I’ve been harping on about giving Soloman Otabor a run and at last it happened. Together with the return of the Don, Gleeson’s recovery from injury and Robbo in to stiffen things up in defence, it seemed to all come together. Beating MK Dons by the odd goal isn’t exactly the stuff of dreams but our performance deserved a bigger reward. It was also good to hear the crowd in a more boisterous mood than the recent funereal atmosphere.

As the transfer window approaches every Bluenose appears to be playing football manager so here’s my own reading. We might get away without a new fullback if Halford stays otherwise cover at left back would be a sensible move. More importantly, the centre of defence needs somebody with height and physique as both Spector and Robbo are only likely to turn out two or three consistent performances before falling apart. This is the number one priority in my view.

In midfield, a Tesche-type figure is urgently needed despite Gleeson’s impressive upturn in form. Would I sign another wide player, if Gray stays and the answer is a resounding ‘no’. If he goes, probably, although with Maghoma, Cotterill and Otabor, we’re not too badly off. I understand Duffy is getting rave reviews and I never think that he did himself any harm with his performances. However, if he can’t be recalled due to a season long loan or a permanent transfer then that perhaps needs to be addressed.

Up top, Donaldson is out on his own but, if finances allow, it’s worth considering keeping Vaughan as I particularly think his hard work and movement could be an option in the hole after Toral. Where that leaves Shinnie, of course, is another matter. Ideally, a target man with more experience and finesse than Brock-Madsen would be ideal but where are those type of players without spending mega millions?