VIEW FROM THE STANDS

The big talking point among the fans is who we can get rid of in order to fund a necessary squad overhaul. Gone – for now – are the days of worrying about keeping hold of key players. This season will be different because we went into pre-season with a competent manager and not a self-preserving charlatan. The player I’d happily drive to another club is Jack Stephens. Not for some time has a defender terrified a fanbase to this extent. Look out for Michael Obafemi. The opposition player I secretly admire is Raheem Sterling. He deserves more widespread respect for putting up with a huge amount of nonsense from opposition fans and the media, maintaining class and dignity while also performing incredibly well for club and country. The best away ground is probably Brighton’s – they’re welcoming of all teams... except Palace, perhaps. Our most underrated player is Fraser Forster, so please, top Premier League clubs, come at us with your £30m bids now! The fans’ opinion of the gaffer is that he isn’t afraid to be ruthless but he’s also brought personality, in his relationship with fans and in the team’s style of play. Top man. Save the date for games against Liverpool, as Pompey are bobbing around somewhere way below us. Liverpool have plenty of ex-saints players who deserve plenty of stick for the manner of their exits – plus Sadio Mané, who doesn’t – and with VAR in place, we might even have some fair decisions this time. We’ll finish 12th.