I think there is a general feeling among the fan base that progress has stalled, if not not stopped. This is reflected in posting activity in internet forums and atmosphere at the games. The jury is now out awaiting evidence on Gerard Houllier's performance and the board's investment. Both are deserving of our full support.
I believe that this was inevitable, whatever happened in the close season, which of course did not help matters at all. In essence, we were never likely to spend the money required to challenge the CL places, regardless of who was manager. The question to be posed is: would a manager other that MoN have done much better given the same funds. And if so, how much better. In the end, MoN was cautious, but that seems to happen to all of our managers once they get to a certain point; I used to blame Doug for this.
Put simply, expectations were too high based on what was achievable. Progress will be slower, or to use another word steadier, and on more secure foundations. The infrastructure has been improved immeasurably.
