Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on November 16, 2012, 01:27:36 PM

Title: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on November 16, 2012, 01:27:36 PM
While we have all been debating the new arrivals and getting excited about Benteke, I reckon Brad Guzan could yet prove to be one of Lamberts most inspired signings. Don't forget he was released at the end of the season.
At 28 he looks like he could be ready to firmly establish himself as Number One. Hopefully with Given pressuring him so he has to keep his form up.
I think his present run in the side has gone a bit unnoticed. Probably because he has done little wrong.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on November 16, 2012, 01:35:24 PM
Good shout.

He's grabbing his second chance with both hands.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 16, 2012, 01:36:29 PM
He has done very well, I hope this thread doesn't jinx him for tomorrow.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on November 16, 2012, 02:02:20 PM
If we had a decent manager last year, he probably wouldn't have been dropped just because Given was fit again. It was a good job Lambert knew his stuff - he could have easily become an under-utilised talent in the Championship.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: timeoutbigbar on November 16, 2012, 02:09:29 PM
If we had a decent manager last year, he probably wouldn't have been dropped just because Given was fit again.

I don't agree.  Given was in decent form last season and was the better of the two keepers imho.  Only since the Euros and the start of this season has Given's form seemed to drop quite drastically, and so he was rightly replaced.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: danlanza on November 16, 2012, 02:35:51 PM
Guzan is our best keeper and long may his run continue. He has been in superb form this season and has saved us from some heavy defeats. I think without him we could have been bottom of the table with very few points, and we havn't got that many anyway. Top keeper, in fine form.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on November 16, 2012, 03:37:56 PM
If we had a decent manager last year, he probably wouldn't have been dropped just because Given was fit again.

I don't agree.  Given was in decent form last season and was the better of the two keepers imho.  Only since the Euros and the start of this season has Given's form seemed to drop quite drastically, and so he was rightly replaced.

Given caught the eye with his shot stopping but the defence looked more comfortable with someone who came for crosses and talks in the games Guzan played.

My attitude has always been that the shirt's yours until you do something wrong. Guzan didn't do anything wrong in those 7 games he played to deserve being dropped. If Guzan had kept his place a little longer, it would have made Given realise that he's got to work harder to win his place back and in doing so, it could have made him better. Then when he next got the chance, it's up to him to justify keeping his spot. The way McL did it leads to complacency.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Smoke on November 17, 2012, 12:40:47 AM
I don't think Given has done anything in the games he's played this season to warrant him getting the No1 spot and equally Guzan hasn't done anything to warrant being dropped.

I was annoyed when we let leave at the start of the summer.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: nornironvillain on November 17, 2012, 01:02:18 AM
really?

a second choice goalkeeper...let go...... then resigned...............  as we realised we only had Given...then realised  our first choice goalkeeper is done?

yip i appreciate that

heres hoping we get a really good keeper in January ffs
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on November 17, 2012, 08:13:01 AM

heres hoping we get a really good keeper in January ffs
Don't worry, we seem to have one already.

Who were you thinking of instead?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: VillaAlways on November 17, 2012, 09:14:18 AM
If we had a decent manager last year, he probably wouldn't have been dropped just because Given was fit again.

I don't agree.  Given was in decent form last season and was the better of the two keepers imho.  Only since the Euros and the start of this season has Given's form seemed to drop quite drastically, and so he was rightly replaced.
Disagree with this, IIRC we had our best run of form with Guzan between the sticks,he was superb against Stoke.Definitely deserved to keep the spot.I remembered feeling really pissed off when he was dropped.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on November 17, 2012, 09:22:15 AM


heres hoping we get a really good keeper in January ffs

Really ?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Shrek on November 17, 2012, 09:26:19 AM
Lambo is right.

I hate the phrase 'great shot stopper' tell me a keeper that isn't a great shot stopper?

It's the all round game. Given has never had this, Guzan has, yes he is less experienced, but he has a much better base to begin with than Given

Guzan should never have been dropped last year.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt C on November 18, 2012, 12:37:10 AM
8 goals conceeded in the last two games - shouldn't Given get the shirt back now?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 18, 2012, 12:40:06 AM
How many were his fault? He's hardly punching them into the net.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: picicata on November 18, 2012, 12:40:43 AM
8 goals conceeded in the last two games - shouldn't Given get the shirt back now?

No, because he's shit.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on November 18, 2012, 12:51:09 AM
How many were his fault? He's hardly punching them into the net.

He shouldn't have been beaten for the third goal today. Very poor indeed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 18, 2012, 12:53:03 AM
How many were his fault? He's hardly punching them into the net.

He shouldn't have been beaten for the third goal today. Very poor indeed.

So it's bad keeping not to save a penalty?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: picicata on November 18, 2012, 12:53:20 AM
How many were his fault? He's hardly punching them into the net.

Wasn't that the second penalty?


He shouldn't have been beaten for the third goal today. Very poor indeed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 18, 2012, 12:53:27 AM
A free shot 12 yards from goal?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on November 18, 2012, 08:14:05 AM
A free shot 12 yards from goal?

I blame Lerner.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on November 18, 2012, 08:19:03 AM
8 goals conceeded in the last two games - shouldn't Given get the shirt back now?

No, because he's shit.

Astonished by that reply, shay may be past his best but he certainly isn't shit .
I would have no worries about either given or Guzan in goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on November 18, 2012, 08:33:25 AM
Just remind me how many penalties Given and Friedel have saved please?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on November 18, 2012, 08:34:32 AM
I'd keep Guzan in. It would'nt have made much difference who was in goal yesterday.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on November 18, 2012, 08:36:04 AM
I think we'd be a lot worse off this season if not for Guzan. I'm quite happy if Given is called upon if Brad gets injured. He's still more than capable at this level. He may not have had the best 6 months or so but last season Given salvaged enough points with his saves that probably just about kept us up. I think he had an alright season last year.

I like the Goose though. He's commanding and he looks very assured. He's not been very good this season in all. No keeper is error proof, but his overall presence warrants his run in the side. It could have been worse than 5 last night if not for Brad. We also can't blame our keepers too much for the dross defence in front of them. That goes for Shay last season too.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on November 18, 2012, 08:36:22 AM
How many were his fault? He's hardly punching them into the net.

He shouldn't have been beaten for the third goal today. Very poor indeed.

So it's bad keeping not to save a penalty?
Why didn't Barry take it?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rancid custard on November 18, 2012, 09:01:02 AM
Given Brad's penalty saving record with the club, he's allowed to not save all of 'em. But I think Shay's in his decline, so stick with Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on November 18, 2012, 09:04:20 AM
Defensively I think baker would be better than Clark in central defence , it's also a concern how we fall apart in the 2nd half of games, we have conceded 4 first half goals this season and 18 second half goals .
whether its fitness or concentration this is something that needs to improve .
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: picicata on November 18, 2012, 03:10:03 PM
8 goals conceeded in the last two games - shouldn't Given get the shirt back now?

No, because he's shit.

Astonished by that reply, shay may be past his best but he certainly isn't shit .
I would have no worries about either given or Guzan in goal.

I was in a 'everyone and everything connected to Villa is shit' mood yesterday, so I didn't really mean it. I would prefer to keep Brad in goal though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Pete3206 on November 18, 2012, 03:23:49 PM
Buffon, Casillas or Valdes would struggle in the current Villa side to be fair.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 18, 2012, 04:48:38 PM
8 goals conceeded in the last two games - shouldn't Given get the shirt back now?

Only goal that was probably Guzan's fault yesterday was the fourth goal when Aguero beat him at his near post but watch the replay again and Aguero actually drives it across goal and it gets deflected.

For those who think bringing Given back will magically make us keep clean sheets, he did concede two at Swindon.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 18, 2012, 04:51:40 PM
Our conceding of goals is largely due to failure to retain possession.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on November 18, 2012, 04:52:52 PM
Buffon, Casillas or Valdes would struggle in the current Villa side to be fair.

or Big Ev from Eastenders!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 18, 2012, 05:13:03 PM
Our conceding of goals is largely due to failure to retain possession.

And we're still shite at defending set pieces whoever is in defence or goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on November 18, 2012, 11:31:48 PM
8 goals conceeded in the last two games - shouldn't Given get the shirt back now?

Only goal that was probably Guzan's fault yesterday was the fourth goal when Aguero beat him at his near post but watch the replay again and Aguero actually drives it across goal and it gets deflected.

For those who think bringing Given back will magically make us keep clean sheets, he did concede two at Swindon.

They should also watch Fellani's goal against us again.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: nornironvillain on November 18, 2012, 11:36:50 PM
we NEED a new goalkeeper in January

Given is done and Guzan isnt good enough
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: hawkeye on November 19, 2012, 12:52:50 AM
Our problems are not about who is in goal or the centre of defence. Teams walk through our midfield without conflict, unless we solve that problem we are toast.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on November 19, 2012, 05:11:29 AM
Our problems are not about who is in goal or the centre of defence. Teams walk through our midfield without conflict, unless we solve that problem we are toast.
Nail on head. Not only that but it also means we're all too often ineffectual going forward as well. I don't think there's a midfield as mediocre as ours in any side above us in the league. That's a problem. Aside from the persistently inconsistent N'Zogbia and Ireland, I look at our midfield and can't honestly say there's anyone I really rate at this level of football. That's just Prem level. We're Aston Villa, we should be at a minimum, in the top half. We we a regular top 6 side 3 years ago. Our midfield now doesn't have a single player good enough for that level at the moment.
Bent should be our prize asset but we've made little use of him. Granted he's not the most hard working, team orientated of players but he's like all top poachers in that regard. Use them right they deliver, don't and they're pointless.

A big worry too is that not sorting the midfield will eventually stunt Bentekes progress. Never mind worrying about him getting billy big bollox syndrome and wanting to move. I'd take that over him becoming yet another big money Premierleague failure who we have to take a big hit on in a couple of years. The longer we go being so poor, the harder it'll get for him to really make his mark on games. He's been our most dangerous player since he joined but the facts don't lie, he's only scored twice in the league.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on November 19, 2012, 08:28:32 AM
we NEED a new goalkeeper in January

Given is done and Guzan isnt good enough
Like I asked you earlier, who exactly were you thinking of?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on November 28, 2012, 01:17:40 AM
He's just the best isn't he ?

At 27, young for a goalie, with what should be his best years ahead of him, is there any other goalkeeper in the prem you would swap him for ?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Louzie0 on November 28, 2012, 01:25:58 AM
What a cracker :) 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 28, 2012, 01:35:28 AM
He's just the best isn't he ?

At 27, young for a goalie, with what should be his best years ahead of him, is there any other goalkeeper in the prem you would swap him for ?

He's 28 and at the moment probably not.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Salsa Party Animal on November 28, 2012, 09:01:43 AM
I don't see the point of replacing Guzan as there won't be many good goalkeepers available to replace him. But I am impressed with Reading goalkeeper. We can replace Given.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 28, 2012, 09:54:41 AM
Guzan has been great, top shot stopping and last night he had excellent command of the area.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dcdavecollett on November 28, 2012, 11:18:36 AM
Yes, another bargain-basement overseas signing by Saint Martin O'Neill !!(dons tin hat and dives behind sofa).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on November 28, 2012, 11:22:17 AM
He's just the best isn't he ?

At 27, young for a goalie, with what should be his best years ahead of him, is there any other goalkeeper in the prem you would swap him for ?

The only one to make a case for would be Hart and he's not looked that impressive recently.

The standard of Prem 'keepers is quite low at the moment.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on November 28, 2012, 12:01:13 PM
He's just the best isn't he ?

At 27, young for a goalie, with what should be his best years ahead of him, is there any other goalkeeper in the prem you would swap him for ?

The only one to make a case for would be Hart and he's not looked that impressive recently.
I think you could very easily make a case for De Gea, Krul, Vorm or Lloris. Particularly if his young age is what particularly excites us.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on November 28, 2012, 01:17:50 PM
I think Arsenal would love to have a keeper like Guzan. They've had bobbins keepers since Seaman left. All butter fingered clowns or mad bastards.

Guzan is quality. I think there's a lot of potential there. In keeper terms he could be a worldy IMO. There's actually very few keepers around who can catch a ball, or confidently claim a high ball. It's always punch first. I like Guzan because he's old school and there's still very much a place for that.

I'd agree though that generally the standard of keepers in the EPL is far lower than it was 10 years ago.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: not3bad on November 28, 2012, 01:54:47 PM
Guzan radiated calm in the last 10 minutes last night.  Exactly what we needed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Smoke on November 28, 2012, 02:19:49 PM
As an Englishman I'm happy to say...

Thank fuck he's not English! He's quickly turning into a top keeper and without the distraction of England call ups, National press, Sitting in press conferences in an England track suite talking about Champions league football etc.


Gooooooooooooosssssaaannnnnnnnn
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Monty on November 28, 2012, 02:26:08 PM
I love Guzan. He's solid as a rock and takes so much pressure off his inexperienced defence by coming for the ball so often. And he makes great and often unorthodox saves.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on November 28, 2012, 02:34:16 PM
I thought one of his catches yesterday was very brave - almost every keeper would have punched this particular one.

He nearly dropped a bollock by giving the ball to Bannan when he was marked and it could have been costly had Bannan not dealt with it. Hopefully he won't do that again and otherwise he was quality.

Credit too to Given. Sat on the bench he could have easily been a misery-arse but he was genuinely supporting the lads and willing them on.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Jarpie on November 28, 2012, 03:41:33 PM
I think Arsenal would love to have a keeper like Guzan. They've had bobbins keepers since Seaman left. All butter fingered clowns or mad bastards.

Guzan is quality. I think there's a lot of potential there. In keeper terms he could be a worldy IMO. There's actually very few keepers around who can catch a ball, or confidently claim a high ball. It's always punch first. I like Guzan because he's old school and there's still very much a place for that.

I'd agree though that generally the standard of keepers in the EPL is far lower than it was 10 years ago.

I've always thought Seaman was overrated, me and my friends called him Porky Pig-Seaman, he was good as shot-stopper but couldn't jump to save his life.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: seanthevillan on November 28, 2012, 04:12:17 PM

I'd agree though that generally the standard of keepers in the EPL is far lower than it was 10 years ago.

Not sure about that - look at a list of Premiership keepers from 2002 and you see names like Casey Keller, Seaman, Barthez - I just saw a poll which voted Jerzy Dudek the best in the league at the time!

I think there was a period when Cech, Van de Saar, Reina (along with Schwarzer, Friedel, Given, Robinson etc) were all at their best - maybe you could make a case for them being better but right now there are some excellent keepers around (Lloris, Vorm, Hart).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: kipeye on November 28, 2012, 05:39:23 PM
I love Guzan. He's solid as a rock and takes so much pressure off his inexperienced defence by coming for the ball so often. And he makes great and often unorthodox saves.
Same here.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on November 28, 2012, 06:08:47 PM
It's so reassuring to know that even when the defence goes missing, Brad is there and you'll have to be good to beat him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ryu on November 28, 2012, 07:27:50 PM
He was so strong taking balls in the air last night, which was vital as our defence frequently looked quite shaky.  It wa encouraging to see as dealing with crosses etc. was the one concern I think most fans had about him before he got a real run in the team.

I really like him.  He makes a lot of saves with his feet and other saves you could say look a bit scruffy but he does it so often it can only be down to good positioning and anticipation that he gets something in the way of the ball.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Shrek on November 28, 2012, 08:31:51 PM
What a turn around, last year some of us wanted to stick with Guzan and were shot down (much the same way we are over Bent now)

Where are all the Given lovers now? Because I think we'd have a lot less points if he'd been in goal this season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 10, 2013, 04:03:03 PM
For me, despite letting in so many goals, he's been our Player of the Season, to date. Yes, Benteke has scored some great goals but Brad has made sure we haven't been stuffed in every game. Thank god we re-signed him.

Today was just another example of why he's our Number 1. We're lucky to have him and hopefully we can keep hold of him come the summer. It wouldn't surprise me if a few of the top clubs come a calling, I really think he wouldn't be out of place at the Theatre of Shite, Klanfield or the Emirates.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 10, 2013, 04:04:14 PM
Thank you Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on February 10, 2013, 04:06:25 PM
For me, despite letting in so many goals, he's been our Player of the Season, to date. Yes, Benteke has scored some great goals but Brad has made sure we haven't been stuffed in every game. Thank god we re-signed him.

Today was just another example of why he's our Number 1. We're lucky to have him and hopefully we can keep hold of him come the summer. It wouldn't surprise me if a few of the top clubs come a calling, I really think he wouldn't be out of place at the Theatre of Shite, Klanfield or the Emirates.

I agree, I've been saying of late I can't think of a single goal that's been his fault.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: itbrvilla on February 10, 2013, 04:09:12 PM
Begovic has been one of the best I've seen this season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 10, 2013, 04:09:34 PM
Guzan is a superb starting point when people talk about the spine of a team. Vlaar is an excellent number 2 CB, we have nothing in the middle and we have diamond up front. There are some decent pieces elsewhere but it's been said many times, it won't take that much to make us significantly better. Experience and quality in a couple of important areas.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ozzjim on February 10, 2013, 04:13:20 PM
For me, despite letting in so many goals, he's been our Player of the Season, to date. Yes, Benteke has scored some great goals but Brad has made sure we haven't been stuffed in every game. Thank god we re-signed him.

Today was just another example of why he's our Number 1. We're lucky to have him and hopefully we can keep hold of him come the summer. It wouldn't surprise me if a few of the top clubs come a calling, I really think he wouldn't be out of place at the Theatre of Shite, Klanfield or the Emirates.

If any of them came calling I would point at David De Gea and simply say - he is better than him, cough up. He is one of the best 4-5 in the league by a stretch, and deserves all the praise in the world. His take on a couple of crosses today was great, as it was last week when he battered Fellani. It is a shame the centre backs are not as decisive and commanding!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on February 10, 2013, 04:13:54 PM
Guzan was fantastic today. His shot stopping, last gasp saves, commanding of the box from corners, even his kicking (with both feet) was superb.

Well done Brad!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: neo_Villan on February 10, 2013, 04:14:12 PM
Loved his reaction at full-time. Just slumped onto the post in sheer relief.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 10, 2013, 04:47:01 PM
Great save at the end, could turn out to be a huge one at the end of the season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on February 10, 2013, 06:00:27 PM
Loved his reaction at full-time. Just slumped onto the post in sheer relief.

His reaction when we scored was pretty good too.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 10, 2013, 06:04:06 PM
I said in the post-match thread you can tell he really cares. He celebrated our goals more than some of the people around me in the Lower North. I thought he was going to explode at the final whistle.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: The Left Side on February 10, 2013, 06:12:38 PM
Loved his reaction at full-time. Just slumped onto the post in sheer relief.

His reaction when we scored was pretty good too.

This, he has come on leaps and bounds this year but still needs work on his crosses, still top day today.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Somniloquism on February 10, 2013, 06:17:29 PM

This, he has come on leaps and bounds this year but still needs work on his crosses, still top day today.

He has done a lot more with them then Given and Friedal ever did. I think Bossie was the last one we had who would come for them and claim them as successively as Guzan does.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: JJ-AV on February 10, 2013, 06:25:06 PM
Great performance today. Not totally convinced by him, but he's growing into the role and getting better as the season goes on.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on February 10, 2013, 06:28:04 PM
Loved his reaction at full-time. Just slumped onto the post in sheer relief.

His reaction when we scored was pretty good too.

This, he has come on leaps and bounds this year but still needs work on his crosses, still top day today.

I thought he dealt with crosses very well today.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Witton Warrior on February 10, 2013, 06:31:07 PM
He is one (the only?) of the consistently positive players this season IMHO.
He delivers. We can ask no more.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 10, 2013, 06:40:23 PM
Extremely impressed by Guzan this season.

Good signing from Lambert.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on February 10, 2013, 07:01:22 PM
He's been brilliant. He can't help being overworked because of an often dire defence and couldn't have done much more with most of the goals conceded.
For me he's been consistently good. He's got everything in his locker. Top keeper. As much as we've been poor this season, the points we've won in large parts, because of Guzan, mean we're not out of touch. He saved us two points today in the last 10 minutes.

In all honesty, though I think Given's a decent keeper, had he been our number one, we'd have under 20 points at this stage IMO. Certainly in that spell we went 5 unbeaten, Guzan was instrumental. He was also one of the least culpable in our worst run. Lambert said it himself, if not for Guzan, we could have conceded double in that godawful stretch.
Top keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rancid custard on February 10, 2013, 07:41:30 PM
He had a good rep when MON brought him in from Chicago, albeit with dodgy work permit problems at the time and we all figured he'd be Brad snr.'s replacement in the next couple of seasons. I remember him being especially good on our league cup run to the final and in the peace cup. He had a really really good penalty saving rate. The only thing that bothered me at the time was he didn't seem to command his area that well and was a bit uncertain on when to come and collect and when to stay still.

A couple of managerial changes later and the purchase of Shay must've fucked him off no end, but I'm happy to see him playing regularly and know that it's not his lack of ability that's costing us goals. He's more vocal now, commands his area better and his shot stopping/reading ability has improved as well,  not bad for a little guy. As others have said we'd be f*cked without him. If you're willing to forget the fact he was released and re-signed, next to Gabby isn't he the longest serving member of the squad?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: sonlyme on February 10, 2013, 08:09:56 PM
As you can see if you read this thread - there are many folk who follow Villa who have a unique perspective on what football is all about.

Guzan has made more saves than any other goal keeper in the premier league this season.  Fact.

Guzan has come for and caught more balls into his box than any other premier keeper. Fact.

We can't defend.  Fact.

Don't go getting the two mixed up.  Guzan is becoming like Nigel Spink (who? comes the cry)  Big, athletic, good at stopping shots, good at commanding his area.  The only element Brad lacks is confidence in organising his defence - but that is coming.  True - sometimes he comes for balls he shouldn't - but he is trying his damnedest to help his defence.  He was a star again today as West Ham launched their aerial bombardment.

He is like so many of our academy and reserve team - good but inexperienced - the talent remains - the experience will come.

UTV
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lky on February 10, 2013, 08:21:29 PM
I don't watch every minute of every premier league team but for me he's been premier league keeper of the season .....so far.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: VillaAlways on February 10, 2013, 10:43:23 PM
He's bloody great isn't he?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: avfc_1874 on February 10, 2013, 10:45:03 PM
Am I the only one who thinks that had we played him against Bradford we wouldn't have conceded from those set pieces?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on February 10, 2013, 10:49:56 PM
Met him in Solihull a few weeks ago. I'm 6'1" and he towered over me. Absolute beast.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 10, 2013, 11:00:09 PM
Am I the only one who thinks that had we played him against Bradford we wouldn't have conceded from those set pieces?
I'd have said that was a given personally.

