Should they stay or should they go?

[Kenneth E End]

40 games of the regular season gone now; quite a few teams already have nothing to really play for, but plenty still do. Who would you get rid of or keep in the summer? Where does your team need to tighten up next season?

LUTON TOWN

Regardless of what division we're in next season, there isn't a huge amount of maneuvering Jones can do or needs to particularly do, without having a bloated squad. 21 players already on this list, without any additions.

Goalkeepers
Matt Macey (on loan from Arsenal) - Keep if possible. As a reserve.
Stuart Moore (on loan from Reading) - Leave. Only played the one very dodgy game.
Craig King (on loan at Southport) - Leave release. Played a couple of EFL Trophy games, but we don't need 4 goalkeepers.
Liam Gooch (on loan at Biggleswade Town) - Keep new contract. Came through the successful youth team of last season; got good promise supposedly.

Defenders
Stephen O'Donnell - Unsure. Torn by this one. Inconsistent over 2 years; feel Jones may offer him a year extension, but not popular with Luton fans. May be forced to let him go to enable the club to sign another defender, especially in L1.
Dan Potts - Keep, offer new contract. Improved under Jones.
Johnny Mullins - Keep, existing contract. 1-year left on his contract and been relatively assured.
Scott Cuthbert - Keep, existing contract. Recently triggered a 1-year extension and has been our best defender.
Jack Senior - Keep, existing contract. One for the future definitely.
James Justin - Keep, existing contract. Our best young player absolutely.
Frankie Musonda - Keep, new contract. Deserves another couple of years to grow, but hasn't particularly been knocking on the door unlike his peers.
Akin Famewo - Keep, new contract. Still a youth teamer this season and has a big future.
Alan Sheehan - Keep, existing contract. One of the best set piece takers in the division.

Midfielders
Jonathan Smith - Leave, release. He's served his time here and Jones' style of play doesn't particularly suit him.
Jake Gray - Keep, existing contract. As a backup player. Still young and got some promise.
Cameron McGeehan - Keep, offer new contract, if possible. A 15 goal a season midfielder. Subject to £1m+ bids even with a broken leg. I'll be surprised if he's playing below the Championship next season. Even if he has shit hair.
Jordan Cook - Leave, transfer list. Although I think Jones will keep him.
Danny Green - Leave, release. Complications with his injury; I'd like to see him get a chance though.
Glen Rea - Keep, existing contract. Another player subject of bids this season. Can play multiple positions.
Pelly Ruddock - Keep, existing contract. Has been excellent during the second half of the season. Needs to start chipping in with some more goals though.
Olly Lee - Leave; release. Over the season he hasn't been good enough, nor was he during Still's reign either. Might do a job in L1 though.
Luke Gambin - Keep, existing contract. Only signed in January; deserves a chance.
Lawson D'Ath - Keep, existing contract. Again, only signed in January.
Tyreeq Bakinson - Keep, existing contract. Definitely one for the future. Has had PL interest.

Strikers
Danny Hylton - Keep, offer new contract, if possible. Going to end up with over 25 goals this season. Needs to be tied down to a longer deal.
Jack Marriott - Keep. Definite potential but needs to improve next season. Would listen to offers.
Isaac Vassell - Keep. Improved over the course of the season.
Ollie Palmer (on loan from Leyton Orient) - Leave. Got a presence, but not good enough for a high end L2 club, or L1 team.
Craig Mackail-Smith (on loan at Peterborough) - Leave, release. Not going to play for us again.
Zane Banton (on loan at St Albans) - Leave, release. Not pushed on enough.
Josh McQuoid (on loan at Stevenage) - Leave, release. Not offered enough over 2 seasons.

 

[Hooped Wizard]

For sale/get rid of: Cedric Evina
Andy Williams
Ross Etheridge
Gary McSheffrey
Paul Keegan
Aaron Taylor-Sinclair

 

[Gladders]

How can some teams like Luton create this thread when they don't even know what league they will be in yet?

 

[Kenneth E End]

How can some teams like Luton create this thread when they don't even know what league they will be in yet?

Because the management will certainly be working on it already and we can't make that many changes anyway.

 

[PaulHaddock]

Contracted:
James Mckeown- would prefer to get rid, not good enough for this league. Get rid

Sean McAllister- plagued with injuries but not getting back in the team atm. Would like to see more of him next year. Keep

Rhys Browne- hardly played under Hurst then his dad died. Doing well on loan in the Conference so he's not a dud. Keep

Zak Mills- very steady RB who should go on to play higher. Keep

James Berrett- piss poor signing. Shows why he's a relegation player. Get rid

Tom Bolarinwa- fast and powerful but lacking end product. Is a nightmare to deal with though. I like him. Keep

Luke Summerfield- see Berrett. Has a bit more about him but Conference is his level I think. Get rid

Andrew Boyce- lacking in confidence. He's slow but I think he could be a decent stopper. Keep

Scott Vernon- no pace, no strength, no intelligence. Get rid

Adi Yussuff- started off with 2 in 2 but hasn't been seen since. Unsure.

Chris Clements- neat and tidy. Always wants the ball but gets dispossessed easily. Needs to quicken his play. Unsure.

Jamey Osborne- lots of potential. Struggling with injury but very skilful and a wonderful passer. Keep

Akwasi Asante- not seen him much but he's pretty quick. Brought in to develop, so we've been told. Keep

Sam Jones- signing of the season. Big, strong, skilful and just glides past players. A full season and he'd be at least in double figures. Keep

Out of Contract:
Ben Davies- amazing delivery but legs are going. Always fit and a nice guy. Keep

Danny Andrew- player of the season. Started slow but gets better and better. Good delivery and is a real athlete. He sadly won't be here next season. KEEP

Shaun Pearson- love Shaun. Run through brick walls etc and is gaining some passing ability to add his defending. Keep

Josh Gowling- not good enough and Bignot acts like he doesn't exist. Means they fell out; no biggy. Get rid

Ashley Chambers- ok but not outstanding. Terrible in front of goal. Get rid

Craig Disley- legend but he isn't the future. Get rid

Danny Collins- came in and steadied a leaky defence. His lack of pace is starting to show. If we did keep him, I'd only offer another year. Unsure

Dan Jones- barely seen him. Get rid

Gavin Gunning- divides opinion. I'd like to see more of him. Keep

Loan players:
Dom Vose- can do so much with the ball but he's inconsistent. If Scunny don't want him, I'd sign him. Keep

Brandon Comley- decent tackler but goes missing. Doesn't get much of a chance though. Unsure.

