By Andrew Fanko.

So, just how good is the current batch of players pulling on the Red shirt?

Views on the current squad’s ability fluctuate wildly among the fanbase: a minority think we could challenge for the title if fortunate with form and injuries; another minority think we’re a mid-table outfit that needs an almost complete overhaul; and I’d guess the majority view is that we have a handful of world-class players, a few more very good players and some decent squad players good enough to see us finish between third and sixth in a full season under a quality manager (i.e. not after the first half of this season).

I’d like to examine each player in detail to see whether they merit being a part of what is undoubtedly a new era in L4. I’ve restricted it to players that have played competitively for the first team in 09/10 as well as the two loanees who could reasonably expect regular first-team action (Insúa and Aquilani).

We’ve already taken a look at the goalkeepers and defenders, and it prompted some really good debate. Now it’s the turn of the midfielders, which I consider to be the most difficult area of our squad to assess. I’m fairly undecided on at least three or four players, so I hope my ramblings help to shape my final decision as I go!

This post is for Subscribers only.

[ttt-subscribe-article]