No pun intended.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Summers on February 10, 2013, 11:05:23 PM
Goose is a beast. Dominant & commanding.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: richtheholtender on February 10, 2013, 11:09:03 PM
Goose is a beast. Dominant & commanding.


Has he a brother we can stick at centre half?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 10, 2013, 11:10:16 PM
Goose is a beast. Dominant & commanding.

Sure that isn't his advert in an S&M magazine?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Chipsticks on February 10, 2013, 11:13:10 PM
Fortunately there's no chance of a bigger club coming in and nicking him due to our horrendous goal difference, but we all know that's not down to him. Excellent keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 10, 2013, 11:19:44 PM
I don't watch every minute of every premier league team but for me he's been premier league keeper of the season .....so far.
I think that most fans of a team with a semi-competent goalkeeper would say exactly the same thing, because from a defensive perspective you only really pay attention to what your own team is doing.

It's very easy to see that Van Persie and Michu are scoring lots of goals, but unless you watch every game then it's hard to know which players are doing better than others.

I reckon Stoke, Newcastle, Spurs, QPR, Man City, Man Utd and Swansea fans would probably make the same claim that you make above.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 10, 2013, 11:21:18 PM
I don't watch every minute of every premier league team but for me he's been premier league keeper of the season .....so far.
I think that most fans of a team with a semi-competent goalkeeper would say exactly the same thing.

I reckon Stoke, Newcastle, Spurs, QPR, Man City, Man Utd and Swansea fans would probably make the same claim.

Even though most of those have made far more mistakes than Guzan has despite probably having less work to do? Only Begovic has been better IMO.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 10, 2013, 11:23:47 PM
I don't watch every minute of every premier league team but for me he's been premier league keeper of the season .....so far.
I think that most fans of a team with a semi-competent goalkeeper would say exactly the same thing.

I reckon Stoke, Newcastle, Spurs, QPR, Man City, Man Utd and Swansea fans would probably make the same claim.

Even though most of those have made far more mistakes than Guzan has despite probably having less work to do?
Yes, I absolutely think that fans of those teams would make that claim. For the reason above. Whether they (or we) are right, I'm not really sure any of us are objective enough to know.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 10, 2013, 11:32:36 PM
I don't watch every minute of every premier league team but for me he's been premier league keeper of the season .....so far.
I think that most fans of a team with a semi-competent goalkeeper would say exactly the same thing.

I reckon Stoke, Newcastle, Spurs, QPR, Man City, Man Utd and Swansea fans would probably make the same claim.

Even though most of those have made far more mistakes than Guzan has despite probably having less work to do?
Yes, I absolutely think that fans of those teams would make that claim. For the reason above. Whether they (or we) are right, I'm not really sure any of us are objective enough to know.

I don't. I can't see in a million years any City fan saying Hart is keeper of the season. Or most of the other clubs saying it about theirs.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Fernando Partridge on February 10, 2013, 11:35:37 PM
Great form and presence today. Glad we re signed him. I feel that Man utd or some European teams could well be in for him come seasons end. Knowing can get on cheap and need to raise funds.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: mr woo on February 10, 2013, 11:39:47 PM
Well it must be just me.

Upto now I've yet to see him carry out  anything to set him apart from a run-of-the-mill premiership keeper.

If anything, I'd say his command of his area is way below what it should be and has contributed to our poor record at corners this season. TBH, watching today, I get the impression he's been spoken to about it, and was acting on instructions to that effect. To his credit of course.

Is he better than Given? Arguable.
Better value for money? Unquestionably.

 And I guess that's what's matters these days.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 10, 2013, 11:50:03 PM
I don't watch every minute of every premier league team but for me he's been premier league keeper of the season .....so far.
I think that most fans of a team with a semi-competent goalkeeper would say exactly the same thing.

I reckon Stoke, Newcastle, Spurs, QPR, Man City, Man Utd and Swansea fans would probably make the same claim.

Even though most of those have made far more mistakes than Guzan has despite probably having less work to do?
Yes, I absolutely think that fans of those teams would make that claim. For the reason above. Whether they (or we) are right, I'm not really sure any of us are objective enough to know.

I don't. I can't see in a million years any City fan saying Hart is keeper of the season. Or most of the other clubs saying it about theirs.

Ok, here's  (http://www.football365.com/mailbox/8472730/It-s-The-Way-Sol-Left-That-Really-Stings...) a QPR fan saying that Cesar is the best keeper in the league. Go back a page and he's replying to a Spurs fan who says that Lloris is the best keeper in the league. It's then added to by somebody saying that Krul is the best keeper in the league.

Personally I think Guzan is great. I was one of the very, VERY few people saying that he should have been our number one 18 months ago rather than buying Given. But I'm also quite happy to accept that I see quite a lot more of Guzan than I do of every other goalkeeper. And when the likes of Vorm or De Gea save their team like Guzan has done a few times for us this season, their fans probably aren't sitting there thinking "yeah, but he's still not as good as that American bloke at Villa".

Just like we're not saying that we want to swap Guzan for anyone else at the moment.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Irish villain on February 10, 2013, 11:51:49 PM
Those two saves from Guzan, right at the end, could be worth £60m quid to Aston Villa if they happen to keep us up.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 10, 2013, 11:59:39 PM
The QPR fan specifically mentions the last few games. Hardly a ringing endorsement for keeper of the year.

Of course every fan is biased, but I really can't see most Newcastle, Ci£y or Manure fans claiming their keeper is the best. The again, some of them are so deluded they probably do. Vorm is hard to judge having been out for a while. Lloris will always be a contender when he somehow wins keeper of the week without making a single save.

I doubt any keeper has made more saves than Guzan this season though. And how of the many many goals we've conceded can you blame him for? That's why it would be between him and Begovic. If i'd seen Begovic every week I may rate him a lot higher, or lower.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve R on February 11, 2013, 01:15:46 AM
Fans will always look at their own players with a different perspective. With the trouble we've had, watching Guzan cream all in his path to come out and collect yet another cross today is bound to evoke a 'thank fuck for the goalie'.

Watch any other team do it and it's more likely a 'waste of a cross'.

That aside I suppose the acid test is would we swap him for one of the others? I wouldn't.

As for the prospect of him moving on, we may bin dross cheaply, but we at least have something of a track record for getting a decent price for ability. Guzan presumably has just signed a 4 (or more) year contract. Barring an everything-must-go fire sale he'll still be here next year.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 11, 2013, 01:57:13 AM
Fans will always look at their own players with a different perspective. With the trouble we've had, watching Guzan cream all in his path to come out and collect yet another cross today is bound to evoke a 'thank fuck for the goalie'.

Watch any other team do it and it's more likely a 'waste of a cross'.

Steve,i dug up this thread not because of his performance today. i've been meaning to do it for ages. As I said in my earlier post today, for me he's been our Player of the Season to date, which is kind of ironic considering we have the second worst goals-against record in the league.

Every great team needs a great goalkeeper. Right now we have the goalkeeper without the great team. if we can stay up this season, I'm expecting he'll be joined by a few others worthy to play in the same team as him.

Slightly Off Topic: How the hell is he not USA number one. Tim Howard? Somebody is having a laugh.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: sonlyme on February 11, 2013, 02:08:43 AM
Am I the only one who thinks that had we played him against Bradford we wouldn't have conceded from those set pieces?

No you're not.  Bradford's lame goal at VP happened because Wee Jimmy Given stayed on his line (as always) and watched the ball fly past him.  Guzan brings some relief to his defenders by commanding his area and taking crosses out of the air.  Not that wee Shay is a bad goalie - cos he isn't - but he needs a very strong well drilled defence in front of him.  Shay is a shot stopper - much like Friedel was.  At last we've found Jimmy Rimmer's long lost son.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on February 11, 2013, 07:38:47 AM
Well it must be just me.

Upto now I've yet to see him carry out  anything to set him apart from a run-of-the-mill premiership keeper.

If anything, I'd say his command of his area is way below what it should be and has contributed to our poor record at corners this season. TBH, watching today, I get the impression he's been spoken to about it, and was acting on instructions to that effect. To his credit of course.

Is he better than Given? Arguable.
Better value for money? Unquestionably.

 And I guess that's what's matters these days.

That's a very harsh assessment in my opinion.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Grande Pablo on February 11, 2013, 10:06:12 AM
Am I the only one who thinks that had we played him against Bradford we wouldn't have conceded from those set pieces?

No you're not.  Bradford's lame goal at VP happened because Wee Jimmy Given stayed on his line (as always) and watched the ball fly past him.  Guzan brings some relief to his defenders by commanding his area and taking crosses out of the air.  Not that wee Shay is a bad goalie - cos he isn't - but he needs a very strong well drilled defence in front of him.  Shay is a shot stopper - much like Friedel was.  At last we've found Jimmy Rimmer's long lost son.

Here here.  Not that it would help us stay in the league, but I firmly believe we'd be in the League Cup final had Guzan have played both legs.  Can't vouch for the FA Cup as footage except the goals has been as rare as hens teeth.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on February 11, 2013, 04:22:33 PM
I think it was obvious after the first leg against Bradford that Guzan should have played the 2nd leg.

I think he's been great for us this season. Those two saves at the end yesterday were superb.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: paul_e on February 11, 2013, 04:35:15 PM
Well it must be just me.

Upto now I've yet to see him carry out  anything to set him apart from a run-of-the-mill premiership keeper.

If anything, I'd say his command of his area is way below what it should be and has contributed to our poor record at corners this season. TBH, watching today, I get the impression he's been spoken to about it, and was acting on instructions to that effect. To his credit of course.

Is he better than Given? Arguable.
Better value for money? Unquestionably.

 And I guess that's what's matters these days.

That's a very harsh assessment in my opinion.

I'd love to know what the villa squad have done to piss you off this weekend, that Guzan, Bowery and Dawkins you've slagged off to varying degrees.

Guzan - he's proven himself to be a capable premier league keeper and has the bonus of having made very few errors, comparatively.

The most impressive thing for me though is how he's come back after Big Sam gave him a bit of a going over with the blackburn tactics in that run of games against them.  That he came away from those matches and changed his game to command the box is a huge credit to his character, he clearly has the will to succeed and he's still very young for a top flight goalkeeper, with probably 8-10 years left at this level and 4-5 before he'll be at his peak.

He's very much part of the "young and hungry" setup at the club and deserves a lot of credit, was really good to see how pleased he was with the 2nd goal and the win, more than many footballers he comes across as really being part of the club.  Top fella, glad we did the right thing and got him back and then gave him the game time he deserved.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Drummond on February 11, 2013, 05:42:32 PM
The thing about outfield players is that you can directly compare them against each other but for keepers it's hard.

I've loved a lot of our keepers, but I reckon a lot of fans like their's too, unless they 'do an Enckleman', it's one of the more romantic positions, and keepers generally are a little bit odd.

Spink and Bosnich were my particular favourites but I always hold out hope that another one will join them; I reckon Guzan might do it, I thought that Given certainly would and James disappointed me.

I like Guzan a lot though, he's passionate, makes great saves and seems to be more commanding and willing to come for the ball.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on February 11, 2013, 05:46:46 PM
Those two saves from Guzan, right at the end, could be worth £60m quid to Aston Villa if they happen to keep us up.

As could the much maligned darren bents excellent clearance from carrolls goalbound shot, or nzogbias free kick.

On such things can a season turn - as for guzan i have been delighted with his form on the whole his season and long may it continue.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 11, 2013, 09:37:42 PM
I doubt any keeper has made more saves than Guzan this season though. And how of the many many goals we've conceded can you blame him for? That's why it would be between him and Begovic. If i'd seen Begovic every week I may rate him a lot higher, or lower.

Statistics until the end of December 2012 (http://www.barriesview.com/2012/12/201213-premier-league-goalkeeper-stats)

Brad's in fifth for number of saves made, behind Schwarzer, Mignolet, Al-Habsi and Jääskeläinen.

Probably more relevant is the percentage of shots that he saved - only 64%, which while not exactly disgraceful is nowhere need as high as some keepers.

Impressive on the crossing though, he's miles out of front on the number of crosses that he's caught
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: MoetVillan on February 11, 2013, 10:34:03 PM
Id buy him a pint after some of the saves he has made this season, and that marshalling he has started to give out to his back line.  I cant gauge appreciation any higher than that
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on February 11, 2013, 10:44:22 PM
And people think Guzan's not good on crosses.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: mr woo on February 12, 2013, 02:07:54 PM
Well it must be just me.

Upto now I've yet to see him carry out  anything to set him apart from a run-of-the-mill premiership keeper.

If anything, I'd say his command of his area is way below what it should be and has contributed to our poor record at corners this season. TBH, watching today, I get the impression he's been spoken to about it, and was acting on instructions to that effect. To his credit of course.

Is he better than Given? Arguable.
Better value for money? Unquestionably.

 And I guess that's what's matters these days.

That's a very harsh assessment in my opinion.

Yeah, sorry about that.

 Early kick-off's, 3 points and 10 pints don't tend to be a good basis for the most sensible of posts.

I wasn't so much having a pop at Brad, who I think is a competent but not IMO an outstanding Premiership keeper, more so the tightening of the finances suggesting value for money has seemingly become the be all and end all. And while that's not necessarily a bad thing, its just a little sad we no longer wish to reach for the stars.

Apologies for the harshness though. Completely uncalled for.
I hope Simon Dawkins is in a forgiving mood....
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheSandman on February 12, 2013, 06:46:23 PM
I love the way Guzan commands his area. Too many keepers we've had I remember either being hesitant with things like crosses or being welded on the line. Guzan conversely, is confident and takes charge in those situations and I love it.

Even speaking as someone who saw his talent before this season and fancied him to end up being number one following his comeback I didn't foresee him being this good. He deserves to be behind a much better back four.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on February 12, 2013, 09:56:16 PM
Well done to the lad - Big Sam's hoofball didn't intimidate him this time.

Always been a fan to be fair - glad we re-signed him. Fine player
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 12, 2013, 10:02:13 PM
I doubt any keeper has made more saves than Guzan this season though. And how of the many many goals we've conceded can you blame him for? That's why it would be between him and Begovic. If i'd seen Begovic every week I may rate him a lot higher, or lower.

Statistics until the end of December 2012 (http://www.barriesview.com/2012/12/201213-premier-league-goalkeeper-stats)

Brad's in fifth for number of saves made, behind Schwarzer, Mignolet, Al-Habsi and Jääskeläinen.

Probably more relevant is the percentage of shots that he saved - only 64%, which while not exactly disgraceful is nowhere need as high as some keepers.

Impressive on the crossing though, he's miles out of front on the number of crosses that he's caught

Do those stats allow for Brad playing 2 less games than most keepers?  :P

Seriously though, stats for a keeper only tell a small part of the story. The quality of shots they are facing will have an impact for example. For example a keeper could make 10 saves in a match but all are weak grass cutters. He saves 10 and keeps a clean sheet. Another keeper could save 2, concede 3 but all were stunners.
The reason I rate Brad so highly is that although he's conceded a shed load I struggle to think of many that he should have saved. Whereas I can think of many where he's saved blinders.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 12, 2013, 10:03:44 PM
The quality of shots they are facing will have an impact for example. For example a keeper could make 10 saves in a match but all are weak grass cutters. He saves 10 and keeps a clean sheet. Another keeper could save 2, concede 3 but all were stunners.
Yes, but I think it's safe to say that over the course of 25 or so games that things will equal themselves out a bit.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 12, 2013, 10:04:49 PM
Knowing our luck it won't. They'm all bluddy stunners!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on February 12, 2013, 10:06:58 PM
No, they'm all bluddy corners.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Louzie0 on February 17, 2013, 04:18:45 PM
I heard an interview with him on the radio just after the win against West Ham.  Apart from his modesty when compimented about the saves he made, he came across as determined and confident that Villa were getting their act together and it was onward and upward from now with a committed manager and team. (the gist.)

So he's hardly going to say, 'everything's rubbish, this is a flash in the pan,' under the circumstances, but what made me think was that he said 'we go again' as his final comment. I was wondering if this much maligned (on here) phrase was actually a phrase that the players were using to keep themselves together and motivated no matter what, during this somewhat challenging season. In other words, a motto for the team rather than just a repeated soundbite from the manager. If it's working for them, and him, then great!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on February 17, 2013, 05:21:25 PM
I heard him aswell, was that the talksport interview with Stan you listened to him.

I did hear him utter "we go again" a few times so clearly the players do understand Lambert....
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on February 17, 2013, 08:55:40 PM
I heard him aswell, was that the talksport interview with Stan you listened to him.

I did hear him utter "we go again" a few times so clearly the players do understand Lambert....
Ot, as Louzie says, it's something the players ahve come up with as a mental trigger for girding their loins and getting back out here.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Louzie0 on February 18, 2013, 11:57:12 AM
I heard him aswell, was that the talksport interview with Stan you listened to him.

I did hear him utter "we go again" a few times so clearly the players do understand Lambert....
Ot, as Louzie says, it's something the players ahve come up with as a mental trigger for girding their loins and getting back out here.

Yes it was the TS interview, just remembered!
Either way, it explains why PL keeps repeating it, as well.  There seems to be a lot of determination. It has a different resonance when used by one of the players after a win.
Here's hoping it leads to a climb up the table, from now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: gervilla on March 16, 2013, 06:35:57 PM
We would have been dead and buried today well before half time if it wasn't for Brad.
He has really made the position his own after Lambert had the balls (that TSM didn't) to drop Given.
Here for years to come hopefully.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on March 16, 2013, 06:37:15 PM
All hail the great and powerful Guz.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Olof's Beard on March 16, 2013, 06:38:39 PM
World class.  I would not swap him for any other keeper in the league, as I said on the match thread.  Player of the Year in spite of our pathetic defensive records, ticks every box.  Very likeable sort of chap too, full of positive energy.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on March 16, 2013, 06:41:57 PM
I have so much man love for Brad. I just said in the match thread that watching him in the second half (I sit Lower North) is like looking in a mirror. I've never known a Villa keeper that seems to care as much as he does. And those saves in the first half! I love you Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: neo_Villan on March 16, 2013, 06:44:14 PM
Has to be our player of the season surely? Benteke can be content with young player of the season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: not3bad on March 16, 2013, 06:48:39 PM
Player of the season, no question.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SW9-VILLA on March 16, 2013, 06:49:55 PM
His save at the start of the game today was world class. He is a titan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on March 16, 2013, 06:52:52 PM
When you talk of a spine it starts with the goalkeeper. We a set in that position for many years to come now. It will be much harder keeping Benteke off course, but if we can along with a solid CB and CM we will be in very stable position. Guzan has been a revelation. There is no other way to view it.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on March 16, 2013, 06:58:12 PM
Love him.

Ridiculous he's been second choice to Given, he's just a much better all round keeper.

Given has lost his agility over the last 18 months, there's no way he would've sprung across goal and kept out the early Samba header for instance.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: caster troy on March 16, 2013, 07:00:26 PM
Can't some photoshop wizard make him Superman? He has been sensational this season, our best keeper since Bosnich.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on March 16, 2013, 07:14:22 PM
His save at the start of the game today was world class. He is a titan.

I think it's a sign of how good he's become that I, for one, wasn't at all surprised by it. Brilliant, utterly brilliant. Long may he reign!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: citizenDJ on March 16, 2013, 07:25:19 PM
Love him.

Ridiculous he's been second choice to Given, he's just a much better all round keeper.

Given has lost his agility over the last 18 months, there's no way he would've sprung across goal and kept out the early Samba header for instance.

Just makes the signing of Given seem more absurd each game he plays, doesn't he? Not that I thought Given was too bad a signing at the time, but that contract......
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on March 16, 2013, 07:28:16 PM
Genuinely one of the best goalkeepers in the league now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on March 16, 2013, 07:29:01 PM
I'd love to have seen Guzan play behind a defence of the standard we had in say 07-08 when we still conceded loads of goals with Carson in there.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on March 16, 2013, 07:33:38 PM
I honestly wouldn't swap him for any keeper in the world. The guy clearly loves the Villa too. Isn't it true as well that he's on less money now than his previous spell?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Big Dick Edwards on March 16, 2013, 07:43:55 PM
Has to be our player of the season surely? Benteke can be content with young player of the season.

Benteke gets all the headlines because he's a goalscorer but I agree, Guzan is Player of the Season for me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 16, 2013, 07:55:21 PM
He's grown immensely this season.

Says it all that the idea of Given taking his place is never even discussed, and Given himself is a proven, experienced keeper.

Player of the season for me. Had it been Given and not Guzan in goal this season, we'd be fucked by now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on March 16, 2013, 08:04:23 PM
He's grown immensely this season.

Says it all that the idea of Given taking his place is never even discussed, and Given himself is a proven, experienced keeper.

Player of the season for me. Had it been Given and not Guzan in goal this season, we'd be fucked by now.

Thats a daft thing to say Paulie. How do you know how Given would have performed in front of that defence?

Agree with you however re Guzan. He has been remarkable this season. Player of the season without any doubt.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on March 16, 2013, 08:07:32 PM
Player of the season definitely
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on March 16, 2013, 08:08:30 PM
Yes, player of the season he is.  Others, Given included, would have dropped their heads with the amount we've shipped over the weeks.  Brad has got on with it and looked solid game after game.  He deserves a performance like today and he's worth it. 

He and Benteke are up there with the best signings of the season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 16, 2013, 08:11:32 PM
He's grown immensely this season.

Says it all that the idea of Given taking his place is never even discussed, and Given himself is a proven, experienced keeper.

Player of the season for me. Had it been Given and not Guzan in goal this season, we'd be fucked by now.

Thats a daft thing to say Paulie. How do you know how Given would have performed in front of that defence?

Agree with you however re Guzan. He has been remarkable this season. Player of the season without any doubt.

Well, for starters, the defence would be worse organised - yes, even worse - in front of Given, and his reluctance to come off his line would have cost us. He's a good shot stopper, but Guzan's performances have been top notch.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villan from luton on March 16, 2013, 08:14:49 PM
Guzan has certainly proved me wrong, never thought he would make it as a premiership keeper, but has proved he is a top class one and great to hear Lambert giving him the praise he certainly deserves.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: paul_e on March 16, 2013, 08:19:54 PM
Guzan was immense today.  The save from Samba is one of the best this season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SamTheMouse on March 16, 2013, 08:21:31 PM
Guzan has been our shining light this year. That's partly a reflection of how utterly bollocks our defence has been - with a decent back four in front of him, he'd have been far less busy.

But he's been close to flawless all season, and I wouldn't swap him for any other keeper right now. Really pleased for him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on March 16, 2013, 08:21:59 PM
Guzan was immense today.  The save from Samba is one of the best this season.

