Here we go, as some internet journalist often says.
It’s the first deadline day where there is still interest for Imps supporters. We’ve rarely troubled this stage of the season, but as our players have become more attractive (in terms of football, not having makeovers and hitting the gym), we’ve had bids. The better we get, the bigger the bids.
This window has confirmed something that many don’t believe (still), and that is we’re punching above our weight. A player we plucked from an academy has sold for more than £1m. Another developed from 16 went for £500,000. We turned 100% profit on Ethan Erhahon, got an expected six-figure sum for Ethan Hamilton, who had become a fringe player, and now a striker playing on the right wing is the subject of intense transfer speculation.
We’re doing something right.
However, the recruitment team will still be judged on today, as they always are, so what would success look like? The answer is depth, and a left back.
First and foremost, we need a left back. I understand reports in Ireland have us putting a last dicth bid in for Josh Honohan, but as that’ll go to the wire, expect someone else to sign. I suspect we’ll have a back up to come in (that doesn’t mean the dregs by the way) in case Shamrock can’t be tempted.
We also know we need to replace Ethan Hamilton, but I don’t expect a headline signing there. Maybe a loan? We’ve barely tapped the loan market, so it’ll be fascinating to see if we could milk that particular cow this late in the day.
I expect any other outs to be combatted with ins. Rob Street is the source of intense speculation, and I imagine if a club comes in with seven figures, we’d have to take the money and run (quickly) to a fax machine to get someone in before the deadline. Do we expect Simeon Akinola / Anthony Scully style late drama? No, but it might develop that way, who knows?
With MJ Kamara heading out on loan, it wouldn’t surprise me if one of Okewoye or Okoro also went out. If that happens, I’d fully expect a loan replacement to maintain that depth. Michael Skubala has started the season strongly, we’ve look resolute, strong, able to get forward and able to repell attacks. Dom Jefferies is edging towards fitness, as is Lewis Montsma, and (whisper is quietly) we’re looking strong.
The intention will be to come out of today stronger. Will it happen?
I’ll be here all day, bar an hour at Dad’s and maybe an hour running, to deliver all of the news to you as it happens.