Olly Longdon, the MOD/Armed forces supporters` branch organiser is to become a regular writer for Vital Sheffield United.
This, his first article, looks at the new era starting at Bramall Lane under new boss David Weir.
I am hoping that last season’s disappointing finish, will inject fresh impetus into the challenge ahead for the coming season. I was personally gutted at the Yeovil match on the last day, and left frustrated by the amount of players not wanting to take a shot when in front of goal throughout the whole campaign.
New manager, new players in, and some departures, have all been noted over the last month or two. I feel that David Weir is putting an emphasis on goal tallies for this year, with the capture of Febian Brandy, and Lyle Taylor, with the latter having netted 29 goals in Scotland last year.
It does sadden me with the amount of difference of wealth between the Premier League and the lower divisions, and with the Blades still retaining a massive base of supporters, that we are unable to purchase or retain ‘high’ wage earners, often having to sell to balance the books.
We still have to remain confident with youngsters, and as some people have commented before, this route is the way forward. Building a team on ‘older’ players is not sustainable. Therefore the use of the players coming through Shirecliffe, and at this level, is ideal to begin building a strong team. I have had numerous Liverpool supporters speak to me, with regards to the loan signing of Conor Coady from them. I have been told that he’s one for the future; let’s hope he can show what he’s made of whilst on loan.
McMahon and Flynn both returning from injury, but there is another I think we could do with getting back from injury – Shaun Miller – I rate this lad highly, having seen his pace and prowess in front of goal, prior to his injury last season.
I hope that this new season will be a fresh approach to bringing success at Bramall Lane, both in the league and in the cup competitions. There has been a string of good results pre-season, and I hope this will continue, and give us something to cheer about at beautiful downtown Bramall Lane. Unfortunately I will still be deployed for the 1st game against Notts County, so will have to watch it on Forces TV and cheer from a distance!
Olly Longden
MOD/Armed forces supporter`s branch
Anyone interested in joining the MOD/Armed forces supporter`s branch can get in touch with Olly via email:
oliverlongden@aol.com
rfawvkn-cis-cr2syssm@mod.uk (work email until September 2013)
Telephone: (when in UK) 07411 319796
Vital Sheffield United is now available on both facebook and twitter, so if you are that way inclined and more importantly understand all this new fangled dangled stuff, feel free to watch us, poke us or whatever else you are meant to do there!
Vital Sheffield United on:
Vital Sheffield United on:
Join Vital Sheffield United
It’s easy to REGISTER HERE, simply click the link and enjoy getting involved!