Callum Dyson- has some skill but not sure he's up to it physically. Unsure.

Luke Maxwell- barely seen him. Get rid.

Oh, you're still reading this?

We have some youths that Bignot is keeping on apparently.
Expecting a big turnover of players in the summer again.

 

[That Fat Centre Half]

No way would i keep Potts or O'Donnell.

All the formations Jones likes require really good quality full backs, especially the diamond, and both of those are certainly not good full backs. O'Donnell tries bloody hard and you can't question his motor to keep getting up and down the wing but he is seriously not good enough, his crossing is I'm afraid an absolute embarrassment for a professional and defensively he is a liability at times. I feel for the bloke because he is a trier but he is out of his depth in league 2 let alone potentially the league above.

Potts is ok defensively but as soon as he crosses half way he hasn't got a clue what he is doing, Justin and Senior are already better than both of them so can't see the point of keeping either, especially O'Donnell.

 

[E10rifle]

Fuck knows

 

[Soup Ladle]

Here's ours, other Poolies may disagree

GK

Carson - Keep for sure but we won't
Fryer - on loan from Boro, would like him back when Carson leaves. Looks a decent goalie.

DEF

Magnay - keep. No world beater but L2 is his level and is our best option at RB
Rob Jones - get rid
Bates - get rid, injury prone
Harrison - will be here next season anyway regardless
Walker - probably Dave Jones' most telling contribution (even though his hand was forced), was moving him to CB. Looks assured there.
Donnelly - keep, versatility is an asset
Richardson - very young but should keep, could become a decent lower league full back.
Martin - get rid

MIDFIELD

Woods - get rid, just doesn't offer enough and isn't fit enough either
Featherstone - I'd keep as a squad player, probably the best passer in the side but would only have him in a 3 man midfield
Hawkins - keep. Again, as a squad player
Deverdics - not really done it at league level but we haven't used him right. Get rid.
Smith, Green - get rid
Thomas - will go regardless so no sense mentioning him.

FORWARDS

Amond - keep for sure, best finisher at the club.
Alessandra - hit and miss but should keep
Paynter - get rid
Oates - keep as a squad player. Very fit and not afraid to have a go. Good last 20 minute sub.
Rodney, Rooney, Orrell - get rid.

So in all, I'd release/sell 13 players. We need major changes next season.

Need another 'keeper, 1/2 centre halves, a left back, about 5 midfielders and 1/2 forwards.

Wish us luck

 

[Flaxman's Alibi]

Goalies:
Jenson - Keep as coach/back-up
Shearer - Shift (past it)

Defenders:
Benning - Keep
Pearce - Keep
Collins - Keep
Bennett - Keep
Taft - Shift (too injury prone)

Midfield:
Hamilton - Shift (inconsistent)
Byrom* - Keep
McGuire - Shift (not good enough)
McDonald* - Keep
Potter* - Unsure
Baxendale - Shift (anonymous)
Hemmings - Shift (anonymous)
Thomas - Shift (blown it)

Forrads:
Green* - Keep
Hoban - Shift (not quite good enough)
Rose - Keep
Arquin - Shift (not quite good enough)

Loanees:
Kean - Shift (not good enough)
Howkins - Keep
White - Keep
Whiteman - Keep
Coulthuirst - Shift (talented but little awareness)

*Under contract

 

[FarehamPompey]

Portsmouth

GK:
David Forde - currently loaned, would offer him a one year deal.
Liam O'Brien - seems a good enough no.2, but probably not L1 standard.

Defence:
Enda Stevens - experience in L1, fit as a fiddle and very consistent - keep.
Matt Clarke - Been solid this season, only 19 and should easily step up - keep.
Christian Burgess - Awesome player - keep.
Tom Davies - Rarely played, found out recently against Stevenage - get rid.
Jack Whatmough - Injury free could be good back up. - Keep.
Drew Talbot - experienced in L1, but rarely played this season. - Wouldn't be a loss.
Gareth Evans - Top player.. but would rather him in midfield. - Keep.

Midfield:
Amine Linganzi - Solid player - keep
Michael Doyle - Good leader, but maybe past it. - Short deal, keep?
Carl Baker - Been decent 2nd half of the season, L1 experience - Keep
Danny Rose - Keep
Gary Roberts - Slowed down a lot.. but think he'd be crucial in L1 - keep.

Forwards:
Curtis Main - will he ever return from injury - Keep (for some reason).
Conor Chaplin - natural scorer - keep.
Michael Smith - Get rid
Eoin Doyle - (loaned) - keep.
Jamal Lowe - Keep
Nicke Kabamba - Keep

 

[GodsGift]

Contracted:
James Mckeown- would prefer to get rid, not good enough for this league. Get rid

So I was right?

 

[PaulHaddock]

So I was right?

Well, yeah! Can't remember if I said he was good enough or not but I was sceptical about his abilities last season. Dean Henderson was/is a better indication of the standard we need.

 

[Casey]

Keepers

Morris. Keep. Signed a new deal. Been one of our best players this season and has had to be. Not bad for someone who signed as a coach.
Mersin. Called flapper by the fans. All the attributes to be a good keeper but sadly isn't. Leave

Defenders
Young. Keep. Not great but not crap.
Lelan. Why have we signed him?
Arthur. On loan at Woking. Not stepped up. Leave
Blackman. Accident waiting to happen. Maybe retrain as a winger. Leave
McNerney. Signed a new contract. Solid stopper.
Connolly. Club captain. Keep.
Garrett. Never plays but is said to have potential. Meh!
Yorwerth. Gets too caught up in the fight but only 23. Keep.

Midfield
Kaby Djalo. Our Munchkin. Keep.
Jimmy Smith. He's not going anywhere, unfortunately.
Henderson. I don't see the point of him.
Payne. Some good parts but likes giving the ball away. Leave.
Cox. Needs a good pre season. Quality delivery. Keep.
Boldewijn. Fast, strong, need more end product. Keep.
Roberts. When used as a winger he is good. Injury issues but I would keep.
Banton. On loan at Partick Thistle. Leave.
Clifford. Likes to back heel the ball to opposing players but has genuine ability to unlock defenses. Keep.
Bawling. He doesn't know what he's doing. Quick winger. Leave but Drummy seems to like him.

