That is the nature of any league though. Last season we had a well rounded squad, plenty of quality in multiple positions, plus some youth that were pushing for starting spots. WE then sold/released a number of that squad and are now dealing with injuries to our starting XI and relying on the academy lads to fill those gaps. It's just the stage in the cycle we are at. AFC are at the start of their cycle, they have the full squad of 23, have recruited well and have the depth they need for success in season 1. Give them a season or three and they will be having the same cyclic issues that all Aleague clubs experience.
Remember, next season the lose Paulsen, so will be looking for a new keeper to push Woud for the #1 spot, Woud will be well short of game minutes by then as Paulsen does not look like giving up his starting spot anytime soon. They may also lose some of their younger kiwi guys, or some of the Aussie players looking to move back to Aus after a finding their form this year. Like us this season they could well be looking for 5/6 new players, sure their budget will be bigger than ours but still lmited by salary caps.
Remember, next season the lose Paulsen, so will be looking for a new keeper to push Woud for the #1 spot, Woud will be well short of game minutes by then as Paulsen does not look like giving up his starting spot anytime soon. They may also lose some of their younger kiwi guys, or some of the Aussie players looking to move back to Aus after a finding their form this year. Like us this season they could well be looking for 5/6 new players, sure their budget will be bigger than ours but still lmited by salary caps.