal Johnson (released by Di Matteo) & Jason Puncheon (another season long loan). It looks to have loads of attacking flair, but possibly light on numbers defensively still.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
None right now after shipping Mark Wright off to Brighton, but I think Richie Partridge will be the one who's going to have to prove something quickly. He's looked like Wright MkII, from what we've seen so far
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season? Probably Sam Baldock (if he gets the minutes on the pitch), although most of them are youngsters.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
A lot more thoughtful and considered in his opinions than most give him credit for. Plays the game the right way and gives the players a lot of belief in themselves. Who knows what'll happen next May. We're used to losing someone every year, but this year I don't think we can lose out. He'll only get an offer of another crack at the Premiership if he takes us up, and if that happens then he'd go with my blessing again.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Delighted with Winkie. He's coming good on his promises and is backing the manager with the cheque book (wages though as opposed to transfer fee's). As for the backroom staff, Karl Robinson's now Ince's assistant after serving as coach here and at Blackburn. Alex Rae has joined to do the intimidating shouting bit at training.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
None really, but it'll always be good to put one over Wycombe and Swindon are one we have had a few run-ins with. Posh was developing into a decent little rivalry, but that'll have to wait for another year at least.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions:Leeds
Runner Up: MK Dons
Playoffs: Southampton
Relegated: Wycombe, Walsall, Stockport, Yeovil
Norwich City With thanks to yellow rages of pinkun.com forums
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Best moment when Lee Croft scored a long range effort against Ipswich (Who else?) Worst - Relegation at Charlton, We just didn't turn up
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Looking at our form pre season for what it is worth, I would like to think a top six finish is realistic but with a number of new signing still all getting to know each other, we could also buckle under the pressure to go back up.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
They all seem pretty good so far, but again this is based on the pre season fixtures. We are definitely a stronger side physically and we have more depth throughout. We are also fortunate to have only one loanee as opposed to I think nine at one point last year.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
I would like to say Jon Otsemobor (Right Back) because he does have quite a few no-shows and his defending can be questionable but on his day he his outstanding and scares the life out of the opposition with his pace. So probably Jamie Cureton. A great consistant goal scorer at this level and above in his day but his day has passed and you just don't go as long as he has without scoring regularly if you have anything left to offer. He is now missing sitters quite often and it doesn't matter what level you play at, the ball will always be round and the goal frame doesn't get any bigger. He is 34 this month and age has definately got the better of him.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Chris Martin (Striker) probably. He went on loan to Luton last season and did will there. He has come back and is looking sharper, slimmer and more hungry. His performances so far have reflected this and will buy him a fairly regular place in the team. I would also look out for Tom Adeyemi (Midfield) but he may still be a bit wet behind the ears to earn a regular spot. Maybe next season for Tom.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Bryan Gunn is a Norwich legend mainly due to his part in the 90's side that did so well in Europe and the initial Premier League. Since becoming manager after holding another position within the club, he has brought in his own managerial team also consisting of ex Norwich players. He has done very well with the side he has grouped together for this season but we have had three managers in very short succession, so he will need time to build his side and will be constrained to a limited budget. A tough test but one I think he will thrive on. He will be here come the end of the season.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Not happy with the Chairman at all. The cook (Delia Smith) has limited finances which put us in the mess we are in now. Whilst willing to sell up, she refuses to do so to any investor outside of the County, which makes our chance of investment very slim. So for now we are stuck in limbo, despite the great pies.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Probably Colchester. The most local of our rivals, so this is the new derby game for league one. It's also the opening game, so a good start would go down well.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions:Leeds
Runner Up:Norwich
Playoffs:Millwall
Relegated:Walsall
Oldham Athletic Thanks to Eyresoafc from oafc.co.uk (a member of the messageboard)
How did you fare last season?
Best moment, worst moment etc. :Last season was going very well up until Stockport away in November. Sheridan panicked and got loads of loans in, didn't know his best team which led to poor morale and our horrible end to the season culminating with his sacking along the way. Best moment was the return of Big Joe Royle for a final brief spell at the end.
