We now have real depth in the ranks.

Outside the starting 17 on Friday we will probably have Bailey, o Carroll, Farrell, Goulding, Pryce and Aiscough who can genuinly challenge for places this year and wouldnt look out of place in the side.

That means we now have a genuine 23 players who can compete for places week in week out.

It has been a while since we have been able to say that.

Add McIlorum to that list, 24 players all of whom must think they have a good chance of making the 17.

The only way Goulding, Pryce or Farrell will get a game is through injuries, then it's up to them to make the most of it if they get opportunities. The rest + McIllorum I agree with though.

Good interview with Tommy. I like the way he's keeping the expectations low key but I think you can also see a quiet confidence there as well. Hope we do 'fly in under the radar'!

I hope you are wrong, and MM keeps his word on the "Play for a place,if you are playing well, you're in, if not, you're out" Far too many seasons have gone past where we had pretty much the same players getting shirts no matter how they played. Now there is genuine strength in depth, and MM has stated his intentions on selection, it can only be a good thing for me, let's see how Fielden and co play knowing they could well be dropped for the following game...... NO GUARANTEES.......... long overdue IMO!!

Steve.