I do agree it's the only way at this time. But it's not a free hit. Southampton were the Brighton/Brentford of yesterday but they seem to have run out of road. I suspect lots of clubs would like their success in the transfer market but it's easier said than done, especially over a sustained period. Brighton will see their best recruiters poached and, with it, their market intelligence stolen.

That's a when not an if.

If you want to live in a world full of kindness, respect and love, try to show these qualities.

Exactly the United 92 and Southampton golden generation are very much the exception. By and large most clubs in the league bring a player through every other year.

Any more expectation of our academy is unrealistic. What we should be aiming for is that the quality of that 1 that makes it is better. And we can sell a few off to championship teams

I suspect if a player is going to make a jump up to the first team it will be made obvious by our actions in the market.

There will be holes in the squad to fill this summer, our activity, and pre-season will surely be a clue as to whether the club has a view on any of our youngsters.

On Badgers point on United, they were such a class side (pained to say) it made it almost impossible for another youth team player to make the jump. They did have a few youth team players make the fringes then move on to other Premier League teams (Bardsley, Savage) but you had to be international level to get a sniff. So it was really the cups, and the end of the season where the players that didn’t quite make it got their chances.

It’s different when you’re not at the top of the league, Southampton grew a side coming back up from League 1.

For us when Van Aarnholt’s contract was up we didn’t move in January, despite us all expecting to see someone come in because the club knew Mitchell was likely to make the jump but needed time, and a space to fill. Makes me wonder whether we are have held off buying another right-back, which we have expected since Summer 21? When AWB left. I think it is so hard to come into Prem football and play in the spine without any football. Not many can make that leap, so even if we do produce a couple of gems they will be out wide.

Luka might have already been replaced by Ahamada, but where does that leave Ozoh? Loan next year maybe? Or can he step into JimmyMac’s shoes. Doubtful.

I think we have 3 good keepers at club, so Butland going out won’t be a loss. I’m sure he’s on a decent wage.

Right back is a position that we need cover in. Could Rodney be the answer here? I suspect he needs another year he’s 18 and playing with the 21’s so Wardy might be the answer to carry on filling the gap until he’s ready to make the jump.

I’m sure someone is much better placed to comment on the youth team and who is likely to be good enough. Jes and Killian have obviously done well in League 1 but neither were competing right at the top of league, and will likely need another step up to show whether they deserve a chance.

We are 70mil in the red, so expect Zaha or no Zaha we are going to have to reduce the wage bill so that isn’t continually increasing. This window will be interesting.

Spot on, agree with everything.

“That’s a joke son, I say, that’s a joke.” “Nice boy, but he’s sharp as a throw pillow.” “He’s so dumb he thinks a Mexican border pays rent” “ “Son… I say, son, some people are so narrow minded they can look through a keyhole with both eyes.”__ Forhorn Leghorn

Presumably you mean ARSEnal and obviously Brighton.

Palace since 19 August 1972. Palace 1 (Tony Taylor) Liverpool 1 (Emlyn Hughes)