Worst moment was the dogs incident and the 6-2 drubbing at MK Dons
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Since Dave Penney has come in I have been nothing but impressed. The guy is professional, knows his football and is a real honest guy. The squad in general is decent and with a bit of luck I'm hoping for the play-offs. Deep down I think finishing around 9th would be okay given his first season. However, I honestly don't fear any team in the league and I know our team will be demanded to give 100%. No 'gaffers mate' anymore and with a bit of luck I think we may well do it this season.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
Young, fit, pace and can play. Been impressed by all the signings especially Dean Furman, star man this season.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
Any from Reuben Hazell, Chris O'Grady, Danny Whitaker and Kelvin Lomax
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
:Dean Furman - 21 yr old midfielder with a great range of passing, energy and class. STAR MAN.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?:
Top class. Professional, honest and keeps an eye on players everywhere unlike his predecessor who only had his old team mates as contacts.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
:Brilliant. Have kept the club going and funded many a manager continuously despite poor crowds. Also trying to fix us up a new stadium in Failsworth which, although the location wouldn't be the one chosen first hand by fans, is needed to keep the club going in future and one which many fans are behind.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds - to dent their arrogant fans hopes and put one over on the cocky Simon Grayson and Ken Bates.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions: Huddersfield
Runner Up: MK Dons
Playoffs: Oldham, Leeds, Millwall, Norwich
Relegated: Gillingham, Exeter, Yeovil, Wycombe
Southampton Thanks to Abe Hawken the editor of Southampton vital football
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Pretty bad season to be fair, we never really got going and when we entered administration we had hit rock bottom and were resigned to relegation. Best moment was finally getting taken over by the Swiss group which ended speculation that we'd go out of business. Worst moment - entering administration.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
I have a feeling that this season could go either way, if we go on a run and confidence is high, I feel that we have a good chance to reach the play-off's. That is the most optimistic I can be!!! We can't let the fact we're on -10 (points) get us down and we have to power through!
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
We've let players go this window, the likes of Bradley Wright-Phillips, Jason Euell and Stern John have all departed St. Mary's. Rasiak and Saganowski are still in talks with the club and I'd love to keep those two!! We've just signed former Reading skipper Graeme Murty who will hopefully strengthen the squad, and we are in talks with Raidi Jaidi who will also bolster our defence.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
I wasn't bothered when Wright-Phillips even though some fans were. He is a lazy player who has the potential, but he needs to pull his finger out! We got Anthony Pulis from Stoke City last season, and he seems like he isn't up to much! I can't say I'd be annoyed if he went!
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
We've got a young academy player could Oscar Gobern who featured at the end of last season, who looked the part. He's a speedy winger who works his socks off. I'd love to see him do well next season.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Alan Pardew!! I was delighted when we appointed him. We had Mark Wotte (some Dutch bloke) last year, who wasn't up to much. I think most of the Saints faithful were glad when Wotte finally went. The majority of fans are pleased with Pardew's appointment, and can't wait for the season to begin. I'd love to see Alan here for the long run, and I'm sure he can take us back to the Prem!
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
We don't really know much about them! Some Swiss group - led by some billionaire called Markus Liebher. But all I do know is that they saved our club! So in everyone's eyes they are heroes! I just hope that the billionaire puts his money into the club!!
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds - it's always a big game and everyone likes to get one over on them. Their fans are up there with the best and when they come to St. Mary's there's always a special buzz around the ground. Plus my best mate is a huge Leeds fan and I always want the bragging rights!!!
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions: Leeds
Runner Up: MK Dons
Playoffs: Charlton, SAINTS, Millwall, Norwich
Relegated: Stockport, Yeovil, Hartlepool, Exeter
Southend United Thanks to Matt the shrimp at shrimperzone.com
How did you fare last season?
