With McArthur, Tomkins, Luka. Guaita, Clyne, Ayew, Butland, Ward, Schlupp, Ferguson and obviously Wilfs contracts all finishing at the end of the season, i suspect many will not be renewed. does anyone who knows the youngster's better than myself think any of them could make the step up. Rak-Sakyi and Plange seem to be doing well on loan, Banks not as well, mainly central midfielders and defenders

“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

According to my Charlton mates JRS is having a good season but is very raw they think he would struggle in the Championship. Well he has only had half a season so far but my guess is that he will still not be ready next season.

One more point

I recall a few seasons ago under Hodgson we reached the points total required for safety, and then went on to lose the next seven games, only drawing the final game. The players seemed to stop playing once safety had been attained, very disappointing given we could have pushed on for a higher league place and the extra revenue that comes with it. I hope PV is a more adept motivational guru should such a scenario reoccur and gives some game time to those who warm the bench.

Towards lanzos's original question:

David Ozoh - I honestly am starting to believe he will be ready much sooner then later, if not by the end of this year's campaign. In last night's U21 game, he was physically dominant keeping Arse's play pushed to the flanks, provided incredibly well timed interventions to the point of keeping Arsenals high-powered AM/striker centralized offensive capability neutered for much of the game. Very capable of carrying the ball forward at his feet. IMO, Primarily down to Paddy et al slapping a polish on his passing on the turn of play after an intervention. The 'win challenge, take two steps, and pass' scenario necessitating the instantaneous transition from a defensive mindset to an offensive mindset. A big step for him is moving his situational awareness from 1)understanding of where the outlets should be to 2) knowing where the outlets are

The only nearby drop in replacement for Decoure IMO

Don't think any are ready yet if at all, ozoh the best bet but he's only 17.

I agree with your views about Ozoh; he is quite a physical presence and I hadn't realised he was only 17. During one run he made last night the commentator drew the likeness to PV and it was easy to see what he meant.

The other one I thought was strong last night was Omilabo; very busy around the pitch and an eye for goal - just like he showed at under 18s.

All in all, I was very pleasantly surprised at how well the under 21's played having not seen them regularly. Tayo was another strong performer especially second half when he got further forward.