I think you're being harsh on our players. None of them are "sulky over paid lumps." Under Pardew we underperformed due to his dire tactics. Once Allardyce came in, (after a slow start) the players responded and pulled off some great results against some of the best sides in the division.
The real test for us will be if we can adapt to the new 3-4-3 formation and expansive possession based football FDB wants to implement. If we can get it right we could challenge in the top half. If it goes wrong then we could be back in the relegation dogfight.
I've always thought that your best style of play, was fast counter attacking, and, tbf, with Zaha and Townsend with Benteke inthe middle you seem to have the personnel to make a good go of it. If you change to possession based football,I think you'll lose the things that you are good at.
Still, I expect Frank the Farmer knows best.