rog of the rovers

Saturday's game was a classic case of managerial 'nous' that Mowbray has, particularly over the rookie managers in this league. I remember Warnock saying he was delighted that Warren Joyce had got the Wigan job, as he wasn't experienced enough (at Championship level) to know how to grind out results. This is not to say that Mowbray isn't sometimes out thought by the move 'maverick' managers......e.g. Wilder's (3-5-2) and Farke's attacking style, but he's got the experience that is in short supply with a lot of Championship teams.

Feels like a defining period for Mowbray. Whilst the release of Mulgrew may have split opinion within the squad, it had to be done. At Championship level he's had two full seasons, one ended in relegation, the other as part of a defence that conceded over 60 goals. Looking a world beater at League One level is not what we need.

Can't see him risking Derrick Williams with the lack of game time he's had, but I'd go strong, three games into the season, players shouldn't be needing the rotation just yet. Solid, with a chance for a few to impress..... My team would be: Walton Rankin Costello - Nyambe - Tosin - Cunningham Johnson - Travis Brereton - Dack - Rothwell Graham Gallagher, Bennett, Buckley, Leutweiler, Armstrong, Bell, Downing My uncle used to teach Ryan Nyambe (in Manchester) said he was a lovely lad.

In a good way? (fingers crossed)

Umbro Teamwear Catalogue Stadion shirt, for those wondering.

Quietly pats self on back....

Hope you’re right. I know this maybe hysteria brought on by some of the comments on here, but a lack of a defensive signing tomorrow and we could be in a bit of trouble this season.

Ironic the only player we have out on loan at the moment......... A central defender! I'd imagine last minute loan deals are available today and tomorrow. Harrison Reed joined late on last summer.

I like Tony Mowbray, and think he's done a good job at Rovers. Whilst I wouldn't advocate any movement on his future at this moment, I can't help but feel that he's already written the first line of his Rovers managerial obituary. "Defenders are coming....." It feels as though that clip will come back to haunt him in a big way!

Old friend Kasey Palmer has joined Bristol City for a reported £3.5m. I expect a real flurry of late activity, particularly loans in the next week. Another defender, particularly a full back, would suit nicely

My prediction would be a very plain All Black or All Navy effort.

Interesting debate on not playing a Premier League team... Saturday saw fellow Championship sides Luton (Norwich) Charlton (Aston Villa), Barnsley (Sheffield Utd), Brentford (Bournemouth) and Birmingham (Brighton) all thumped at home! Hull drew away at Doncaster as well. Also, I assume everyone saw David Raya’s goals against?

A thread for tomorrow's pre-season game against Blackpool. Is anybody going? It seems tomorrow's starting lineup will likely be our starting XI against Charlton next weekend, so eyes will be on the team news at 2pm. Walton Bennett - Lenihan - Mulgrew - Bell Travis - Johnson Armstrong - Dack - Downing Graham Seems the likeliest team, based on those who played at Bury in mid week, though I'm sure opinions will vary. I have fond memories of pre-season games at Bloomfield Road in the past, in particular in July 2003, when we'd just signed Brett Emerton (who scored if memory serves) though I can't find any details of it online.

Yellow kit again tonight? No sign of a 3rd shirt just yet, though I imagine, wearing the grey against a team in white, will not be allowed.

Was at a family party last night and all the young uns (5-10 year olds) love the new away kit! Seems to be a hit with the kids.

Paddy Power played it perfectly. As said, nice shirt too. What time does today's event start? I'm not an 1875 member so haven't got the official details, seem to remember seeing 3pm? Downing, Chapman and some one else?

Giving Vince Grella a run for his money! Hoping its nothing serious

From what I've seen with other Umbro shirts, and the styles of recent seasons, I'm predicting a monochrome badge on the away shirt. Obviously from what's been reported in grey and yellow.

West Bromwich set to spend £8m on Kenneth Zohore... Games gone indeed! Though it does make the Sam Gallagher deal seem sweeter!

I thought Filan was magnificent for Rovers, made some unbelievable saves. Player of the Year 98/99? I think there’s a decent argument he was better than Flowers. Certainly think he edges Robinson. Obviously all behind Big Brad.

Those look like the training shorts. Sure they won't use the orange logo on the training kit AND the change kit.

Valid point. I was meaning more their run to the playoff final with Johnstone.

Still only 13th July so reserving full judgement, but a squad is coming together. Yes, a goalkeeper and centre half are desperately needed, but with 3 weeks to go, there’s still plenty of time. Interesting to think that teams who have had recent success in this league (Villa/Sheff Utd) have done so with goalkeepers on loan.

Gallagher dropped off during the 16/17 but the potential was there early doors, so not unhappy with the signing. That said...... I can't be the only person who shudders a bit whenever I see the name Gallagher...... ''Why did he cross the ball? Take it to the corner!!!!"

Brentford must be selling Benrahma and/or Maupay otherwise what is FFP all about? Some big money being thrown around the Championship this summer!