FourFourTwo

VIEW FROM THE STANDS

- LLOYD SCRAGG

The big talking point among the fans is whether or not to sell Gabriel Jesus. Supporters are split on whether he’s good enough to succeed Sergio Aguero. This season will be different to last because the motivation to win back the title from Liverpool will be massive, and the squad should have had the refresh it needs.

I won’t be happy unless we sign at least two defenders and mount a proper title challenge this time.

The player I’d happily drive to another club is Nicolas Otamendi.

Our most underrated player is probably Kyle Walker. He’s prone to the occasional mishap – after all, who isn’t? – but fundamenta­lly he’s still a top- tier right- back. The opposition player I secretly admire is Allan Saint- Maximin. He’s a joy to watch in full flow.

The pantomime villain will be Jose Mourinho, most likely, as he goes to war with Spurs’ hierarchy and best players. Popcorn time.

Look out for Jayden Braaf, who turns 18 on August 31. He’s on a par with Jadon Sancho in terms of raw natural talent – we just need to see if he’s got similar hunger. The one change I’d make would be to engender a better culture of bringing through youth talent. We need to establish a pathway.

The fans’ opinion of the gaffer is utter reverence. Pep has his flaws, as every coach does, but the quality of his teams’ football is unparallel­ed. We are incredibly lucky, as a fanbase, to have him. If he left, he should be replaced by Mauricio Pochettino.

We’ll finish 1st.

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