I am really concerned about Ikuta. It seems as if she will be the first 9ki to graduate, especially if she doesn't feel any growth within the next two years. Reading that she keeps to herself and doesn't concern herself with making friends hurts because it reminds me of myself. Also when she said she needs praise to improve and feel motivated.... That's 100% me. If she is like me, getting constant criticism with no praise will make her feel discouraged and she will think "why should I bother to continue?" The international fan base is so focused on Kanon and they don't really care for Ikuta and it further proves her point. Her narcissistic character is just a defense mechanism and Ikuta is just trying to stand out on TV like Michishige, but she hasn't has as much success. We need to realize that she's actually struggling and needs some support.
I hope one of Erina's goals is to become Leader before she does graduate from Morning Musume. She seems to be the most mature of the group, and not just another also ran. After all she has won a H!PS. She might be another Sayumi as leader for all we know.
Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor. Panda-san! Panda-san Power! Panda -san!