Do players really want...

Think of the components of a players contracts. The performance bonuses etc will be very nice and then you have on your CV a promotion and playing in a successful side. For job security that gives you more credit in discussions. Being an average player in an average side is very dangerous. Plus ultimately it's sport and you want to win. you can't mask that

 

On the other hand, imagine you're a regular in an upper mid table side. You like the club and most of your teammates; the craic is good and your salary is fine; you like the area and house you bought, as does your wife; your kids are settled and happy in a good school.
You know that if your team squeaks into the playoffs and gets promoted you won't get a contract in the higher division next season. You may have to uproot your family to find another club in a different part of the country, where you may not be as happy or as well paid. Are you going to give your all for the promotion cause? Would there be a part of you that's quietly pleased when you lose a six pointer against a rival playoff contender? I'm not saying you'd deliberately not try or actively throw games, but I doubt you'd be fully motivated to give 100% all the time.

 

If you could find me a player that is quietly pleased to lose a 6 pointer I'd gladly call him a liar. I get players aren't 100% motivated all the time but there isn't a player out there that doesn't want to be celebrating a promotion.

 

Success brings in the fans, going nowhere looses fans. Not so much about players..more about the Club.

 

We have had a lot worse than Tom Dieng playing for us,I always thought he was a steady enough player.