A curate's egg of a season... a dire run leading up to Christmas saw us enter the new year in 17th. However, shoring up our defence saw us surge up to 7th during the first three months of 2009, only to miss out on the playoffs in the final furlong. We finished 8th.
Best moment? Two stand out:
1. Peter Clarke grabbing an 87th minute equaliser at Stamford Bridge to send 6,500 Shrimpers into delirium.
2. Franck Moussa grabbing the winner at Colchester United's Weston / Meccano Homes stadium.
Worst moment? Allegations of racial abuse against Franck at Colchester were pretty bad. Losing at home again to our bogey side, Franchise MK Mongs, was also a bit of a sickener.
How do you think you'll do this season?
We'll do OK. I don't think we're the best side in the division, but we're not the worst either; and with Tilly at the helm, anything is possible.
Hopes, final position?
I hope we'll make the play-offs, but I've predicted we'll finish 13th.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
New signings? Hmm, that's a bit of a sore point around here. We've made plenty of loan signings this summer - Heath and White (for a month) from Colchester (which sticks in the craw a little), Sawyer from Chelsea for 6 months and Mvoto from Sunderland also for 6 months. Very happy about the latter two. The squad looks very solid in midfield and has decent competition up front - albeit one or two of them being a bit injuy-prone (notably Barnard & Freedman) - but we still look very thin at the back. We've been crying out for a replacement for Spencer Prior ever since he retired a few years ago - experienced and peerless in the air. We're still looking.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
None of them, really. They're a decent bunch of lads, all of whom seem committed to the club and who want to succeed for Tilly & Brush. The person I'd like to get rid of is the tax man, and the bill that hangs over our heads...
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Franck Moussa. Last year was his break-through season into the first team; this year I hope he consolidates his place and shows us the embarrassment of passing riches at his disposal. He could be a great player for us.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Tilly is a legend, and I bloody well hope he's here at the end of the season, or else we're in trouble.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
On the whole, yes. Ron Martin has had to keep an enormous number of balls in the air in terms of taking on, together with a voracious property developer, a club saddled with debt; buying out that property developer by taking on more debt; finding financing for a new stadium; and finding a purchaser for Roots Hall. Occasionally, he drops a ball - such as with the recent debt owed to the tax-man - and one gets the feeling that he doesn't always speak entirely candidly about his plans and how he proposes to finance them in the long term. However, he remains a successful businessman; we still appear to be solvent; we have the best management duo whom we've held onto, fending off suitors; and if he really does build the stadium for which we've all seen the designs, he should be given the freedom of the town. Let's wait & see.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Colchester United, to remind them that there's only one team in Essex.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions: Norwich City
Runner Up: Leeds United
Playoffs: MK Dons, Wycombe Wanderers, Huddersfield Town, Millwall
Relegated: Exeter City, Gillingham, Yeovil Town, Stockport County
Stockport County With thanks to Sam Burn, the editor of Stockport vital football
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
We started the season under the best manager possible (Jim Gannon) and a superb squad of fit talented young players, and by Christmas we were 5th in the league. But having to sell Anthony Pilkington to you lot (Huddersfield Town) as well as a number of other players to stave off administration, we slipped down the table and ended up with a 10 point deduction for entering admin. Harsh on Gannon, because the squad he built was torn apart. I'd say our best moment was getting to 5th in the league on Boxing Day. A massive achievement for a club of our size.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Well Gary Ablett's come in and has been looking to dteady the ship, but we're out of admin now and no longer need to sell players. Our squad is heavily depleted, but if we can find the right balance of experience and talented youngsters on loan, I hope we can survive. Anything from 20th upwards would do me.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
No new signings as of yet, Michael Ricketts was let go after failing to impress Abblett. Our squad is very thin on the ground at the moment, but with such talent still here, like Owain fon Williams, Oli Johnson, Carl Baker and Peter Thompson, it would look a decent line up with the addition of a few good loanees.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
I'm happy with pretty much the whole squad, and it's a case of taking what we can get for the time being. (Although if Jim Gannon offered to take Michael Raynes to Motherwell with him, I wouldn't object.)
