Bulls to finsh 9th

To date, most predictions from supporters of other clubs have put Hereford United close to the bottom of League Two this coming season. However Jacob Daniel, who contributes to Notts County Mad, has suggested that the Bulls could finish in 9th place.

After writing about last season and the promotion of John Trewick to manager, Daniel looks at the squad so far then makes his prediction.

The Squad

Has been rebuilt during the summer, which has pretty much become par for the course at Hereford in recent seasons. In goal Adam Bartlett, the best 'keeper in non-league, has been snapped up from Kidderminster Harriers in an impressive coup. Keith Lowe has also joined from Harriers in defence alongside another Blue Square swalwart, Darren Jones of Forest Green Rovers. Full back Ryan Valentine, formerly of Darlington and Wrexham, is one of the most solid left backs you could hope for at this level whilst Richard Rose has over 100 appearances at the club. At right back Ryan Green signs having spent a few successful years at Bristol Rovers after leaving Hereford the first time.

In midfield Trewick has also been busy, the loss of anchorman Toumani Diagouraga to Peterborough United for around £200,000 is a massive one for the Bulls, but in Kenny Lunt they have replaced a man who's has far too much quality for League Two, providing they can keep him interested. Jamie Tolley has also signed from Macclesfield Town as has Glen Southam from Dagenham, whilst youth team prospect Sam Gwynne remains at the club, more cover will be needed centrally if the Bulls are to maintain a play-off push however. Out wide young left winger Matty Done is not the finished article but has the pace and raw skill to terrify League Two defences, whilst right winger Marc Pugh, signed from Shrewsbury, is one of the more talented players you'll find at this level, again providing you keep him interested and motivated. Upfront the Bulls really do need more strengthening, but Leon Constantine could refind his goalscoring form from Port Vale a division lower whilst, as long as he stays fit, Lee Morris has the talent to succeed at this level.

Prediction

More bodies are needed, particularly in midfield and upfront, if Hereford are to sustain any sort of play-off challenge, but we have faith in Trewick to get a couple of players in and use the loan market, with Turner's help, if necessary throughout the season. Keeping Lunt, Pugh and Constantine motivated and up for it will be a huge test for Trewick, but if he succeeds then he has the core of a squad that can emulate the Bulls' promotion of 2007/08.

9th

The full article is at: http://www.nottscounty-mad.co.uk/news/loadfeat.asp?cid=EDZ9&id=455296

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