Over the last few days and weeks we have seen Danny Webb, Steve Melton, Greg Strong, Steve Burton and John Anderson leave on a permanent basis. The common link between these players is that they have all signed for other Third Division clubs. This confirms that the football world believes these players to be of Third Division quality and as such Peter Taylor is right to offload these players now. Thankfully, unlike most supporters, it appears that Peter Taylor recognises the limitations of his current squad. Whilst they are good enough to win and escape from the Third Division it would be nonsense to believe that the same squad would be promoted from the Second Division next season. So what we have is a clearing of the decks with room being made for 4 or 5 quality signings in the summer. I have no doubt that these players have already been lined up but who they are is open to speculation.
With Alan Fettis on loan at Grimsby, Jamie Forrester apparently destined to leave in the summer and the news that Carl Regan's contract is to be terminated, Taylor has really trimmed the squad in preparation for next season. Add to this the fact that Justin Whittle, Andy Holt and Paul Musslewhite are out of contract in the summer then we could see a dramatic overhaul of the current squad.
It is a fact that if City are to be promoted through the leagues then very few players that played in the Third Division will be good enough to compete in the Premiership. It is obvious that the club recognises this fact and are already planning for the future which has to be good news. Whilst it will be sad to see old favourites leave the club it is inevitable that this must be done if we are ever to have our aspirations fulfilled.