Two truly great saves in the first half.  I think his kicking has also really come on since he first came to the club.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: richardhubbard on March 16, 2013, 09:05:41 PM
Top keeper and seems to love the club
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on March 16, 2013, 09:31:30 PM
He could easily be at one of the top 4 clubs. He's that good. It's lucky in a way that he's not Spanish or French, because he might be at a bigger club by now. American keepers seem to slip under the radar somewhat until they're in their 30's.
I still don't think people outside our club take too much notice of him. Possibly they just take one look at the goals conceded tally, I don't know but personally he's better than anything Arsenal have. He's better than De Gea. Top keeper.
Brad's also a rare breed of keeper who likes to catch the ball and claim it. It's a dying art.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: danlanza on March 16, 2013, 10:06:38 PM
Fucking immense and he cares aswell. Top keeper and we might lose him to a better team in the summer.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villan from luton on March 16, 2013, 10:13:08 PM
If we stay up, I think he will stay with the club. Seems to enjoy the place and will repay the faith Lambert has shown in him
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on March 16, 2013, 10:16:54 PM
Just look back at the Everton game when Given was dropped.

Obviously the second one was a horror show that can happen to any goalie (even Guzan will make a rick like that in one game) but I look at the pienaar shot that beat him aswell. Good strike but it was hardly top corner and Guzan's saved a few of those this season, I believe he would've tipped that over the bar.

He's just a more agile keeper who flys across the goal, Given used to do that at Newcastle but I believe his groin injuries have put a stop to that.

O.k it was a decent strike but it was hardly top corner. I reckon Guzan would've got
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SamTheMouse on March 16, 2013, 11:35:42 PM
He could easily be at one of the top 4 clubs. He's that good. It's lucky in a way that he's not Spanish or French, because he might be at a bigger club by now. American keepers seem to slip under the radar somewhat until they're in their 30's.
I still don't think people outside our club take too much notice of him. Possibly they just take one look at the goals conceded tally, I don't know but personally he's better than anything Arsenal have. He's better than De Gea. Top keeper.
Brad's also a rare breed of keeper who likes to catch the ball and claim it. It's a dying art.

I think it must be his name. If he actually was called Guzman, the scouts would find him no probs.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: unclefabio on March 16, 2013, 11:46:36 PM
We released this man last summer. He almost ended up playing for Hull City. Thank Christ we came to our senses.

That being said, I think I'd vote for Benteke as our player of the season. Actually, mods, do you reckon that it's too early to start a PotS thread or can I make one now?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on March 16, 2013, 11:58:27 PM
Go for it. A poll can always be reset towards the end of the season.

That first save from Samba was one of the best saves I've seen in years.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on March 17, 2013, 12:00:39 AM
To think how much we have payed out on Shay as well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: *shellac* on March 17, 2013, 12:08:26 AM
He's a mutant, his other name is Immense.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rancid custard on March 17, 2013, 09:23:55 AM
We Probably be down already if it weren't for El Guzano.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on March 17, 2013, 09:44:34 AM
We released this man last summer. He almost ended up playing for Hull City. Thank Christ we came to our senses.

That being said, I think I'd vote for Benteke as our player of the season. Actually, mods, do you reckon that it's too early to start a PotS thread or can I make one now?

Can you imagine how pissed off we'd all be if we were watching him do this at another club.  I understand he took a pay cut to return, well I think he should be put back on his old wages (whatever they were) and signed up for five, even six years. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on March 17, 2013, 10:19:31 AM
Get the tippex out, just change the name on Given's contract
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on March 17, 2013, 11:05:53 AM
Go for it. A poll can always be reset towards the end of the season.

That first save from Samba was one of the best saves I've seen in years.

Reminded me of the type of spectacular save Colin Withers used to make for us in the middle sixties. Quite brilliant!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on March 17, 2013, 11:10:18 AM
I said on the post match thread that Lambert deserves praise for not only signing him back up but playing him when others would have stuck with Given because of his reputation. He's been immense. I did'nt realise how good that save was from Samba's header until i saw it back again on motd.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on March 17, 2013, 11:13:12 AM
I said on the post match thread that Lambert deserves praise for not only signing him back up but playing him when others would have stuck with Given because of his reputation. He's been immense. I did'nt realise how good that save was from Samba's header until i saw it back again on motd.

Totally agree, I would also have stuck with given but brad has been immense and fully deserves all the plaudits- he is a top keeper now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: HK Villan on March 17, 2013, 11:13:56 AM
Based on his performances this season I wouldn't swap him for any keeper in the world right now.   If he reads this I'm over the moon he was re-signed, got his chance and has showed us all what he can do.  Fantastic stuff and we all love him.  Hope he is our No 1 for many many years, just a lot higher up the table!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on March 17, 2013, 11:15:22 AM
A real legend in the making
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on March 17, 2013, 03:32:16 PM
It genuinley doesn`t bear thinking about where we`d be now if PL hadn`t bought him back.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on March 17, 2013, 06:27:54 PM
It genuinley doesn`t bear thinking about where we`d be now if PL hadn`t bought him back.

I think the Bradford game was a hint.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on March 17, 2013, 06:39:51 PM
player of the year. Benteke is a star, but gotta love Brad
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on March 17, 2013, 07:02:03 PM
We released this man last summer. He almost ended up playing for Hull City. Thank Christ we came to our senses.

That being said, I think I'd vote for Benteke as our player of the season. Actually, mods, do you reckon that it's too early to start a PotS thread or can I make one now?

I thought he'd been offered a new deal by the club last season but didn't sign it?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Somniloquism on March 17, 2013, 08:59:12 PM
We released this man last summer. He almost ended up playing for Hull City. Thank Christ we came to our senses.

That being said, I think I'd vote for Benteke as our player of the season. Actually, mods, do you reckon that it's too early to start a PotS thread or can I make one now?

I thought he'd been offered a new deal by the club last season but didn't sign it?

Yes, he didn't sign because TSM said he didn't fit in his plans and Given was always his number one choice. As TSM signed Given, and put him on such massive money, you could see why he said that was the case.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on March 17, 2013, 09:01:33 PM
I said on the post match thread that Lambert deserves praise for not only signing him back up but playing him when others would have stuck with Given because of his reputation. He's been immense. I did'nt realise how good that save was from Samba's header until i saw it back again on motd.

Totally agree, I would also have stuck with given but brad has been immense and fully deserves all the plaudits- he is a top keeper now.
Yes, I rather remember you being adamant that Guzan would end up in the Championship because he was rubbish and that Given was one of the best keepers in the league (winky emoticon)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villan from luton on March 17, 2013, 10:19:04 PM
To be fair, I didnt think Guzan was a premiership keeper, now wouldnt change him. And as for Given, I think they are good mates and Given has been a true pro. Yes, he is on top money, but that is not his fault
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on March 18, 2013, 12:45:45 AM
I said on the post match thread that Lambert deserves praise for not only signing him back up but playing him when others would have stuck with Given because of his reputation. He's been immense. I did'nt realise how good that save was from Samba's header until i saw it back again on motd.

Totally agree, I would also have stuck with given but brad has been immense and fully deserves all the plaudits- he is a top keeper now.
Yes, I rather remember you being adamant that Guzan would end up in the Championship because he was rubbish and that Given was one of the best keepers in the league (winky emoticon)

That is my recollection also (consternation emoticon).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: AVFCRob on March 18, 2013, 05:26:50 PM
Interesting stats from the Observer on Sunday.

'Top Stoppers' Guzan 3rd in the Premier league - 95 saves (Jaaskelainen 1st - 111)
'Safe Hands' Guzan 1st - 76 catches made (Begovic 2nd -65, Krul 3rd -43)

Basically, Guzan has been sensational for us. The fact that he caught 11 more catches than any other keeper and 33 more than the keeper in 3rd place demonstrates the pressure he's come under from crosses. It also speaks volumes about the weakness of our full backs in not preventing or clossing down crosses.

In an inexperienced and callow defence Guzan has been a colossus. As good as Benteke has been (much of the time) Guzan has been our standout player, I reckon. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on March 18, 2013, 05:35:58 PM
he's just fantastic at coming for crosses,
 the way people kept whineing and whinging about that Blackburn game 2 years after it had happened really pissed me of
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: seanthevillan on March 20, 2013, 06:32:38 PM
Contender for photo of the season (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/21835807)

Anyone know if/when Brad is off to Mexico for the USA's next qualifier? I've actually got tickets for that match and, though I want Mexico to win, I'll be cheering him on (on my own).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on March 20, 2013, 06:46:31 PM
Contender for photo of the season (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/21835807)

Anyone know if/when Brad is off to Mexico for the USA's next qualifier?
I expect he'll be playing - Howard's out, so he's next in line.

Surely it's only a matter of time before he becomes the USA #1.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on March 20, 2013, 07:00:11 PM
I said on the post match thread that Lambert deserves praise for not only signing him back up but playing him when others would have stuck with Given because of his reputation. He's been immense. I did'nt realise how good that save was from Samba's header until i saw it back again on motd.

Totally agree, I would also have stuck with given but brad has been immense and fully deserves all the plaudits- he is a top keeper now.
Yes, I rather remember you being adamant that Guzan would end up in the Championship because he was rubbish and that Given was one of the best keepers in the league (winky emoticon)

To be fair, Guzan might yet end up in the Championship....(double winky).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve R on March 20, 2013, 09:25:16 PM
I'll see your double winky and raise you a no fucking chance.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Somniloquism on March 20, 2013, 10:36:49 PM
Interesting stats from the Observer on Sunday.

'Top Stoppers' Guzan 3rd in the Premier league - 95 saves (Jaaskelainen 1st - 111)
'Safe Hands' Guzan 1st - 76 catches made (Begovic 2nd -65, Krul 3rd -43)

Basically, Guzan has been sensational for us. The fact that he caught 11 more catches than any other keeper and 33 more than the keeper in 3rd place demonstrates the pressure he's come under from crosses. It also speaks volumes about the weakness of our full backs in not preventing or clossing down crosses.

In an inexperienced and callow defence Guzan has been a colossus. As good as Benteke has been (much of the time) Guzan has been our standout player, I reckon.

Not necessarily. It does show that he will claim crosses (and corners and long balls down the centre) though where other teams might have a dominant centre half who clears it out or the keeper stays on his line/prefers to punch the ball out. Agree with the last line.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ozzjim on March 21, 2013, 12:26:22 AM
There will be clubs circling him now. He has been incredible, and TSM should never have dropped him when he came into the side last season. A few of us wanted him kept in after his performance at Stoke, and he deserves all the praise now. Love him as a keeper, my favourite since Bosnich in a Villa shirt by miles.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve R on March 21, 2013, 12:44:49 AM
Aside from everything else, he's one of the few players we have who will go eyeball to eyeball with an opponent or give the ref a few words of advice.

Maybe McLeish did us a favour. Had he picked on performance and not price tag Guzan would have kept his place. If so it's possible he'd still have departed at the end of his contract but would have found somewhere better than Hull before we had chance to step back in.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Colhint on March 21, 2013, 09:28:59 AM
I reckon, we go again, is Brad's phrase. It sounds like an Americanism. I think, not only is he a leader on the pitch but also in the dressing room
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 21, 2013, 08:24:36 PM
We released this man last summer. He almost ended up playing for Hull City. Thank Christ we came to our senses.

That being said, I think I'd vote for Benteke as our player of the season. Actually, mods, do you reckon that it's too early to start a PotS thread or can I make one now?

I thought he'd been offered a new deal by the club last season but didn't sign it?

My Hull supporting brother in law was pretty unexcited about him when he was up there with them. He described him as "ok" and no more.

His progress this season has been phenomenal.

I wonder if part of it is that in the inexperience of the back four, he's felt comfortable about taking a more vocal, organising role?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: neo_Villan on March 21, 2013, 08:34:39 PM
My Hull supporting brother in law was pretty unexcited about him when he was up there with them. He described him as "ok" and no more.

His progress this season has been phenomenal.

I wonder if part of it is that in the inexperience of the back four, he's felt comfortable about taking a more vocal, organising role?
Good theory. This season was the first time he felt he was the more experienced member of the back 5.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on March 23, 2013, 11:33:28 AM
An article from ESPN about Brad

http://espnfc.com/blog/_/name/soccerusa/id/1821?cc=5739

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on March 23, 2013, 11:43:21 AM
We released this man last summer. He almost ended up playing for Hull City. Thank Christ we came to our senses.

That being said, I think I'd vote for Benteke as our player of the season. Actually, mods, do you reckon that it's too early to start a PotS thread or can I make one now?

I thought he'd been offered a new deal by the club last season but didn't sign it?

My Hull supporting brother in law was pretty unexcited about him when he was up there with them. He described him as "ok" and no more.

His progress this season has been phenomenal.

I wonder if part of it is that in the inexperience of the back four, he's felt comfortable about taking a more vocal, organising role?

He's had about 5 seasons' worth of shots to save in the 30 games so far, of course he's improved! ;)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on March 27, 2013, 07:38:58 AM
http://espnfc.com/news/story/_/id/1389434/u.s.-earns-precious-point-in-0-0-tie-with-mexico?cc=5739#

Quote
MEXICO CITY -- The Americans were clinging to a scoreless tie, seconds away from earning a rare point in Mexico, when Angel Reyna's shot darted perilously close to the goal.

Brad Guzan lunged, smothering the ball with his body.

"It's always going to be a bit hectic and a bit crazy, especially late in the game," Guzan said. "You're never going to come to a place like Azteca and go out and have it nice and easy. So we knew at some point, it was going to come, the pressure was going to come, and we were able to deal with it."

Guzan swatted away shot after shot, young defenders Omar Gonzalez and Matt Besler showed the poise of veterans and the Americans hung on for a 0-0 draw Tuesday night, earning only their second point in a World Cup qualifier at Azteca Stadium.

As Risso said, he's had enough practice !
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 27, 2013, 04:43:27 PM
I'm delighted for Brad. I hope he manages to keep his place in the team, for me he's far better than Tim Howard. Great result for the US, even if Mexico should have had a penalty or two. Saying that, Brad would probably have saved both.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on March 27, 2013, 04:57:41 PM
The thing is, he looked far more commanding than previously, from day one of this season.
He has been immense and could go on to be a great keeper for several more years.

It's players like him that make me hope that we stay up - so that we can build a cracking squad around him and the other little beauties.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on March 27, 2013, 05:13:56 PM
Probably the first time at Villa he's had a manager believe in him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on March 27, 2013, 05:56:15 PM
Probably the first time at Villa he's had a manager believe in him.

I agree, I think that goes a long way to explaining his current form and PL deserves a lot of credit for showing faith in him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on March 27, 2013, 06:06:42 PM
I wonder if the credit actually belongs to Randy?

I bet he encouraged the deal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on March 27, 2013, 06:09:50 PM
I wonder if the credit actually belongs to Randy?

I bet he encouraged the deal.

Ultimately it would have been PL's call though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on March 27, 2013, 06:13:53 PM
Good call whatever. He must be one of the best in the league. He gives an air of confidence from his keeping like Schmeichel did.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on March 27, 2013, 06:17:38 PM
I'm delighted for Brad. I hope he manages to keep his place in the team, for me he's far better than Tim Howard. Great result for the US, even if Mexico should have had a penalty or two. Saying that, Brad would probably have saved both.

Tim Howard is a very athletic and consistent goalkeeper. In fact the USA has produced some excellent goalkeepers in the last twenty years.

Brad1 Brad2 Howard and Kasey Keller come to mind.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on March 28, 2013, 11:30:37 AM
He's yet another American goalkeeper who hits his mid to late 20s and reaches another level. Brad has been excellent this year and can really be the long term number 1 for this club, with hopefully Siegrist moving up to his challenger.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: sonlyme on March 28, 2013, 11:57:18 AM
I am seeing very little contrition from the loud voices who cast doubt on Guzan as our number one?

If I recall correctly - Paul Lambert was a fool for picking him over the legendary Shay Given?

Yet Guzan has become a world class keeper playing behind a young inexperienced defence.  And he has done that by learning from his own mistakes and working hard to improve both himself and his team-mates.  I think that the same process will occur with many of our young team.

'Not good enough' comes the myopic cry.  I would prefer to let professionals be the judge of that.  And I hope that Guzan and Lambert will build many years of success as an anti-dote to the angry negative finger pointing that has blighted so much of our clubs recent history.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Bottom Right 89 on March 28, 2013, 01:18:40 PM
I am seeing very little contrition from the loud voices who cast doubt on Guzan as our number one?

If I recall correctly - Paul Lambert was a fool for picking him over the legendary Shay Given?

Yet Guzan has become a world class keeper playing behind a young inexperienced defence.  And he has done that by learning from his own mistakes and working hard to improve both himself and his team-mates.  I think that the same process will occur with many of our young team.

'Not good enough' comes the myopic cry.  I would prefer to let professionals be the judge of that.  And I hope that Guzan and Lambert will build many years of success as an anti-dote to the angry negative finger pointing that has blighted so much of our clubs recent history.
You make some good points but anyone claiming Guz was a better player than Given until the start of this season is kidding themselves. After the Euros we had to replace Shay Given, his confidence was battered and combined with niggling injuries he was never going to perform like he did last season. Guzan faced with a drop down to the Championship was then handed a lifeline, he's got in and made a name for himself in the same way that Bosnich did when he replaced the Spink Panther, even Bozzie had his critics to begin with but with a decent run in the first team he improved beyond belief.

It's worked out but it could have easily gone the other way, we could see that Guzan was a good shot stopper but positioning for set pieces was attrocious based on his limited number of first team starts. He's definitely worked on his game and based on his heroics in recent weeks and all round consistency I'd now say that he edges Benteke for Player of the Season however if you'd said to me at the start of the season should we recall Guzan or sign a new Keeper, I'd have gone for the second option. Very pleased to be proved wrong and shows why Paul Lambert picks the team and not me.

I'd also like to be proved wrong by Joe Bennett, he's had a torrid first season but he's definitely got some talent and just needs to settle down a bit.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on March 29, 2013, 11:25:20 AM
You make some good points but anyone claiming Guz was a better player than Given until the start of this season is kidding themselves.
He was. Given didn't just suddenly become a flawed goalkeeper at Polkraine and Guzan didn't just suddenly become a good goalkeeper when Lambert brought him back to the club.

Guzan did a very good job when needed last season and shouldn't have immediately been jettisoned as soon as Given became fit again.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on March 29, 2013, 05:18:09 PM
I wonder if the credit actually belongs to Randy?

I bet he encouraged the deal.

Ultimately it would have been PL's call though.

If Randy did have a hand in Guzan coming to Villa, I doubt he will be shouting it from the rooftops.
Unlike Doug Ellis with Dwight Yorke. Who as we all know was spotted by Doug, coached and trained by Doug, introduced to the bicycle kick by Doug, and treated like a son by Doug. (Which in effect then makes Yorkie a brother of Brian Little).
 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Somniloquism on March 29, 2013, 10:46:09 PM
You make some good points but anyone claiming Guz was a better player than Given until the start of this season is kidding themselves.
He was. Given didn't just suddenly become a flawed goalkeeper at Polkraine and Guzan didn't just suddenly become a good goalkeeper when Lambert brought him back to the club.

Guzan did a very good job when needed last season and shouldn't have immediately been jettisoned as soon as Given became fit again.

My thought last year as well. But then we did have TSM in charge then and he had just spent how much in fees and wages to get him in so was always going to play Given first no matter what.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on April 08, 2013, 12:01:12 PM
from the Daily heil
But the American’s willingness to come off his line to deal with crosses and long throws at Stoke - highlighted on Match of the Day – was probably a bigger reason for Lambert’s decision.
Given caught 36 crosses and punched away another 11 in the entire of last season. This campaign Guzan has punched 25 and caught an astonishing 85.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2305467/Brad-Guzan-justifies-Aston-Villa-No-1-status-Jordan-Rhodes-rescue-Blackburn-Rovers-Jamie-Carragher-Liverpools-pass-master--What-learned-weekend.html#ixzz2PruGkr7T
Follow us: @MailOnline on Twitter | DailyMail on Facebook
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on April 08, 2013, 12:04:21 PM
from the Daily heil
But the American’s willingness to come off his line to deal with crosses and long throws at Stoke - highlighted on Match of the Day – was probably a bigger reason for Lambert’s decision.
Given caught 36 crosses and punched away another 11 in the entire of last season. This campaign Guzan has punched 25 and caught an astonishing 85.


Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2305467/Brad-Guzan-justifies-Aston-Villa-No-1-status-Jordan-Rhodes-rescue-Blackburn-Rovers-Jamie-Carragher-Liverpools-pass-master--What-learned-weekend.html#ixzz2PruGkr7T
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Interesting figures- so last season we let 47 crosses into the box for the keeper to deal with and this season we have already let 110 crosses reach the keeper?
Seems we need to stop so many crosses and we may cut down the number of goals conceded.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on April 08, 2013, 12:06:35 PM
Well this summer the kids homework will be how to close down players and stop them crossing
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: N'ZMAV on April 08, 2013, 12:09:04 PM
Playing with no wide midfielders means our full backs are not protected - meaning the opposition will have more chances to get crosses in.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on April 08, 2013, 12:09:05 PM
Would be interesting to know how many goals we conceded from crosses last season and this season so far .
Guzan has been immense in the air but no question we are allowing the ball to be crossed into the box too often.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on April 08, 2013, 12:38:17 PM
he's the best, I wouldn't swap him for anyone else in the world

even Charlie Nicholas said he's one of the very few goalkeepers now who actually come out for the ball, taking control and easing the pressure of the defence,
he's fantastic player of the season for me, incredible to think that we have let millions of goals in but he still the best in the team
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on April 08, 2013, 12:40:54 PM
He's top class now, in my opinion one of the top 3 in the league.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 08, 2013, 12:44:50 PM
Just because Guzan has dealt with 110 crosses this season and Shay dealt with 47 last, that doesn't mean that's the number of crosses that have come into the box. Given hardly comes for crosses for a start.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on April 08, 2013, 12:45:49 PM
Just because Guzan has dealt with 110 crosses this season and Shay dealt with 47 last, that doesn't mean that's the number of crosses that have come into the box. Given hardly comes for crosses for a start.

Good point that Percy.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on April 08, 2013, 12:47:42 PM
Guzan has been top notch.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on April 08, 2013, 12:49:06 PM
Just because Guzan has dealt with 110 crosses this season and Shay dealt with 47 last, that doesn't mean that's the number of crosses that have come into the box. Given hardly comes for crosses for a start.

Or that we stopped more crosses last season because we played with a back 8.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on April 08, 2013, 12:54:40 PM
I think the problem stems from accomodating Wiemann, Gabby and Benteke...

Gabby and Weimann aren't really wingers as such or out and out forwards. If we played the traditional 4-4-2 formation both of those two playing wide would worry me, however we can get away with it as a 4-5-1/4-3-3 as we have 3 central midfield players. This naturally leaves us a problem in the wide positions as our full backs are exposed a little to much meaning we concede too many crosses. Teams playing against us always look to play with width as our full backs have too much space and too many people to mark.

