mkrudden
Player Valuation: £40m
Is their no part of you that worries we aren't going to see the fruits of his labour due to our woeful form? I mean I'm now coming to the point where I'd be amazed if Lukaku and Stones were here next season. Even Martinez was quoted as say that 'Cups won't be enough to keep the stars, top 4 could'
Absolutely. Our failures this year could cost us Stones and/or Lukaku.
I just don't see how we can have this many young players all at once and think we are going to be consistent. And as we all know that's the only way we are going to finish top 4 - being consistent over 38 games.
Because as a collective they aren't there yet, it means the big clubs will circle and attempt to cherry pick. There is nothing we can do about it imo in the short term.
Let's say though that we only lose Stones. With that money he brings in a top notch playmaker and a new keeper. I think we'd see further improvement and a higher finish. Top 4? Maybe not, and then we may lose Lukaku. With that he will probably service the signing of a striker or two. Then, at that time, we will still have Barkley, Besic, Galloway, Garbutt, Funes Mori and Deulofeu all with another 80-100 games of experience and maturity.
Top 4 could then really be on. It might not be.
But I'm willing to wait and find out.
Just me though. I actually think a lot of your points are understandable. I just think the reasons for the shortcomings are more understandable than what you give credit for.