FM16 - The Sky Bet Football League thread

[sammo10]

Thanks Jogo. I was disappointed not to get a fee, but his wages were a joke at 20k. Bizarrely he only signed a 6 month deal at Brighton on 10k p/w.

I agree about the academy players. Jake Cooper is already my first choice centre back and Kuhl has featured quite often since he returned from loan in January. I'll also be looking to introduce Fosu next season.

[kozmik]

League table after 6 games:

Looks every bit as bad as I feared it might. The annoying thing is that while defeats to United and Liverpool were completely deserved, against Spurs we were the better team until they scored two quick goals at about 70 mins after which we didn't get a look in, and against Chelsea and City we were better in every department except scoring. The good thing is that even among all these defeats we managed to win both at QPR and our first Europa game at Frankfurt. We got a tough-ish group of Valencia, Young Boys and Frankfurt so extremely important to start with a win. That also gives me hope that we won't dwell on these early defeats too much and will instead start picking up wins and climbing up the table sooner rather than later. Next up is Brentford away in the league cup, hopefully we'll get a good, morale raising win. Will be 10 league games before we face another top team, Arsenal, hopefully we can get 20+ points from those. Then starting from the new year we'll be up against the return fixtures of the horrendous first six games, after that it's smooth sailing until Arsenal away on the last day. Top half is the aim and plenty of time to get there yet.

[Gungner]

I've just bought and installed the game (Yeah, I know I'm late ), and gonna have my first save alongside Wigan.

It's a really insane budget for League One, and I can only imagine that they expect promotion. My question is: Any other Wigan managers in here, and who would be good and realistic transfer targets?

[Jogo Bonito]

Welcome Gungner. I don't think I've seen any Wigan manager in here so far this year. I've considered them but thought it would be too easy to get a double promotion. There are some very useful players in the squad - although plenty that aren't so good. Have a look through page 1 of this guide and see if a few names from the English leagues might appeal to you. The club rep should be good enough for any player in L1, L2 and most of Scotland to be interested in joining (Jason Cummings would be good value as a starting point). If you're looking at players from abroad it might limit your options if a WP is needed. What positions are you looking to fill and how much do you have to spend?

[Gungner]

Well, I haven't started the save yet... Just wanted to know where other Wigan managers might feel that new players were needed

[Jogo Bonito]

Understood, good luck

[sammo10]

Season Review 2015/16

It was a devastating end to an up and down season. We made it to an FA cup Semi final and the play off final. Unfortunately we lost on penalties to Middlesbrough in the play offs, after playing out a 0-0 in 120 minutes. We scraped 6th and scored a ton of goals, unfortunately it was our defending that really saw us miss out on an automatic spot.

We absolutely smashed some teams,, including getting 5 against Middlesbrough. Unfortunately we couldn't repeat that in the play off final. We had a sensational cup run, making it to a Semi Final at Wembley. Beating Chelsea and Everton put a real shine on the season and were massive wins.

Team

Goalkeepers

Ali Al Habsi - 56 apps - 7.16 - 11 Clean sheets - He was the number 1 keeper. Kept us in some games with incredible saves but also capable of a massive **** up. The big one in the play off semis, completely missing his kick from Coopers back pass.

John Bond - 1 app - 6.8 - Only played one game. I am undecided on whether to keep or give more games next year.

Defenders

Chris Gunter - 45 apps - 7.41 - 0 goal, 6 assists - A really good season from Gunter. Really attacked well and performed quite well defensively. A key player going forward.

Nathan Thompson - 32 apps - 7.20 - 0 goals, 6 assists - Originally signed to cover RB and CB, he did to begin with, but by the end was part of the first choice centre back partnership. A great investment.

Jordan Obita - 48 apps - 7.28 - 1 goal, 8 assists - Showed a lot going forward. He was a bit suspect at times defensively, giving away some soft penalties. But defending improved as the season went on.

Andrew Taylor - 3 apps - 7.12 - 0 goals, 2 assists - Unfortunately Taylor picked up a very long injury so couldnt feature much. A shame as he looked good in his few appearances.

Jake Cooper - 47 apps, 7.24 - 2 goals - A breakout season for the academy graduate. Now the main man at the back and No1 Centre back going into next season.Really pleased with how he stepped up.

Paul McShane - 20 apps 6.90 - 0 goals - The captain, wasn't that impressed with him. He did okay but we seemed to concede more in the games he played. Not sure whether to keep him around next year. He wants a move.

Michael Hector - 33 apps - 7.20- 0 goals - A good season, lost his place towards the end of next season when Thompson broke into the side.That was more with next season in mind.

Anton Ferdinand - 0 apps - kept getting injured and never seemed match fit. Will not be getting a new deal.

Midfield

Aaron Kuhl 13 apps - 7.47 - 1 goal, 1 assist - Really impressed when he came back from his loan. Will be an important player for me next year, as I am looking to set up a possion based 4-3-3

Olly Norwood - 36 apps, 7.34 - 0 goals, 6 assists - Played very well and kept everything ticking in midfield. Would like to see him on the scoresheet next year.