Lambert, next season needs to be brave enough to play with proper width on some occassions, and that means leaving out one of, Wiemann or Gabby.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on April 08, 2013, 01:56:47 PM
Just as a small sample to use as a more appropriate comparison (having each played behind entirely different defences), are any figures available for Brad's cameo spell from last season?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on April 20, 2013, 11:30:32 PM
Guardian Interview (http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2013/apr/20/brad-guzan-aston-villa?CMP=twt_gu)

Quote
On 23 May last year Aston Villa announced on their website that Brad Guzan was one of three players being released, thanked him for his efforts and wished him all the best. By that point Guzan had already cleared his locker, bid farewell to his team-mates and was back in the United States wondering what the future held. The answer – being a leading contender to be named Villa's player of the year 11 months later – would never have entered his head.

Guzan looks a little embarrassed to be singled out for such praise, although when it comes to Villa's standout performer this season, it is a straightforward choice between the 28-year-old American goalkeeper and the striker Christian Benteke. Brought into the team for the third game of the season at Shay Given's expense, Guzan seized his chance and has fully justified Paul Lambert's faith in him. One statistic perfectly sums up his contribution in a turbulent season for the Midlanders: he is the only Premier League goalkeeper to have made more than 200 saves.

"Football is so funny, you don't know what is going to happen," Guzan says, reflecting on last summer's events. "I had said my goodbyes and technically I was released. I think there was a mutual respect where we said we'll continue to talk, but for me the most important thing was to be given a fair shake at it because under the last manager [Alex McLeish] it didn't feel that was going to be the situation. If [McLeish] had stayed, the writing was on the wall that I was going to have to go. I know my agent had spoken to other clubs.

"But when the new manager was named, Terry [Gennoe], the goalkeeping coach, said [Lambert] wanted to have a chat. I spoke to the manager on the phone and said: 'I'd like to continue this conversation but I'd like to come to England.' Face to face you get a better vibe for what is being said. I got an overnight flight to Chicago on the Tuesday, flew into London on the Wednesday morning, had a two-hour drive to Birmingham, had the meeting, got back in the taxi to Heathrow and was back in Chicago on Wednesday night, all in less than 24 hours.

"For me this was a big point in my career, the national team picture was starting to fade away, I hadn't played consistent club football for four years, so that [journey] was the least I could have done to give myself the best chance to make the right decision. At the meeting the manager said to me: 'Listen, everyone starts fresh. I don't make the decisions, the players do in terms of performances.' All things considered, I felt I could give it a real go."

While Guzan has relished the chance to establish himself as Villa's No1, after spending so much time in the shadow of Brad Friedel and then Given, it has been a challenging season facing the threat of relegation. Villa go into Monday's game at Manchester United in decent form, after picking up 10 points from their last five matches, but much of the campaign has been a struggle, in particular when they were knocked out of both cups by lower league opposition in January on the back of some humiliating defeats in the Premier League.

The 8-0 hammering at Stamford Bridge, where Guzan was praised for preventing Chelsea from racking up double figures, was as bad as it gets. "On a day like that you don't want to talk about it, you kind of want to shut down," Guzan says. "But, at the same time, you have to analyse it and look at it in the same way as if you won 1-0. You have to be man enough and say it was a shit day at the office. Unfortunately for us, a shit day at the office is not only in front of 40,000 fans but all over national television and all over the world."

When Villa lost their next two games at home, 4-0 against Tottenham Hotspur and 3-0 to Wigan, the flak was flying. "As a team, everyone criticised us and said we were terrible and we had no chance. But we never let it affect us," Guzan says. "I have continually said: 'We understand the quality and the ability that we have in the dressing room and the belief and the confidence we have in each other.' And probably people looked at me as if I was talking rubbish. Now all of a sudden people are saying we have come out better for it. Well, we knew we would."

Guzan is a likable character, loquacious and generous with his time. Born in Illinois, he was a model student at school but always had a passion for football, so much so that he was happy to play anywhere on the pitch until well into his late teens. "I played outfield in a national final when I was 18," he says. "Afterwards I found out that the under-18 national team coach had heard about me as a goalkeeper and came to see me play. He said to my coach: 'I've come to see Brad.' My coach said: 'Right, well he's playing outfield today.'"

He went on to study sport management at the University of South Carolina but left after two years to play in the MLS for Chivas USA, which was where he came to Villa's attention. Guzan signed for Villa in 2008 and was prepared to bide his time initially, picking up experience in cup games, where he made four penalty saves against Sunderland en route to Villa reaching the 2010 League Cup final. Having played in every round, Guzan was distraught when Martin O'Neill picked Friedel to start against Manchester United at Wembley.

"It was a massive blow," he says. "But as big a disappointment as it was, I could have used it one of two ways. I could have sulked and let everyone know about it. Or I could have continued to fight and say: 'I respect the decision because he is the manager, I don't agree with it but there is nothing I can do about it, I have to go out and support my team-mates.'

"Don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to deny I wasn't pissed [off] because I was beyond pissed. But you use those tough times to make you stronger and it's how you respond to difficult times that makes you the person and, ultimately, the player you are."

That sort of mental fortitude resonates in a week when Guzan has been closely following events back home in America, full of admiration for the inner strength people have been showing in Boston in the wake of the marathon bombings.

"I know the goalkeeper for the team in Boston in the MLS, the New England Revolution. His father-in-law was injured in the attack so hopefully he has pulled through some of the surgeries," Guzan says. "I think he still needs prayers and well wishes. It is tragic what has happened."
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lizz on April 20, 2013, 11:47:38 PM
Good interview.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on April 20, 2013, 11:49:28 PM
All season The Guardian does seem to be the only national paper to accurately reflect what the general feeling of the club is.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eamonn on April 21, 2013, 01:45:59 AM
Quote
I spoke to the manager on the phone and said: 'I'd like to continue this conversation but I'd like to come to England.' Face to face you get a better vibe for what is being said.

I liked this bit - that self awareness, slightly open to ridicule behaviour that I think is quite American and that I'd never expect to hear a British player say.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on April 21, 2013, 08:13:11 AM
All season The Guardian does seem to be the only national paper to accurately reflect what the general feeling of the club is.
Similar article in the Sunday Times today: Guzan was the senior palyer put up at Friday's presss conference.
He comes across as very sensible.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on April 21, 2013, 09:06:32 AM
He gets my vote that's for sure, he took some stick from fans after the Blackburn games but I think it's made him a better player in the long run, Mcshit should never have dropped him last season and that's one thing I'll say for Lambert he picks players on merit
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: CJ on April 21, 2013, 11:02:15 AM
Nice piece about Guzan in today's Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/brad-guzan-joins-the-200-saves-club-8581550.html?origin=internalSearch), highlighting the fact that Brad has made 200 saves this season - more than any other keeper in the PL.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 21, 2013, 11:44:08 AM
Brad has been brilliant.

He was very good in his cameo over xmas last season and I thought he should've kept his place then. Well done to Lambert for making an effort to keep him.

Be interesting to see who the PFA goalkeeper is, some good contenders like Begovic, Mingolet and Brad around. Probably be Dea Gea even though I think he's improved a lot this season but would prefer a keeper down the table get recognition.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on April 21, 2013, 09:09:28 PM
Brad has been fantastic, but he won't get PFA goalkeeper of the year because of the number of goals we've conceded. The fact they're not down to him is irrelevant, that's what most voting will look at.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eamonn on April 21, 2013, 11:43:52 PM
Has he been shortlisted or is there such a thing?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 22, 2013, 12:43:54 AM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PFA_Team_of_the_Year
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 22, 2013, 10:30:54 PM
There isn't a shortlist, they just announce the team on the night. Always an interesting read.

From memory Dunne, Milner and Young have all made the team playing for us in the last few years.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ACVilla on April 23, 2013, 08:40:51 AM
There isn't a shortlist, they just announce the team on the night. Always an interesting read.

From memory Dunne, Milner and Young have all made the team playing for us in the last few years.
A full list, those above plus:

 Ugo, Alan Wright, God, Platt, Spink and the other Andy Gray (Both Second Division), Kenny Swain (Twice), Allan Evans, Gary Shaw, John Gidman (Thrice, once in Div 2), Scottish Andy Gray, Ray Graydon (Div 2) and Bruce Rioch (Div 2)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: N'ZMAV on April 23, 2013, 08:43:13 AM
Brad has been brilliant.

He was very good in his cameo over xmas last season and I thought he should've kept his place then. Well done to Lambert for making an effort to keep him.

Be interesting to see who the PFA goalkeeper is, some good contenders like Begovic, Mingolet and Brad around. Probably be Dea Gea even though I think he's improved a lot this season but would prefer a keeper down the table get recognition.
Lloris is by far the best GK in the Premier League.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ACVilla on April 23, 2013, 08:55:05 AM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PFA_Team_of_the_Year
That's a hugely interesting list thanks for sharing, I'll spend some time divulging that, so many interesting stats to take from it.

For example, in the 38 years this has been running, in the first 19 years of these only 3 non UK players were nominated (Ardiles, Thijssen and Schmeichel) and in the next 19 years a total of 82 were nominated.

Back on topic, I agree, Lloris is by far the best keeper in the Prem.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Fernando Partridge on April 24, 2013, 07:37:56 AM
I appreciate Guzan attitude as well as his top GK displays. Considering he 'left' the club and took opportunity to come back take on the No1 jersey displacing Given he's bloody brilliant! This man will help keep Villa up with more crucial saves. He goes on to next game rather than dwell on some of the heavy beatings for me hes the best goal keeper in league as he is far less error prone that any other keeper.   
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: olaftab on April 27, 2013, 08:28:45 AM
I am not sure if there is a better keeper in PL this season other than Brad?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithe on April 27, 2013, 08:34:30 AM
Just reading the teams of the year from the Daily Mail football writers, Mingolet, Cech, Agbegovic, Mingolet, De Gea all pick up votes, Neil Moxley went for Guzan although he also went for a midfielder I had to google as I had no idea who he was.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 27, 2013, 09:15:37 PM
Colin Young picked Mingolet and he's the NE football correspondant so seems the journos picked the keeper they see play the most. Has Cech really had that good a season?

BTW Brad was in Frankie and Bennys at the fort yesterday as my mate is head Barman there so will let you know what was his drink of choice.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on April 27, 2013, 09:18:04 PM
As crap keepers go, Rob Elliot at Newcastle is terrible.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 27, 2013, 09:24:49 PM
I agree, I think Krul being injured was a huge blow for Newcastle as they've been on defence suicide watch ever since. Is Steve Harper still there, you'd think they'd stick him in for the last 3.

BTW I'm intrigued as to who this unknown midfielder is that PeterWithe read about in the team of the year....
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on April 27, 2013, 09:31:11 PM
I'm guessing Morgan Schneiderlin.

Unless he's not heard of Youssuf Mulumbu or Juan Mata.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 27, 2013, 09:41:39 PM
Schneirderlin is excellent and would improve our midfield a lot.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: seanthevillan on April 27, 2013, 11:22:59 PM

BTW Brad was in Frankie and Bennys at the fort yesterday as my mate is head Barman there so will let you know what was his drink of choice.

Bud Light?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 27, 2013, 11:33:16 PM
He ordered off the lunch menu apparently....at 4.30pm.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on April 28, 2013, 10:06:22 PM
He ordered off the lunch menu apparently....at 4.30pm.

We're not paying him enough. Give him a pay rise so he can order something off t'proper menu.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lizz on April 28, 2013, 10:12:39 PM
R5 aired an interview that Pat Murphy did with Brad this afternoon. I thought Brad came across as sensible, mature, and despite Pat Murphy's best efforts to get him to be critical of team mates, he wasn't.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: danlanza on April 28, 2013, 10:17:48 PM
His performances over the next 4 games are critical to us surviving. If it wasn't for him we would be down already, also Benteke has been a revelation.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 28, 2013, 10:48:42 PM
R5 aired an interview that Pat Murphy did with Brad this afternoon. I thought Brad came across as sensible, mature, and despite Pat Murphy's best efforts to get him to be critical of team mates, he wasn't.

I don't buy into that journalists must be like fans thing for a nanosecond, it isn't their job, but Pat Murphy really strikes me as a bitter fucker these days.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: richard moore on April 28, 2013, 10:51:23 PM
R5 aired an interview that Pat Murphy did with Brad this afternoon. I thought Brad came across as sensible, mature, and despite Pat Murphy's best efforts to get him to be critical of team mates, he wasn't.

I don't buy into that journalists must be like fans thing for a nanosecond, it isn't their job, but Pat Murphy really strikes me as a bitter fucker these days.

Ah, another of my favourite's, Pat Murphy. You don't need to know who scored when he is the bloke R5 have sent to an Albion match. You just have to hear the tone of voice in his opening few words to realise...
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: bertlambshank on April 28, 2013, 10:58:13 PM
Brad didn't get in the PFA team of the year then.Must be who he plays for.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on April 28, 2013, 11:05:35 PM
Brad didn't get in the PFA team of the year then.Must be who he plays for.
Probably. It's hardly a big surprise that people think that the best players this season are the ones who are towards the top of the league.

That's why they're top of the league.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on April 29, 2013, 08:27:49 AM
If De Gea has had a better season than Guzan then my Arsehole is a font of inspiration for Coco Chanel.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on April 29, 2013, 09:25:49 AM
If De Gea has had a better season than Guzan then my Arsehole is a font of inspiration for Coco Chanel.
Eloquently summed up, my man.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on April 29, 2013, 01:48:26 PM
I think Brads fantastic, best in the prem for me
but when you've picked the ball out of your own net 63 times this season it isn't hard to understand that others who haven't seen him quite so often don't think he's anything special
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on April 29, 2013, 01:49:24 PM
I think Brads fantastic, best in the prem for me
but when you've picked the ball out of your own net 63 times this season it isn't hard to understand that others who haven't seen him quite so often don't think he's anything special
Particularly when the voting was doing not so long after we'd conceded eight to Chelsea, four to Spurs and three to Wigan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on April 29, 2013, 06:44:12 PM
I think Brads fantastic, best in the prem for me
but when you've picked the ball out of your own net 63 times this season it isn't hard to understand that others who haven't seen him quite so often don't think he's anything special
Particularly when the voting was doing not so long after we'd conceded eight to Chelsea, four to Spurs and three to Wigan.

Although we haven't kept a clean sheet since then either!
I think Guzan has been outstanding this season and cant really recall any huge changers he has made - i cannot say the same for De Gea.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on May 04, 2013, 08:48:18 PM
Bad error today, wrong call to charge out and try to claim the cross in the 93rd minute, no idea how Holt didn't just head it in.

I think given his outstanding performances he probably earnt that header just going wide of the post.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on May 04, 2013, 10:23:14 PM
Bad error today, wrong call to charge out and try to claim the cross in the 93rd minute, no idea how Holt didn't just head it in.

I think given his outstanding performances he probably earnt that header just going wide of the post.
I'd hate for him to hold back because of that. He's always decisive and reacts quickly so at some point, much like James, he'll make an error or two (not as many as Captain). But yeah, he earned that bit of luck with the header going wide.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on May 04, 2013, 10:29:58 PM
I said I didn't rated that highly at the start of the season. And its taken Guzan until the 93rd minute in early May to finally prove me right. phew.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on May 05, 2013, 01:35:50 AM
Yeah even though the football feed was ahead of my stream and I knew it had ended I still Shit myself. Thought Brad was rarely troubled today
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: JJ-AV on May 05, 2013, 02:01:42 PM
He's been poor for a few weeks now. Seems to make an error in very game.

I rate him and he's good enough to be our number 1 at the minute, but he's not the level some have been making out IMO.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villa kicks on May 06, 2013, 06:35:21 PM
Guzan best in prem and was voted save of season by post nevin match of day 2. It was an amazing reach and agility to keep out samba header!
De gea, mingolet and Cech were mooted as the best keepers this season. That's unfair to guzan as he has been immense
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on May 06, 2013, 06:36:49 PM
He's been below par for a few games now, with some bad decision making, but it must be hard for him having such an error prone back four.  Need him at his very best against Chelsea.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on August 18, 2013, 10:41:07 AM
Time to bump this again.

We have the best goalie in the league.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on August 18, 2013, 11:07:01 AM
Time to bump this again.

We have the best goalie in the league.

Slight mix up with luna early on but that apart it was a goalkeeping performance of the highest level from him yesterday - top class!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: kipeye on August 18, 2013, 11:26:31 AM
Agree he is at the top of his game. He will make some mistakes because he takes risks-which is why he is such a good keeper. S much better than the frozen to the line and flappy stuff we have seen in recent years.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on August 18, 2013, 12:20:27 PM
Love him - fantastic keeper. Will get lots of practice.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ryu on August 18, 2013, 01:30:55 PM
Love Guzan's attitude.  Brave, strong and has that instinctive ability to keep the ball out of the net when a goal looks inevitable.  He makes genuinely surprising saves.  Commands his area well, also.  If he can sort out his kicking he really will be the complete package.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Monty on August 18, 2013, 01:34:57 PM
I really think Guzan is possibly the best keeper in the league. Hopefully at home there'll be more throwing it out to play from the back as he did hoof it fairly agriculturally yesterday (though it is understandable - Arsenal pressed high and we were away and a little nervous).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on August 18, 2013, 01:41:25 PM
He does seem to have all the attributes, great reflexes, good shot stopper, commands his area, all the practice he got last year must have helped him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on August 18, 2013, 01:46:41 PM
He will only get better.  He will learn to judge whether to come and claim the ball or not as he gets more games under his belt.  Great that he has signed a new 4 year contract.  You can clearly see that he's loving being at Villa.  I think, if he had a real commanding centre half in front of him, I would feel even safer with him in goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: gpbarr on August 18, 2013, 02:35:41 PM
Sheer class, full stop
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 18, 2013, 03:39:28 PM
Love the guy. The one handed save yesterday was world class, he wins us as many points as as Benteke, if not more.

Did anybody notice yesterday before the game when Vlaar went up to the centre circle to fulfill his captain's duties, the team met in a huddle and Brad gave the players a very animated pep talk? He's full of passion, commitment and as stated above, really seems to love life at the Villa.

The only thing about him that surprises me is none of the top clubs came in for him during the summer. We're very lucky to have him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: garyshawsknee on August 18, 2013, 03:51:20 PM
And to think we so nearly lost him last summer.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on August 18, 2013, 03:53:22 PM
I can see that being next seasons transfer saga. Guzan will start getting more media attention this year I suspect which will lead to predictable speculation.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 18, 2013, 05:17:32 PM
Love Brad, proper Villa keeper and my favourite since Bosnich.

Imagine him playing now behind the 09/10 defence, we'd have conceded 5 goals that season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on August 18, 2013, 05:40:35 PM
Love Brad, proper Villa keeper and my favourite since Bosnich.

Imagine him playing now behind the 09/10 defence, we'd have conceded 5 goals that season.
This.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on August 18, 2013, 06:11:32 PM
Love Brad, proper Villa keeper and my favourite since Bosnich.

Imagine him playing now behind the 09/10 defence, we'd have conceded 5 goals that season.

Can't argue with that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: The Left Side on August 18, 2013, 06:25:32 PM
Great keeper and to think TSM was going to let him go on a free.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: levico on August 18, 2013, 06:38:31 PM
Very impressed with Brads performance yesterday and how he reacted at full time. He was the most animated of all the players.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on August 18, 2013, 06:45:34 PM
Great keeper and to think TSM was going to let him go on a free.
No he wasn't - McLeish offered him a new deal but he chose not to sign it as he was never going to be first choice.

And who can blame him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on August 18, 2013, 07:03:24 PM
He should never have lost his place back to Given in early 2012 so I don't blame him for leaving either. How long was it between him leaving and Lambert taking over as surprised no one came in and agreed a deal with him in those few weeks.

Their loss, thankfully.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: WALTERS WARRIORS on August 18, 2013, 07:08:31 PM
Love Brad. He gives out massive energy to the team and bet he is a good bloke. PL please help him with an aerial dominating CB .......
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dan England on August 18, 2013, 08:39:22 PM
When you consider all the attributes required to be a good Keeper he ticks every box. I've been going down to Villa Park since the Spink era and I think he is probably the best all round Keeper we have had in that time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Chipsticks on September 09, 2013, 04:47:44 PM
Happy Birthday Brad! Hoping you'll in between our sticks for many years to come.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheSandman on September 09, 2013, 04:49:42 PM
+1 Happy birthday to the Gooze.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gerrin on September 22, 2013, 09:03:05 AM
Another outstanding performance yesterday, he's really taking control of his defence now. Only concern is that one of the CL teams will be sniffing around him soon.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on September 22, 2013, 09:21:49 AM
Time to bump this again.

We have the best goalie in the league.


agree totaly with your bump
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on September 22, 2013, 09:28:43 AM
An exceptional performance yesterday.  Not just the saves but the crosses he collected really impressed me.

The only areas I'd like to see him improve, and these are minor quibbles, are his organisation of the defence and that he throws rather than kicks the ball more often.   
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on September 22, 2013, 09:33:10 AM
Great keeper and played a key part in the goal yesterday. Long may this form continue. Wonder if he will play v spurs or Steer will get a game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on September 22, 2013, 10:16:47 AM
Great shot stopper and he saved us from dropping two points yesterday.
I still think he occasionally flaps at crosses though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: kipeye on September 22, 2013, 10:43:51 AM
Great shot stopper and he saved us from dropping two points yesterday.
I still think he occasionally flaps at crosses though.
I think the point there Saunders is that he is there to flap. He takes risks-they nearly always come off. When you are a forward and you know a keeper hesitates-it makes it a gift-Brad is instilling the opposite. They know he is going to come off his line and they hesitate.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Archie on September 22, 2013, 10:53:38 AM
Brad is so brave and improved until he became the outstanding keeper that he is now, , he reminds me a keeper that I loved although didn't play for the Villa, the Evertonian Neville Southall.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Billy Walker on September 22, 2013, 11:14:22 AM
Another outstanding performance yesterday, he's really taking control of his defence now. Only concern is that one of the CL teams will be sniffing around him soon.

Here we go... I've no concern about that at all.  I've listened to Guzan in interviews and it strikes me that he feels part of a "project" that is going places.  I'd be amazed if he didn't want to stick with Villa and see the club get back on top.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: hartman_1982 on September 22, 2013, 11:17:08 AM
The biggest compliment I can pay him is that he is the only goalkeeper I watch come off his line and know that he is going to come and CATCH it. No punching, no flapping, the man is a beast.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Damo70 on September 22, 2013, 11:19:47 AM
Another outstanding performance yesterday, he's really taking control of his defence now. Only concern is that one of the CL teams will be sniffing around him soon.

