Some good points made but my suggestion is when you take over a club for the first time play what you intially think is the strongest team by looking at each players stats as you pointed out.. BUT during your friendlies swap the entire team around at half time... and you can judge by both halfs who the stronger players are cause their stats arent everything..
And after 4 or more friendlies you will get a good idea of who to pick as your first 11.. and subs... and who needs to sit in your reserves as cup/backup players and who you can let go on loan/sale...
Look at your reserve team matches....they are all spread wide apart...arrange some friendles between them... keep them fit and playing..
Look at under 18 squad..... not to sure ..if you are a championship side (england) or below this is a good thing to do..but if you are Premiership then most people wont bother and buy who they need to cover.. the youngster dont get a look in at all..... Try writing 2 sections to this..
One last point on overseas players... bear in mind the "Work Permit" rules.... | 
