I seem to remember the exact same thing when AF said he was off. It is very hard to do anything as a manager if some of the players have switched off.
Imagine being at work and you've heard your boss has been told he's off end of the financial year for whatever reason. 3 months before he goes he tells you to work harder or your in trouble. He's not in a position to sack you (transfer window) and you know when new boss in you can work then. What do you do, you think fuck that I'll do what I want.
So yes pell has not impressed this year, but players are playing a very important part in our predicament. Why bust a gut if you think nee manager going to move you on anyway. We will know the guilty players, they won't be wearing the badge next year. Our owners are not stupid, they know who these people are.