Here we go... I've no concern about that at all.  I've listened to Guzan in interviews and it strikes me that he feels part of a "project" that is going places.  I'd be amazed if he didn't want to stick with Villa and see the club get back on top.

The good thing about one of your best players being a goalkeeper is the lack of transfer options for a player in that position. All of the CL chasing clubs are sorted for keepers apart from Arsenal and firstly Arsene probably thinks they are sorted and secondly he doesn't buy good goalkeepers.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gerrin on September 22, 2013, 11:33:23 AM
Another outstanding performance yesterday, he's really taking control of his defence now. Only concern is that one of the CL teams will be sniffing around him soon.

Here we go... I've no concern about that at all.  I've listened to Guzan in interviews and it strikes me that he feels part of a "project" that is going places.  I'd be amazed if he didn't want to stick with Villa and see the club get back on top.

The good thing about one of your best players being a goalkeeper is the lack of transfer options for a player in that position. All of the CL chasing clubs are sorted for keepers apart from Arsenal and firstly Arsene probably thinks they are sorted and secondly he doesn't buy good goalkeepers.

Well there's rumours that Cech is leaving Chelsea at the end of the season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2013, 12:04:55 PM
Another outstanding performance yesterday, he's really taking control of his defence now. Only concern is that one of the CL teams will be sniffing around him soon.

Here we go... I've no concern about that at all.  I've listened to Guzan in interviews and it strikes me that he feels part of a "project" that is going places.  I'd be amazed if he didn't want to stick with Villa and see the club get back on top.

The good thing about one of your best players being a goalkeeper is the lack of transfer options for a player in that position. All of the CL chasing clubs are sorted for keepers apart from Arsenal and firstly Arsene probably thinks they are sorted and secondly he doesn't buy good goalkeepers.

Well there's rumours that Cech is leaving Chelsea at the end of the season.

There were rumours that Lampard was as well and he's still there. Just try and enjoy the win without linking our players away.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on September 22, 2013, 12:07:38 PM
He showed what a good keeper he was last season to save many points for us (QPR, home for example) and to perform so well in a struggling side and in front of such a terrible back four.

He is the perfect age now as he has had a decent amount of experience but as a keeper still has his best years ahead of him.  Think he was unlikely when he first joined the club as Friedel was at the peak of his powers, but now I can seem him being our number one and just getting better for many years to come.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on September 22, 2013, 12:10:13 PM
It's funny, watching the game yesterday and at the end they announced the MOTM as Guzan, I thought that's a fair assessment.  Then after the match they said that he only had to make two saves.  Granted, a lot of his good work was coming off his line and generally catching safely but I do think that the centre of defence has improved on last season.  Vlaar will never be a real top class player but I think his experience is starting to show now. 

Limiting Norwich to two shots on target (one a penalty) was the key to the victory yesterday.  However, Norwich did play into our hands yesterday in the second half by constantly putting high balls into the box and that is where Brad came into his own.  Norwich looked to be at their most dangerous when they played the ball in behind Luna but their low crossing was mainly cut out by Clark and Vlaar.

My only negative about Guzan at the moment is the amount of times he kicks the ball high and long.  Very rarely does anything come from them and we just hand possession back to the opposition.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on September 22, 2013, 12:23:31 PM
If I've got one criticism of Brad it's that he throws the ball out to our players to launch an attack more than he needs to. I understand the reason behind it in the main because we're a very good counter attacking team and it helps us keep possession  but there were times yesterday we were under the cosh a bit and i'd have liked him to have just seen him keep hold of it.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on September 22, 2013, 12:29:37 PM
If I've got one criticism of Brad it's that he throws the ball out to our players to launch an attack more than he needs to. I understand the reason behind it in the main because we're a very good counter attacking team and it helps us keep possession  but there were times yesterday we were under the cosh a bit and i'd have liked him to have just seen him keep hold of it.

Yeah remember near the end of the game he did that and the manager slaughtered him, still for a goalkeeper he is still young so hopefully he will cut that out in time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on September 22, 2013, 12:53:46 PM
For the penalty save, the save in the 88th minute and his domination of his box, the MOTM was deserved.

The point about his distribution is a minor criticism but if he can sort that out, it would be very difficult to find anything else to criticise.

I thought yesterday there were one or two times where there was another defender available for a pass and we played it back to Guz. I don't like to see us playing it around nicely at the back and then seeing the 'keeper whack it up front and often lose possession. Sometimes it's unavoidable but I thought there was the odd occasion where it was unnecessary.

He probably does need that bit of experience in decision making to know when to hold onto the ball and when to look for the quick release for the counter attack. These are relatively small gripes though which can be put right. Top, top keeper though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on September 22, 2013, 02:30:46 PM
Another outstanding performance yesterday, he's really taking control of his defence now. Only concern is that one of the CL teams will be sniffing around him soon.

Here we go... I've no concern about that at all.  I've listened to Guzan in interviews and it strikes me that he feels part of a "project" that is going places.  I'd be amazed if he didn't want to stick with Villa and see the club get back on top.

The good thing about one of your best players being a goalkeeper is the lack of transfer options for a player in that position. All of the CL chasing clubs are sorted for keepers apart from Arsenal and firstly Arsene probably thinks they are sorted and secondly he doesn't buy good goalkeepers.

Well there's rumours that Cech is leaving Chelsea at the end of the season.

If they do let Cech go, all they will do is make Courtois their number one. They've been loaning him to Atletico Madrid for the past couple of seasons and he's rated as one of the best in the world. He's still only 21 too so they may take the long-term point of view.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on September 22, 2013, 03:12:15 PM
Yeh Courtois must be one of, if not the, best young keepers in the world. I imagine he'll be number 1 at Stamford Bridge next season
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gerrin on September 28, 2013, 09:11:54 PM
Brad you are a brilliant keeper, but please please please stop kicking the ball straight out of play on the right hand side from your kicks.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Colhint on September 28, 2013, 09:37:34 PM
fool, he only does that so the Chavski's of this world don't come and bid for him
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: walsall villain on September 28, 2013, 09:50:05 PM
Brad you are a brilliant keeper, but please please please stop kicking the ball straight out of play on the right hand side from your kicks.
I think he was trying to keep it as wide as possible, but row N wasn't what we needed
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on September 28, 2013, 10:39:59 PM
He also made a bit of a mess for their first and made a similar spill later in the game too. We won though and that's all that matters. Hopefully he stays at the level he was at last week when it matters.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on September 29, 2013, 08:18:30 AM
Watching him and Joe Hart yesterday, I know who I'd rather have in my team.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on September 29, 2013, 08:59:40 AM
Brad was head and shoulders above hart as a keeper yesterday :)
Pellegrini will soon ditch him i reckon , he's been critical of him already .
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ChrissyPrice on September 29, 2013, 09:07:16 AM
I think he was genuinely unsighted for Citeh's first one.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Damo70 on September 29, 2013, 12:16:13 PM
His name sounds better when pronounced by an American. Brad Friedel on SKY just called him Guzaan. Sounds better than us Brummies calling him Goo Zan. Personally, I like the cut of Guzaan's/Goo Zan's jib.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: tom jennings III on September 29, 2013, 12:59:31 PM
He's got a great name to chant and the way he's playing this season there will be plenty more reason to chant it! Yesterday I don't think he was at his absolute best but when he had to in the second half I thought he did what was required (the Negredo volley and then the Kolarov shot that Guzan immediately turned into Weimann's winner in particular stand out for me).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: picicata on September 29, 2013, 01:45:42 PM
Brad was head and shoulders above hart as a keeper yesterday :)
Pellegrini will soon ditch him i reckon , he's been critical of him already .

I've seen what you've done there.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on September 29, 2013, 01:53:06 PM
Brad was head and shoulders above hart as a keeper yesterday :)
Pellegrini will soon ditch him i reckon , he's been critical of him already .

I've seen what you've done there.

Well done sir, you can claim your shampoo at the next home game ;)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Breezeblock on September 29, 2013, 03:30:28 PM
Brads kicking yesterday was seriously off-target. I reckon he is either carrying an injury or tweaked something in the warm-up.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on September 29, 2013, 03:33:49 PM
Brads kicking yesterday was seriously off-target. I reckon he is either carrying an injury or tweaked something in the warm-up.

Or maybe the club has secretly employed Mark Bosnich as new goalkeeping coach.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on September 29, 2013, 03:50:28 PM
Brads kicking yesterday was seriously off-target. I reckon he is either carrying an injury or tweaked something in the warm-up.

Coincidence that it happens when Benteke's out?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Smith on September 29, 2013, 04:00:15 PM
Brads kicking yesterday was seriously off-target. I reckon he is either carrying an injury or tweaked something in the warm-up.

It seemed a deliberate ploy to kick it wide, Kozak always pulled out to that side to keep it away from the centre backs. Guzan just kept putting either too much or not enough on it. Similar to what we did under Graham Taylor with Ormondroyd.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Hoppo on September 29, 2013, 04:14:59 PM
If it was deliberate I don't want to see it again.When a keeper kicks it straight out its like giving away a foul throw to me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dekko on September 29, 2013, 04:18:33 PM
I think he's just a bit rubbish at kicking tbh.

Still think hes ace though
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on October 03, 2013, 07:49:28 AM
Quote from: the mirror
By James Nursey | 03/10/13 

Brad Guzan's starring role in Aston Villa's victory over Man City provided plenty of entertainment in the press box.

An exhilarating game reached its zenith when Guzan's expertly-taken quick goal-kick provided a direct assist for Andreas Weimann's winner in the 3-2 thriller.

It prompted chuckles among the hacks following the timely debate last week over whether Paul Lambert's side play a 'long ball' game.

But personally I was pleased, as it meant Villa's keeper getting further recognition for the vital role he plays in boss Paul Lambert's side.

I believe Guzan is arguably THE driving force for Villa on and off the pitch.

Yes, Christian Benteke rightly gets the headlines for his goals, but the big Belgian is actually a really quiet man.

Dutch international Ron Vlaar, the established captain of the side of the pitch, is not a particularly loud individual either.

But Guzan really talks the talk and walks the walk for Villa and has emerged as a huge figure on and off the pitch.

We all know he is dependable in goal and his displays saw him crowned Villa's player of the year last season both from fans and his peers. They also helped deservedly earn him a new improved contract.

But as well as his consistent heroics in goal - which he recently repeated against Norwich and Man City - the confident American is also a galvanising force in the dressing room.

After the win at Carrow Road, where Guzan saved a penalty, boss Lambert praised Guzan as a "good person" as well as a brilliant keeper.



In every dressing room you always need a big, popular figure to help get the lads fired up for a game and unite the squad.

I believe Guzan is that figure and the big American is never shy to speak up to help encourage and motivate team-mates.

You only have to interview him to appreciate that he is a genuine, committed team player who prioritises the side's success much more highly than personal plaudits.

It is a vital, and sometimes rare, quality in the egotistical world of Premier League football.

Guzan was at it again in midweek, when he selflessly turned up at the Villa golf day with four or so younger team-mates to chat with fans and pose for photographs.

The 29-year-old is a credit to the club and himself and has played a huge role in helping create Villa's noticeable team spirit. You don't come from behind twice against Man City to win unless you have a decent atmosphere in your squad.

It is fitting to recognise Guzan's contribution and progress this week ahead of Villa's trip to Hull. For just nearly two ago in January 2011, Guzan was loaned out to Hull in search of regular first team football.

His future at Villa Park was in doubt as recently as summer 2012 with his contract up. But he returned last year and has since deservedly displaced Shay Given and has been a revelation since.

It is great to see nice guys prosper. Villa supporters and players certainly seem to adore their very own all-American Brad.
]
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeS on October 03, 2013, 10:48:52 AM
If it was deliberate I don't want to see it again.When a keeper kicks it straight out its like giving away a foul throw to me.

I was more than happy for him to kick it straight out in the 95th minute.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Singapore Villa on October 09, 2013, 03:25:00 PM
Not seen this posted on here yet, but media speculation that Arsenal looking at Guzan with a view to bid in Jan.  Do one Arsene!!!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 09, 2013, 03:41:04 PM
That will be £50million please Arsene.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on October 09, 2013, 04:27:00 PM
That will be £50million please Arsene.

In the old days Man Utd was the Striker's graveyard. Birtles, Brazil, Davenport numerous others.

I think Arsenal is the equivalent for goalkeepers since Lehman which is 6 or 7 years now.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on October 09, 2013, 05:46:34 PM
That will be £50million please Arsene.

Or they can  bogof for 110 million if they want CB
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: oldtimernow on October 09, 2013, 05:47:24 PM
or they can just bogoff
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Salsa Party Animal on October 09, 2013, 05:50:32 PM
Iker Callias is what Arsene need
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on October 09, 2013, 06:11:40 PM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on October 09, 2013, 09:39:18 PM
They'll sign Begovic from Stoke if they have sense. Stoke have already bought Butland when they were expecting Begovic to go. Might have been Man City - sure he had agreed to go somewhere and then they changed their manager.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on October 09, 2013, 10:08:27 PM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now

Yes just like his manager back in the mid 90's
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gerrin on October 10, 2013, 07:04:20 AM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now

I think it also unfortunately illustrates the crazy margins between success and failure in the professional football. How a manager making the bold step of having faith, belief and confidence in a player over a big name can make such a difference in a players career. Who knows where Guzan would be now were it not for Paul Lambert, it wouldn't be the Premier League though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Billy Walker on October 10, 2013, 04:27:49 PM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now

I think it also unfortunately illustrates the crazy margins between success and failure in the professional football. How a manager making the bold step of having faith, belief and confidence in a player over a big name can make such a difference in a players career. Who knows where Guzan would be now were it not for Paul Lambert, it wouldn't be the Premier League though.

I had the same thought concerning Lambert.  Imagine if Lerner had decided to pull the trigger after that Chelsea, Spurs, Wigan run of last year?  Where would Lambert be, and - more to the point - where would Villa be?  Fine margins and huge, huge decisions.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on October 10, 2013, 06:26:37 PM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now

I think it also unfortunately illustrates the crazy margins between success and failure in the professional football. How a manager making the bold step of having faith, belief and confidence in a player over a big name can make such a difference in a players career. Who knows where Guzan would be now were it not for Paul Lambert, it wouldn't be the Premier League though.

It looked like he was going to Hull until Lambert stepped in and as Hull are now Premier League, so he would be in the Premier League but he would have missed a year.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 10, 2013, 07:09:48 PM
Arsenal have Fabanski, Schzeney and the Italian bloke Viviano as keeper options, you may not rate any of them but they're well stocked in that area so can't see them being in for Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gerrin on October 10, 2013, 08:07:59 PM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now

I think it also unfortunately illustrates the crazy margins between success and failure in the professional football. How a manager making the bold step of having faith, belief and confidence in a player over a big name can make such a difference in a players career. Who knows where Guzan would be now were it not for Paul Lambert, it wouldn't be the Premier League though.

It looked like he was going to Hull until Lambert stepped in and as Hull are now Premier League, so he would be in the Premier League but he would have missed a year.

Not really sure how you work that one out? Brad's last appearance for Hull was over a year before Bruce even took over there, how do you know he was going to buy him, make him first choice and Hull get promoted?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Colhint on October 10, 2013, 08:52:53 PM
Brad for me is the antithesis of whats wrong with the  England team. He was not given the chances and nearly left. People often remembered him from the Blackburn game. Give him a run of games and look at him blossom. Now look at the state of the England team, look at the Milners, Rodwells, Williams. Do they get a regular run in their best positions, never. Look beyond that there must be loads of players who could become really good if they got a run in a decent team who could play for England, will they ever get a game, probably not
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on October 10, 2013, 09:54:00 PM
its amazing to think that just about any premier league team could have signed Guzan for free just over a year ago

he's virtually priceless to us now

I think it also unfortunately illustrates the crazy margins between success and failure in the professional football. How a manager making the bold step of having faith, belief and confidence in a player over a big name can make such a difference in a players career. Who knows where Guzan would be now were it not for Paul Lambert, it wouldn't be the Premier League though.

It looked like he was going to Hull until Lambert stepped in and as Hull are now Premier League, so he would be in the Premier League but he would have missed a year.

Not really sure how you work that one out? Brad's last appearance for Hull was over a year before Bruce even took over there, how do you know he was going to buy him, make him first choice and Hull get promoted?

There were various interviews that came out last summer where this was pretty much established. Bruce thought he had him in the bag until Lambert was appointed and phoned Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gerrin on October 11, 2013, 12:21:32 PM
Brad for me is the antithesis of whats wrong with the  England team. He was not given the chances and nearly left. People often remembered him from the Blackburn game. Give him a run of games and look at him blossom. Now look at the state of the England team, look at the Milners, Rodwells, Williams. Do they get a regular run in their best positions, never. Look beyond that there must be loads of players who could become really good if they got a run in a decent team who could play for England, will they ever get a game, probably not

I kind of agree, but to be fair Milner and Rodwell were getting a run of games in their best positions but they decided they'd rather have more $$$ somewhere else. I will always think of Milner's as a wasted career, I know he's won a league title, but I don't think he ever realised the full potential we saw the yeae he played CM for us.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on October 12, 2013, 12:37:43 AM
I was one of the people who didn't want Brad in the starting 11 and wasn't too sad at him going. However, his performances for a season and a bit have been absolutely top drawer. He performs inevery game and even if he makes the odd error he more than makes up for it in every game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: WALTERS WARRIORS on October 12, 2013, 09:25:06 AM
Ye me to. With the reputation Given had opposed to an American who was only really known for his brilliant penalty saves. I wanted Given all day. Great vision and faith from PL ........
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on October 12, 2013, 02:12:34 PM
I was sold on Guzan when Given had that Groin injury and missed a run of games. It really boiled my piss that McForgottenOne dropped him the second Given was fit again. Guzan had done well enough to extend his run in the team. Then his contract ran down and it looked like we were going to lose what looked like a top goalkeeper (based on that run of games). Thankfully, Lambert came in and must have done his homework to have seen enough of Guzan to first offer him a contract, second give him a chance and third back him when he came in.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Irish villain on October 12, 2013, 05:37:29 PM
Barring the Enckleman/Postma period, goalkeeper has tended to be a strength for us. I thought Given did well during the TSM season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: paul_e on October 12, 2013, 05:46:55 PM
I was never that excited about Given, I thought we were getting someone past his best who whilst always a very good shot stopper was a limited keeper.  When Big Brad left I'd have liked to see Guzan get a chance to stake a claim and for any signing we made to be less high profile so we could have 2 who were genuinely competing.  When it looked like Guzan had gone because he wasn't being given a fair chance to compete with a 36/37 year old I was very unhappy and I'm glad he didn't hold that against the club when Lambert went back for him.

This is nothing against Given, he was a very good goalkeeper 4-5 years ago, but he was a poor signing given the cost and contract involved and, as is now proven, he probably wasn't needed if TSM had shown a bit of guts to back Guuzan a little at the time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on October 12, 2013, 06:52:49 PM
OK here's a question just for a bit of sport

if you had the choice of Given when he was at his best or Guzan as he is now which would you go for ?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on October 12, 2013, 08:44:39 PM
OK here's a question just for a bit of sport

if you had the choice of Given when he was at his best or Guzan as he is now which would you go for ?

Brad all day long John, I was never a big fan of Given.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: jcsutv on October 12, 2013, 09:06:07 PM
Villa are crap at defending corners when we have keepers who don't try to dominate their area. Guzan every time for me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on October 12, 2013, 11:31:47 PM
Given's reputation was built on being an excellent shot stopper, probably one of the best on that attribute alone. However, he was never known for his ability to organise his defence or to command his box. Guzan does all 3.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Colin B on October 12, 2013, 11:56:13 PM
Guzan
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on October 13, 2013, 10:43:14 PM
Guzan. I do now think he's a better keeper. His distribution has worried me a little though this season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on October 13, 2013, 10:51:28 PM
His kick of Weimann's goal against Citeh was excellent but he has kicked the ball out of play a fair few times too. It is something he needs to be a bit more consistent with but he's very capable of doing that - especially with Benteke in the team.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 14, 2013, 01:05:15 PM
I've always been impressed with his kicking accuracy, but this season he has gone a bit Bosnich at times.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on November 12, 2013, 08:01:32 AM
USA seem to have picked a full strength squad for their game against Scotland but Guzan isn't one of the three keepers.

Anyone got any idea why?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ads on November 12, 2013, 08:14:56 AM
He has dropped out of the squad I believe.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: David_Nab on November 12, 2013, 10:19:31 AM
Dropped out Injured no word on what the issue is yet
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on November 12, 2013, 12:02:02 PM
Probably didn't want to play second fiddle to Tim Howard.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: eastie on November 12, 2013, 02:50:51 PM
@MatKendrick: Brad Guzan (body part *) has been excused U.S. duty as a precaution rather than a serious injury. *No specific info about affected area yet
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 12, 2013, 09:45:43 PM
He'll be fine for WBA game.

International games are ridiculous in November.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: olaftab on November 28, 2013, 05:53:24 PM
I thought Brad was fantastic on Monday. Dominated and caught everything.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 28, 2013, 07:33:04 PM
He is one of the best in the league at coming for crosses, no question.

Ridiculous when you think how much he struggled in that Blackburn game and compare that to now. All credit to him for working on that weakness.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villa kicks on January 19, 2014, 07:22:57 PM
I've been defending brad Guzan all day with my people stating the fact he came out appropriately AND expertly put his hands away from on rushing Suarez . I appreciate brad as an honest pro and was rightly aggrieved - telling Suarez he knows what he is at the time . I think to say he rushed out and made contact conceding penalty wasn't the case super brad was done by momentum and suarez buying pen . And with the gerrard pen super brad did his best diving right way but was unsaveable . I for one don't blame him for anything he us great and top 3 gk in league !
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 19, 2014, 07:31:49 PM
Guzans one of the top 3 keepers in the prem for me,
whilest Mignolet must be in the bottom 3
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on January 19, 2014, 09:37:03 PM
Guzans one of the top 3 keepers in the prem for me,
whilest Miglotet must be in the bottom 3

I've never rated Mignolet, he's got crisp packet hands.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Damo70 on January 19, 2014, 11:18:22 PM
Consistency is Mignolet's problem. Sometimes he looks very good and sometimes quite poor. Unlike Brad Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on January 19, 2014, 11:35:31 PM
Guzan is possibly my favourite Villa keeper after Rimmer .
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 20, 2014, 02:03:51 AM
 
Guzan is possibly my favourite Villa keeper after Rimmer .
that's a big call - what about Carson, michael oakes and thomas sorryson?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Damo70 on January 20, 2014, 08:11:31 AM
I think I would have to go Bosnich, Rimmer, Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on January 20, 2014, 08:54:40 AM
Don't forget Adam Rachel
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 20, 2014, 01:11:28 PM
I really liked David James during 99-00 but the cup final error soured things.