Forwards
Collins. Keep. Twenty goals in a side that doesn't attack much is very good. A few clubs will be tempted in the summer.
Harrold. Everyone's favourite crock. Times up. Leave.
Murphy. On loan from FGR (where he can't get in the team). Tell him to stop diving but try to sign.

Dermot Drummy. First season as a manager and it's showed. Hopefully he has learned from his errors. Keep but he does need to improve.

I think that's everyone. We desperately need some real steel in midfield and some left backs.

Casey

 

[mowgli]

The only Wycombe player who will leave will be Gart Thompson who is now 36 and has been crap since he joined and his contract runs out this summer,just a shame Paul Hayes has another year Blackman will go back to Chelsea so Scott Brown will our no 1 keeper next season.I believe everyone else still has a contract for another season at least including The Beast

 

[TrinidadsNumberOne]

Goalkeepers

Ben Garratt - Signed a new two year contract until 2019 last week so is definitely staying.
Dave Richards - Done nothing to even challenge Garratt to even warrant a place in the first team. Made a lot of errors for the U23s. Release.
Andrew Dawber - Signed from Altrincham after an injury to Richards, don't think he'll be here beyond May. Release.

Defenders

Oliver Turton - He's had a decent season after three awful ones in League One but he's nothing more than a 6/10 player and we could upgrade at RB rather than play an average player there every week. I'd release but I just know we'll try to keep him.
Jon Guthrie - Offered a new two year contract earlier this season, wouldn't surprise me if he signs it when mathematical safety is confirmed. However, I reckon he's holding out for a move to another club. That said, he's overrated anyway and a key part in a shoddy defence for years. Release.
Harry Davis - 100% confirmed to be released the moment Daddy was sacked as manager. Good fucking riddance and will struggle to find a professional club in England due to his abysmal injury record. RELEASE.
George Ray - The Cheshire Beckenbauer was brought in from the cold and Dave Artell rates him to the point where he's now our captain. After such a dramatic improvement, he's definitely worth a new deal and he's even said they're in contract talks now. Keep.
Ben Nugent - Nugent wants to stay and I'm glad he feels that way, however one of Guthrie or Nugent must go. I'd keep Nugent as a backup but we'd need an upgrade at CB because he's prone to make a cock up now and again but you can't deny he's a great lad with a great attitude. Keep over Guthrie.
Zoumana Bakayogo - Just signed a one year extension to 2018, offers us a good attacking option on the left hand side even if his defending is a little suspect. Keep him but sign an LB to challenge him in Summer.
Perry Ng - Promising few appearances off the bench, I reckon he could well be retained on a one year deal but if he doesn't improve then he needs sodding off in 2018. Keep but wouldn't be too gutted if he was released.

Midfielders

James Jones - Signed a one year contract extension today to 2018 and will probably be offered fresh terms as a reward for his improved performances which I'm a fan of.
Danny Hollands - The sort of experienced player you're lucky to have in League Two and a player I'd build this side around. Unlucky to get a possibly season-ending injury vs Wycombe but I'd definitely keep him, we don't have a tactically disciplined player like him. Keep but wouldn't be surprised if we released him given Artell was close to doing that in January and I reckon we'd struggle to upgrade.
Billy Bingham - Easiest decision of the lot after Harry Davis and perhaps Callum Saunders. A definite release should be on the cards. He's fucking wank and I don't get the obsession our fans have with left footed passers and players who try long range efforts from 30 yards out that go well wide. Add the fact he's lived in our treatment room for two years and that he's only scored one goal for a supposed creative midfielder (in the League Cup) and you have a player whose a cert to be released. I'm not having him for two more years in our treatment room and if it wasn't for a good performance against Colchester two weeks ago 99.9% of Crewe fans would want him released. But one good performance turns most Alex fans into huge fans of the player. RELEASE.
Callum Cooke - On loan from Middlesbrough but I'd love us to re-sign him back for next year as he's been a vital cog in our system. However, I could see Boro wanting to loan him to a League One club or even give him a chance in the Championship with them next season.
Ryan Wintle - A promising young player with a very bright future. Needs a pre-season under Artell to bulk up and then he'll really challenge. Can definitely see us keeping him. Keep.
Callum Ainley - Believe he's under contract next year anyway but a talented player nonetheless and I back him to make next year his break-out year.
Tom Lowery - Looked very promising when he made his debut against Luton in October but has struggled with injuries this season. A full pre-season with the first team could help him bulk up and hopefully force his way into contention. Another young player with a lot of promise that we'll retain.

Attackers

Chris Dagnall - Under contract for another year and has experienced a career renaissance since the addition of Artell and the shipping out of old man Lowe. A key player in our season next year.
Callum Saunders - Definitely not like his Dad (at least during his playing career) at all. U23 level goalscorer but looks like he runs in treacle any time he plays for the first team. Utter shite player and doesn't take professional football and his own fitness seriously if rumours are to be believed. RELEASE.
George Cooper - Signed a one year contract extension today and will imagine he'll get an improved two year contract like Jones. An inconsistent talent but on his day he's truly unstoppable. Hopefully a good pre-season next year will bring out the best in him.
Jordan Bowery - On loan from Orient and I I hope we sign him next year. Been an absolute presence up top and has created a significant amount of goals whilst bagging a couple himself. Work rate is phenomenal and if Leyton Orient go down it wouldn't surprise me if we take him off their hands on a free transfer. Sign if we can!
Daniel Udoh - Shown flashes of talent but not good enough for the Football League. Under contract for another year but I'd look at giving him to a Conference or Conference North club if we can like we did with Liam Nolan a couple of years ago.
Charlie Kirk - Dropped for poor work-rate despite Davis and Artell giving him many chances. Yet to score a goal despite being a forward and his awareness and work rate are both poor. Can't seem to do much with the ball either. He'll be here for another year but he definitely won't make the grade barring a Lazarus like recovery.
Alex Kiwomya - On loan from Chelsea but is a one trick pony and hasn't been able to 1. last 90 minutes and 2. replicate his early season form when he looked unstoppable. I wouldn't want him back here next season but I wish him well.

