What exactly are Rudy’s credentials to be in charge of spending for a Championship side that finished 7th last season? There’s a reason Middlesbrough and Derby are willing to pay millions for our players - they recognise proven quality.
Overseas investment can work when you add one or two signings to a strong, established squad. That’s a calculated risk. But trying to replace almost all of our Championship-proven experience with bargain European options? That’s gambling the entire season. If this is the club’s new ethos, we’re in real trouble.
And then there’s the Travis deal - which, in my opinion, is far worse. Technically, he might not be at the same level as a Tronstad or others in the squad. But what he offers in leadership, dressing-room presence, fan connection, on-pitch gamesmanship, and influence over referees is priceless at this level.
We’ve all heard him say in post-match interviews: “I love this club.” If that’s true, why not fight for his teammates and the badge for one more year and then leave on a free? Selling him now feels like a betrayal of the spirit he’s shown and erases much of his previous good work.
One thing’s certain - this is going to be a long, difficult season. All we can do as fans is stay motivated and keep backing the lads on the pitch. But there’s only so much we can take. The sooner these owners, and their yes-men in the boardroom, are gone, the better.