Have to disagree with you in respect of the signings LeftBack. I can't recall that many have come in with big reputations / history of delivering at this level or any level. We've signed a lot that have played in the Conference North previously - but they haven't exactly set the league alight whilst doing so. I'm not a big fan of taking players from within the same league - many just prove to be cast-offs. The following have all played at this level previously:
Dibble (Nuneaton)
St Juste (BPA, Fylde)
Colley (BPA, Stockport)
Emery (Gainsborough)
Maguire (Nuneaton)
Chippendale (BPA)
Pepe NGome (Corby)
Thomas (Corby)
I may be wrong but if you look at their history then I would say there is little potential amongst this bunch. They've probably performed exactly how you might expect. Personally, I'd much rather see some players coming in that have either dropped down a level (Southwell type) or have been really good at the level below and have the potential to step up (maybe Smith?). Interestingly, Smith has probably been our most effective player this season, yet DG has never opted for a target man in previous campaigns. Maybe a sign that he knows we are lacking quality in many areas of the pitch.
TEP
Of the above Dibble has gone and I think Emery is a coach /standby keeper . hopefully Nagoma will settle in to be a good signing .
Thomas was part of a very leaky Corby defence last season , when Pidge came he had been a part of an even leakier Corby defence, so hope there .
The last two seasons we have had Pidge , Mills and Roberts who have been top performers all signed from Con N clubs .