Taking stock

[Jerseybean]

Just trying to take stock of things admittedly with limited evidence, it’s looking like.......

Dean Holden’s approach is refreshing both on and off the pitch. He seems focused on simplifying things, having a very fit squad, playing with more freedom and with a greater emphasis on going forward. He communicates well, says things like they are and shows pride and passion.

3-5-2 appears to be the preferred set up, which, given our abundance of midfielders, makes sense and provides the opportunity to adjust game-by-game and during a game without the need to make wholesale changes.

Our strongest starting 11 remains to be seen, however, (and I know this is a dodgy claim) I think most of us could agree upon the names of half a dozen, or so, of those who will be first on the team sheet.....I’d suggest Wells, Williams, Kalas, DaSilva and Bentley are all pretty much nailed-on. We will see departures and know what’s happening re FD and NE over the coming days/weeks and hopefully a couple of incomings. Hopefully, the incomers will be regular starters or at least strong squad players (rather than ones for the future).

Of course the closed-season is always a good time to be a City fan!

 

[BCFC1512]

I think fitness is going to be very key this season! With so many games so quick I think the best squads will be at the top not the best first 11.

[downendcity]

Bill Shankly famously said that football is a simple game made complicated by people who should know better. LJ was one that should have known better, and too often overcomplicated things by overthinking and being too clever for his own good.

If Holden keeps it simple and plays to our strengths there is no reason why we should not be ok at the very least, and at best might well surprise a few - including many of our own fans, sceptical as to our chances because we did not appoint a proven manager.

[And Its Smith]

I think we will see rotation but crucially we will see rotation with a consistent formation. 

[Davefevs]

29 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

Keeping Fam will be interesting because having lets say Fam one game alongside Wells and then another game having Weimann gives the team very different things. I guess whatever works best we could just continue with other than when needing resting or there's injuries or suspensions.

With those 3, I wonder if we will bring one more in too..how realistic is it to bring in a quality 4th striker though. We do have second striker options too. 

I think most of us were sat here this summer expecting to have to go out and get a new striker.  The most expensive position, and often the biggest risk / least guarantee.  With those 3 and Szmodics (or Semenyo), I really don’t think we need to bother.  That is quite a blessing.  To get someone good enough means we are often fighting with other clubs, usually bigger / better, so it can feel like a compromise.

The aim needs to be succession planning, for when one of the main three go.  That person could already be here if someone like Semenyo can kick on.

Now the focus is fully on RWB and CB imho.  More realistic options in those positions.

Coming together nicely!

[wendyredredrobin]

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

[ORANGE500]

15 minutes ago, wendyredredrobin said:

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

Don't think Nagy will start ahead of Walsh this season wouldn't be surprised to see him sold on

[Matthew me]

Just need to unload COD and freshen things up with th cash generated and we look in decent shape

[Wrongagain]

4 hours ago, Matthew me said:

Just need to unload COD and freshen things up with th cash generated and we look in decent shape

Do we? Without LJ’s tombola selections and tactics we might just see the real Callum out there

[Lanterne Rouge]

6 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

I am happy for us to continue with what we have. But if Holden always wants 2 strikers then it would not surprise me to see a new one in.

Szmodics seems like he might be loaned out. Semenyo as 4th choice won't play much so will be the same problem as last season.

The only one I can think of that has shown they can be effective up top was Pato. Still not sure that's the answer though.

I agree main focus is on CB and RWB.

No doubt there will quite a number leaving permanently or on loan.

Has anyone heard anything regarding Pedro and what might be in the pipeline there? Are we still interested in buying him and are perhaps trying to negotiate a reduced fee?

[WirralRobin]

13 hours ago, wendyredredrobin said:

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

That would be LJ esq sticking our best striker (who scores most of his goals off the last man) on the left wing/off a main striker - can't see it happening myself. Everything seems to be pointing to a more traditional 3-5-2 as per the Cheltenham game and Holden's 5 games in charge at the back end of last season. 

[WirralRobin]

20 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

I am happy for us to continue with what we have. But if Holden always wants 2 strikers then it would not surprise me to see a new one in.

Szmodics seems like he might be loaned out. Semenyo as 4th choice won't play much so will be the same problem as last season.

The only one I can think of that has shown they can be effective up top was Pato. Still not sure that's the answer though.

I agree main focus is on CB and RWB.

No doubt there will quite a number leaving permanently or on loan.

Depending on how fluid we are playing could Kasey Palmer do a job up there? Having the license to drop into pockets of space to link up with the midfield and thread balls through for Wells as a deep lying forward? 

[supercidered]

14 hours ago, wendyredredrobin said:

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

That formation could be one of LJ’s! I can almost hear him explaining it on TV.

[BigTone]

14 hours ago, ORANGE500 said:

Don't think Nagy will start ahead of Walsh this season wouldn't be surprised to see him sold on

I can see Walsh being offloaded well before Nagy.

