We have to take the skills levels in both leagues into account, but I'd agree that the present side managed by NA would fare much better than last year's side did. Given that we haven't seen Hooper, Howson or McGrandles yet, and have only had glimpses of O'Neil and Odjidja so far, there could be far more to come. The main difference for me is the pace and power of the present side, which makes the opposition work very hard and then takes control as they tire. The other factor is the quality and depth. Forest only has two strikers, and Antonio who can also play as a striker. A serious injury to any of those and they are in trouble. By comparison, City can play 3 strikers and still have two more in reserve and that sort of depth goes through the whole team. Hooiveld seems to be settling in well and we have 5 CBs, not counting Martin. It all seems very healthy to me.