So Patto’s unleashed a can of whoopass on the squad. It’s a risk, of that there’s no doubt, he’s effectively conceded the season and now may not be a good time to unsettle the squad. The timing is odd, coming just 2 weeks before the end of the transfer window so there’s every chance some of these will still be with the club come February; Patterson may end up relying on some of them as the season progresses. He’s made a clear statement to Merry and Smith that he’s his own man and he’s showing a lot of faith in the players he’s brought in; neither of which have had time to settle.

The move is apparently driven as much by finances as by ability. Focus has been put on areas which are clearly over-resourced – the middle of midfield (Pettefer, Hutchinson) and defence (Corcoran and Day).

Both Pettefer and Hutchinson have shown what they can do, but never more than in bits and pieces. Hutchinson has a habit of looking good just before falling to injury. Pettefer’s work rate hides a deficiency in ability. Day’s fitness and work rate has slowly eroded and he’s a shadow of the goofy goal showboater of early last season. Duffy is an enigma, but his work rate is more than exposed by McCallister’s arrival. These four were characterised by the fact they all need the help of others in order to perform.

Corcoran might feel himself unlucky. His performances have been solid and he’s young. He’s been more reliable than the retained Danny Rose and fitter than the expensive Chris Willmott. These two, plus Yemi, Trainer, Ledgister will be breathing easier as all could have a strong case for the boot. Robinson has only avoided the list because he’s crocked.

The biggest surprise of all is probably Alex Jeannin. Whilst hardly a roaring success, he is the only naturally left sided player, he’s just had a contract extension and he can deliver a cross or two. One can only think (hope) that Patterson has a replacement lined up.