The Division Is Pretty Open Again - Tommy Wright

Last updated : 15 June 2008 By Kevin Markey
Leeds are expected to retain most, if not all, of the squad members involved against Doncaster Rovers at Wembley last month and they have already tied up a deal with Andy Robinson from Swansea City, a signing which Wright, the ex-Leeds forward, described as 'excellent', and the Whites are expected to out-spend the vast majority of other teams in League One this summer.

Wright said: "If you look at the three teams promoted from League One last season, you're probably talking about three of the biggest payers in terms of fees and wages. The other one was Leeds United.

"Financially, Leeds are going to be a lot stronger than most other clubs in this division, and I don't doubt that Leicester City will have a few quid to spend as well.

"If those two clubs aren't up there at the end of next season then I'll be amazed.

"The problem that Leeds had last season was a lack of wide players and the fact that they played regularly with four central midfielders across the middle of the park.

"But it's obvious that Gary's trying to address that, and he's addressing it with quality, Robinson from Swansea is an excellent signing, and he'll be one of the best players in the division again.

"We're not able to compete with them financially, and after we reached the play-offs a year ago we sold two of our best players.

"Obviously you want to keep your main men and losing players of that standard does make a massive difference, but we're realistic about the amount of money Oldham have and the way the club operates.

"In every division there are clubs with lots of money and clubs with less. It's the same in the Premiership.

"Money does talk, but it doesn't mean you can't compete. It just means certain teams are bound to start as heavy favourites."

"Oldham have got a history of developing young talent, and the club has done well financially over the years from increasing the value of the younger guys who come here.

"John (Sheridan) and I both know the situation, and the fact that you don't have as much money as other managers doesn't stop you from signing lads with potential.

"I think finance is probably most important when it comes to injuries and suspensions.

"For most clubs, if they lose a few players then they don't have the money to fill the gaps. Leeds and Leicester are two teams who will be able to do that.

"But, for me, the division is pretty open again. A lot of teams are going to think that they've got a chance, us included. You can worry about how strong other squads are, or you can be positive about the situation and try to get over that. Nobody will start the season thinking they've got no chance just because teams are spending more money than them."