Got to disagree with you about our spending and where it would be acceptable for us to finish in the coming season.
Yes, a fair bit of money looks like it is being spent at the moment, however this will be offset by who leaves once Kenny has who he wants, so the net spend will come down as will hopefully the wage bill.
The squad is starting to look better in depth than in previous years, but we have yet to see what any new signings do for us and who may come through from the youngsters and how they will perform, although after watching Rodolpho's boys a few times last season i am confident we have a lot of young quality players that will serve us well for years to come.
As to what a successful season would be, for me Champions league football is essential, so anything higher than 4th would be a bonus. We cannot and should not expect to be suddenly back to the glory days of the 70's and 80's overnight.
The rebuilding has only been ongoing properly for 6 months, I think a proper title challenge in 2 seasons time is realistic, but this will depend how Chelsea, Man City and Arsenal get on in the transfer market.
A few other points for all to consider and comment on.
A) With the new financial fair play rules coming in, i think we are much better set up than City and Chelsea as their academies don't seem to produce much and they won't be able to just buy their way to glory. Unfortunately i think Manure will be OK, unless the Glazers do to them what H & G did to us.
B) What happens to Manure when old big red nose finally retires? Hate to say it, but he has been the reason they have been successful, and he won't be there forever....can't see a replacement coming from their bootroom, seriously doubt they'd let Ratboy do the job...reasons to be cheerful?
edit on 17-6-2011 by uptheirons! because: appalling spelling



