I think Chansiri targeting promotion in two years led to inflated expectations. Everyone knew for this to be realistic, it was going to require a significant and well-spent outlay. It doesn't appear this is going to come. I don't think you can compare the model we're using to Watford. The Pozzo network of clubs gives Watford access to players they wouldn't otherwise be able to obtain.
As said for playoffs/promotion to be possible, and for us to catch up, it was going to require funding and a really well-thought out transfer strategy. I can't see particular evidence of either but that may come. I have more concern at the moment, not about catching up with the others, as this seems a distant hope, but more consolidating last year's finishing position and keeping ahead of the rest. Reason is, Gray and Mandaric were two of our greatest assets, with know-how of the league. Whatever Gray's failings he knew how to get results. And despite Mandaric tight control of the budget, he knew when to release funds for a loan signing to pick things up.
A couple of more exciting signings and I'll have cause for optimism. Obviously, I can see why we seem to be looking at the foreign market. However, I would like Marshall or McGugan - a symbolic signing, even with a slightly inflated price, because of the goodwill it would bring and help to create a good/positive spirit around the club to start the season (something we haven't really had for a while). Overall, as long as the ship stays steady this season, I won't see any cause for complaint. It is hard to see, though, with Derby making the signings they have and Boro looking at the ilk of Downing, how we can have promotion aspirations in the forseeable future, unless we have a freak Burnley-like season.