Guzan certainly my 2nd favourite after Bosnich.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 20, 2014, 01:17:07 PM
He's the best keeper in the league, I genuinely wouldn't swap him for anyone.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on January 21, 2014, 01:30:45 PM
They were talking about the top 3 keepers in the Premier League prior to the Sunderland-Southampton game. I think there are a lot of really good keepers around at the moment and picking a top 3 would be difficult and it would likely to differ a lot from person to person.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 21, 2014, 03:48:55 PM
Hate to buck the trend as i do rate him but a couple of things i have noticed

* When he first made a regular his command of his box, especially in the air was a great asset - it seems to have gone away and many times i say "go on then keepers" to see him rooted to his line


* i thought he was slow to react towards Sturridge and by going down early made his mind up for him to chip him (Although it was a great finish tbh)

* Although rat boy made the most of it - if you go at a players feet in the box you have to get something of the ball, it has to be seen to change direction. It didnt so any contact with player plays into their hands

I am concered that Steer is not good enough to keep Brad at his best so i do worry about compancency creeping in
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Somniloquism on January 21, 2014, 04:05:36 PM
With the Sturidge goal, there was not much chance to get out because from the moment it left Hendersons foot, it was probably in the net in just under 2 seconds.

And as for the pen, I expect every keeper who comes out that way believes they are getting the ball. If he hadn't dived for the ball, then Suarez would not have to divert it and might have actually squeezed it in, especially if Brad came out and then hesitated.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villa kicks on January 21, 2014, 04:08:45 PM
They were talking about the top 3 keepers in the Premier League prior to the Sunderland-Southampton game. I think there are a lot of really good keepers around at the moment and picking a top 3 would be difficult and it would likely to differ a lot from person to person.

who is they ??
and more importantly who DO YOU say are top 3 !!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on January 21, 2014, 04:14:37 PM
They were talking about the top 3 keepers in the Premier League prior to the Sunderland-Southampton game. I think there are a lot of really good keepers around at the moment and picking a top 3 would be difficult and it would likely to differ a lot from person to person.

who is they ??
and more importantly who DO YOU say are top 3 !!

BT Sport. I think it was McManaman and David James on at the time.

I honestly have no idea who my top 3 would be. It would quickly become a top 8 or something.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dekko on January 21, 2014, 04:23:24 PM
BT Sport. I think it was McManaman and David James on at the time.

I honestly have no ideas who my top 3 would be. It would quickly become a top 8 or something.

I just tried picking three and ended up with Guzan, DeGea, Lloris, Krul and Sceszaacyazyayccaayy from Arsenal without even thinking.

edit: also Begovic
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 21, 2014, 05:34:06 PM
Scezny wouldn't be anywhere near my top three
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 21, 2014, 05:35:03 PM
What's happened with Benji Seafrance (can't recall surname)?

Is he still with us?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on January 21, 2014, 05:39:23 PM
Siegrist's on loan to Burton but not playing. He sounded like a real prospect when he was 15/16 but it's starting to look like it's not going to happen.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dekko on January 21, 2014, 05:48:19 PM
Scezny wouldn't be anywhere near my top three

A few loopy moments against us aside (remember when he tried to tackle Benteke on opening day and had to rush back to make that diving save?) he's been well good this season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rioch is King on January 21, 2014, 06:19:35 PM
I was a big fan of John Burridge, he had great presence.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulTheVillan on January 21, 2014, 06:46:52 PM
Tim Krul is (IMO) one of the top keepers in the league.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Big Dick Edwards on January 22, 2014, 08:46:09 PM
I was a big fan of John Burridge, he had great presence.

He had plenty, right up to the six yard line. He wasn't nicknamed Dracula for nothing..
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on January 22, 2014, 11:04:06 PM
I think De Gea has just fallen out of many people's top 3 keepers list.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on August 21, 2014, 10:46:58 PM
Tim Howard is taking a break from international football, so Brad is now the US Number one

http://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2014/08/21/12/21/140821-mnt-tim-howard-break
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on August 22, 2014, 12:12:59 AM
Courtois is the dogs bollocks. Then for me brad joins de gea, lloris and maybe krul and begovic (if I'm in a good mood)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on August 22, 2014, 01:04:42 PM
I think Guzan has got to sort out his distribution.  He is starting to look a bit arrogant in demanding the ball from defenders, telling players to push up and then miss-kicking many of his kicks up field.  For some time now he has not been looking up when he gets the ball to see if he can throw it out.  If you are not winning the ball in the air, the delayed kick up field is of no use and in which case the early ball can be far better.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on August 22, 2014, 08:49:04 PM
Pleased for him getting the chance with the states, its a good chance for him to claim that spot.  He is an outstanding goalkeeper who has worked very hard to improve since he first debuted, and should play a crucial part again this season.  I just hope that we can get a more settled defence to help him out.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 22, 2014, 09:31:10 PM
That first half display against QPR two seasons ago was one of the best goalie performances I've ever seen. Crucial too.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 22, 2014, 09:34:02 PM
That first half display against QPR two seasons ago was one of the best goalie performances I've ever seen. Crucial too.

I absolutely agree.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on August 22, 2014, 09:41:13 PM
Agreed also but I think he made one or two errors last season. I think he, like many in the team, rose to the challenge when needed two seasons ago but didn't seem to push on last season. Nothing more than a good dependable keeper at the moment for me and i don't put him in the top 5 or so keepers in the league.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on August 23, 2014, 08:54:59 AM
Agreed also but I think he made one or two errors last season. I think he, like many in the team, rose to the challenge when needed two seasons ago but didn't seem to push on last season. Nothing more than a good dependable keeper at the moment for me and i don't put him in the top 5 or so keepers in the league.
Last season had him trying to anticipate the errors coming from Lowton, Luna and Baker. Last season saw our powder-puff central MF conceding ground to the opposition.
Last season Brad did pretty well considering the shite in front of him.
And for the previous season as well.

Not that I'm eulogising him too much, you understand.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on August 23, 2014, 10:32:38 AM
Agree with what you're saying if that was two seasons ago but last season the ball was very rarely lost in the air unlike two seasons ago. Cornalties, free-kicks, and crosses were genuine moments of terror. That changed so Guzan didn't need to come out more. I saw a few more mistakes creeping in terms of shots he should have saved. Distribution wasnt great but that may have been the tactics of hoof down the middle that worked once.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on August 23, 2014, 03:34:01 PM
Agree with what you're saying if that was two seasons ago but last season the ball was very rarely lost in the air unlike two seasons ago. Cornalties, free-kicks, and crosses were genuine moments of terror. That changed so Guzan didn't need to come out more. I saw a few more mistakes creeping in terms of shots he should have saved. Distribution wasnt great but that may have been the tactics of hoof down the middle that worked once.

He is still pretty young for a goalkeeper also.  Considering our form of recent seasons I think he has been very good.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on August 23, 2014, 03:40:12 PM
He won us a point today with that save from Westwood's mistake.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on August 23, 2014, 03:59:13 PM
He won us a point today with that save from Westwood's mistake.

You play goalkeepers to make saves, not let the ball in.  It was a reasonable save but not brilliant.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on August 23, 2014, 04:01:29 PM
He won us a point today with that save from Westwood's mistake.

You play goalkeepers to make saves, not let the ball in.  It was a reasonable save but not brilliant.

Oh, so just because it is his job we shouldn't prise him for doing it well?  Silly us for being positive about something...
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on August 23, 2014, 04:05:31 PM
He won us a point today with that save from Westwood's mistake.

You play goalkeepers to make saves, not let the ball in.  It was a reasonable save but not brilliant.

Oh, so just because it is his job we shouldn't prise him for doing it well?  Silly us for being positive about something...

Goalkeeper and the back four make up the defence and they all had good solid games.  What I was saying is that it wasn't a brilliant save that won us a point.  It was an overall hard working performance from most of the team that got the point.

By the way, grow up!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on August 23, 2014, 04:38:16 PM
He made a save and did it well by covering his angles and coming out to make it difficult for the profligate Newcastle back stick players. Yes, he did do it well and should be commended for it. But he also could be chided for an atrocious kick from the hands that went almost along the deck to half-way. if a Newcastle player had have got it before then we would ahve been in trouble. Its the good and the bad of Guzan that needs to be addressed personally.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on August 24, 2014, 08:01:39 PM
He made a save and did it well by covering his angles and coming out to make it difficult for the profligate Newcastle back stick players. Yes, he did do it well and should be commended for it. But he also could be chided for an atrocious kick from the hands that went almost along the deck to half-way. if a Newcastle player had have got it before then we would ahve been in trouble. Its the good and the bad of Guzan that needs to be addressed personally.

Its not as if anyone here is claiming that he is flawless.  But you could certainly say that he has played a big part in keeping us up the last two seasons and therefore is one of our more important players.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on September 04, 2014, 12:19:06 PM
Report on the Czech Republic v USA game

http://www.espnfc.us/team/united-states/660/blog/post/2018248/united-states-grades-from-the-win-vs-czech-republic

Quote
G Brad Guzan, 6.5 - Wasn't asked to do anything spectacular, but was sharp in his decision-making and made the saves he was asked to make.

Brad was replaced at half time by Nick Rimando, who had more to do but apparently did it well.

Quote
G Nick Rimando, 9 - Was sharp in all phases, but especially his shot stopping. Did well to deny Krejci from close range in the 60th minute as well as Darida five minutes later. Capped off his night by getting a piece of Kolar's effort.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on September 04, 2014, 12:28:00 PM
With Everton having a dodgy start defenivsly maybe Guzan can claim that number one from Howard.

Its early days and he has not had that much to do at Villa, but has looked solid again the first three league games.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on September 04, 2014, 12:44:14 PM
With Everton having a dodgy start defenivsly maybe Guzan can claim that number one from Howard.

Howard has withdrawn from international football for at least a year, so Brad's already US number one
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on September 04, 2014, 05:49:15 PM
Are US in the Copa America next summer? I know they're hosting it in 2016 for some season but would be good to see Brad as number one for them in a major tournament.

I doubt Howard will be around for Russia 2018 so would imagine that's a realistic target for him aswell.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brontebilly on December 14, 2014, 12:19:17 PM
Guzan has been completely at fault for 2 of the last 3 goals we have conceded and needs to take a share of the responsibility for Burnley's equaliser. He threw one in against Everton not too long back. I like Brad as a keeper, with the exception being his use of the ball, but his form is a bit dicey at the moment.

Given by all accounts was superb on loan at Middlesboro last season. Given at his best though wouldnt be coming off his line as much as Guzan does.

Should we stick with Brad or give Shay another chance?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on December 14, 2014, 12:30:37 PM
Guzan has been completely at fault for 2 of the last 3 goals we have conceded and needs to take a share of the responsibility for Burnley's equaliser. He threw one in against Everton not too long back. I like Brad as a keeper, with the exception being his use of the ball, but his form is a bit dicey at the moment.

Given by all accounts was superb on loan at Middlesboro last season. Given at his best though wouldnt be coming off his line as much as Guzan does.

Should we stick with Brad or give Shay another chance?

Stick with Guzan and monitor his form which is not consistent in recent weeks.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on December 14, 2014, 12:32:36 PM
Guzan has been completely at fault for 2 of the last 3 goals we have conceded and needs to take a share of the responsibility for Burnley's equaliser. He threw one in against Everton not too long back. I like Brad as a keeper, with the exception being his use of the ball, but his form is a bit dicey at the moment.

Given by all accounts was superb on loan at Middlesboro last season. Given at his best though wouldnt be coming off his line as much as Guzan does.

Should we stick with Brad or give Shay another chance?

Even the best goalkeepers make mistakes.  Yes Guzan has made a few in recent weeks but he has more than made up for them with very good saves at important times to win important points.  Looking at last week I don't think it was a mistake as the deflection totally caught him out.  So I don't know where you are getting this idea that he is costing us points idea from.

When we first signed Shay it looked a good move, but for whatever reason things have not worked out for him at Villa, and I  don't see him as a top class keeper anymore.  Guzan still has his best years ahead of him so it would be a huge step backwards and totally needless to bring Given back in.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 14, 2014, 02:22:23 PM
Brad needs to up his game. It's ironic that when most of the rest of the team was playing poorly Brad was playing well - now the rest are improving Brad seems to have got a bit sloppy. I like him generally and he's a good GK, but he's making costly errors and that needs to be cut out of his game ASAP if he's going to become a top class keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on December 14, 2014, 05:36:40 PM
When we first signed Shay it looked a good move
Signing Shay Given on a five year deal never looked like a good move in any way, shape or form.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 14, 2014, 05:40:25 PM
I think we need a number 2 goalkeeper who's going to
put more pressure on Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 14, 2014, 05:59:24 PM
He is costing us too many points. The problem is when goalkeepers lose the trust of the defence you have a problem and that problem spreads.
Another big mistake in the next couple of gams and he should be dropped.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt C on December 14, 2014, 06:05:55 PM
He's been a tad shaky in the last couple of weeks by his standards but considering he's been our most consistent player for the last couple of years, I'm inclined to cut him some slack.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: mattjpa on December 14, 2014, 06:31:44 PM
I think Brad needs dropping for a couple of weeks. I love him as a keeper and he is still our long term no.1 but mistakes are creeping in and costing us, his distribution has also been absolutely awful for 3-4 matches. Given should get a game against United. If u want 100% and top performances EVERY player needs to know they are not undroppable, I'm not sure big Brad knows he is. It my do him some good to be out of the firing line as well
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 14, 2014, 08:12:07 PM
Dropping him could wreck his confidence even more though. Plus I don't trust Given to be as good as an off form Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Nastylee on December 14, 2014, 08:16:50 PM
Definitely been a below par but not sure dropping him is the answer especially when the replacement is a an old fogie who's barely played a game in two years.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Flamingo Lane on December 14, 2014, 08:20:56 PM
I'd stick with him, though he does seem to have developed a certain anxiety in recent weeks, especially early on in games.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on December 14, 2014, 09:30:07 PM
I love brad,
He was MOTM against west ham a few games ago and most people thought he gained us a point down there
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on December 14, 2014, 10:53:27 PM
Sky have been talking about De Gea (no surprise there) and showing his stats. I think on just about every selection of their stats where they showed who the top 5 keepers in the Premier League are, Guzan was listed. I don't think we need to do anything hasty and Shay Given has shown in the past that he's a good shot stopper but doesn't really offer anything beyond that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on December 14, 2014, 10:58:45 PM
Distribution a bit shit now and then but I love Brad!

As our goalkeeper.

Not a man-love type thing.

Honest.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: curiousorange on December 14, 2014, 11:37:50 PM
Your keeper needs to be ridiculously out of form to get dropped. One of those basic football rules is that you don't mess with the spine of the team unless it's absolutely necessary. Guzan's not shown enough bad form to be dropped for me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 15, 2014, 12:17:36 AM
Poor error yesterday but he's still number one to my money.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 15, 2014, 03:11:07 AM
He has so much credit in the bank it's not funny. Yes, he's not been at his best recently but he's still the only GK that I would come close to considering right now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on December 15, 2014, 07:13:27 AM
He's kept us in the game more often than not. Also the amount he had to do when we sit back and let them attack we're asking for trouble.
I'm more than happy with our goalkeeper, there's far more pressing problems than having a go at Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pbavfckuwait on December 15, 2014, 07:38:34 AM
His distribution has been poor for quite a while, I am never confident that he will find one of ours when he launches one, but on the balance of his all round game, he should be allowed a bit longer, before screaming for his head, he has not had the most settled of defences in front of him, for quite a while.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 15, 2014, 11:24:36 AM
I wouldn't drop him. No way. He might have made an error against Leicester but he also pull off a top class save which helped us take home three points.

As TV says, he's got a lot of credit in the bank and he was also instrumental in us going 6 unbeaten.

Given is a fine keeper, but he's 38, ring rusty and would you really want to bring him back during a hectic Xmas period?

Shay needs to play the FA Cup tie, get his gloves warm. If Guzan's credit is running low at that point then we can drop him a few games, but I think he'll be fine. No keeper is error proof.

Guzan was just as instrumental as Benteke in keeping us up the previous two seasons. He's dragged us through countless games that we've lost a grip of.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on December 15, 2014, 11:48:33 AM
All this farting around with passing the ball to the fullbacks (who are stood just a few feet off the line) can't help his confidence.

Playing the ball out of defence is an admirable idea but it just doesn't suit Villa's full backs and its Brad who ends up looking like he's put his teammates under pressure.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 15, 2014, 11:48:45 AM
Brad just needs a kick up the arse - I also doubt whether Shay Given also has the quality these days to keep Brad on his toes enough.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on December 15, 2014, 12:04:20 PM
I wouldn't drop him. No way. He might have made an error against Leicester but he also pull off a top class save which helped us take home three points.

As TV says, he's got a lot of credit in the bank and he was also instrumental in us going 6 unbeaten.

Given is a fine keeper, but he's 38, ring rusty and would you really want to bring him back during a hectic Xmas period?

Shay needs to play the FA Cup tie, get his gloves warm. If Guzan's credit is running low at that point then we can drop him a few games, but I think he'll be fine. No keeper is error proof.

Guzan was just as instrumental as Benteke in keeping us up the previous two seasons. He's dragged us through countless games that we've lost a grip of.

Agree with this.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on December 15, 2014, 12:26:24 PM
Problem is its complecancy from Guzan. Given is winding his career down and Steer is out on loan

I've always said that Guzan is at best a squad player, and certainly not good enough to be an unchallenged number 1 choice.

Its a position we really need to look at in January.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 15, 2014, 12:31:54 PM
I wouldn't even put goalkeeper in the top five positions we need to look at in January.

Yeah, he's having a bad patch, but it won't go on forever, and he has enough credit in the bank to be trusted, surely?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 15, 2014, 12:37:06 PM
GK isn't a position you look at unless you are about to make a change to your number one. It's not like you rotate keepers, you either start or don't start them, and given we have so many other pressing concerns I wouldn't even contemplate a change at that position. I don't think he's been complacent. He's just not been up to his incredibly high standards that we have all come to expect and in a way spoiled by. He's come to our rescue us on so many occasions with world class saves. Let's not get on his back, and instead get behind him. Put better players in front of him and things will improve.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on December 15, 2014, 12:38:43 PM
I wouldn't even put goalkeeper in the top five positions we need to look at in January.

Yeah, he's having a bad patch, but it won't go on forever, and he has enough credit in the bank to be trusted, surely?

But what if he gets injured?  It would leave us with Given who has barely played for 2 seasons and Steer who has little PL experience.

I'd say its an area which needs looking at.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 15, 2014, 12:42:16 PM
I'd say those two are better number 2 and 3 keepers than virtually anyone else has in the country.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 15, 2014, 12:42:18 PM
I wouldn't even put goalkeeper in the top five positions we need to look at in January.

Yeah, he's having a bad patch, but it won't go on forever, and he has enough credit in the bank to be trusted, surely?

But what if he gets injured?  It would leave us with Given who has barely played for 2 seasons and Steer who has little PL experience.

I'd say its an area which needs looking at.

How much experience does your third choice goalkeeper need to have?

The what if he gets injured thing is a bit of a red herring. How often do goalkeepers actually get injured, and in which way is Guzan likely to get injured?

I'd like us to have a range of quality options for every position, but Given as number two is easily enough. I can't see any real need at all to spend January prioritising a goal keeper when we have far more pressing needs elsewhere.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 15, 2014, 12:43:46 PM
GK isn't a position you look at unless you are about to make a change to your number one. It's not like you rotate keepers, you either start or don't start them, and given we have so many other pressing concerns I wouldn't even contemplate a change at that position. I don't think he's been complacent. He's just not been up to his incredibly high standards that we have all come to expect and in a way spoiled by. He's come to our rescue us on so many occasions with world class saves. Let's not get on his back, and instead get behind him. Put better players in front of him and things will improve.

Also, I'd add that if the games were are criticising Guzan for include his error for Leicester's goal, then you also need to factor in the absolutely top drawer save he pulled out to stop that David Nugent shot.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Karl Bridges on December 15, 2014, 12:49:26 PM
Clark deflected the ball against Leicester which changed the line of the ball. He had to change his direction to stop it going in as an OG. It was hardly a glaring error.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 15, 2014, 12:49:28 PM
I don't blame Brad for the Leicester goal, what exactly was he meant to do when it took a deflection so close to him? His dealing with crosses and kicking are what have gone downhill, his shot stopping is still excellent.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 15, 2014, 12:49:32 PM
Just incase anyone has forgotten how many times he's saved us (http://youtu.be/chZBLY6vAF8)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on December 15, 2014, 12:52:54 PM
I don't blame Brad for the Leicester goal, what exactly was he meant to do when it took a deflection so close to him? His dealing with crosses and kicking are what have gone downhill, his shot stopping is still excellent.

I think shot stopping is the very least you expect from a keeper.  His distribution is poor and his command of the area equally so.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 15, 2014, 12:55:23 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 15, 2014, 12:59:43 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)

Yep.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 15, 2014, 01:09:57 PM
Even from where I was in the Lower North it looked in all the way. Only save I can think of that was possibly better was Bosnich in the FA Cup against Cov when we lost 1-0 at VP. He seemed to change direction in mid air, I still don't know how he did it!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gareth on December 15, 2014, 01:13:32 PM
Not read any of this thread but my take on Guzan is how much better he has looked since Given has been back on the bench....thought he had a dodgy spell last season whilst Given was out on loan & Steer was zero competition....maybe a coincidence?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 15, 2014, 02:04:03 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)

Yep.
Reminiscent of Bosnich against Sunderland in the Coca Cola in 93-94. Bossie was astonishing in that game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 15, 2014, 02:19:55 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)

Yep.
Reminiscent of Bosnich against Sunderland in the Coca Cola in 93-94. Bossie was astonishing in that game.

He swam through the air like Billy The Fish.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 15, 2014, 02:50:39 PM
Reminiscent of Bosnich against Sunderland in the Coca Cola in 93-94. Bossie was astonishing in that game.

That must be the most one sided 4-1 defeat game in history. They could have had 7 or 8 and we probably only had 4 attacks and scored with all of them.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dr Butler on December 15, 2014, 03:00:36 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)

rubbish ! should of caught it ;)

UTV
the Doc
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 15, 2014, 03:48:42 PM
How not to treat your keeper. Imagine his confidence now?

Quote
Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has been dropped "indefinitely", says Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers.

Brad Jones replaced Belgian Mignolet for Sunday's 3-0 defeat against Manchester United and the Australian will retain his place for Wednesday's Capital One Cup tie at Bournemouth.

"I felt I had to change it because we have to find solutions throughout the squad to be better," said Rodgers.