Danny Williams - 31 apps - 7.37 - 1 goal, 1 assist - Important to have. Great at winning the ball back. Poor discipline though. He picked up 15 yellows and 2 reds.

Stephen Quinn - 37 apps - 7.21 - 0 goals, 2 assists - Was an important player. Is a real all rounder (Goalscoring aside) Can't complain with any of his performances

Alex Fernandez - 24 apps - 7.11 0 goals, 6 assists - Didn't featue regularly. Mainly as I knew he would not be here next year. Did a job when called upon.

Garath McLeary - 48 apps - 7.53 - 12 goals, 16 assists - The FL player of the year. Massive player for us. Involved in everything good that we did and every full back in the leagues worst nightmare.

Ola John - 46 apps - 7.46 - 18 goals, 7 assists - Was incredible in the first half of the season, dropped off a bit in the second, but he will be really missed next year.

Lucas Piazon - 35 apps- 7.44 - 10 goals, 9 assists - Showed his class for us. Just produced some great moments. Another that will be missed.

Junior Stanislas 4 apps - 7.26 - 2 goals, 2 assists - Was showing great promise, scoring twice in 4 sub apps. Unfortunately picked bad injury and his season ended in February.

Strikers

Matej Vydra 45 apps, 7.31 - 33 goals, 5 assists - A goal machine. Brilliant finisher. I will do everything possible to get him back. I dont think we can afford him though.

Dwight Gayle 24 apps- 7.50 - 14 goals, 10 assists - Really boosted the squad, coming in, in January. Scored some big goals and will have to take on the responsibility of being the main man next year.

Orlando Sa - 21 apps 7.08 - 8 goals, 7 assists - Did well for us. The picked up an injury that put him out for 10 months! He still has 4 months before he can return.

Tom Pope - 14 goals - 6.78 - 1 goal - Did not work for him. Not cut out for this level

[Jogo Bonito]

Great write up sammo, and what an exciting season (quite a shame it's nothing like that in real life eh). You were very unlucky right at the end in league and cup, but overall you have to view that as a very good season. Nice analysis of your players, amazed to see nearly everybody average over 7.00 as I usually only get half of my team like that even in a good season. The fact your defenders did it despite conceding 72 goals is quite a surprise! On the positive side, great stuff in attack, with Gayle and Vydra especially lethal. Good signing of Nathan Thompson too, possibly the smallest ever player that can be a really decent central defender (versatile too). Well done with Cooper, and it will be good to give opportunities to the likes of Kuhl, Tshibola, Samuel, and even Fosu, Stacey, Liburd, Novakovich and Keown.

In addition to my main save with Coventry (hoping to finish season 2 this weekend), I have set up some 'challenge' saves, in a way I never did before. Basically, I checked out teams that were relegated in season 1, checked if the squad looked ok, and decided I would try and 'turn' them by taking charge in a lower division.

So far I have set up Huddersfield for League 1, and both Blackpool and Swindon for League 2. Huddersfield kept most of their squad together after relegation, so I think it will be an enjoyable season managing that team at a slightly lower level. Swindon in League 2 was also an attractive challenge, although the one player they sold that I wanted to have available was Nathan Thompson. One day maybe I can buy him back. Finally, Blackpool - purely in the hope that there is a takeover and the Oyston family are no longer associated. That job is a really tough one, as I had a negative transfer balance of over £100k, and only about 10 players in the squad after I had to let all expiring contracts run out due to finances. With the few players left, the wage bill was about £15k per week (incredibly low), but with a transfer embargo in place there isn't yet any opportunity to bring in free transfer or loan players. The club asked me to disband the youth set up too, which I agreed to do, so it's going to be a real test of management skills to keep them up and competitive for season 2016/2017.

[sammo10]

Cheers Jogo. Yeah it's quite crazy actually RE the ratings. I think it might be because I was playing a very attacking 4-4-2 this season, so the midfields good ratings were for their attacking exploits and where the defence was left exposed most of the time I guess they were firefighting and probably stopped what could've been a hell of a lot more goals.

I'm looking to change this next season by trying to play a possession based 4-3-3. Hopefully having a lot more of the ball will mean having less attacks to defend.

[Spiegel]

Finally come to the end of my first season in charge of my home town side, Hartlepool United. The media had predicted an 18th place finish in League Two, but we finished 5th, with Play-Off promotion! We came flying out of the blocks, in an automatic promotion spot by January. We floundered mid season however, ending up as low as 12th, but we brought it back with an excellent unbeaten run at the end of the season.

League Two Signings

Isaac Osbourne - Free

Steven Hewitt - Loan

Raphael Calvert - Free

Jack Barmby - Loan

League Two Squad

Goalkeepers

Trevor Carson - 49 appearances, 39 conceded, 21 clean sheets - 7.01 AVG Rating

It was a hit and miss season for Carson, a tremendous shotstopper, but was absolutely abysmal when dealing with crosses. I saw the "*OPPOSITION* SCORES! BUT HE NEVER MEANT IT!" all too many times. Put in an excellent display against Oxford in the Playoff semi's however, a 9.0 rating and saving two penalties in the shoot out is not to be sniffed at. Was sold to Crewe at the end of the season, his wages were quite high and I remain unconvinced of his League 1 quality.

