More because we lost the biggest winner we've had in our side since Paul McGrath. You can date our decline to the minute: Laursen's injury.
Fwiw I agree that the world isn't divided into winners and losers, but Laursen was a very special player to have, and not just because he could defend.
I think this is a great point.
I know the Joe Cole gamble didn't pay off but we need to also look for experienced winners. Cambiasso at Leicester is a great example, he may not be the player he once was but having that kind of player in your spine makes such a big difference.