There'll be a lot of obscure youth players released (your Oli Finney's etc) whilst we look to the future with the next crop of which Harry Pickering and Owen Dale look like the standout names. Let's hope they can make a breakthrough next season under the new regime!

 

[Si Robin]

Carson - Keep for sure but we won't

I thought Carson lived up in the North East? Why would he go?

As for us:

GK
Scott Brown - On Loan from Wycombe - Would love to re-sign Scotty permanently, but he seems to be pinning his hopes on being number 1 at Wycombe next season.
Calum Kitscha - Out of Contract - A decent number 2, would sign him on again as such if we can get a permanent number 1 in.
Rhys Lovett - Out of Contract - Young keeper who seems to be being brought through slowly with loans at local non-league clubs - re-sing.

DEFENCE
Jack Barthram - Out of Contract - Nearly every Cheltenham fan would say re-sign, Johnson isn't his biggest fan though so expect him to leave.
James Jennings (currently on loan at Wrexham) - Contracted - Expect him to be allowed to find a new club, and rightly so. Never settled.
Dan Parslow (currently on loan at York) - Out of contract - Will go back to York full-time
Aaron Downes - Out of contract - Expect him to be offered a coaching role, his playing days are probably behind him now (which is scary as he's younger than me).
Will Boyle - Contracted - Our defence next season will be built around him.
Manny Oniariase - On Loan from Brentford - Has grown into a decent defender since making his debut at the beginning of January, would love him back next season.
Tin Plavotic - On loan from Bristol City - Class, but very raw. Would have him back, and more than likely to be back if Lee Johnson somehow keeps his job at City.
Liam Davis - Out of contract - Started well, but has faded. Definitely a bit of class - re-sign.
Jordan Cranston - Out of contract - Not up to standard as a starter, but we've had worse squad players - re-sign only as a squad player
Daniel O'Shaughnessy - Out of contract - Expect him to be given a new deal. Has grown over the season until injury cut him short
Matt Bower - Out of contract - First year pro - not made any impressions, expect him to be let go.
Jordan Lymm - Out of contract - First year pro - not made any impressions, expect him to be let go.

MIDFIELD
Asa Hall (currently on loan at York) - Out of contract - He's off. Injuries have blighted his time here. Can't fault his effort.
Kyle Storer - Out of contract - Give him the armband and make him sign the new deal now. No coincidence all but one of our League wins have come when he's been in the team. His disciplinary record will improve.
Harry Pell - Contracted - Seems settled at the club, and is loved by the fans. Just don't make him captain again.
Jack Munns - Out of contract - Sadly not given much of a chance and I expect him to be let go. A shame as he really has deserved more of a shot at League football.
James Dayton - Out of contract - A class act, but simply can't stay fit. I'd keep him if he could string more than 3-4 games together, but expect him to be let go.
James Rowe - Out of contract - A tough one. I expect him to be kept on, but a lot of Town fans would love to see him released. He's very hit and miss.

FORWARDS
Darren Wright - Out of contract - Could be kept on as a squad player, has grown into a Football League player. Wouldn't be surprised if he was let go though.
Kyle Wootton - On loan from Scunthorpe - Has done ok, but not enough to warrant coming back in my eyes.
Amari Morgan-Smith (currently on loan at York) - Out of Contract - I expect him to go, although I don't think he was really given a chance this season.
Billy Waters - Out of contract - He'll decide if he goes or not, he's been brilliant this season and has certainly earned a new deal.
Dan Holman - Contracted - He will come back a million times better next season after a full pre-season. Has never got over his injury right at the start of this season.

 

[jacobncfc]

Goalkeepers:-

Adam Collin - Is under contract and will stay, I guess. He's not particularly good but not bad enough to make replacing him a priority.
Scott Loach - Will be released. Nice guy and is alright but too expensive for a back up 'keeper at this level.

Defenders:-

Elliott Hewitt - Jury's out. I quite like him and he's got potential but is very inconsistent. Ability to play in a number of positions helps his cause.
Matt Tootle - One of many who were shite under Sheridan but have been great under Nolan. Right back is his for next season on current form.
Richard Duffy - As above, really. Is out of contract as he waived an extension clause in January, but expect Nolan to want to keep him.
Haydn Hollis - Would keep. His form tends to follow the team's and i'm not sure he's reliable enough as first choice, but fine as cover.
Thierry Audel - Will be released. Shame as he's a decent player but just can't stay fit for long enough to establish himself.
Wes Atkinson - Never done owt. Released.
Carl Dickinson - Under contract but wouldn't be surprised if we tried to move him on - just hasn't worked out. That said, even he's looked decent filling in for Bola the last couple.

Midfielders:-

Michael O'Connor - Been excellent under Nolan after six months of being dismal. Under contract, probably stay as captain.
Rob Milsom - Generally been consistent the whole way through his Notts career but has probably been our stand-out player under Nolan. New deal.
Curtis Thompson - Career seems to be drifting a bit after looking to have real potential at one point, but worth persevering with.
Mark Yeates - Done a job since signing in January but not stood out enough to earn a longer deal.
Alan Smith - Really he should retire, but doubt he will.

Strikers:-

Jon Stead - We'll try and keep him but Portland Timbers tried to sign him in January and I expect him to head there for a final pay day.
Shola Ameobi - Give the man a 100 year contract. A colossus.
Jonathan Forte - I like him, but Nolan doesn't seem to. Is under contract but expect we'll try and move him on.
Adam Campbell - Released, just not up to it.

Discounting the youngsters like Richards, McMillan and Gibson as I simply don't know enough about them. Of the loanees I expect us to chuck everything at trying to sign Jorge Grant, Marc Bola is well out of our reach and Tahvon Campbell/Josh Clackstone are squad fillers who aren't very good.

If we could keep those above then it gives us a decent platform to build from. We'd have lots of solid, dependable players tied down but lack the game changers that you need to mount a promotion push. Would allow us to invest what will be a decent budget in a centre back partner for Duffy, a new left back, two wingers and a striker to play off Shola, rather than spreading ourselves thinly across 15 signings like we normally do.

 

[cufc17]

Goalkeepers:

Mark Gillespie - Out of contract this summer but been offered a new deal, he's a fairly average 'keeper at this level. Keep.
Max Crocombe - Signed in the summer to 'challenge' the number one spot, but he's only played in the Checkatrade Trophy. Release.

