Like this?
Holman ------- Bent ---- N'Zogbia
-------- Makoun --- Ireland -------
--------------- Diame --------------
Warnock - Clark - Dunne - Lichaj
---------------- Given --------------
If Martinez was in charge, this could be a formation he'd play. I've put Holman left wing because I think Martinez preferred Zog on the right.
That's a quality squad minus Warnock and Dunne
Totally revamp the scouting system (we need to look at quality from abroad a la Newcastle).
New back four and get rid of any other deadwood.
Also, I'd get new staff.
If McCarthy does get hired, which I honestly believe he won't (but you know our board), then I will just sit down and cry for hours on end in a dark corner...