Defenders

Carl Magnay - 16 appearances, 0 goals, 2 assists - 6.89 AVG Rating

A capable option in a regularly rotating RB slot. Has poor natural fitness (8) and struggled to play consecutive games. Has put a transfer request in, and I'm reasonably happy to get his £1.1K off the wage bill.

Matthew Bates - 31 appearances, 0 goals, 1 assists - 6.87 AVG Rating

Proved to be a useful squad player over the season, providing able cover at RB, CB and DM. Nothing spectacular by any stretch, but has been kept due to his versatility, an underrated asset at this level.

Jake Carroll - 48 appearances, 2 goals, 4 assists - 7.11 AVG Rating

An excellent performance by the Irishman. Offers pace and attacking menace in abundance while also proving himself a very capable defender. Will remain first choice LB this season.

Scott Harrison - 41 appearances, 1 goal, 1 assist - 7.03 AVG Rating

Despite his tender years, Harrison proved to be a key asset in my defence, offering pace and physical presence along with good marking ability. If he maintains his development this year, he'll hopefully be a key figure for years to come.

Raphael Calvert - 32 appearances, 1 goal, 0 assists - 6.91 AVG Rating

Another young defender. Signed on a free in November, the french centre half provided stability and leadership to a defence which was struggling in its early stages. He proved rash at times, but that will hopefully be curbed as he develops. Excellent mental stats.

Michael Duckworth - 49 appearances, 6 goals, 4 assists - 7.17 AVG Rating

Dangerous winger, or swashbuckling full back? Duckworth was perhaps a victim of his own versatility during the season. He excelled in both positions, eventually making the RB spot his own. I like to think of him as the Dani Alves of the Football League. Will start at RB this season.

Harry Worley - 13 appearances, 0 goals, 0 assists - 6.67 AVG Rating

Started the season as first choice CB, but may as well have been made of cardboard as I found him regularly bullied by an array of strikers. Was quickly replaced with Calvert. Complained a lot and was sold to Torquay at the end of the season. League 2 is very much is his level.

Midfielders

Isaac Osbourne - 40 appearances, 0 goals, 1 assist - 7.01 AVG rating

Mr 7/10 was a key capture early in the season, providing muscle and defensive prowess to a midfield lacking both. Captained the side for the bulk of the season before being given the role officially in the summer. Excellent signing!

Dan Jones - 24 appearances, 1 goal, 2 assists - 6.88 AVG Rating

A full-back naturally, Jones spent the first half of the season as first choice ML. Offered little offensive spark (Off the ball of 7!?) and was nowhere near as effective as Carroll at left back. His lack of movement was, for me, the main culprit behind our stagnating attack and midseason decline. Has been kept on due to his age and versatility, but will be replaced when we can secure another LB

Steven Hewitt - 43 appearances, 7 goals, 3 assists - 7.42 AVG Rating

Roy Keane, Patrick Vieira, Steven Hewitt... The loan signing dominated League 2 from start to finish in his B2B role. A signing I recommend to anyone in League 2 and up. I managed to steal him on a bosman at the end of the season. Delighted!

Nicky Featherstone - 28 appearances, 2 goals, 8 assists - 7.26 AVG Rating

A bit of a surprise really, not spectacular by any stretch, but he really made the RM slot his own once Duckworth moved to RB. My top assister.

Jack Barmby - 18 appearances, 1 goals, 4 assists - 7.39 AVG Rating

Signed on loan in January, Barmby transformed our stale attack and was the catalyst to our promotion charge. Another who I managed to poach for free in the summer!

Brad Walker - 42 appearances, 4 goals, 7 assists - 7.54 AVG Rating

Struggled as a CM(S) initially, but became our best player once changed to CM(A). His ability to carry the ball at speed and his eye for a killer pass was vital to our counter attacking offence.

Michael Woods - 15 appearances, 1 goal, 2 assists - 7.19 AVG Rating

Provided capable cover to both Walker and Hewitt over the season. Solid defensively for a AMC/FC, but also chipped in offensively.

Forwards

Rakish Bingham - 36 appearances, 9 goals, 3 assists - 6.93 AVG Rating

Started the season in excellent form, offering speed aswell as aerial threat. Dropped off later in the year and found himself used mostly as a (not very good) impact sub.

Scott Fenwick - 38 appearances, 14 goals, 6 assists - 7.21 AVG Rating

Patchy at first, operating as essentially a target man, he held the ball up well but seemed blinkered in his link up play (refused to pass the ball to an onrushing left winger more times than I could count.) Caught fire at the end of the season though and was vital to our late play off push.

Billy Paynter - 14 appearances, 2 goals, 0 assists - 6.75 AVG Rating

Struggled with injuries then returned during the periods where Bingham and Fenwick were on form. Looking to sell this summer.

Kudus Oyenuga - 8 appearances, 0 goals, 1 assist - 6.70 AVG Rating

Offered very little despite his decent stats, was sent to Crawley in the Vanarama National, where he'll probably aimlessly wander some more.

