Football Season Guide

It was a tough first season back in the top flight but Dender endured. Despite conceding 51 goals in 30 regular-season matches they stayed just above the bottom 4, so survival was secured. Relaxed play-off run saw Dender score plenty of goals, but really during these final 10 games the players were just enjoying themselves. Aurélien Scheidler and young Mohamed Berte emerged as vital goal-contributors in attack last term. Both had their strong periods, not at once unfortunately for Dender. Still, they are both expected to stay and between them should provide star Nsimba, double digits for both goals and assists in 3 consecutive seasons now, with enough support up front. Dender’s favourite formation is 3-5-2, with the second-year manager Euvrard not expected to change that. Legitimate concerns remain regarding the defensive stability. Dender haven’t lost any regulars so far this summer but they are yet to make major moves either. The two new defenders signed are young and inexperienced players. Cools and Pupe can be solid when paired but both missed large periods due to injuries last term, so their health is problematic. Dender certainly need to add depth all over the pitch, possibly at least 4-5 more signings are needed. Have very few options for most roles and any injuries could prove disruptive if the depth is not addressed. All that said if Nsimba, Berte and Scheidler can continue deliver the odd win even when the defence concedes 2-3 goals all will be well.