The Problem is that we have to sell one of the 3 strikers first, Ayew and Schlupp are really wide players and are ok as a back up to Olise and probably Franca, Lewis solves the Left back problem, if nobody leaves then a CF is the only a must, unless the Guaita situation is not resolved,then a keeper.

“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

Hodgson was asked about the squad weakness at the press conference and said that the Chairman and DOF were seeking to address the matter.
He was also asked about uncertainty around the futures of some of the squad.
He said he took the job hoping to have the same squad at least as finished last season, with the exception of the uncertainty around Zaha.
In fact he said that he hoped that squad would be added to.
He did seem a bit downbeat about this as if he wasn't that confident about retaining/building the squad, but on the other hand said he felt positive about the prospects for the season.
The Hughes injury sounds long termish and Franca can't even train yet and will not be able to for some weeks.

I wouldn't class Matthews as a youngster. But you are right we need more than 2 incoming. I suspect we'll get them before the window closes.

We've lost Butland, Zaha, McArthur, Luka and potentially Olise and Guiata.
I know the argument would be that only Zaha, Olise and Guiata would be regulars, but it does point to an overall weakening of the squad.
I would prefer to have Guiata or Butland on the bench than Matthews .
I would prefer to have Zaha and Olise on the wings than Ayew and Schlupp.
We've lost a lot of experience from the squad.
So far only Lerma has come in to strengthen the squad , with Franca yet to be able to show what he can add.

I don't think the club anticipated losing Zaha,Olise or Guiata and seem to have been taken by surprise.
For example would we have tried harder for long term target Sarr if we thought we'd have these gaps?
He's not pulled up any trees recently, but he could have been an option in the light of unfolding events.
It all comes across now as a bit last minute as opposed to properly planned.

I say to myself,”it will be okay,” every time we lose a quality player. At this point it’s gone too far. Lerma, Schlupp, Doucoure, and Hughes were a top half group. Attack with Eze, Olise, Mateta, Edouard, are bang mid table. Back line is top 8 in the league, with Andersen and Guehi anchoring. With Franca, this team could push for Europe.
Now to the reality of the situation, we are a gutted squad. Olise and Doucoure will be gone before Matchday 2. Who knows what Franca is and if Guehi will be around. Instead of eyeing a top 6 spot we will be battling for 15-17 just keeping our noses ahead of SU,Luton,and Burnley.

Squads paper thin. Can’t see any major money being spent until the new long term manager is appointed at the end of the season. With respect to Roy he’s just a stop gap and it won’t do us any favours trying to get players in.

Mysterious decisions selling young talent to top European clubs ….he could have been a valuable squad member…..Tomkins and Richard’s are more than likely going to be injured when needed.