"I said to Simon that it's for an indefinite period."
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 15, 2014, 04:08:27 PM
How not to treat your keeper. Imagine his confidence now?

Quote
Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet has been dropped "indefinitely", says Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers.

Brad Jones replaced Belgian Mignolet for Sunday's 3-0 defeat against Manchester United and the Australian will retain his place for Wednesday's Capital One Cup tie at Bournemouth.

"I felt I had to change it because we have to find solutions throughout the squad to be better," said Rodgers.

"I said to Simon that it's for an indefinite period."

His replacement wasn't much better yesterday. He dived the wrong way for Man Utd's opening goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on December 15, 2014, 06:35:59 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)

Yep.
Top notch goalkeeping.  That save the other day against Leicester was brilliant too.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on December 15, 2014, 07:09:22 PM
When we first signed Shay it looked a good move
Signing Shay Given on a five year deal never looked like a good move in any way, shape or form.

Why?  At that point he was considered one of the top keepers in the league. Surely, you are not playing the age game, you know that doesn't matter so much with keepers.

I still don't see apart from Saturday where else Brad has cost us points this season.  The mistake against the Foxes wasn't really a mistake, but even if it was we still went on to win.  He won us the points against Palace with some impressive saves.  And I don't remember many mistakes in the games before that.  He is one of the best keepers in the league.  Yes he has made a few mistakes but so does everyone.  This is one of the biggest over reactions I have seen on this site.  You should all be ashamed off yourselves!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on December 15, 2014, 07:13:36 PM
He does seem to have lost a bit of confidence.  His kicking has never been his strong point but it seems to have gone to pot recently.  He does not seem to be able to get the ball out from under his feet and then looks rushed into kicking it out.  Whether he would be better trying to kick it out of hand more.  Kicking is something that can be coached and continual practice can improve it considerably.

I also think he should be trying to throw the ball out earlier.  He looks at times as though he wants to hold onto the ball and then start with a set play, rather than get some continuity into the game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on December 15, 2014, 07:17:06 PM
He is still quite young for a keeper.  The hope is that his kicking will improve over time.  Not saying he is flawless but it would be hard to attract any better right now.  The good still far out weighs the bad for me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on December 15, 2014, 07:41:05 PM
When we first signed Shay it looked a good move
Signing Shay Given on a five year deal never looked like a good move in any way, shape or form.

Why?  At that point he was considered one of the top keepers in the league. Surely, you are not playing the age game, you know that doesn't matter so much with keepers.
I've never considered him anything than a solid, mid-table keeper. He's always been flawed, even at his absolute peak. He excels at shot-stopping, but has always had issues with coming for crosses, positioning and organising his defence.

He has to make great saves that a better goalkeeper wouldn't have had to make. In the same way as a central defender can look amazing by putting in a last-ditch slide tackle, but the better central defender doesn't need to be in that position in the first place.

As for the age, keepers can play longer than outfield players, but that doesn't mean you give a 35 year old a contract for five years. You give them one for two or three years and then if they are still good enough you give them another one. And we're not talking about "plays every game for ten years" Brad Friedel, we're talking about somebody who had three or four serious injuries in the few seasons prior to us signing him.

I said at the time that we should have been playing Guzan rather than signing Given, and nothing over the last four years has made me change my mind.  Forget about a 28 year old Guzan over a 38 year old Given, I'd take a 28 year old Guzan over a 28 year old Given.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brontebilly on December 15, 2014, 09:01:02 PM
There isnt that many decent keepers in the league really. Mignolet is in the spotlight at the moment but Southampton spent 10m on Fraser Forster who really is useless.

De Gea, Courtois, Lloris, Begovic probably the best four. Hart has dropped back over the last couple of years. Guzan is in the chasing pack along with the likes of Speroni.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 15, 2014, 11:44:53 PM
There isnt that many decent keepers in the league really. Mignolet is in the spotlight at the moment but Southampton spent 10m on Fraser Forster who really is useless.

De Gea, Courtois, Lloris, Begovic probably the best four. Hart has dropped back over the last couple of years. Guzan is in the chasing pack along with the likes of Speroni.
I was just thinking today about the sad state of English goalkeepers. We used to be completely blessed in that department. In fact I ended up watching that BBC history of Aston Villa doc earlier today (posted on another thread). It got me to thinking what a crime it was that Rimmer and Spink only got a cap each. Either one could waltz in as England no 1 compared to the current crop.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 15, 2014, 11:55:48 PM
I think Brad needs dropping for a couple of weeks. I love him as a keeper and he is still our long term no.1 but mistakes are creeping in and costing us, his distribution has also been absolutely awful for 3-4 matches. Given should get a game against United. If u want 100% and top performances EVERY player needs to know they are not undroppable, I'm not sure big Brad knows he is. It my do him some good to be out of the firing line as well

Sorry but this is knee jerk.

Put Given back in and you'll soon see panic spread back into the defence as he stays glued to his line for the tenth set piece. We can defend those competently nowadays so why destablish things.

Even in his "poor" run of form he's still been excellent at West Ham, kept a clean sheet at Palace (even though he was a bit dodgy there) and just conceded 1 goal in the other games.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 16, 2014, 12:00:25 AM
I don't blame Brad for the Leicester goal, what exactly was he meant to do when it took a deflection so close to him? His dealing with crosses and kicking are what have gone downhill, his shot stopping is still excellent.

I think shot stopping is the very least you expect from a keeper.  His distribution is poor and his command of the area equally so.

Yeah his kicking isn't great and I've always thought he's a bit slow coming off his line in one on ones, those are my two criticisms of his games.

Harsh on commanding the area though. I know he was at fault for the Albion goal but to me he's one of the best in the league at coming through a crowded area and claiming a cross which is testament to his desire to improve that from the Blackburn game years back.

Compare him to that mug Mingolet at claming crosses and I think that's very harsh.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 16, 2014, 12:03:49 AM
There isnt that many decent keepers in the league really. Mignolet is in the spotlight at the moment but Southampton spent 10m on Fraser Forster who really is useless.

De Gea, Courtois, Lloris, Begovic probably the best four. Hart has dropped back over the last couple of years. Guzan is in the chasing pack along with the likes of Speroni.
I was just thinking today about the sad state of English goalkeepers. We used to be completely blessed in that department. In fact I ended up watching that BBC history of Aston Villa doc earlier today (posted on another thread). It got me to thinking what a crime it was that Rimmer and Spink only got a cap each. Either one could waltz in as England no 1 compared to the current crop.

I actually think the standard of keepers is really high throughout the league, there's no joke keepers around apart from at Liverpool seemingly.

I remember last season on another site I started a thread on where you'd rank the 20 keepers and it was pretty tough, people were lazily putting the likes of Speroni and David Marshall near the bottom and both have excellent seasons in the end.

The standard of keeping was a lot worse in the league 5 years ago. You had Scott Carson as a number one as example....
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on December 17, 2014, 06:56:54 AM
English keepers are on the decline generally but there are quite a few good ones in the league

It was a lot easier to command the box in the old days when people used to loop a mitre delta high into the box
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on December 17, 2014, 09:52:18 AM
I don't think he deserves to be dropped. He's been great overall since he's been in the side, I'd leave him in. Besides whenever Given get's a game, which is normally the cups, we tend to lose.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Karl Bridges on December 17, 2014, 09:58:15 AM
I think they need to work on when he receives the ball and try to make him more comfortable on the ball. He appears to get panicky when the ball goes back to him even when there's not a grerat deal of pressure and he punts it anywhere.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on December 17, 2014, 10:03:37 AM
It was a lot easier to command the box in the old days when people used to loop a mitre delta high into the box
Not sure about that - it was also quite difficult knowing that John Hartson or Duncan Ferguson were about to barge you into the middle of next week without any punishment.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on December 17, 2014, 01:41:37 PM
It was a lot easier to command the box in the old days when people used to loop a mitre delta high into the box
Not sure about that - it was also quite difficult knowing that John Hartson or Duncan Ferguson were about to barge you into the middle of next week without any punishment.

I remember Jimmy Rimmer once being clattered by Cyrille Regis (fairly) and he was down for about 3 minutes. After the game he said he was the strongest player physically he had ever faced and that he was shaking for several minutes after the collision. Many teams at that time had players who could clatter keepers into A&E when they felt the need.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on December 17, 2014, 01:59:36 PM
the idea of dropping Guzan is as mad as the idea that Lambert is doing a good job
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 17, 2014, 04:08:38 PM
It was a lot easier to command the box in the old days when people used to loop a mitre delta high into the box
Not sure about that - it was also quite difficult knowing that John Hartson or Duncan Ferguson were about to barge you into the middle of next week without any punishment.

I remember Jimmy Rimmer once being clattered by Cyrille Regis (fairly) and he was down for about 3 minutes. After the game he said he was the strongest player physically he had ever faced and that he was shaking for several minutes after the collision. Many teams at that time had players who could clatter keepers into A&E when they felt the need.
Ref's protect keepers quite a lot these days too. In a man to man challenge they will always get the benefit of doubt. They used to get clattered here there and everywhere in a good box tustle. If you look at keepers like De Gea and Hart, both very svelt, 20-30 years ago they'd get mullered by your typical front man or attacking CH.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on December 17, 2014, 04:14:59 PM
He's been shakier this season than at any time since the MON days but it hasn't been that alarming and dropping him could only do him harm. He's very good. Every keeper drops clangers from time to time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on December 17, 2014, 04:22:24 PM
This remains one of the best saves i've ever seen.

(http://i.imgur.com/yTMdhPp.gif)

Yep.

Even better when you notice that as the ball was headed he was on the wrong foot. This should be shown over and over in clips of the best saves of all time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on December 17, 2014, 04:53:00 PM
He's been shakier this season than at any time since the MON days
I'd say that even the shakiness in the MoN days is exaggerated. The 6-4 match against Blackburn was catastrophic, but other than that I don't remember him ever being anything other than competent and at times outstanding (Prague, Sunderland etc)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on December 17, 2014, 04:54:19 PM
He was ropey at home to Brighton iirc. And Rapid at home.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 17, 2014, 05:47:44 PM
He along with Hutton have been my Player of the Season to date. He's having a rough spell right now but he's still a great keeper and will come out of it even better.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 17, 2014, 05:57:28 PM
not sure this is saying much but very arguably he has not only been the best of Lambert's signings, but also the most consistent given his entire body of work. We all have off days at work. His off days are few and far between and far outweighed by the fact that he has likely kept us in the division.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 17, 2014, 07:52:12 PM
not sure this is saying much but very arguably he has not only been the best of Lambert's signings, but also the most consistent given his entire body of work. We all have off days at work. His off days are few and far between and far outweighed by the fact that he has likely kept us in the division.
I would agree with that. I think he's our best player to be honest. Consistency is a big part of being a really quality player and Guzan has largely been very consistent.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 20, 2014, 04:52:10 PM
A massive reason as to why we got a point today. He is a very good keeper indeed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 20, 2014, 04:53:13 PM
Dominant today. Very good display. Caught everything.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 20, 2014, 04:54:06 PM
Indeed, TV. Very solid performance from the big man.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Stu on December 20, 2014, 05:10:54 PM
I notice he was carded for his trouble.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 20, 2014, 05:18:48 PM
I'd imagine the card will be rescinded, he only called the ref a cnut.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Stu on December 20, 2014, 05:21:37 PM
I'd imagine the card will be rescinded, he only called the ref a cnut.

Not exactly a libellous statement then!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on December 20, 2014, 05:45:06 PM
Another fine performance today which should hush any doubters on here.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Smirker on December 20, 2014, 06:10:04 PM
I thought he was excellent.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 20, 2014, 06:12:43 PM
Another fine performance today which should hush any doubters on here.

You know that it won't.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on December 20, 2014, 06:49:33 PM
Brad needs to be out for a couple of weeks to make those doubters realise they're being a bit thick.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: hilts_coolerking on December 20, 2014, 08:54:59 PM
I've not read back through this thread but there are doubters???  That's mental.  Keeper is one of the few positions we have got no worries about at all.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lizz on December 20, 2014, 08:57:20 PM
Heard Brad interviewed earlier on R5 on our way home. Nothing spectacular, but he struck me as an intelligent player.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: joe_c on December 20, 2014, 09:07:30 PM
Our best player today I thought. A couple of decent saves but more importantly, confidence and dominatio of the penalty area. Good to see he seems to have his mojo back.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on December 20, 2014, 09:08:50 PM
A fine keeper.

I really don't get the doubters. Model pro.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on December 20, 2014, 09:53:16 PM
Yeah anyone can have a slightly dodgy spell. Especially a keeper

It's a really good spine we've got now. Just hope we don't lose three of the vertebrates in the summer
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on December 20, 2014, 10:18:03 PM
It's probably only the odd blip that keeps him here so it's something we have to accept. It's a fair trade in my view too because we get far more from him than what we might lose.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on December 20, 2014, 10:32:10 PM
The idea that Guzan is part of our current or underlying playing problems is frankly speaking, Laughable.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on December 20, 2014, 10:40:02 PM
Our best player today I thought. A couple of decent saves but more importantly, confidence and dominatio of the penalty area. Good to see he seems to have his mojo back.

Spot on, Joe.

There is no doubt that an earlier weakness in terms of dealing with high crosses had seeped back into his game for whatever reason. But today, despite Manure testing him at every opportunity, he dealt with it all. That is the character of the man: heart of a a lion and big brass balls.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on December 21, 2014, 09:17:35 AM
Despite the odd error here and there, which keeper doesn't, he's a great keeper and has proven a very worthy re-signing. Credit to Lambert for keeping him at the club after others decided he wasn't worth hanging on to. One of the top six in the league at the minute.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: kipeye on December 21, 2014, 10:36:22 AM
It makes a big difference to a keeper if he has a good backline in front of him. They have to know how high a line to keep and when to use him as a sweeper. It is looking a lot better lately and is particularly encouraging that we have used all the combinations and Brad seems to be confident at coming off his line with all of them again.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on December 21, 2014, 03:01:36 PM
(http://www.pinkun.com/polopoly_fs/1.2794155.1379783284!/image/516836705.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_630/516836705.jpg)

I get great joy whenever Brad does this (normally having plucked a cross out of the sky).
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Boz on December 21, 2014, 03:22:55 PM
Guzan is a great confidence booster for our defenders, always talking to them, supporting them , like yesterday going to Mason to complain about Gabby's card. He just seems to be Villa through and through apart from his playing consistency.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 27, 2015, 05:08:39 PM
Quote
Brad Guzan swapped the United States for Villa Park when he joined from Chivas USA in the summer of 2008.

The popular figure became the second American with the name 'Brad' in the Villa squad as understudy to namesake Friedel.

His substitute status didn't last long and his debut came in a League Cup match against Queens Park Rangers a month after his arrival.

Guzan made his European bow in a 1-0 UEFA Cup victory away at Slavia Prague, producing a string of fine saves.

The stopper was a vital cog when Villa lifted the 2009 Peace Cup in pre-season.

He featured in matches against Atlante and Porto and helped his side come out victorious in the final, saving two penalties in a shoot-out win over Juventus.

Although he didn't feature for the opening months of the 2009-10 campaign, his ability to save from 12-yards came to the fore again in a fourth round League Cup tie against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light when he kept out four penalties with the score goalless in regulation time.

With first-team opportunities limited due to the signing of Shay Given, Guzan spent two short loan spells at Hull City between January and April 2011.

After his release in June 2012, he re-signed and was part of the newly appointed Paul Lambert's 25-man touring squad of the United States.

Guzan signed a four-year contract with the club in the summer of 2013 - and he's gone on to become the undoubted No.1 with a sting of unbelievable performances in claret and blue.

Here he selects his Dream Team:

In goal I have gone for BRAD FRIEDEL - my American compatriot.

He helped me a lot when I first came to the country, especially in adapting to the Premier League. I was able to learn a lot from Brad.

At the time he had that unbelievable record streak of consecutive appearances. He helped me progress as a goalkeeper by working with him day in and day out and that was beneficial to my own career.

It was hard to leave out Shay Given. You can't go wrong with either one. Shay's resume speaks for itself.

To be in my shoes and work with both of them has been unbelievable - and that's an understatement.

My right-back is ALAN HUTTON.

He was out of the squad for a time but kept his head down. He was a true professional. He worked ever so hard.

Obviously he's been given a second chance and he's taken it with both hands. He proves his quality week-in and week-out for us.

My first centre-half is MARTIN LAURSEN. He was a mad man!

His ability to put his head in places no other man would dare go on the football field was truly phenomenal.

He would steam into tackles to break up play brilliantly. He was the definition of a proper centre-half - he was hard as nails, tough as could be and a little bit crazy and ultra-competitive.

When I say crazy I mean he just wouldn't care about getting hurt. He would be bleeding, head over to the side of the pitch, get stitched up by the doctor and carry on as if nothing had happened.

My second choice is RON VLAAR.

He is fantastic for Villa and he has also been for Holland too during the time I have known him.

His awareness to read plays before they happen and his calmness on the pitch to see out certain situations is vital for us.

That's been true during this period of transition where, at times, we've had younger players on the pitch.

His leadership ability in those situation - and generally too - has shone through.

I will put FREDDIE BOUMA at left-back.

We were only together for a short time but you could just see his quality every day in training.

He was a strong defender. He could pick a pass - his distribution was excellent. He had an unbelievable shot on him! He got up and down the flank effortlessly.

Freddie was just an all-round good player. He was a cult hero here too!

My two centre midfielders would be STAN PETROV and GARETH BARRY.

Gareth is one of the best players I have ever played with, no doubt about that.

You could give him the ball in any part of the pitch in any scenario and he would be able to find his way out of it.

And not just find his way out of it but find his way out with calmness, composure and ease - and then pick a perfect pass. He was pure quality.

Stan's ability to lead the team from the centre of the pitch was different class.

You could talk for days about his ability on the ball and his quality. But he got the best out of the guys around him and got that respect from others - that says an awful lot about Stan.

On the right side I'm picking JAMES MILNER.

He is so versatile in the sense that he could play on the right side, on the left and in the middle.

His industry and work-rate is unbelievable - it's undoubtedly one of his strongest attributes.

He's definitely underappreciated as a player. You'd think that work-rate should be standard for a professional football - but not to the level of James. He brings that every session and every game.

On the left side I am selecting FABIAN DELPH.

It will top off a perfect few days for him after he signed his new deal!

His energy and enthusiasm for the game is different class. He has that willingness to do the dirty work for other players.

He's brave - in the sense that he's not afraid to try something, lose it because he will go all-out to win the ball back.

He brings a high tempo energy to this team too. When he starts buzzing around the pitch, others feed off that.

My strikers are JOHN CAREW and GABBY AGBONLAHOR - they were an awesome strike pairing together.

John is the strongest lad I have played with. His ability to pin a centre-half, hold the ball up and bring others into the game was unbelievable.

He was one of the worst trainers but on matchday he was frightening. When he was up for the game, no-one could stop him. He had everything.

Gabby would be perfect to play off John.

He can terrorise teams. His pace frightens defenders.

Combined with his strength, he can get into tight spaces, anticipate and finish off plays with goals.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 27, 2015, 05:09:13 PM
(http://www.avfc.co.uk/javaImages/db/2c/0,,10265~13446363,00.jpg)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on July 12, 2015, 08:46:47 AM
When does that North/Central American cup thingy finish?

Hopefully the Villa coaching staff will have a couple of weeks before the season starts in which to work with Brad on his distribution
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 12, 2015, 08:51:34 AM
When does that North/Central American cup thingy finish?

Hopefully the Villa coaching staff will have a couple of weeks before the season starts in which to work with Brad on his distribution
If USA get to the final then Guzan will be there until July 26th.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on July 12, 2015, 10:55:50 AM
When does that North/Central American cup thingy finish?

Hopefully the Villa coaching staff will have a couple of weeks before the season starts in which to work with Brad on his distribution
If USA get to the final then Guzan will be there until July 26th.

That means if Brad is given a week or two off, we could see Steer or Bunn in goal @ Bournemouth
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 12, 2015, 01:45:09 PM
Been watching a bit of the Gold Cup and have to say Brad has been overall very good. There are always those shaky moments now and again at the back particularly with his distribution but he's commanded his box well and as we know he is, been a great shot stopper. I know we put a bid in for Begovic but Guzan with better defenders in front and a more secure midfield isn't a bad deal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on July 12, 2015, 03:07:31 PM
Guzan just needs a genuine threat to his number 1 position to prevent him from relaxing on his laurels. We would have been relegated a couple of years ago without some of his outstanding performances. When he's at that level, it's only his kicking that may be stopping clubs sniffing around him. Dropping him after the City game was the right decision but as a kick in the backside, rather than being thrown out with yesterday's newspaper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on July 12, 2015, 03:30:20 PM
I'd rather be spending big money in other positions, rather than having to fork out for a new keeper, of which there's no guarantee we'll find better than Guzan.
Guzan's a quality keeper. The distribution can be worked on. What we need is defenders better equipped with using the ball and not putting pressure on the goalkeeper so much with pass-backs. Man City was a huge cock-up, but the defence do him no favours.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on July 19, 2015, 09:07:49 AM
The Gold Cup seems to be longer than a World Cup, time for you to come home Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: mr underhill on July 19, 2015, 12:42:24 PM
he's up for sale according to the DM, for 3m
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Seb_AVFC on July 19, 2015, 12:47:01 PM
If we're going to raid Bruges, let's buy their goalie then as well. Matt Ryan, Ozzie, quality keeper and his distribution is actually one of the best I've ever seen.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt Collins on July 19, 2015, 12:58:43 PM
I've heard good things about Matt Ryan

Much more concerned about our attacking threat than the gk position tho. Not sure I believe the story
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on July 19, 2015, 01:06:30 PM
he's up for sale according to the DM, for 3m
I think that's really cheap for Brad. Someone would be getting a bargain for that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Singapore Villa on July 19, 2015, 01:11:45 PM
The DM?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on July 19, 2015, 01:13:35 PM
The DM?
Think it's the Daily Mail
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Singapore Villa on July 19, 2015, 01:20:09 PM
The DM?
Think it's the Daily Mail

Ah ok, thanks. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2015, 02:57:21 PM
I thought it was Danger Mouse.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 19, 2015, 03:01:42 PM
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on July 19, 2015, 03:05:36 PM
Terry Griffiths vs Cliff Thorburn were always thrill a minute matches full of exciting attacking play.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on July 19, 2015, 04:24:23 PM
Terry Griffiths vs Cliff Thorburn were always thrill a minute matches full of exciting attacking play.

With Ted Lowe providing an invigorating commentary a la Jonathan Pearce!  zzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on July 21, 2015, 08:09:47 AM
Very happy with the news that Guzan stays as number one. Much better keeper than he gets credit for.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 21, 2015, 10:35:23 AM
Very happy with the news that Guzan stays as number one. Much better keeper than he gets credit for.
News from where?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave Javu on July 21, 2015, 10:40:29 AM
The BM.