Defenders:
Tom Miller - He's been very average this season after an impressive debut season. He's contracted for next season so imagine he'll be staying.
Alex McQueen - Curle's 'project'. Signed numerous short-term deals but has rarely featured and will be out of contract. Release.
Michael Raynes - Solid League Two defender, has his faults but can't fault his commitment. Been offered a new contract. Keep.
Shaun Brisley - Expected him to have a positive impact on our defence but has only recently started to put in some solid performances. Under contract so can't see him leaving.
Mark Ellis - Loaned to Forest Green, many fans like him but Curle isn't really keen. Under contract but I think Curle will be looking to get shot. Release.
Macaulay Gillesphey (loan from Newcastle) - Started the season as well as he ended last term, but went well off the boil. Don't think I'd want him back if offered the chance.
Danny Grainger - One of our key players and club captain, out of contract but offered a new deal. Definitely keep.
Patrick Brough - Young lad but just not good enough. Release.

Midfielders:

Mike Jones - I'd say he's been our player of the season, fantastic player who we've missed when injured. KEEP.
Luke Joyce - Partnership with Jones was key to our early success, much more of a weak link when separated. Keep.
Jason Kennedy - Such an important player, comes up with vital goals from midfield and always dependable. KEEP.
Jamie Devitt - Looked a promising signing but just hasn't worked out at all. Get rid.
Russell Penn - Loaned to Wrexham, barely played for us since his summer arrival. He'll be gone.
James Bailey - Only arrived last month but I can't see what he brings to the squad. Curle will probably keep him.
Gary Liddle - Don't think he's great myself, can't see him being released though.
Reggie Lambe - Largely inconsistent but he's chipped in with some goals, about what I expected from him. Probably keep him as a squad player.
John O'Sullivan - He's looked lively since arriving in January, ended our goal drought on Saturday. Give him a 5 year contract.
Nicky Adams - First half of the season he was outstanding, but gone off the boil as the team has lost form. Keep but he may want to leave.

Forwards:

Jamie Proctor (on loan from Bolton) - He started his spell with us superbly, but he's offered little since. Wouldn't keep as he'd be too expensive for what he offers.
Jabo Ibehre - Fan favourite and a really nice guy, he'll probably head back south now after a positive spell here.
Shaun Miller - Looks a decent player and probably needs a settled run in the team. Keep.
George Waring - On loan from Stoke. He's pure shite.

There's 4 or 5 others who are on short-term deals but I think only 1 of those might be here next season, Samir Nabi.

Regardless if we get promoted or not, half the team will need rebuilt and improved, and key players need to be kept.

 

[Chief Rocka]

Here's ours, other Poolies may disagree

GK

Carson - Keep for sure but we won't
Fryer - on loan from Boro, would like him back when Carson leaves. Looks a decent goalie.

DEF

Magnay - keep. No world beater but L2 is his level and is our best option at RB
Rob Jones - get rid
Bates - get rid, injury prone
Harrison - will be here next season anyway regardless
Walker - probably Dave Jones' most telling contribution (even though his hand was forced), was moving him to CB. Looks assured there.
Donnelly - keep, versatility is an asset
Richardson - very young but should keep, could become a decent lower league full back.
Martin - get rid

MIDFIELD

Woods - get rid, just doesn't offer enough and isn't fit enough either
Featherstone - I'd keep as a squad player, probably the best passer in the side but would only have him in a 3 man midfield
Hawkins - keep. Again, as a squad player
Deverdics - not really done it at league level but we haven't used him right. Get rid.
Smith, Green - get rid
Thomas - will go regardless so no sense mentioning him.

FORWARDS

Amond - keep for sure, best finisher at the club.
Alessandra - hit and miss but should keep
Paynter - get rid
Oates - keep as a squad player. Very fit and not afraid to have a go. Good last 20 minute sub.
Rodney, Rooney, Orrell - get rid.

So in all, I'd release/sell 13 players. We need major changes next season.

Need another 'keeper, 1/2 centre halves, a left back, about 5 midfielders and 1/2 forwards.

Wish us luck

Got it pretty spot on for me, Thomas and Carson will move on to bigger and better things in the summer without question, I could see that list being vastly different if we did go down, no way would Amond/Allessandra/Featherstone stick about for non league footy.

 

[Soup Ladle]

I thought Carson lived up in the North East? Why would he go?
.

Because we're shite and he can do much better than us.

Even if he wants to stay we'll sell him on anyway.

 

[PoolieTom]

I think he'll stay regardless, personally. Think he would prefer being settled with his family over a couple of extra quid at Mansfield or something (unless a Sheff U/Bradford came calling, but I doubt it)

Agree on the whole with your release/retained list, just two I'd change. Magnay I'd release, misses more games than he plays, and Deverdics I'd keep, too. We haven't utilised him enough IMO.

 

[shoddycollins]

Goalkeepers:

Mark Gillespie - Out of contract this summer but been offered a new deal, he's a fairly average 'keeper at this level. Keep.
Max Crocombe - Signed in the summer to 'challenge' the number one spot, but he's only played in the Checkatrade Trophy. Release.

Defenders:
Tom Miller - He's been very average this season after an impressive debut season. He's contracted for next season so imagine he'll be staying.
Alex McQueen - Curle's 'project'. Signed numerous short-term deals but has rarely featured and will be out of contract. Release.
Michael Raynes - Solid League Two defender, has his faults but can't fault his commitment. Been offered a new contract. Keep.
Shaun Brisley - Expected him to have a positive impact on our defence but has only recently started to put in some solid performances. Under contract so can't see him leaving.
Mark Ellis - Loaned to Forest Green, many fans like him but Curle isn't really keen. Under contract but I think Curle will be looking to get shot. Release.
Macaulay Gillesphey (loan from Newcastle) - Started the season as well as he ended last term, but went well off the boil. Don't think I'd want him back if offered the chance.
Danny Grainger - One of our key players and club captain, out of contract but offered a new deal. Definitely keep.
Patrick Brough - Young lad but just not good enough. Release.