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
I'd love to say Matty Mainwaring, a very talented young midfielder who joined us from Preston Youth team, before that he learnt his trade with David Beckham in Beckham's BBC show on teaching young footballers a few years back.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Not sure. Gary Ablett came in just after Gannon was made redundant, so comparisons between the two never stop and are quite unfair in my opinion. We'll never get another Jimbo, but Ablett's his own man and with the help of John Ward, his new assistant, I think he can steer us to safety. I'd say he'll almost definitely be here at the end of the season.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Well, Jim Melrose has only just completed his takeover, so I guess time will tell, but he seems a very genuine and down to earth guy.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
A tough one, but after the rivalry we built up last season, I'll go for Oldham.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions: Huddersfield
Runner Up: Leeds
Playoffs: MK Dons, Millwall, Brighton, Southend
Relegated: In no particular order...Yeovil, Gillingham, Hartlepool, and I'll go for Tranmere to be the surprise relegation candidates for this season.
Swindon Town Thanks to Rich Pullen, the editor of Swindon Town vital football website
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Not well - sort of a nothing season. Maurice Malpas' tenure as manager was truly dreadful. He made 3 signings that couldn't be attributed to anyone else.
1. Lilian Nalis - Not the decent player he once was. Now retired.
2. Mark Marshall - Signed from Eastleigh, not good enough for this level, probably won't feature much.
3. Kasali Yinka Casal (See '...Happily get rid of')
Danny Wilson eventually arrived and guided us to safety with some shrewd loan signings in Gordon Greer, Hal Robson-Kanu and Owain Tudur Jones.
Simon Cox proved far to good for both Swindon Town and our division with 29 league goals. We wish him well.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
We have to improve on last season! As long as we give it a good go I doubt they'll be much anger from the terraces... Well, not much anyway. I predict about 10th place.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
We've improved in most areas.
We've got 3 goalkeepers this season which could create decent competition. David Lucas has come in from Leeds United while Polish-U21 international Jakub Jesionkowski has come in from Zagłębie Lubin.
The arrivals of Gordon Greer and Scott Cuthbert should improve the defence. Greer was brilliant during his loan spell while there's a lot of promise in Cuthbert who's a U-21 with Scotland.
Wilson has done well to bring in Jonathan Douglas on a free transfer while Alan O'Brien has come in from Hibs. However, we have problems in attack. Simon Cox has gone and we also released Barry Corr, Blair Sturrock and Ben Joyce. This means we only have one fit striker, Billy Paynter. His partnership with Cox was good but he's not prolific. Lee Peacock is our other option but he's on the long-term injury list.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
Kasali Yinka Casal
Maurice Malpas' ultimate panic buy. With MM unable to convice Charlie Mulgrew that Swindon was a better destination than SPL's Aberdeen, he went for the former Fulham youth who had a decent but brief spell in the MLS with DC United. He found himself in Holland with Cambuur Leeuwarden and was earning the attention of several clubs, most notably in Hungary. But in came Malpas, actually paid money for him and the rest his history. Watching him play against QPR in the League Cup highlighted his inability to mark. Since then he's disappeared from the first team and if truth be known, he's not even getting in the starting XI in the reserves!
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Sean Morrison: Big defender who's already played 20+ plus for the first team. He's still only 18 but he'll feature a lot this season unless the Premiership re-emerge - they've been around already.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Danny Wilson isn't regarded highly in Hartlepool these days but I feel that we have a more than adequate manager with plenty of experience at this level. Heaven forbid this campaign Swindon Town might finish the season with the same manager who started it!
