There's nothing weak about a midfield of Kouyate, McArthur, Hughes and Eze. Sure, it can be strengthened. And hopefully will be. But to suggest that's relegation material is simply not true. We haven't seen anywhere near the best of Hughesy yet.

Kouyate hasn't renewed contract. Then that does frankly leave a bottom scraping midfield - age, injuries and a general lack of creativity. Don't know if Eze is really a cm but he can do the job, so can Schlupp but still we need a couple.

Red and Blue Army!

What are the ground rule here because I don’t think it been established?

I think it’s safe to assume we will play 433, 4231, 451 flexibility to switch in game. I don’t think we’ll be toying with 5 at the back but we may. So are we talking about the 3 and the 2 in both formations, all 5 or just plastering a wall with a slingshot?

I think it safe to say Doucouré will be a Palace player once the permit is resolved. If they are in for Gibbs-White, they have identified his skill set as something we need, so expect interest in other players. Aribo is very similar to Schlupp both left footed so not sure whether we’ll get into a bidding war with other interested parties IMHO.

My 5 are -

Zaha - Schlupp - Eze - Jimmy - Olise

Not seen Doucoure. Obvs bringing in Hughes in the centre or Ayew on wing gives you different options but on a flat track that is my pick.

Regardless of all rumour ,we have to hope some additions to mid field are made. Kouyate, gone a real lose IMO, Gallagher, at this time gone, a real lose IMO.
Jimmy Mac, can’t even get through pre season a real lose IMO.
Watching McArthur , turning back the years against Accrington’s energetic challenges, the thought was how long till something goes pop. It’s a great shame but we must have cover for this.