Midfielders:

Mike Jones - I'd say he's been our player of the season, fantastic player who we've missed when injured. KEEP.
Luke Joyce - Partnership with Jones was key to our early success, much more of a weak link when separated. Keep.
Jason Kennedy - Such an important player, comes up with vital goals from midfield and always dependable. KEEP.
Jamie Devitt - Looked a promising signing but just hasn't worked out at all. Get rid.
Russell Penn - Loaned to Wrexham, barely played for us since his summer arrival. He'll be gone.
James Bailey - Only arrived last month but I can't see what he brings to the squad. Curle will probably keep him.
Gary Liddle - Don't think he's great myself, can't see him being released though.
Reggie Lambe - Largely inconsistent but he's chipped in with some goals, about what I expected from him. Probably keep him as a squad player.
John O'Sullivan - He's looked lively since arriving in January, ended our goal drought on Saturday. Give him a 5 year contract.
Nicky Adams - First half of the season he was outstanding, but gone off the boil as the team has lost form. Keep but he may want to leave.

Forwards:

Jamie Proctor (on loan from Bolton) - He started his spell with us superbly, but he's offered little since. Wouldn't keep as he'd be too expensive for what he offers.
Jabo Ibehre - Fan favourite and a really nice guy, he'll probably head back south now after a positive spell here.
Shaun Miller - Looks a decent player and probably needs a settled run in the team. Keep.
George Waring - On loan from Stoke. He's pure shite.

There's 4 or 5 others who are on short-term deals but I think only 1 of those might be here next season, Samir Nabi.

Regardless if we get promoted or not, half the team will need rebuilt and improved, and key players need to be kept.

I'd probably keep Crocombe on account of his age. Can't really judge his ability as we have barely seen him, only Curle can do that but I presume he's on the upswing of his career and better that than an ageing backup keeper a-la Greg Fleming. Backup keepers are on a bit of a hiding to nothing, the manager always says they're here to challenge the number one spot, but unless the number one gets injured or has an absolute mare they never get to do that.

It's a shame for Patrick Brough, I think Curle's done the right thing keeping him on this long as he was very young when first thrust into our first team and wouldn't have deserved to be shown the door because of that, can't see him remaining this time around though.

Russell Penn isn't on loan, he left permanently.

I'd keep Devitt as well myself, he's shown some signs of being the player we hoped we were signing, it's just not worked for him, not helped by him never getting a run in the side. I feel his more likely to improve next season than he is to worsen or stay the same.

 

[Clarkey_GTFC]

Goalkeeper:
James McKeown: Legend for what he's done for us but he's been underwhelming this season and threw a paddy when he wasn't playing; up for interpretation and probably a lack of communication but it didn't look good on his end. Keep if he'd be willing to have competition but not good enough as #1.

Defence:
Shaun Pearson: Best centre half at the club and has been since he arrived in 2011. Keep.
Danny Collins: Getting on a bit, few costly mistakes but can still do a job. I don't think he'll be here next season but I would be happy to keep him.
Andrew Boyce: Always thought he was overrated but I may have been a bit harsh. Decent backup but not a starter. Under contract so likely to keep his spot on the bench.
Gavin Gunning: I liked him after his debut but everytime I've seen him since I've been less and less convinced, albeit thanks to his holding midfield role. May well come good but we'll be better off going for tried and tested. Get rid.
Josh Gowling: Fallen off the face of the earth. Can be solid but can also be a liability. He's gone either way.
Danny Andrew: Been our player of the season by a long long way. I think any team in this league would love to have him. Keep at all costs but I fear he's already got a foot out the door.
Zak Mills: Has come close to mirroring the performances of Andrew on his opposite side but for a few spells of poor form. Talented and exciting fullback who I would definitely keep.
Ben Davies: Has been okay but nothing spectacular. Not sure he's good enough for a starting spot anymore. Probably on a fair whack of money too. Tough one.
Dan Jones: Barely been given a chance but for Saturday's bizarre run out in midfield. I hear he's capable as well as versatile at the back, keep for backup.

Midfield:
Craig Disley: Give the man a lifetime contract.
Luke Summerfield: Blew hot and cold, mainly the latter. As mentioned I think conference is his level. Get rid.
James Berrett: Truely woeful. Rid.
Sean McAllister: Missed any games he played at the start of the season but has been out with injuries since. Apparently been fit and training for the past few weeks but yet to be given a look in. I'll be surprised if he's here next season.
Chris Clements: Started brightly, sometimes puts himself about but has gone missing recently, as was warned by the Mansfield lot. Decent option in midfield with some clear talent but could be better. Keep.
Jamey Osborne: Class act. Glides through the other team if given the chance and his vision is impressive. Been off the boil a bit recently since revealing his trouble with shin splints. Great signing.
Brandon Comley (loan): Very good player, sometimes loses the ball but will win back even more. Would love to have him permanently but I don't think we've got much chance.
Dom Vose (loan): Won't run through brick walls but will add some much needed finesse and creativity when things are becoming frustrating. Very talented player. Would be happy to sign him if Scunny get rid.
Rhys Browne: Liked the look of him and would definitely like to keep but I feel like he'll be gone next season. Hopefully not the case.
Tom Bolarinwa: A real force if he gets to run with the ball, leaves defenders in a major panic but his final ball is dreadful. Sometimes makes up for it by simply winning penalties. Was bizarrely given a 3 year contract so will almost certainly be here next season, can't complain but need better if we're to progress.
Ashley Chambers: Real hard worker and was actually a stand out for me in the first third of the season but I don't think he's got enough about his game. Thanks but rid.
Luke Maxwell (loan): Big lad but he's barely played, started one game but was completely ineffective according to the commentators. Simply cannot say.

Attack:
Sam Jones: Quality player, can see why Bignot tried so hard to sign him. Obviously losing Bogle was tough but we signed Jones as a result for a fraction of the money. Definitely not saying he's as good but it could turn out to be a great bit of business if he bags what he's capable of next season. Powerful, good finisher, great ball control. Excited by him.
Akwasi Asante: Looks okay going by highlights, not been impressed with him at home games but looks like he's got enough to become a good signing. Hoping he comes good after a solid preseason.
Scott Vernon: He's okay but he will never be prolific and I don't think he's got many assists to make up for it. Get rid.
Adi Yussuf: Actually been quite impressed with him whenever I've seen him, for whatever reason he's not had much of a chance recently. I think he's got more to offer. Keep.
Calum Dyson: Played as a target man and does okay, wins his share of headers but not many are effective. He's excellent with the ball at his feet running at people but he plays with Jones who does it much better. I think the lads got a future but I don't think it's here.


