PERHAPS it was the warm sun on my back (or was it in my eyes?) but what looked like a comfortable win on a glorious Sunday against Shrewsbury left me feeling more positive about the season to come.

It was a sharp performance with immense promise shown by the likes of James Brophy and Ellis Iandolo, backed by a trio of kids who all looked bright, bold and able.

And if they can progress, despite the overwhelming expectation that goal-scoring and goal-saving débuts place on young shoulders, their dreams should be luminous.

However, there are obviously darker clouds in the days to come: the inevitable departure of the sublime Yaser Kasim, the possible sale of the totemic Nicky Ajose and the need to fill the expensive hole in central midfield, previously patched with two short-term loanees.

Here FIFA’s rule changes will have an impact but it will reach far beyond Town. All Football League teams use short-term loans, and Swindon’s reliance is long term and so getting these right, and keeping the borrowed fit, will be more vital.

Instead full-time recruitment will be the issue that overshadows others.

Last season, while rays of sunshine such as Brophy and Iandolo shone eventually, short-term options such as Henrik Ojamaa and Jeremy Balmy spoke of desperation, or too much faith put in certain sources.

While the injuries were immense there was too little planning for rainy days, too little balance between depth and potential.

Too much pressure was placed on those of promise for the ‘now’.

For example, Brandon Ormonde-Ottewill took time to reach maturity – and seemingly still does.

Time to invest in scouting, and a few NordBoards perhaps?

With so much gloom around, it would be lovely to see the club allow a little sunlight in.

Lee Power’s brooding relationship with the media has long coloured the story but the general lack of positive PR is harming some fans’ relationship with the club.

Even when there have been bright spots such as the static ticket prices or Luke Williams’ honesty, they haven’t shone through.

Of course, there are those of a gloomy outlook but with the club mute, their dismal forecasts whirlwind unchallenged through forums and terraces.

Predicting the future, like predicting the weather, seems impossible.

However, I’m not expecting the relentless blue skies of two seasons ago, nor the storms just gone but things do seem to be getting better again.

However, I’ll still bring a coat.