Summer of uncertainity beckons

Last updated : 17 May 2007 By Chris C
Make no mistake, failure to gain promotion and the loss of Premiership parachute payments will lead to big changes at the club. The major loss in revenue has to be addressed in one of two ways, player sales or serious investment.

Investment through a takeover looks increasingly likely with more than one bid rumoured for the club, with Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen continuing to be strongly linked to taking his interest forward. The question is the scale of the investment, whether to maintain the status quo or to provide the funds to really compete for the Premiership.

If indeed the financial clout of Allen or indeed another wealthy investor can put cash into the club then we can avoid a fire sale of our remaining bankable assets.

Without investment it won't just be Gareth Bale that will be heading out the door, as there will also be major doubts over the likes of Baird, Rasiak, Jones and the vultures circling around loan star Saganowski's signature.

This season was the one to go up with yet more Sky money flooding the Premiership through the new rights deal. Even this season the gap between Premiership and Championship is looking ominous, with all three relegated clubs likely to bounce straight back up.

With decent money behind the club, Saints can improve what is already a decent squad. While the club is competitive up front, there are gaps in midfield and especially at the back, where Saints need to bulk up to dominate the Championship.

It's never dull at Saints and this summer will be no exception as we prepare for another rollercoaster ride.