Keep:
Shaun Pearson
Danny Collins
Danny Andrew
Zak Mills
Dan Jones
Craig Disley
Chris Clements
Jamey Osborne
Brandon Comley (L)
Dom Vose (L)
Tom Bolarwina
Sam Jones
Akwasi Asante
Adi Yussuf

Unsure:
James McKeown
Andrew Boyce
Ben Davies
Sean McAllister
Rhys Browne
Calum Dyson (L)

Get rid:
Gavin Gunning
Josh Gowling
Luke Summerfield
James Berrett
Ashley Chambers
Luke Maxwell (L)
Scott Vernon

 

[Soup Ladle]

I think he'll stay regardless, personally. Think he would prefer being settled with his family over a couple of extra quid at Mansfield or something (unless a Sheff U/Bradford came calling, but I doubt it)

Agree on the whole with your release/retained list, just two I'd change. Magnay I'd release, misses more games than he plays, and Deverdics I'd keep, too. We haven't utilised him enough IMO.

I obviously hope Carson stays, got to be one of the best 'keepers in the lower leagues, certainly in this division.

Deverdics is 50/50 for me, there's a player there somewhere but he likes operating just behind a forward which we don't normally do. Will be interesting to see how Magnay does now he's coming back.

For next season, here would be my squad:

GK: Carson, +1
DEF: Harrison, Walker, Donnelly, Magnay, Richardson +1/2 centre half, +1 left back
MID: Featherstone, Hawkins, (Deverdics), Alessandra, +2 centre mids (one who gets stuck in and one who is a leader), + 1/2 more wingers
STR: Amond, Oates + 1/2 others. Preferably at least one who can hold the ball up.

Need a fair bit of surgery but whether we get it is more than debatable.

 

[Si Robin]

Personally, I felt Carson was very overrated here. He was decent, but he wasn't as good as some Town fans would have you believe. I'd much rather Scott Brown for example.

I don't think he'll leave Hartlepool unless pushed personally. He was itching to leave us to move back closer to home before we were relegated in 2015. the relegation just gave him more of an excuse.

 

[shoddycollins]

I obviously hope Carson stays, got to be one of the best 'keepers in the lower leagues, certainly in this division.

Deverdics is 50/50 for me, there's a player there somewhere but he likes operating just behind a forward which we don't normally do. Will be interesting to see how Magnay does now he's coming back.

For next season, here would be my squad:

GK: Carson, +1
DEF: Harrison, Walker, Donnelly, Magnay, Richardson +1/2 centre half, +1 left back
MID: Featherstone, Hawkins, (Deverdics), Alessandra, +2 centre mids (one who gets stuck in and one who is a leader), + 1/2 more wingers
STR: Amond, Oates + 1/2 others. Preferably at least one who can hold the ball up.

Need a fair bit of surgery but whether we get it is more than debatable.

Where are you going to find half a centre back? Maybe you'd like half of Michael Raynes as we only really need his top half.

 

[Soup Ladle]

Where are you going to find half a centre back? Maybe you'd like half of Michael Raynes as we only really need his top half.

That must be why I said the squad needs major surgery

 

[Hatter86]

Ok, so my tuppence worth.

Keepers
Matt Macey (Loan) - Return to club. Mirror reporting this has happened tonight with Arsenal recalling
Stuart Moore (Loan)- Return to club. Played once, was poor. Not ready for first team.
Craig King- Keep. Deserves time to develop.
Liam Gooch- Keep. Send him somewhere on a seasons loan.

Defenders
Dan Potts- Release. Not my sort of player. Reminds me of Ronnie Henry in that he just will not attack. If you are playing a diamond or wingbacks, your fullbacks have to provide the width.
Jack Senior- Keep. Will be a top player, got a bit of growing to do.
James Justin- Keep. No brainer, he'll be great.
Stephen O'Donnell- Keep. Controversial but would keep. If we are going to persist with 3 CB's and Wing Backs, he is perfect. Really needs to work on final ball. Suspect he will be released. Something of a scapegoat.
Glen Rea- Keep. Great young player, prefer him as Defensive Mid.
Scott Cuthbert- Keep. Shut a lot of people up. Second only to Hylton as player of the season.
Alan Sheehan- Keep. Better as left back in a flat back four or left centre half in a back three. Great delivery, love him.
Johnny Mullins- Sell. Hasn't done it for me, on his way down. Coupe of sending offs. Never had the height and suspect he has lost the pace. Tough decision, but necessary.
Frankie Musonda- Keep. Youth team captain last year, disappeard off the face of the early. give him a loan somewhere.
Akin Famewo- Keep. Seems to have surpassed Musonda. Expose him mroe to the first team.

Midfielders
Jonathan Smith- Release. Great servant however time to go. Always been limited, however his energy is not enough
Danny Green- Release. Seems a serious injury can't really afford to gamble on a renewal.
Olly Lee- Release. Has to go. Another scapegoat however has had some shocking games. Probably better suited to less physical league.
Pelly Ruddock-Mpanzu- Keep. Need to work out what his best position is, suspect it is not as a DM.
Jake Gray- Keep. I'd keep him however I would also loan him out. Give him 6 months playing week in, week out and see what he does.
Cameron McGeehan- Keep. I can't see us keeping hold of him though.
Luke Gambin- Keep. Like him a lot, another we need to work out his best position though.
Lawson D'ath- Keep. Hasn't played enough but has been good the last two games. Suspect he will be a really good signing for us
Jordan Cook- Keep. I would keep him, only if McGeehan goes though. Can't really afford to lose two number 10's in one window.
Tyreeq Bakinson- Keep. Another youth team superstar who has disappeard. Loan him out somewhere.

Forwards
Danny Hylton- Keep. Obviously, I love the man. I want him to be my mate.
Isaac Vassel- Keep. He's only going to get better.
Jack Marriott- Keep. Difficult season with the emergence of Vassell. There's definitely a player in there though.
Josh McQuoid- Release. Fairplay for him doing a job at Stevenage but never really worked here.
Craig Mackail Smith- Release. Suffered due to Stills tactics, injured for much of Jones' reign. hasn't worked.
Zane Banton- Release. He's never going to break into the first team squad.
Ollie Palmer (Loan)- Return to club. A tough one. Despite what Orient and Mansfield fans have said, he has done ok and offers us something different. However if we want a battering ram plan B, are better options.