League 1 Signings (So Far)

Jack Barmby (Free)

Steven Hewitt (Free)

Joe Lolley (Free)

Roy Carroll (Free)

Chris Dagnall (Free)

David Foley (Free)

Ayo Obileye (Free)

League 1 Sales (So Far)

Harry Worley (Torquay, £30.5K)

Kudus Oyenuga (Crawley, £1.4K)

Jordan Richards (Free)

Adam Bartlett (Crawley, Free)

Ebby Nelson-Addy (Forest Green, Free)

Trevor Carson (Crewe, £35K)

Lewis Hawkins (Exeter, Free)

[BCFC_Mike]

So I've kicked off the Premier League campaign with City, first game with a 3-1 Home win against Sunderland. Then a 1-0 away defeat to Leicester, they scored in the 93rd minute, despite only 2 being added They dominated us though, and I'm a bit concerned at how we'll perform away from home this season.

Transfer deadline has just passed, so here are my transfers.

Spent every penny I was given, could have done with a bit more TBH Crazy how much the signing on fee, and agent fees eat up the budgets.

[Jogo Bonito]

Great update Spiegel, nice to hear your thoughts about the squad - and well done on a somewhat unlikely promotion. You might even be able to attract Tshibola back on loan next season, assuming you have fond memories of his previous spell at the club? I like that you have done this with a strong core of original players, and hope your second season goes well.

I snapped up Duckworth on a free transfer for my 'Swindon in League 2' challenge mentioned a bit earlier. Like you said, he has great versatility, and I'm convinced he will be a reliable player at L2 level. Not yet sure if I will use him more at right-back or on the right of my midfield four (I also signed Michael Harriman and Lucas Akins on free transfers as specialists for those positions). I like the move you made for Joe Lolley too (I own him at Coventry and Huddersfield), although it's fair to say he hasn't really fired as much as I hoped at Coventry.

Good luck Mike. Liking the signings of Daniel Williams and Jordan Rhodes, but not liking the sale of Kodjia

[Ronaldo Beckham]

What is this Swindon in League 2 challenge then Jogo please.

[Jogo Bonito]

What is this Swindon in League 2 challenge then Jogo please.

See post #508. Nothing special. Just saw that Swindon were relegated to League 2 in the first season of one of my saves, so I created an extra save and took charge of them to see if I can get them playing good football and win promotion back to League 1. It's just a chance to work with a slightly more 'fresh' squad as many of the contracts are expiring and you can bring in a few of your own men quite easily. I've got a similar one set up with Blackpool for L2, and Huddersfield for L1 too.

[Spiegel]

Great update Spiegel, nice to hear your thoughts about the squad - and well done on a somewhat unlikely promotion. You might even be able to attract Tshibola back on loan next season, assuming you have fond memories of his previous spell at the club?

Never thought to look at Tshibola, he was very good for us last year, and was impressive for me on FM15. I don't know if he'd get in with my Osbourne/Hewitt/Walker axis playing so well, but I might take a look at him if Woods and Featherstone drop off this year.

I like that you have done this with a strong core of original players, and hope your second season goes well.

Thank you. I always try and develop the squad I have - ripping the core out every season doesn't sit right with me. The likes of Duckworth, Walker & Harrison are young enough to build a side around, then the young additions I've made this year should hopefully add to that.

I snapped up Duckworth on a free transfer for my 'Swindon in League 2' challenge mentioned a bit earlier. Like you said, he has great versatility, and I'm convinced he will be a reliable player at L2 level. Not yet sure if I will use him more at right-back or on the right of my midfield four (I also signed Michael Harriman and Lucas Akins on free transfers as specialists for those positions). I like the move you made for Joe Lolley too (I own him at Coventry and Huddersfield), although it's fair to say he hasn't really fired as much as I hoped at Coventry.

Duckworth should excel for you in either role. I think he's slightly better as a midfielder, but the players available to me sort of dictate we use him at RB for now. He'll pop up with a few goals for you!

I had my eye on Lolley for quite a while. Hoping he'll offer a similar threat to Barmby on the opposite flank.

[BCFC_Mike]

Good luck Mike. Liking the signings of Daniel Williams and Jordan Rhodes, but not liking the sale of Kodjia

I wanted a lot more for him, believe me. I just didn't want him moaning about not playing first team football, and after last seasons injuries and lack of goals, I was desperate to get rid. Jordon Rhodes will be my lone striker, with Jordan Larsson making an impact of the bench, and starting cup games.

[Jogo Bonito]

Agree with your views above Spiegel. I'm always caught in two minds with Lolley, to play him on the right as inside forward or winger, on the left as a winger, or even as a second striker. I'm really keen for him to do well for me though. Will let you know about Duckworth when I get cracking.

Fair comments Mike, and to be honest even I wouldn't argue abut Kodjia above Rhodes. Hope it works out.

[kozmik]

A great way to end the night:

Going from the high risk, high pressing tactic to an even more high risk and high pressing tactic really paid off.

