Pre-Season Review: Are Posh in Trouble?

The question “Are Posh in trouble?” isn’t easy to digest. In this article, we break down three key takeaways from pre-season. Spotlighting standout players, areas of concern, and what this all means as we head into the new season.

Photo Credit : Joe Dent / Peterborough United

Bradley Ihionvien: A Double-Edged Sword

Let’s talk strikers.

Ihionvien has been electric in preseason:

• Hattrick vs Peterborough Sports

• Winner vs Ipswich Town

• Involved in Kings Lynn own goal

• Relentless press created Frith’s goal vs Colchester

  
  

That’s maturity, a far cry from last season, where reports of an attitude problem saw him cut from Ferguson’s plans.

But here’s the problem: his temper. Against Colchester, the warning signs were there. A bit of physicality, some chirping and Ihionvien looked like a walking red card. If that was a league match? He’s likely off.

Can we justify starting him over the calmer but less clinical Lindgren? Is his talent worth the risk?

If he matures, he could be a 20-goal striker and a game-changer for us. But first, he needs to learn composure.

Brandon Khela: A Superstar in the Making

Now for the biggest preseason positive, Brandon Khela.

Signed from Birmingham City after just 20 league games at Bradford, there were doubts. Not anymore.

Darragh MacAnthony refused to speak about him on UpThePoshcast Live because he’s blown everyone away.

What Khela brings:

• Poise on the ball

• Endless work rate

• Progressive, forward-thinking play

  
  

He’s been a breath of fresh air; composed, energetic, and exciting. Huge credit to the club for securing him on a four-year deal with an option.

Personally? I think he’ll surpass Kyprianou and earn us a big transfer fee down the line and if Archie Collins signs a new deal? We’re looking at a midfield duo that could transform Posh’s future if not this year, then soon.

The Squad: Can We Compete?

Let’s zoom out.

Preseason isn’t about results it’s about:

• Players getting sharp

• New faces settling in

• Building fitness and identity

  
  

So while online chatter may be negative, I think it’s overblown.

Where we stand:

• Alex Bass, Brandon Khela & Sam Hughes all look vital

• David Okagbue is raw, but his pace and ceiling are exciting

• We haven’t seen the best of Frith or Lisbie yet. MacAnthony’s confident they can be the Poku and Mothersille replacements

  
  

Yes, losing Jones, Poku, and Kyprianou hurt and cheap exits never feel good. But given the budget, I think we’ve strengthened smartly.

Bass’s injury vs MK Dons could be a blow. If it’s serious, we’ll need to dip into the loan market for a keeper.

Looking Ahead

Preseason performances haven’t dazzled but they’re not the full story.

I believe in this squad. It may take time, but the foundation is solid. If this rebuild gels, we could be back on track, not just for this season, but for the future.

Let’s see where we really stand on Saturday 2nd August vs Cardiff.

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