We need an experienced permanent keeper in. We have suffered twice now losing young loan keepers due to recall. We struggled when Walton went back and now we have lost Macey too it could derails us. No names spring to mind.
I would go shopping for a quality left wing back to play ahead of Senior. Continue with Justin and SOD at right wing backs. Have Cuthbert, Sheehan and Rea as centre halves plus invest in another big bastard to head balls away all day long. I'd love to still have Luke Wilkinson, one of the few playes Jones got wrong I reckon.
In midfield we need at least two. An experienced ball playing type and then a number 10 with genuine attack threat, presuming we lose McGeehan. Might also need a winger.
Up top we need one more I think. Would love James Collins if he was available. Someone who is a natural goal scorer.

 

[TommoCUFC]

Keepers:

-Will Norris - KEEP - one of the best keepers in the division. Easy decision.
-David Gregory - NEW DEAL - looked capable when he's played. One for the future. Will be good backup for Norris if/when he moves on.

Defenders:

-Jake Carroll - KEEP - January signing with two years left on his deal. He's staying. I really want to rate him, he's got all the makings of a good modern day full back, just needs to show it.
-Greg Taylor - NEW DEAL - definitely earned himself a new contract. Covered centre back, left back, right back and centre midfield this season well.
-Leon Legge - KEEP - a few mistakes have started to creep into his game, but still an excellent and dominant centre back.
-Harry Darling - KEEP - very highly regarded. Doing alright out on loan by all accounts. Possibly loan out, but possibly okay for backup.
-Mark Roberts - RELEASE - did alright around November time, but not really done enough to warrant a new deal IMO.
-Josh Coulson - KEEP - one of our own. Will be good backup (at least) when he returns from injury.
-Brad Halliday - KEEP - if we can. Quality player. Simple.
-Leon Davies - LOAN OUT - one for the future. Definitely something there but needs some experience.

Midfielders:

-Harrison Dunk - KEEP - flying winger, been so good for us for the past five or six years. Fans favourite, easy decision.
-George Maris - NEW DEAL - definitely something there. Really promising young player, worth another year at least.
-Medy Elito - KEEP - chipped in with a few goals, good player to have around.
-Paul Lewis - KEEP - January signing. Here for the future, fairly promising.
-Liam O'Neil - KEEP - he's staying. Not shown much encouragement so far, but he's got three more years to run on his deal, so we have to back him.
-Conor Newton - RELEASE - came with such a high amount of expectation and never lived up to it. Runs around a lot but not really effective.
-James Dunne - NEW DEAL - suspect he'll be off, excellent player at this level, but something's not quite right there. Will be a good signing for whoever he ends up with.
-Dylan Williams - LOAN OUT - no idea whether he's under contract or not, young player probably worth keeping on to see how he develops.
-Luke Berry - KEEP - different class. If he's playing below the championship next season I'll be surprised. We'll do well to hold on to him after a 20+ goal season.
-Piero Mingoia - KEEP - one of the best in the league. Consistently quality delivery, another easy decision.

Strikers:

-Barry Corr - NEW DEAL - presuming he can keep fit, top quality striker at this level, 1 in 2 strikers are invaluable.
-Uche Ikpeazu - KEEP - changed our season. Parts of his game need to develop, but still a huge player for us.
-Adam McGurk - KEEP - under contract, had injury problems all season, hopefully we can see what he's got to offer in 17/18.
-Ben Williamson - RELEASE - great in 15/16, but has had a disastrous 16/17. 1 goal in 40 odd appearances simply isn't good enough, sorry Ben.
-Joe Pigott - RELEASE - the epitome of our shambolic summer recruitment. An absolutely horrendous footballer destined for non league. 0 league goals for us tells the story. Don't care if he's scored a couple for Maidstone, good riddance.
-Matt Foy - LOAN OUT - another youngster. Experience of senior football will be crucial at this stage of his development. Seems to score a few for the youth team.

Loanees:

-Scott Wharton (CB, on loan from Blackburn) - SIGN - if we can. Out of contract, but suspect Blackburn will fancy him in league one next season. Everything I want from a centre half.
-Max Clark (CM, on loan from Hull) - SEND BACK - good in 15/16 while he was here, but another that's failed to kick on in 16/17. Definitely don't see him having a future with Hull.
-Gerry McDonagh (ST, on loan from Forest) - SEND BACK - works hard, simply not enough quality at this stage. One for the future, wish him all the best.

Manager:

-Shaun Derry - KEEP - I'm probably in the minority here. We haven't achieved what we wanted to this season, and he's still learning his trade, but I'm not sure this season has been a sackable offence. There's a lot to be said for stability in the modern game, and our board will back him this summer just as they have done since he was appointed. I suspect he won't get anywhere near the same level of support should we start the season in the same fashion as last season though. The home form NEEDS sorting out. Improved recruitment will be key.

What do we need?

-A quality centre half to go alongside Leon. Scott Wharton would be great, but anyone as comfortable on the ball and strong in the tackle would be welcomed.
-Cover at right back/left back depending on where Greg Taylor's long term future is seen.
-A fast, tricky winger in the Ismail mould to try and change the game.
-Holding midfielder. I hope James Dunne will sign again, but I'm resigned to losing him. Someone as good/better would probably be top of my list.
-Box to box midfielder. Someone who can drive between the lines and press in the way that Newton tries to do, but someone better.
-Striker. We've got two good target men in Uche/Corr, and someone who can drop in and pull the strings in McGurk. I'd like us to add someone who can play on the shoulder of the last defender and work the channels. A Ricky Miller type would be ideal, but he'd probably be too expensive
-Striker. Could be Foy, or a loanee. McGurk, Corr and Uche have all spent long periods on the sidelines. We can't go into next season as ill-prepared in forward areas as we did this season. Probably cost us 10+ points. Strength in depth is key.

 

[hellogregory]

I'm wondering why Cambridge aren't higher up the league when you look at the above. Their squad appears to be littered with talent that are "best in the league", plenty of "excellent and dominant", "top quality at this level", "highly rated", "different class".

Why aren't they in the promotion places? Should you be looking at your manager and asking why he hasn't turned this group of phenomonal talents into a promotion winning squad?