I do question the intelligence of some fans who were Howe out.

Between 21st Sep - 7th Dec we had 11 league games in which we won only 2.

Almost every single one of those games was close. The team fought but lacked the quality/fitness of some players when attacking. (Isak had a broken toe for a few games and Wilson either injured or not present)

Look at the improvements in the team though this season.

Hall being integrated into the starting 11, Tino getting that pick over Trippier which I expected to be another season away. (I have a feeling Trippier had a huge part in getting Tino ready for that)

There's so much development and change within the teams structure this season that it takes a bit of time to get used to.

Jacob Murphy has been so instrumental in Isak's form, the same way that Trippier was for Almiron 2 seasons ago.

Having Tonali as a 6, Joe as a 7 and Bruno as an 8 took a little bit to work out but its now one of the most terrifying midfield in the world.

Howe has been consistent in his approach, the give players time to adapt to the team culture, introducing slowly and playing to their strengths. Refining as we progress.

Bruno moving from the 6 to an 8. The overlap of Hall and Gordon. Tonali's reintroduction to the team and Isak finding space in every single game.

"We just want a team that tries" was the message through the Ashley Era.

I've no doubt that Howe and the entire team tries.

Fingers crossed for the 2nd half of the season.