We're unbeaten in the league since the Liverpool game, 9th in the table. Only loss since then was to Valencia in Europa, and even that was a bit undeserved 1-0 from a pen. 3 wins, 2 draws in the league, 3-1 home win against Young Boys in Europa and through to the League cup QF after thrashing Sheffield Utd 5-0.

[BCFC_Mike]

Just 4 defeats in my last 32 home competitive matches, including last season. Just really need to sort out my away form now.

Been an OK start to the season, bar the total collapse away to Bournemouth.

I will happily accept finishing 17th come May Currently occupying 12th

[sammo10]

Reading FC Season 2016/17

Transfers

Out -

Ali Al Habsi - 200k, Bristol City - Age 34 and still prone to a major error. I decided to get him off the wage bill and get a fee while I still could.

In -

Daniel Bentley - 100k, Southend - A very promising keeper, who will battle it out with Bond for the Number 1 jersey. I feel i have two of the most promising English keepers in the Football league.

Tommy Rowe - Free transfer, Wolves - Will come in to play back up to Obita at LB. Can also do a good job in midfield when needed.

Tom Carroll - Free Transfer, Tottenham - A great signing in my eyes. No fee and will be vital in the possesion game we will play. I am hoping he can dictate the play for us at all times

Tommy Smith - Free Transfer, Ipswich - A solid Centre back. No nonsense and will hopefully help make the side much more solid than last season.

Jesse Lingard - Loan, Man Utd - After Losing Piazon and John Lingard will hopefully add some premier league class to our attack. He can cover both wings and play in the 10 role if I ever decided to use one.

Chuba Akpom - Loan, Arsenal - With Sa recovering from injury still, Akpom will play second fiddle to Gayle in the lone striker role. Hopefully he will chip in with some goals.

In addition to these transfers, Keown, Tshibola and Fosu will be part of the first team squad this season.

Results so far

The new formation seems to be doing the trick. We are yet to lose in the league, averaging 60% possesion and seem to be conceding a lot less goals. Fosu has been sensational so far and Lingard looks like he will be a key player.

[BCFC_Mike]

Lost for words.

2-0 up, worst 4 minute collapse I have ever seen. Then 2 goals after to nick it

[kozmik]

2-0 up, worst 4 minute collapse I have ever seen. Then 2 goals after to nick it

That's brilliant, City away too. Great result.

I'm starting to really like penalty shootouts:

Came back from behind twice to get to extra time. Hopefully we'll draw Swansea next as Spurs and Chelsea are the other semi finalists and we've very little hope against either over two legs.

After the defeat to Valencia in Europa we're unbeaten in 12 games, 8 straight wins if you count that League cup game. Excellent form. Both Pohjanpalo and Eggenstein are really banging them in. Eggenstein has been young player of the month twice in a row. I also got my first manager of the month award in the prem after three wins from three games in November. And we've secured the top spot in our Europa group with a game to spare!

Unfortunately I have something of a bug going on... Abdennour asked for a new contract, I had meant to offer him one anyway so promised him to offer one soon. Offered him a new deal, he accepted. Yay. Soon after I get a message that his work permit was refused, and soon after that he comes in complaining that I've broken my promise. No option to tell him that I wanted to but he didn't get a work permit and there's nothing I can do, of course. If only I'd have a save even close to his original complaint, could have promised to offer him one at the end of the season and maybe avoided the whole mess. But only options are to carry on or revert back to the end of last season. Hopefully won't get a full on squad mutiny on my hands...

[Gizmo7]

Here's how things stand with Morecambe in my first season in League One:

As you can see, things are going well for us. I started the season with a flat 5-3-2 formation, and it seemed to be working brilliantly for us, we were keeping tons of clean sheets, and scoring goals too. But then something seemed to change, and we went 6 games without a win. I think we'd been sussed out, so I needed to switch things up, which was quite limiting considering I sold all my wingers as we didn't play with them anymore Decided to go 4-3-3 with a DM and 3 flat-forwards (AF, DLF, AF) and we seem to be back to winning ways again (touch wood!)

Considering that we've spent a lot of time in and around the top 6, I'd be a little disappointed if we failed to reach the play-offs now. But I do need to look at the big picture I suppose; our goal was survival, and we've already achieved much more than that, so I can't be too harsh on the lads if we fail to get play-offs.

[kozmik]

Here's how things stand with Morecambe in my first season in League One:

Brilliant work. Hopefully you'll make it!

[Gizmo7]

Brilliant work. Hopefully you'll make it!

Cheers. We normally do better against the league's "bigger" teams, so IF we make it to the play-offs - I'd be quietly optimistic about our chances...

[Gizmo7]

Just reached my 200th game in management too

[Jogo Bonito]

Great stuff Gizmo, a really impressive position to be in with Morecambe! Going very well for you at Derby too kozmik, a real shame about the lack of options on that contract thing but hopefully you can overcome it. Keep winning and you have a good chance it will all blow over. Credit to you too Mike, doing fine work with Bristol City, and a tremendous victory over Man City. Last but not least, you're right in the mix too sammo, although early days there. I snapped up Bentley (£105k) and Rowe (free) for my Huddersfield game in League 1, which I thought were really good deals for a club in the third tier. Regarding your RFC team, I think Carroll is an excellent acquisition, and should be a little gem at Championship level. His style should be perfect for what you need there.