[robin_unreliant]

While I appreciate his level of effort and defensive abilities, I don't think Fam works as a two with AW or NW. 

For whatever reason he just doesn't seem to have formed what looks like a partnership up front. Maybe Bobby Reid was the closest I can remember. While I don't want to knock him I'm not sure that he would be a good fit for playing two up front this season. 

I'd rather we had another pacy striker alongside NW. 

[marcofisher]

27 minutes ago, BigTone said:

I can see Walsh being offloaded well before Nagy.

That would be a massive shame, on last years performances, Walsh and Williams could be our strongest midfield pairing.

[WECANDO]

23 hours ago, wendyredredrobin said:

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

Morrell is good enough to be in that team.

[Jerseybean]

On 22/08/2020 at 19:22, wendyredredrobin said:

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

The EP have today put out a possible starting 11 (which is slightly different to what you suggest) using a graphic which also shows alternatives, it is interesting and most certainly highlights where we need to recruit....CB and WB being the key priorities, closely followed by a forward. 

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/how-bristol-city-could-line-4450482

 

[Matthew me]

Regardless of the poor communication from the club, the interviews, appointment and excitement of employing a human and not a K9 ( apparently not obedient enough )

Im genuinely looking forward to the season. It feels like DH and his band of merry men have brought together some fresh energy and thinking. We have a new signing from Wigan that according to most people looks like good business....

We could, and should start with wins against Exeter and Coventry....

Our new keepers kit will solve any issues of being seen at night when riding a bike. I swear we should be sponsored by a road safety charity

Let's all take a deep breath, put aside the negative thoughts, get behind the team and give DH every possible support and encouragement. 

Momentum is key in the Championship, let's get a few wins and be hard to beat. Who knows where it could take us.

Regardless of anything else, I'm just looking forward to having the team playing again and for some normality in life.

COYR! Make this a season to remember, be a team of workers, no stars, grafters that play for the shirt and DH

[Abraham Romanovich]

I for one admire your positivity , but let's take a step back,take a deep breath and garner our thoughts.

"We could, and should start with wins against Exeter and Coventry...." you say, I tend to agree but a little thought nags away what if we don't, will the knives  be taken out of the drawer and taken to the nearest whetstone

Remember those halcyon days when we discussed on endless threads promotion being being achieved behind closed doors,fate is a cruel mistress.

I have no great expectations for this season , but hope we can support a team that gives their all, plays in a positive manner and finally brings some excitement back to Ashton Gate.

 

 

 

 

 

[kernored]

Having listened to the interviews with DH and the new coaches, I was impressed with how up beat they they all were, hopefully this will be carried into the new season. It was also a breath of fresh air to hear the comments from our strikers how they are enjoying the new set up in mid field.  Whilst I do have some concerns for the new season, I like most travel in hope.

 

 

 

 

[bissellredhead]

1 hour ago, Matthew me said:

Regardless of the poor communication from the club, the interviews, appointment and excitement of employing a human and not a K9 ( apparently not obedient enough )

Im genuinely looking forward to the season. It feels like DH and his band of merry men have brought together some fresh energy and thinking. We have a new signing from Wigan that according to most people looks like good business....

We could, and should start with wins against Exeter and Coventry....

Our new keepers kit will solve any issues of being seen at night when riding a bike. I swear we should be sponsored by a road safety charity

Let's all take a deep breath, put aside the negative thoughts, get behind the team and give DH every possible support and encouragement. 

Momentum is key in the Championship, let's get a few wins and be hard to beat. Who knows where it could take us.

Regardless of anything else, I'm just looking forward to having the team playing again and for some normality in life.

COYR! Make this a season to remember, be a team of workers, no stars, grafters that play for the shirt and DH

I certainly wouldn't go underestimating Coventry. Personally think they'll have a good season and will be a tricky team to beat. (Would love to be wrong and win 5-0)

[Matthew me]

1 hour ago, Abraham Romanovich said:

I for one admire your positivity , but let's take a step back,take a deep breath and garner our thoughts.

"We could, and should start with wins against Exeter and Coventry...." you say, I tend to agree but a little thought nags away what if we don't, will the knives  be taken out of the drawer and taken to the nearest whetstone

Remember those halcyon days when we discussed on endless threads promotion being being achieved behind closed doors,fate is a cruel mistress.

I have no great expectations for this season , but hope we can support a team that gives their all, plays in a positive manner and finally brings some excitement back to Ashton Gate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

In general, this time of the season I'm always optimistic

I just feel we've got to do everything possible to support DH now.

I'm over my "toys out the pram" moment. I've accepted I'm a customer, I won't get good customer service, and my opinion counts for nothing at the club....

But its still my club. Can't and wouldn't ever change that.

I think the new positive energy and a couple of wins will do us the world of good!

