2017 promises to be an interesting season, to say the least.
Segeyaro aside, there has been less disruption compared to 2016 at this stage of the season. There should be no illusions throughout the club about what is at stake, which will hopefully mean that individuals will be determined to avoid a similar situation. You would expect a better pre-season, although the Boxing Day friendly at least suggests there is a fair bit of work to be done.
More so than ever before, there appear to be question marks over MOST individuals in the squad, including senior players staring at retirement, seasoned professionals who struggled for form last year, players returning from injury spells, new signings, young players needing to prove they can cut it, and a coach who needs to prove he has got what it takes to turn our fortunes around. This is both worrying and exciting in equal measure.
But it is also quite a bit of uncertainty. On the one hand, if most of the squad play to something approaching their potential or past ability, top 4 is a possibility. On the other hand, I think we're lacking a big signing or two (especially a half-back) to suggest there has been enough of an improvement in the playing roster from 2016 to indicate a return to the top, especially after losing Segeyaro who basically saved us from relegation.
I'm always optimistic about Leeds, but I fear for the consequences of losing a few games early in the season. The team need to develop more confidence in themselves as a group (hence why the friendlies should be taken more seriously IMO), and any confidence will erode quickly if we do not get off to winning ways early in the season.
I will be happy so long as there are signs that we are genuinely turning a corner. This means avoiding the middle 8s, better weekly performances, and indications that there are younger players coming through who will form a nucleus of a successful side in years to come - especially in key positions.