I've finished my second League 1 season with Coventry today, and taken the end of season screen shots which I just need to sort out. A review will follow once I've done that, although I made the mistake of moving on to transfer business so will wait until I get to the first friendly before posting my update.

[SirManager]

Guess who got sacked at Portsmouth? After a 15 game hit with losses and draws ( just hit a low spot on the save) I was sacked for not performing. Being 15th in league 2. So a new save with another football league team will start today. I'm raging but I can't be them again, been there done that. So any recommendations lads?

[kozmik]

Going very well for you at Derby too kozmik, a real shame about the lack of options on that contract thing but hopefully you can overcome it. Keep winning and you have a good chance it will all blow over.

Unfortunately he came in requesting a transfer because of broken promises. I saw little reason to refuse as his contract was running out in the summer anyway and with the work permit situation being what it is. I've already bagged a replacement though, with Kevin Wimmer coming from Newcastle for 8,25 mill once the January window opens. Also agreed to sign Son Heung-Min for 12 mill from Spurs. He was listed on request at Bayern last summer but refused to negotiate with me, ended up back at Spurs and was then listed again, although not on request, a few months later. Signing Son surely means the end for Rony Lopes and will probably push Ince to a backup/rotation role. Lopes isn't cutting it on the wings and Ince, while good in general, goes missing in the big games almost every time. Also gave new contracts to Hughes, Shaw and Pohjanpalo, all of whom were looked at by other clubs. Pohjanpalo's agent still insisted on a stupidly low release clause of 17,5 mill but his extension hopefully means that he'll be with us until the summer at least.

We drew Galatasaray in Europa's first knockout round, if we get through it will be either Salzburg or BMG, so pretty decent draws. I'm more concerned with the league though, I don't think we have a chance at winning Europa as there are some very good teams in it (City and United, for example) and I desperately want continental football again next season. We're currently sixth in the league so anything's possible.

[kozmik]

A game of two halves:

Can't believe we almost ended up dropping points after being 4-0 up at 65 minutes. When Ozil was injured Arsenal had already used all their subs so they scored two late goals despite being a man down. At about 92:30 mins Bellerin got the ball in acres of space, almost couldn't bear to watch, thankfully he somehow made a mess of it and it came to nothing. I desperately wanted to give the team the hairdryer but probably not a good idea after beating Arsenal, no matter how it happened.

[Gizmo7]

Can you show us a screenshot of what Pohjanpalo looks like in your save please?

[Jogo Bonito]

Guess who got sacked at Portsmouth? After a 15 game hit with losses and draws ( just hit a low spot on the save) I was sacked for not performing. Being 15th in league 2. So a new save with another football league team will start today. I'm raging but I can't be them again, been there done that. So any recommendations lads?

That's the only issue with Portsmouth, they won't tolerate anything mediocre. If still on the original database (no transfer updates) see if page 1 of the guide helps you pick a new team. If not, identify the factors that you think are most relevant (e.g. league, finances, difficulty of challenge) and maybe between us we can suggest a few options.

@kozmik: Great progress being made there, and yet another entertaining result!

I'm hoping to put my update on this evening, really enjoying my time with Coventry and lots to write up! Talking of the Sky Blues, I am pretty sure I signed Pohjanpalo for them when I last managed there in FM13

[kozmik]

Can you show us a screenshot of what Pohjanpalo looks like in your save please?

When I agreed to sign Eggenstein in last January I knew I'd have to sell one of my strikers. My initial thought was that Pohjanpalo would be the one to go, as he'd had a difficult season up to that point, and in fact he ended up only scoring two league goals the whole season. It was his form in the FA cup that made me change my mind.

I use mainly a very aggressive tactic, attacking, high defensive line, lots of closing down, so I need to rotate players a lot to keep them fit now that we're playing two matches most weeks. Eggenstein has mainly been the starter in the league while Pohjanpalo has started most of the cup and Europa games. He mainly plays as a DLF/S in a 4123, although on occasion he's been either a supporting or attacking striker in a pair (442 and 532) and an IF/A or IF/S on the right in the 4123.

[Gizmo7]

Very nice

Glad to see he's repaying you after you kept faith in him after a difficult first season. I love stories like that in FM

[OrientTillIDie]

I have a question for you guys...

When the update is released with the January transfers, I'm going to start my annual Orient save. Obviously we've recently hired Kevin Nolan as player manager and after talking to the Orient researcher, if you take over at Orient he leaves the club. My question is this: should I leave it that way despite him also being a player for us, OR do I create an editor file specifically for this save where I put him in just as a player so I can use him?

I'm 50-50 on this one because obviously the game says I shouldn't have him just as a player BUT he is still a player for us and I want to see what it's like having him in League 2.

Thoughts would be much appreciated!

