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Clubs sack coaches when things go wrong with the teams performance and the board lose faith in the incumbent to resolve the issues. A new coach is appointed amid much fanfare. The fans, desperate to move on from the previous years pain, buy into the new dream with gusto. The new coach gets a honeymoon, he rides the hope while saying "lot of work to be done", etc... we expect to rise. The coach knowing he's got a honeymoon with players and fans alike launches into the changes that he believes will bear fruit in his time. This is the cycle and half smart coach is aiming for, to peak when his contract is up for review. So Neeld, is laying the foundations for finals footy, he knows that in 2014, the last of his current contract he needs the team to be heading up the ladder and into September to be certain that his tenure at Melbourne will continue. So the plan is plain... Year 1 - Drive change hard and deep, teach and test all the players under the desired game plan. Move on those who won't help, recruit those who will. Recruit young Midfielders Year 2 - Maintain standards, teach, develop and stabilise the group in the desired structure, roles and plays. Target recruitment at immediate needs to fill unexpected gaps in list. Year 3 - Repeat year 2 with greater results. Target to peak toward the end of the season. Get contract extended by two years in July when Melb sit 11 - 3 in third spot on the ladder... Thoughts? (aside from the obvious wishful thinking)