Always a dark horse each season... Why not us

[Matthew me]

36 minutes ago, bissellredhead said:

I certainly wouldn't go underestimating Coventry. Personally think they'll have a good season and will be a tricky team to beat. (Would love to be wrong and win 5-0)

I'm not so sure. They've lost Walsh and it's a big step up from league 1.

I suspect they'll set up for a draw against us. I'll have us to win 1-0 late goal from Wells

[Swede]

I welcome Deano's enthusiasm. It seems that there was a lot of confusion towards the end of Streaky's reign and he and the new coaching staff have been working on a more simpler and fresher approach in moving the ball forward quicker.

I do feel we have the quality in the squad to at least make the top six and I am sure that was his remit to get the job. 

The acid test will be if things start to go wrong and how he approaches those hurdles.

I think it's vitally important to get off to a good positive start to get the feel good factor back and to keep that pressure at bay. As with the nepotism that was always around the corner to beat Lee Johnson with so DH will inevitably attract some of that negativity when things go awry as he was part of that failed coaching team and was nobody's choice for Head Coach.

In this unusual climate it's very difficult to second guess what will go on and I know it sounds obvious  but without fan pressure and atmosphere it doesn't really matter whether you're playing home or away so I think teams that are tight at the back will usually fair better. Although I welcome his bold approach, looking to play with three at the back, that might be seen to showing his niavity.

We need cover at RWB which is a specialist position and we need another adaptable mobile central forward.

The addition of Joe Williams should give us a far better platform in midfield and just may turn out to be the signing of the season because it will put less emphasis on the likes of Walsh, Nagy & Palmer in the transition period freeing them up to concentrate on their creativity.

I would like to think we are back on track aiming for that elusive top six.

(PS; I have posted this whilst waiting for my medication to arrive)

[WECANDO]

50 minutes ago, Swede said:

I welcome Deano's enthusiasm. It seems that there was a lot of confusion towards the end of Streaky's reign and he and the new coaching staff have been working on a more simpler and fresher approach in moving the ball forward quicker.

I do feel we have the quality in the squad to at least make the top six and I am sure that was his remit to get the job. 

The acid test will be if things start to go wrong and how he approaches those hurdles.

I think it's vitally important to get off to a good positive start to get the feel good factor back and to keep that pressure at bay. As with the nepotism that was always around the corner to beat Lee Johnson with so DH will inevitably attract some of that negativity when things go awry as he was part of that failed coaching team and was nobody's choice for Head Coach.

In this unusual climate it's very difficult to second guess what will go on and I know it sounds obvious  but without fan pressure and atmosphere it doesn't really matter whether you're playing home or away so I think teams that are tight at the back will usually fair better. Although I welcome his bold approach, looking to play with three at the back, that might be seen to showing his niavity.

We need cover at RWB which is a specialist position and we need another adaptable mobile central forward.

The addition of Joe Williams should give us a far better platform in midfield and just may turn out to be the signing of the season because it will put less emphasis on the likes of Walsh, Nagy & Palmer in the transition period freeing them up to concentrate on their creativity.

I would like to think we are back on track aiming for that elusive top six.

(PS; I have posted this whilst waiting for my medication to arrive)

Would prefer Walsh, Nagy and Morrell.

[redsquirrel]

all i hope is that we do hear gt saying 'what a match that was' win lose or draw,if its exciting,im in

[Clutton Caveman]

On 22/08/2020 at 19:22, wendyredredrobin said:

Assuing that Diedhiou and Eliasson don't move on, I think I see a bit of a 32221 formation, something like:

                Bentley

        Kalas  Moore  Baker

    Hunt                        DaSilva

          Williams      Nagy

       Weimann            Wells

                  Diedhiou

Then we have a bench selected from:

O'Leary Vyner Rowe Massengo Walsh O'Dowda Palmer Paterson Eliasson Semenyo.

Of course, there may still be some comings and goings before the season commences and we possibly still need cover at right back and a Centre forward on the bench as Semenyo has really shown us very little in the appearances he has made.

 

Hunt jumps out at me as the week link here, would much prefer Vyner

[Clutton Caveman]

3 hours ago, WECANDO said:

Would prefer Walsh, Nagy and Morrell.

With this 3 we would be totally outmuscled by the likes of Cardiff, Millwall etc

[robin_unreliant]

This time of the season is when I find OTIB generally gets ridiculously over-confident about our chances. I've got over the initial anger when DH was announced but unfortunately it's been replaced by a bit of apathy if I'm honest. 

Once we kick off the mood on here usually seesaws from doom and despair to 'we' re going up', depending on the latest result. 

I don't currently see much to suggest we are suddenly going to take the next step that Johnson couldn't. One signing and a lot of talk about playing it simple, stupid. 

We won't really have much idea until October, when we've played a few games and the window closes. As it stands I expect us to finish around 15th-20th. It will be interesting to see if finances lead to a few more teams being deducted points and what effect that has. 

I really can't see SL getting the fun of seeing us play in the prem any time soon unless he changes tack.