[Gizmo7]

If you're interested to see what it's like managing him then sure, throw him back in there

[Welshace]

Personally, I'd have him as a player on a one year contract, as realistically, he isn't going to stay if he isn't player/manager...

[kozmik]

Very nice

Glad to see he's repaying you after you kept faith in him after a difficult first season. I love stories like that in FM

Repaying faith until next summer when someone offer 17,5 mill for him...

League table at halfway point:

We're on a run 18 games unbeaten in all competitions, so still haven't lost a game since the 1-0 defeat to Valencia. Only three draws as well, four if you count the penalty shootout win against Liverpool. In theory we're in the running for a top four finish. In practice there have been some worrying signs of us struggling to find a way through stubborn defenses, especially in home games. Hopefully our new signings will settle in quickly and make a difference (I'm looking at you, Son!). Next up will be the return fixtures of the early games with a couple of cup games in between: Spurs (H), Sheffield Utd (A, FA cup), Chelsea (H, league cup), Chelsea (A), QPR (H), City (A), Chelsea (A, league cup), Liverpool (A). Won't be expecting too many wins, but hopefully we'll get more points than at the start of the season.

This was also interesting:

19th richest club in the world! Hopefully I'll get a budget to match next summer...

[OrientTillIDie]

Thanks for the input Gizmo and Welshace. I think having him on a 1 year contract is a good idea so I'll probably end up doing that. Thanks again!

[BCFC_Mike]

This Premier League malarkey is far too easy.

Hit an incredible run of form recently.

Current table at just past the halfway stage.

Recent years have shown that 34 points can be enough for safety. A few more points and we'll be all but guaranteed top flight football again next season. I honestly couldn't care less about chasing Europa/Champions League qualification, it hasn't even crossed my mind. Despite sitting 6th, all I want is security for next season.

Not much business done in the winter transfer window, and it looks set to remain that way. Have lost my best goalkeeper, Sam Johnstone, to Liverpool for a measly 1.1million pounds He only had 6 months remaining on his contract, and as soon as the bigger clubs came sniffing, he wasn't interested in any contract talks. My own stupid fault really. Really struggling to find a viable replacement!

[kozmik]

This Premier League malarkey is far too easy.

That's excellent! What kind of tactics do you use?

[BCFC_Mike]

That's excellent! What kind of tactics do you use?

At home I use more of a patient approach, playing fairly wide and playing early crosses for my lone striker.

Away from is more direct, which I've only recently found success with. Often counter attacking football too, depending on the strength of my opponent.

I use the same formation both home and away, just with different philosophy's, and directness of our passing.

[Jogo Bonito]

Coventry City - Season 2 Summary

End of Season 2 - Results and Final League Table

We did it - but it was very, very tight. Only a couple of points separated the top six for most of the season, but thanks in no small part to Adam Armstrong we kept pushing ourselves along. A crucial run of games in the spring months saw us beating Barnsley at Wembley in the JPT Final, immediately followed by a 2nd v 3rd clash with Rochdale, and a 3rd v 4th fixture at Wigan. It was still up for grabs on the final day, but an impressive win over Rotherham (thus condemning them to relegation) saw us narrowly edge over the finishing line.

Takeover - 15th April 2017

I mentioned a bit earlier that we had been under a transfer embargo on several occasions, including most of the January transfer window. However, one of those periods eventually proved to be worthwhile, when a certain Graham Taylor took control of the club on 15th April 2017. The irony of Jimmy Hill Jr working under the former England manager was interesting, but the new owner immediately backed me with a new contract just a few days after completing his takeover. I'm not sure what to make of the new bank loan he immediately arranged, but he also asked my thoughts on the idea of buying the Ricoh Arena. I've never had that option presented to me before (and was concerned about the cost implications), but I decided to back his plan, and he was really happy to have my agreement. I'm told this task will be completed at the end of Season 3.

End of Season 2 Review

As you can see, we were in contention throughout the entire campaign, but there were about eight teams with a serious chance of promotion until the final couple of weeks. Even in the final week, the top six all had something to play for - except Chesterfield who had already claimed a surprising league triumph. Finances improved due to tight budget controls, and I was pleased with the progress on and off the pitch. As you can see, the aforementioned Armstrong was lethal in attack, whilst fellow loanee Jacob Murphy and young starlet James Maddison also stood out. Summer signing Curtis Nelson also settled in smoothly at the club, and looks to have a bright future.

Season 2 Awards

Whilst Armstrong was top scorer in league 1 for the second consecutive season, somewhat surprisingly he was edged out in the fans vote for Player of the Season. That honour again went to Maddison, with 43% of the votes compared to Armstrong's 40%. Luckily for me, Maddison seems really happy at the club and continues to extend his contract without any dramas or outrageous demands.

Johnstone's Paint Trophy

This is back-tracking a bit, and although the board had no real interest in how we performed in the competition, winning a trophy is a nice memory to keep. The final itself turned out to be a fairly routine victory, with the ever-reliable Armstrong the man responsible for bringing the first piece of silverware to the club in a good number of years.

