08 Aug 2026 15:59:18
Portsmouth are going to be about the standard Championship side we will be facing in about 30 of the games this season.

Our defence needs tightening for sure. No creation in midfield as we know. When the chances come the class of Taty finish and Bowen is totally evident.

Some additions are necessary, as we can see.

The other 16 games will be against better sides than Portsmouth.

Portsmouth goal was a big deflection. Can happen at any time anywhere.

Alvarez not fit enough. I expected him to break the play up lot more.

But we have had a taste now. Becoming clear what we need, and what must be done.

1.) 08 Aug 2026
08 Aug 2026 17:08:39
First half hour was poor, but those two quick goals settled us down. We controlled the game in the second half. It was much better.

2.) 08 Aug 2026
08 Aug 2026 17:08:54
Yes, need more pace and creativity in that midfield. Alvarez, I think, will do good - started well, but as you say, clearly not fit yet.

Bowen and Taty will bag loads, although the former has defo lost some pace.

Orford is tidy, but unremarkable.

Kante is good, but still raw.

I'm still not convinced by Scarles at all - if Diouf goes, I'd want someone more athletic at LB.

Pablo is out of position and all over the place again.

Depth is a big issue. Bench is too weak and inexperienced imo.

3.) 08 Aug 2026
08 Aug 2026 17:23:32
Last line spot on for 46 games.
Whilst we had Premier League quality finishing, Taty and Bowen won't be playing 46 games, for sure.

4.) 09 Aug 2026
09 Aug 2026 19:22:57
I thought Alvarez had a decent game and will be vital on us going up. ⚒️⚒️⚒️

5.) 09 Aug 2026
09 Aug 2026 19:23:29
I thought our best player was KWP. ⚒️⚒️⚒️

6.) 09 Aug 2026
09 Aug 2026 19:25:27
A big plus was seeing Orford and Kante performing well. Ive very high hopes, especially on Kante, who, with a good man manager, which I think Rs is, rather than Nes, who isnt. ⚒️⚒️⚒️?