Credit to Aitor, we`ve got a much stronger looking squad than we did a few weeks ago before his mass overhaul.
I was concerned at first that they`d take too long to gel and that we`d end up in a relegation fight but I`ve seen enough from us that that won`t be the case.
We`re by no means perfect, but we won`t be going down this season that is for sure and we should only improve, especially when we add further in the summer.
I`m excited already to see who`s going to arrive, with the owners making all the right noises about investment, but I`m also intrigued to see if we make a play for Kieran Dowell.
When we snapped him up last summer I thought he looked like a top prospect. Indeed, under Warbs he was arguably one of our best players with several goals and assists coming from in behind whoever the main striker was.
Under Aitor, though, he`s lost his way a bit and Lee Tomlin`s arrival and impressive start has seen him demoted to a squad player from being one of the key men.
Certainly, it`s apparent to me that the boss doesn`t want to rely on youth as heavily as Warburton and I can understand that – we certainly needed more experience.
I do think, however, there is still room for Dowell and that we shouldn`t just discard him completely. He`s only a young player, he`s going to have ups and downs and, in truth, this is his first off-period over a prolonged spell this season.
I still think he`s a class talent and, under the guidance of Karanka and surrounded by more experience, I think he could really flourish.
Everton, of course, might have other plans for him but, if possible, I`d like to have him around next season, too.
Would you like Dowell in a red shirt next year? Let me know in the poll!
