wow. didn't know most of that - removing the backroom staff straight away was the first sign of doom imo - anyway i don't want to dwell too much into this since it happened a while ago and we've all had our fair share of discussion on this topic so better to let go now. as much as I love and idolise SAF, I think it is fair to say he messed up the succession plans a little bit. Lessons learnt i suppose.
to your point, the fact that SAF is being more inclusive now than previous 3 managers tells a lot about their philosophy as you rightly mentioned earlier. there are good signs all over the place atm and the team are gelling well with each other and ole. only time will tell i guess and personally i haven't been this happier since SAF days.
honestly, i can't contain my excitement for tomorrows' game - though i've managed to source a match ticket at the spuds end.