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
As far as off-the-pitch is concerned we've got an amazing chairman and board. Compared to the previous regime they're saints. They've done a lot and it's so good to support a club that won't go into administration or out of business tomorrow. Long may that continue. On-the-pitch however, we've stagnated - Chairman, Andrew Fitton was too patient with Maurice Malpas and they spent an eternity replacing him. I think with Wilson at the helm things could/should improve. It's a learning curve for them and I'm glad that they're continuing to support our club.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Oxford United in the 1st Round of the FA Cup would be lovely. It's always fun beating Bristol Rovers... We've been kind to Leeds over the past two seasons giving them maximum points at every opportunity so a point would be good against them. We still have this old squabble with Gillingham but I think beating Southampton would be enjoyable.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
It's not going to be easy, I'm not a fan of making such predictions but I'll give it a go.
Champions: Norwich City
Runner Up: Leeds United
Playoffs: Charlton Athletic, Southend United & Milton Keynes Dons
Relegated: Stockport County, Yeovil Town, Hartlepool United, Carlisle United.
Tranmere Rovers Many thanks to Mike Jackson
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
We just missed out on the play-offs with two minutes to go at Scunthorpe when they equalised (needing only a draw when we needed a win) to pip us to 6th place - us finishing 7th. The best moment was probably the home win over Leicester City (2-0) ending their 23 game unbeaten run in the League - a special night indeed! The worst moments were both at Scunthorpe - a last minute defeat in the JP Trophy in December and then the 88th minute play-off despair on the final day in May.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Under a new management team it really is anyone's guess how we will do. Our squad is wafer thin and the defence looks terrible at the moment. Barnes is trying to play football the right way but it looks like we don't have the right players to be able to pull it off. I would hope for a relegation battle being avoided all season and would settle for mid-table this season if I'm honest. What's your squad like, new signings, etc? As mentioned above the squad is thin with just 17 professionals of which four or five have little or no first team experience Two of our new signings have been players returning to the Club (McLaren and Mahon) whilst we've also added John Welsh and Luke Daniels.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
At the moment we can't afford to get rid of any but Craig Curran hasn't impressed too much in pre-season so far so he would be a prime loan candidate.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season? Ryan Fraughan has performed well in pre-season and if he gets the chance he could certainly impress.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Early days for Mr Barnes as he was only appointed in July. The way things are looking though the fans may well want him out before the end of the season which doesn't bode well.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Again it's early days. They're saying the right things and want to play the right way but whether that brings the results remains to be seen.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why? Most fans would still say Oldham after the recent Ronnie Moore based rivalry. Leeds United and the bigger teams like Southampton, Norwich and Charlton would probably be the others.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions: Leeds United
Runner Up: Norwich City
Playoffs: Huddersfield
Relegated: Yeovil, Wycombe, Stockport, Walsall
Walsall thanks to Croydon Saddler of the upthesaddlers.com forum
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Jimmy Mullen Going, Jimmy Mullen Arriving and signing up Chris Palmer
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
Mid Table
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
Alright, not as good as last season, but solid enough. Hughes is a good replacement for Gerrard but Zaaboub and Ibehre haven't been replaced. good to see local Boytill come back though.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
If i had to choose Gilmartin but wouldn't be too bothered as he's only 2nd choice keeper and has potential. This question should have been asked last season : Hughes (fat CM not our new CB), the infamous lazy Michael Ricketts and one of the worst players I have seen in a long time Chris Palmer. Fortunately those three have all left
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Troy Deeney. Our only hope for our Attack (we have none) and getting 20+ goals although Taundry looks quite useful on right wing and Sean Geddes looks to be decent player
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Great Manager and Assistant O'Connor (played for us). If anyone can make up for are Chairman then they can. Optimism for season only comes through their ability to draw decent players on our severely cut down budget due to the pension fund of the Mr Jeff Bonser
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Ummmmm......no. Hasn't given us back the leasehold of our own Stadium, we pay extortionate rent to boost his pension fund, sells of all of our best players at the end of the season for cheap, has told all of the fans to basically f*** off and go support Rotherham and Bournemouth instead, does not answer any of the questions we write to the club, has stopped fans being part of WFC, all of profit we make from the hotel and Bescott market goes straight to him as well, gives our managers shoestring(not even the string if you ask me ) budgets, lies to us about ambitions for WFC and other stuff. I cannot emphasise enough how much the majority of supporters despise Mr Bonser's running of the club
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds...just because. Other than that the Franchise because of what they did to Wimbledon
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champ:Norwich ( I was born there so i can support them as well but only as second team)
RU:Leeds (got to go up some time)
PO:Millwall, MK Dons , Southhampton(mate supports them who told me their team is alright 10 pts isn't that much anyway) and Walsall (Blind optimism)
Down: Yeovil, Exeter, Wycombe, Gillingham
Wycombe Wanderers with thanks to Jonny Saunders
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
Wycombe finally won promotion from League Two back to League One, albeit by a single goal and despite losing to Notts County on the final day. But the league table doesn't lie and Wycombe deserved to be there after setting the pace for the first half of the season with an excellent unbeaten run. The best moment was the turning point of our season, winning in the last minute at Darlington. The worst moment for me was losing for the first time of the season at Aldershot.
