Sports editor NEIL BRAMWELL looks ahead to the new season

GRAEME Souness has one obstacle to overcome in order to obtain the absolute minimum requirement for Blackburn Rovers -- promotion.

And that is maintaining togetherness at a difficult juncture in his management of the club.

Souness took an extremely brave step at the end of last season in making public his desire to be rid of six players.

Such a move can backfire if the players in question hang around too long, infecting others with a lingering resentment.

Only two have so far been shifted -- and thank goodness for small mercies -- while Egil Ostenstad has joined the list of those found out by the manager.

Lee Carsley has expressed his desire to leave and, on that basis alone, should be shipped out as soon as possible.

And I agree with Souness' change of heart over Nathan Blake. Fit, committed and confident, he will score 20 goals in a confident side.

That team confidence, and the resulting morale, is dependent on one factor -- a good start.

The Palace game is as awkward a fixture with which to kick off the season as Port Vale was last year.

Supporters will be expecting a stroll, but any side with a new manager carries a sting in their tail.

A good return, though, from the first few games will help further boost a confidence which should be sky-high after an impressive pre-season campaign.

So the supporters have a huge part to play in maintaining that confidence during those early stages by showing patience.

Anyone who picks on individuals should seriously question their own motives.

For if the fans and players show a togetherness, there is without question the ability and managerial skills available for success.

And, if that remains the case, any remaining Ewood misfits will not be able to affect team morale.