HoundClyde1998Stranded
7th is the absolute lowest we can finish, which in itself is a fantastic achievement. Draw at Forest will see us finish 6th, a win 4th and theoretically give us an easier game in the play-off round of 16.
I assume, looking at the format, the home side will be whoever finishes higher up the league. Assuming that applies in all rounds, coming fourth would ensure a home game until the semi-final (if we got that far). If they're at the Madejski, I'd be in for them.
Even if we finish 7th, it would be an amazing season in a normal year, but given the number of players who'd usually be in the U21s were playing first team football this season - Dorsett; Craig; Ehib; Abrefa (latterly); Wareham (latterly); Vickers (earlier); Abbey (earlier); Carson (earlier) all spring to mind - it's incredible. New signings like Bindon and Elliott may have played a couple of matches as well.
Suggests we've still got a very strong academy set up, despite everything that's gone on off the pitch. I wonder if players like Jeremiah Okine-Peters, Adrian Akande, Charlie Wellens or John Ryan could come into the first team squad on a regular basis next season - those first two are both wingers, so could help resolve our problems there without having to sign anyone.
Tough one for next year - head tells me we need to bring in 3/4 strong div1 players
On the other hand it sounds like there’s some real talent in the u21 side - Carson, Ryan, Akande, Tuma etc - all could be worth a go
Guess it depends who leaves as well
And who is available on a free transfer. Some guy at the game on Saturday was trying to convince me that Devante Cole would definitely come to Reading if Barnsley don't go up!!
