Despite the optimism generated by the opening home game, the following weeks and months were difficult times for City, on and off the park as stories of an impending financial crisis continued to circulate.
Just two wins between the start of September and the end of November raised fears of another relegation battle, although performances and the level of commitment from the players could not generally be questioned, unlike under Peter Reid the previous season.
October was probably the most disappointing time of the season as a poor performance away to Sheffield Wednesday was followed by a home hammering against Crystal Palace, a draw at Ipswich and a defeat at Leicester despite Gary McSheffrey scoring the opening goal of the game.
League Cup interest ended in the second round with a 1-0 defeat at Crystal Palace.
Micky Adams attempted to shuffle his meagre resources, signing Andy Impey and Paul Watson on non-contract deals and making loan moves for Lilian Nalis from Sheffield United, Willo Flood from Manchester City and Tottenham goalkeeper Marton Fulop, who replaced the returning Steven Bywater.
Stern John looked to have played his last game for the club when he joined Derby County on loan for three months with a view to a permanent move.
Ady Williams also made a temporary exit, joining Millwall as Adams looked to free up funds for potential signings in the January transfer window.
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