I agree AB, although I'd add that MON has clearly been sending the feelers out, talking to players or their agents and I think he has a fair idea of who intends doing what.
McGoldrick looks the most likely and right at this point in time he also looks the most useful.
Bamford scored a few nice goals last season but, despite the concerns (or worse) over his longevity, I'd back Robbie Keane to be a 20 goal a season guy at that Derby team in that league. I'd say Long wouldn't be far off it either.
All this talk of desperately seeking a few granny rulers is really grating with me. Germany will win the group, no doubt. That's not to say there isn't a point or three to be got from them - that's what the players must be made to believe anyway - but realistically we are in a straight battle with Scotland and Poland.
I don't see any new granny rulers being necessary. Despite my loathing of his attitude I'd have Stephen Ireland back.
Andy Reid will be a new recruit in effect. So too will Gibson. So too will Brady. We will hopefully see McGeady deliver consistently, benefitting from full fitness and consistent first team football. Coleman and McCarthy can cut it with the best.
Hoolahan's demotion won't matter a jot. He was excellent for Ireland when not playing at all for Norwich. How can he be any worse if playing regularly?
And so on...
Cheer up all. This squad is good enough to get second place. If I was to bet on it, I'd say they won't but it's marginal.
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