Adam Armstrong

Talking of Armstrong, here are his season statistics and league record with us over two seasons. For a rookie, these are quite incredible returns, and he hasn't cost a penny in all that time. I use him as a DLF with attack duties, as a lone front man. He gets support from two wide attacking players, but really carries the weight of the team on his young shoulders. Interestingly, he hadn't scored in any of his cup outings this year - until a double in the JPT final saw him make a crucial difference yet again.

Season 3 Transfer Budget

Well, the board have been reasonable with their support ahead of our return to Championship football. I'm quite clear in where I want to make a few tweaks, but I want to try and continue my method of picking young, hungry players. I'm looking to bring in some of the better players from League 1, but want to give the majority of my squad the chance to make an impression at the higher level. After only spending just over £100k since I arrived at the club (and recovering more than that), I'm likely to spend most of my budget, but I want quality not quantity so my new signings should fit in to my ethos nicely. The most important task of the summer is already completed, with Newcastle agreeing to extend Armstrong's loan for a third year running at no cost to ourselves. Norwich were not quite as generous with Murphy, demanding a fee for his services. Unfortunately that means his stint has ended after two very impressive years.

Big bids have been received for Jim O'Brien and John Fleck (who wants to return to Rangers, but turned down a move to Brentford), and I also received a full value bid for Joe Lolley. Whilst Fleck has put all his eggs in one basket, I've still got to decide if it is worth selling the other pair. I'm fan of continuity, so although I realise they won't ever be worth this much to me again, I'm most likely to cancel the transfers and keep them with me for a year longer.

[BCFC_Mike]

Back to reality?

Torn apart by one player. Bit worrying though, need to bounce back

______________________________________________________________

Congrats on promotion Jogo, great update and good luck next season!

[Jogo Bonito]

Cheers Mike, I hope I won't get too many 5-0 drubbings - and with two goalkeepers very much at League 1 level, I have a few concerns!

[BCFC_Mike]

Cheers Mike, I hope I won't get too many 5-0 drubbings - and with two goalkeepers very much at League 1 level, I have a few concerns!

Consider yourself lucky. I have one keeper in my first team, Championship quality at best! Had no luck in signing a replacement for Sam Johnstone in January. Tried scouting a few young, Brazilian goalkeepers from the Brazil Serie A.. No chance of any work permits though

May have to get someone in on loan for the short term, but it's not looking very promising. Hoping to snatch up David Raya from Blackburn when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Bounced back nicely from the 5-0 drubbing, with a 2-1 FA Cup home win against Spurs. One game away from Wembley (again), and we've been drawn away to Barnsley.

[sammo10]

Wow. Great update Jogo and congrats on promotion.

Must be delighted to have Armstrong for another year. He's been incredible and looking forward to seeing how he makes the setup along with the rest of your side, Especially Maddison (he's signed for Palace on my game and looks very good).

[kozmik]

That's a nasty hammering, great way to bounce back with a cup win against a great team.

Congrats on your promotion, Jogo!

Did some more January business... This guy, bought in the summer 2018 for 3,8 million, played in 23 first team games over 1,5 seasons, sold to Spurs for 30 million:

And as a replacement, this guy for 25 million:

Decent bit of business, even though Sanches' wages are on a completely different level as Edra was on about 10k per week. If we manage to hold on to our players in the summer, I'll be blowing my whole budget on a first choice right back, as that's the only position left where I'm not comfortable with my options. Cyrus Christie has taken the step up from championship very well and hasn't really let me down, and Manquillo is roughly at the same level, but I'm looking for someone to really make that position his.

[BCFC_Mike]

Cracking signing that

________________

Making our second appearance in an FA Cup semi final at Wembley, this time against Man City, after a 2-0 away win to Barnsley.

Our away form in the league has taken a hit again recently, having lost our last 3 (away) games. Still performing strong at home however, a recent 2-0 victory over Chelsea being the stand out result.

[Jogo Bonito]

Renato Sanches at Derby, what a dream! Amazing how much progress you have made...85k p/w...

I'd be quite happy to take Christie off your hands! One of my long-term plans is to see him back at Coventry, but his value is nearly £5m so little chance of that happening. I also had a peek at Callum Wilson as Bournemouth were relegated, but he is over £10m. In the meantime, I have signed three players from League 1 for around £2m in total, and two decent players from Championship clubs (one free and one for £60k). I've also cancelled the possible sales of O'Brien and Lolley as our squad only has 21 players at the moment and I couldn't get better replacements when their low wages are taken in to account. Oh, I've also loaned a young Icelandic midfielder from PSV (maybe the new Aron Gunnarsson), which means I might try and sell George Saville if I can make a decent profit on him.

Thanks sammo, yes I'm delighted to have Armstrong for another year and hope he makes the step up. Maddison was one of the reasons I took the job on, he's already a club icon and I want to make him our 5th legend if possible. The others are Steve Ogrizovic (still my GK coach), Clarrie Bourton (who had an incredible goal return years ago) and FA Cup winning manager John Sillett. Plus the late Jimmy Hill, of course...so I am keeping his legacy going with this tribute save.

A little teaser to see if anyone can guess my three new League 1 players that have signed for me. A little clue, they all arrived from the same club...