Compare the team we are watching now with our best form last season, and the differences are pretty stark.

For me, one of the biggest is the absence of Stevens. His speed, skill and sheer effort made a huge difference, and losing him is a significant blow.

Fondop’s muscular and aerial strength, not to mention his passion, seem to be largely missing at the moment. Monthe doesn’t look to me as though he particularly wants to be here either. I seem to remember he wasn’t exactly rushing to sign a new contract over the summer.

And despite some great saves, including a penalty, where has the clean-sheet Hudson of last season gone? He seems to be hiding somewhere.

At half-time yesterday, when Chilvers was substituted, I suddenly realised I hadn’t noticed him at all during the first 45 minutes. His replacement, Drummond, didn’t make much more of an impression. Temple currently looks out of his depth, as does Scott-Morriss, although he is improving.

Before anyone mentions Pett: I remember seeing him get skinned after coming on as a substitute at Fleetwood away, which led to their equaliser. Incidentally, we were top of the league at half-time in that match. Funny how quickly things can change.

Kavanagh is very industrious, but what I remember most about his goals is the intelligent passing from other players that puts him through or behind the defence, followed by those subtle finishes across the keeper and into the corner. More of that, please!

I have been very impressed with Appiah-Forson. He’s quick, skilful and seems to win the ball back regularly. I really like him. I also rate Fawunmi and Nevitt, and I’d like to see both of them starting more often.

Norburn is OK, but he seems to be struggling to keep his frustration under control. I’m not sure that’s what I want to see from a captain and leader.

So, yes, there is an awful lot of work for Mellon to do - and let’s not forget Branagan.

But perhaps that is the one positive: there is plenty of room for improvement. This team is clearly capable of more than we are currently seeing. If Mellon can get some confidence, organisation, intensity and, above all, belief back into the side, there’s no reason why we can’t start looking a lot more like the team we know is in there somewhere.

It’s a long season, and things can change quickly in football. Let’s hope this is the low point rather than the story of the season.

Just my opinion. Other opinions valid as well.