How do you think you'll do this season? Hopes, final position?
The first hope for this season is to stay up and get to 52 points as soon as possible and then build on any success after that. If we get anywhere in the top half, we will have done well.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
The new signings look decent initially, but we'll have to wait and see. Peter Taylor brought in some good players last year and knows what he's doing so I'll trust his judgement. Michael Duberry is the most high-profile signing, and an important one to replace David McCracken.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
No-one. It doesn't help towards supporting the team to talk like that.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Matt Phillips. He's a winger who's been improving a lot.
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Peter Taylor is a man with a solid game-plan. His tactics aren't to everyone's tastes because they are defensive, but he knows how to get results. I hope he is still with us come May.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
There's been quite a transition behind the scenes with Steve Hayes taking complete ownership. It's a shame that the supporters have no say anymore or ownership of the ground. If Steve Hayes does get the club running at break-even level, that would be an improvement.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Colchester. They are the sworn enemy from non-league days.
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four
to go down
Champions: Southend
Runner Up: Norwich
Playoffs: Brentford, Huddersfield, Leeds, Exeter
Relegated: Gillingham, Colchester, Carlisle, Tranmere
Yeovil Town many thanks to Fred Few
How did you fare last season? Best moment, worst moment etc.
We stayed up which is all we could hope for. Best-Beating Peterborough away when they hadn't lost in about 10 matches. Worst-Sacking Russell Slade and the subsequent turmoil of 6 games and only 1 point.
How do you think you'll do this season?
Hopes, final position? As a 8 year season ticket holder cannot bring myself to predict relegation so 20th.
What's your squad like, new signings, etc?
As our budget is probably lowest in League One we have usual assortment of released players and players coming to end of careers. Couple of loan signings from Spurs. If as good as ones we had last yr will be major figures for us.
Which player would you happily get rid of?
Gary Roberts-On transfer list due being repeatedly drunk at training-A real shame as capable of playing at Coca Cola Championship level and only 21.
Which youngster will make the biggest impression in your team this season?
Ryan Mason-Spurs loanee
What's your manager like and will he still be there at the end of the season?
Ex Captain and 10 year servant Terry Skiverton-An unproven figure-Everyone hopes he succeeds and will get fans backing but totally inexperienced.
Are you happy with your Chairman/Backroom staff?
Without doubt worst aspect of club. Crowds have dropped from 6.6k average in 1st year of League One to 4.3k in last year, our 4th in League One.Absolutely no management or marketing skills and common comment is League One on the pitch and Conference off it.
Which team do you want to beat the most and why?
Leeds-In first match against Leeds 2 yrs ago they got tickets in home end and there were numerous incidents!!
Predict your champions and runner up, the four Play-Off teams and the four to go down
Champions:Charlton
Runner Up:Leeds
Playoffs:Huddersfield
Relegated:Wycombe,Exeter,Tranmere,Stockport.
Terrier-Bytes would like to thank everyone who filled in this questionnaire and got it back to us, we appreciate your time.
All the best for the new season.
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