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-boss-tim-sherwood-9695397
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 21, 2015, 10:43:34 AM
Good news all round.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on July 21, 2015, 11:06:01 AM
...for opposition strikers ;)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on July 21, 2015, 11:09:00 AM
If he is to be our first choice he has to put some serious work into kicking with his right foot.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 23, 2015, 01:32:33 AM
Perfect timing to add a bit of fuel to the current fire. Brad has a rough night, US crash out of the Gold Cup...
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Louzie0 on July 23, 2015, 01:45:43 AM
You are still my No.1 for Villa, Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on July 23, 2015, 01:48:18 AM
Perfect timing to add a bit of fuel to the current fire. Brad has a rough night, US crash out of the Gold Cup...

The current configuration does not augur well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on July 23, 2015, 08:46:00 AM
If he is to be our first choice he has to put some serious work into kicking with his right foot.

If Brad's staying as first choice keeper, that explains why the 'centre halves running to the touchline so that the keeper has a short throw/pass available" system was being used against Swindon.

I don't like this scheme. It forces the centre midfield to drop deeper and allows the opposition to push forward
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on July 23, 2015, 09:37:20 AM
I have to say, the jury’s still out on Guzan for me. I don’t think he’s ever really kicked-on form the initial promise that he showed as Friedel’s under-study and, if anything, went backwards last year. He has all the tools required, physically, but it’s his decision making, particularly under-pressure that worries me and that kind of makes-or-breaks a keeper in my opinion.

It’s not even the mistake he made at City. A miss-kick can and will happen to all players, but watching the 15 or so seconds before that mistake highlights my issue with him. He’d already tried to play out from the back and it was apparent that both centre-backs were under pressure from Aguero and, with the ball returned to him for a second time, the logical thing was to clear his lines, not try to play it short again.

Admittedly, this was the only time it lead directly to a goal, but there were numerous times throughout the season when I found myself questioning what Guzan was trying to achieve with his distribution. I’m sure he’s under instruction to do this (whenever possible) from the coaching staff, but you still need you need your keeper to be able to make instant decisions in varying situations and I don’t think he’s very good at that.

People have suggested that we would have been relegated at some point over the past 3 seasons without Guzan. In my opinion you could have replaced Guzan with pretty much any other keeper in the division without negatively affecting our league position. If there aren’t noticeable improvements this season, I would fully expect Sherwood to keep looking for a longer-term solution.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 23, 2015, 09:55:35 AM
People have suggested that we would have been relegated at some point over the past 3 seasons without Guzan. In my opinion you could have replaced Guzan with pretty much any other keeper in the division without negatively affecting our league position.

In Lambert's first season Guzan won both player of the year awards, and that was a season in which our striker scored 23 goals.

I reckon that if we'd had Wigan's keeper or Hull's keeper then they probably wouldn't have. And we would have been relegated.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on July 23, 2015, 10:20:02 AM
People have suggested that we would have been relegated at some point over the past 3 seasons without Guzan. In my opinion you could have replaced Guzan with pretty much any other keeper in the division without negatively affecting our league position.

In Lambert's first season Guzan won both player of the year awards, and that was a season in which our striker scored 23 goals.

I reckon that if we'd had Wigan's keeper or Hull's keeper then they probably wouldn't have. And we would have been relegated.
There were a lot of games that Guzan kept us in, particularly those first two seasons under Lambert. The defence was parting like the red sea. He has played with absolute toss in front of him for most of his playing time at the club.

I still think he's a quality keeper and one of our best players. He had a sticky spell but he'll be okay. Lets sort out our defence, midfield and buying two strikers before we fanny around replacing a perfectly good goalkeeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on July 23, 2015, 10:38:49 AM
Hull were in the Championship that season and Ali Al Habsi was Wigan's number 1, a keeper who was quite highly rated at the time. Joel Robles was their second choice (and FA cup-winning) keeper, now at Everton.

Incidentally (and I can't load the video so can't comment further) it sounds like Guzan was involved in another distribution-related incident in last night's USA Gold Cup defeat to Jamaica.

http://www.mlssoccer.com/goldcup/2015/news/article/2015/07/23/usmnt-surprised-fateful-handball-call-brad-guzan-gold-cup-upset-loss
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dave.woodhall on July 23, 2015, 10:45:28 AM
I can't think of a good keeper who hasn't had a rough spell at some time. It would be a massive gamble to get rid of Brad on the off-chance that he'll be the next Scott Carson rather than Brad Friedel.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 23, 2015, 11:00:56 AM
Hull were in the Championship that season and Ali Al Habsi was Wigan's number 1, a keeper who was quite highly rated at the time. Joel Robles was their second choice (and FA cup-winning) keeper, now at Everton.

I don't think it changes the overall point that they probably wouldn't have been winning multiple player of the season awards for us had they been our goalkeeper rather than Guzan. And that had Ali Al-Habsi been our goalkeeper we would currently be playing the Championship. Watch back the highlights from that crucial QPR game.

Guzan's not perfect, but as Tom says above there are about eight players in our first team that are bigger priorities to upgrade before we get around to him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: OCD on July 23, 2015, 11:10:51 AM
There were a couple of saves in that QPR game that were truly world class. For all intents and purposes they looked like certain goals but somehow he got to them.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on July 23, 2015, 11:24:45 AM
Hull were in the Championship that season and Ali Al Habsi was Wigan's number 1, a keeper who was quite highly rated at the time. Joel Robles was their second choice (and FA cup-winning) keeper, now at Everton.

I don't think it changes the overall point that they probably wouldn't have been winning multiple player of the season awards for us had they been our goalkeeper rather than Guzan. And that had Ali Al-Habsi been our goalkeeper we would currently be playing the Championship. Watch back the highlights from that crucial QPR game.

Guzan's not perfect, but as Tom says above there are about eight players in our first team that are bigger priorities to upgrade before we get around to him.

It doesn't, but picking out 2 goal-keepers (one of whom was in the Championship) who you think would have not performed as well as him doesn't really heap much praise on him either. I also wouldn't read too much into any player of the year award won since Stephen Ireland, unless you honestly believe that Guzan contributed more to us staying up that season than Benteke did? I also don't remember him 'keeping us' in too many games during that season, although granted he make saves (as per his job description) that contributed to us drawing (some) and winning (fewer) games.

To clarify though, I'm not for a second saying that Guzan is awful. In fact I'd put him in a group of around 7 or 8 keepers in the Premier League who are all of a very similar standard. However, I certainly think that Sherwood will be looking to upgrade him as soon as possible, as the widely reported interest in Begovic would suggest.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on July 23, 2015, 11:25:18 AM
I'm not massively impressed with Guzan, but if we were to list positions where we need to be focusing (spending) attention now, goalkeeper wouldn't be there.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 23, 2015, 12:03:05 PM
Hull were in the Championship that season and Ali Al Habsi was Wigan's number 1, a keeper who was quite highly rated at the time. Joel Robles was their second choice (and FA cup-winning) keeper, now at Everton.

I don't think it changes the overall point that they probably wouldn't have been winning multiple player of the season awards for us had they been our goalkeeper rather than Guzan. And that had Ali Al-Habsi been our goalkeeper we would currently be playing the Championship. Watch back the highlights from that crucial QPR game.

Guzan's not perfect, but as Tom says above there are about eight players in our first team that are bigger priorities to upgrade before we get around to him.

It doesn't, but picking out 2 goal-keepers (one of whom was in the Championship) who you think would have not performed as well as him doesn't really heap much praise on him either. I also wouldn't read too much into any player of the year award won since Stephen Ireland, unless you honestly believe that Guzan contributed more to us staying up that season than Benteke did? I also don't remember him 'keeping us' in too many games during that season, although granted he make saves (as per his job description) that contributed to us drawing (some) and winning (fewer) games.

To clarify though, I'm not for a second saying that Guzan is awful. In fact I'd put him in a group of around 7 or 8 keepers in the Premier League who are all of a very similar standard. However, I certainly think that Sherwood will be looking to upgrade him as soon as possible, as the widely reported interest in Begovic would suggest.
Alright, well I still wouldn't have replaced Guzan that season with any of Green, Jaaskelainen, Ruddy, Mignolet, whoever the Reading keeper was, Boruc, Foster, Schwarzer or Howard if that makes things better. And personally I don't think that putting any of them in would have seen us stay in the league.

You're welcome to read as much or as little as you want into player of the season awards, but it does indicate that both a large number of Villa supporters and a majority of Villa players thought that he wasn't just somebody who could be swapped with "pretty much any other keeper in the division without negatively affecting our league position".

And for your last point, if you feel that he is of a standard with 7-8 other keepers in the league and we finished below all but three teams last season, it suggests you think that he's a better player then the standard of the majority of our first team. So we're all in agreement that it's pretty low down on the list of things to change.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Clark W Griswold on July 23, 2015, 12:07:09 PM
I'm happy with him. Decent keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on July 23, 2015, 12:10:45 PM
There were a couple of saves in that QPR game that were truly world class. For all intents and purposes they looked like certain goals but somehow he got to them.

I don't think his shot stopping is the problem, I think his distribution is the issue.  If you want to play a passing or even a longer ball style, then having a keeper with good distribution is a key part of that. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on July 23, 2015, 12:19:02 PM
So we're all in agreement that it's pretty low down on the list of things to change.

Or perhaps acknowledge that we have differing opinions, as opposed to telling me what I agree with? Particularly as I do think it's a priority, as a superior keeper would make me feel a lot less worried about our fragile (in my opinion) defence.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rougegorge on July 23, 2015, 12:23:09 PM
There were a couple of saves in that QPR game that were truly world class. For all intents and purposes they looked like certain goals but somehow he got to them.

I don't think his shot stopping is the problem, I think his distribution is the issue.  If you want to play a passing or even a longer ball style, then having a keeper with good distribution is a key part of that.

I agree; distribution and command of crosses more of an issue. I think playing in a poor defensive side for the last 3 years has probably played a part in some indecision as well.

If we are trailing, which has been more often than not, he can hurry things too much and then he always starts time-wasting with over half an hour to go if we are winning which sends out  another message.

However other positions need filling first.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 23, 2015, 12:30:03 PM
So we're all in agreement that it's pretty low down on the list of things to change.

Or perhaps acknowledge that we have differing opinions, as opposed to telling me what I agree with? Particularly as I do think it's a priority, as a superior keeper would make me feel a lot less worried about our fragile (in my opinion) defence.
You're welcome to have whatever opinion that you want.

It's just that saying that you think that he's of the same standard as the keepers of lots of teams above us (when the rest of the team demonstrably isn't) doesn't really match up with it being a big priority as far as I can tell.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dekko on July 23, 2015, 12:32:35 PM
EDIT: most of this has been covered since I typed this out but ill post it anyway.

I do think Guzan is a touch overrated by many on here (mainly when its suggested that he's in the top 5 or 6 keepers in the league).  For me, his distribution and decision making, particularly with the ball at his feet has been iffy for some time (Lambert's second preseason at least).  I also don't buy the idea that he was only dropped for one mistake at City, as he'd been making similar errors for a while - that one just happened to be particularly bad, high profile, and actually cost us a goal.

That said, his shot-stopping is pretty top notch, and I'd say overall he evens out to be a 'decent to good' player.  I think we can (and should) get a better keeper in eventually, but only after we sort out the much more pressing issues in the squad (like some new strikers, new midfielder or two, maybe a new RB and CB etc etc etc)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on July 23, 2015, 12:49:23 PM
So we're all in agreement that it's pretty low down on the list of things to change.

Or perhaps acknowledge that we have differing opinions, as opposed to telling me what I agree with? Particularly as I do think it's a priority, as a superior keeper would make me feel a lot less worried about our fragile (in my opinion) defence.
You're welcome to have whatever opinion that you want.

It's just that saying that you think that he's of the same standard as the keepers of lots of teams above us (when the rest of the team demonstrably isn't) doesn't really match up with it being a big priority as far as I can tell.

The point that I perhaps should have made more clearly is that those 7 or 8 teams all have better defences (and generally 'teams') than us, making it more of a priority for Aston Villa. For example, I see very little difference in ability between Guzan and Simon Mignolet.  However, I look at a player like Begovic and think that Stoke's recent league finishes have been largely inflated due to having him in goal. The same with Tim Krul at Newcastle and probably Schmeichel at Leicester last season.

I personally think that finding a long-term Number 1 has been pretty high-up on Sherwood's list of priorities, but has obviously been overtaken by events of the past couple of weeks.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on July 23, 2015, 12:58:20 PM
The USA lost to Jamaica in the CONCACAF semi final.

http://www.espnfc.com.co/gamecast/statistics/id/430268/statistics.html

There's a 3rd place game on Saturday but hopefully Villa will request that Brad doesn't play and is allowed to head back early
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on July 23, 2015, 01:18:19 PM
I like him. Very good on his line, not too shabby off it, recent wobbles apart. I'd almost go as far as to say that he's given me more confidence when coming off his line than any keeper we've had in my time watching. That said, if he can improve his distribution, both decision-making and execution, we'd be much better off for it. All too often have we seen possession conceded cheaply, and attacking opportunities missed, through inaccurate or slow clearances. But that's surely something he can work on which, doing so, won't be to the detriment of the rest of his game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on July 24, 2015, 10:31:28 PM
I like him. Very good on his line, not too shabby off it, recent wobbles apart. I'd almost go as far as to say that he's given me more confidence when coming off his line than any keeper we've had in my time watching. That said, if he can improve his distribution, both decision-making and execution, we'd be much better off for it. All too often have we seen possession conceded cheaply, and attacking opportunities missed, through inaccurate or slow clearances. But that's surely something he can work on which, doing so, won't be to the detriment of the rest of his game.
Didn't he have most crosses claimed in the top flight two seasons running or something? It's a dying art and a part of his game that shouldn't be underestimated I don't think.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: seanthevillan on July 26, 2015, 03:58:08 AM
The USA lost to Jamaica in the CONCACAF semi final.

http://www.espnfc.com.co/gamecast/statistics/id/430268/statistics.html

There's a 3rd place game on Saturday but hopefully Villa will request that Brad doesn't play and is allowed to head back early

Guzan heavily at fault for the second goal and nowhere for the first (though I wouldn't say that was his fault )
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on July 26, 2015, 01:59:12 PM
'Merica lost the 3rd place playoff to Panama on penalties

Brad played the full game

Quote
GK Brad Guzan, 7 -- Made nine saves over the course of 120 minutes as the U.S. net was barraged by Panamanian shots, then stopped a penalty in the loss. Perhaps the only American to acquit himself well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: AV82EC on July 26, 2015, 02:07:09 PM
'Merica lost the 3rd place playoff to Panama on penalties

Brad played the full game

Quote
GK Brad Guzan, 7 -- Made nine saves over the course of 120 minutes as the U.S. net was barraged by Panamanian shots, then stopped a penalty in the loss. Perhaps the only American to acquit himself well.

I watched the game in Portugal upto the start of extra time, Brad was very good and kept them in it in all honesty. Two of his saves were World Class.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on July 26, 2015, 02:08:12 PM
'Merica lost the 3rd place playoff to Panama on penalties

Brad played the full game

Quote
GK Brad Guzan, 7 -- Made nine saves over the course of 120 minutes as the U.S. net was barraged by Panamanian shots, then stopped a penalty in the loss. Perhaps the only American to acquit himself well.
Are Panama really that good? USA a bit crap? (in the context of the competition I mean)

Anyway, good to see Brad putting in a good performance.
Think he's gonna be busy starting August 8th!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Matt C on July 27, 2015, 05:27:37 AM
He won the 'Golden Glove' award for the tournament - http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/07/26/concacaf-gold-cup-clint-dempsey-brad-guzan-golden-boot-glove
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rougegorge on July 27, 2015, 12:33:07 PM
He won the 'Golden Glove' award for the tournament - http://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2015/07/26/concacaf-gold-cup-clint-dempsey-brad-guzan-golden-boot-glove

Played well against Panama, though US fans generally prefer Howard; often see their comments of not sufficiently commanding his defence etc..

I noticed he did make a penalty save in the shoot-out (albeit very easy). I can remember him saving a Snodgrass penalty at Norwich a couple of years back, but apart from that I don't recall any apart from the ones at Sunderland in the 2009 league cup shoot out?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 27, 2015, 12:35:38 PM
I think he saved one in that horrible Chelsea game from 2012.

Obviously it had a massive impact on the overall scoreline.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on July 27, 2015, 01:50:48 PM
The problem I have with Guzan is that he looked at his best when we were getting thrashed most weeks.  Is he the keeper to base a rebuilt defence around, or are we better getting somebody in who hasn't been in a team that has been a dismal failure for the last 4 years? I'm not saying the results have been his fault, but I think he was less than impressive after Christmas this year, and for me the keeper/central defensive partnership is a key part of the spine of the team.  He's not a bad keeper at all, but I can't believe that the last four years haven't taken their toll on him and a move might be best for both parties.

I accept that lots will see things differently, but that's my take on Brad for what it's worth.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 27, 2015, 01:53:34 PM
Brad needs a good and most importantly settled defence in front of him. It can't help that it's been such a mess in front of him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Villa in Denmark on July 27, 2015, 01:58:14 PM
The problem I have with Guzan is that he looked at his best when we were getting thrashed most weeks.  Is he the keeper to base a rebuilt defence around, or are we better getting somebody in who hasn't been in a team that has been a dismal failure for the last 4 years? I'm not saying the results have been his fault, but I think he was less than impressive after Christmas this year, and for me the keeper/central defensive partnership is a key part of the spine of the team.  He's not a bad keeper at all, but I can't believe that the last four years haven't taken their toll on him and a move might be best for both parties.

I accept that lots will see things differently, but that's my take on Brad for what it's worth.

I think you could say that for a good chunk of the squad.  Getting your arse handed to you on a plate week after week, staring at the same faces week after week must take it's toll.

It's why I think that even if we aren't vastly improving the quality of the squad overall, just having some fresh faces of a slightly better quality around, who that haven't been party to the last 3-4 years isn't a bad thing, if only to alter the whole expectation level of the squad. (i.e. not expecting to get beaten the minute something goes against us)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on July 27, 2015, 02:02:05 PM
The problem I have with Guzan is that he looked at his best when we were getting thrashed most weeks.  Is he the keeper to base a rebuilt defence around, or are we better getting somebody in who hasn't been in a team that has been a dismal failure for the last 4 years? I'm not saying the results have been his fault, but I think he was less than impressive after Christmas this year, and for me the keeper/central defensive partnership is a key part of the spine of the team.  He's not a bad keeper at all, but I can't believe that the last four years haven't taken their toll on him and a move might be best for both parties.

I accept that lots will see things differently, but that's my take on Brad for what it's worth.

I think you could say that for a good chunk of the squad.  Getting your arse handed to you on a plate week after week, staring at the same faces week after week must take it's toll.

It's why I think that even if we aren't vastly improving the quality of the squad overall, just having some fresh faces of a slightly better quality around, who that haven't been party to the last 3-4 years isn't a bad thing, if only to alter the whole expectation level of the squad. (i.e. not expecting to get beaten the minute something goes against us)

Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 27, 2015, 02:09:09 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Villa in Denmark on July 27, 2015, 02:09:42 PM
Agree with that Risso.

That first season under Lambert he looked like he'd really come on and had the makings of a top class keeper. Unfortunately the things that made him stand out over and above his shot stopping, commanding the area, claiming crosses seems to have gone backwards and his kicking has never improved.

I'd love it if he could get back to the form of his first season under Lambert, but as you say, there's  a good chance his regression is confidence related.  Maybe playing behind an almost entirely new back 4 would help him.  Question then becomes if it's our new back 4 or somewhere else.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 27, 2015, 02:11:29 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

Aside from that game for England, my entire recollection of his time at Villa is that every time an opponent had a shot or free kick 40 yards or closer it was a goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rougegorge on July 27, 2015, 02:16:22 PM
I think he saved one in that horrible Chelsea game from 2012.

Obviously it had a massive impact on the overall scoreline.

Oh yes and I was there too. I am not sure how that save slipped my memory!

We could do worse, but maybe there is something in his really good performances being in lost causes.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 27, 2015, 02:17:59 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

Aside from that game for England, my entire recollection of his time at Villa is that every time an opponent had a shot or free kick 40 yards or closer it was a goal.
One other specific one - the game at Fratton Park where he came charging out of his goal only to smash the ball into Nigel Reo-Coker's shins and watch the ball dribble into our net from around 35 yards.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on July 27, 2015, 02:26:19 PM




We could do worse, but maybe there is something in his really good performances being in lost causes.

The Mervyn Day syndrome
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 27, 2015, 02:33:26 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

Aside from that game for England, my entire recollection of his time at Villa is that every time an opponent had a shot or free kick 40 yards or closer it was a goal.
One other specific one - the game at Fratton Park where he came charging out of his goal only to smash the ball into Nigel Reo-Coker's shins and watch the ball dribble into our net from around 35 yards.


Haha, that's right. And to think Liverpool wanted £10m or something equally ludicrous from us at the time.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 27, 2015, 02:35:02 PM
Just the fact that we apparently paid £2m as a loan fee to him for the season is bad enough. That's about the same as Friedel's reported transfer fee the following year.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on July 27, 2015, 02:36:01 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.
o

My memory is different from that,
At the time we were looking for a goalkeeper long term and Carson was valued at the time at around 10 mill (Liverpool I think)
I was really impressed with his performances and thought we should buy him at the end of his loan term, that's how good I thought he was,
Then came the England match, I have never to this day seen a player change so much, he was shot when he returned, his confidence was finished he was not the same keeper, this might well have happened anyway at some other point in time even if he hadn't played in that England match,
but I was shocked to be fair,

As for Guzan, i have every confidence in him, I don't think we can get a better keeper unles we go spending 25 mill, I know you feel much the same way,
a little drop in form from last Christmas onwards is no where near enough to write the bloke of, I would be very disappointed if he left and we then went flip flopping about with keepers again
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulTheVillan on July 27, 2015, 02:36:39 PM
I don't really rate Guzan, but it looks like we're stuck with  him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on July 27, 2015, 02:40:58 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

It's easy to forget as that was nearly 8 years ago, blimey how time flies eh?  But looking back, he'd only played 10 games for us before the two Autumn England games, and my recollection was that he'd been doing very well.  He'd kept five clean sheets out of 10, and we were 7th in the table with a game in hand.

There was the Harewood 4-4 with Spuds, and he'd been ridiculously sent off v Man U, but on the whole I vaguely recall us all mostly being pleased with him, and that he deserved his England call up alongside others like Barry and Ashley Young.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on July 27, 2015, 02:49:39 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

It's easy to forget as that was nearly 8 years ago, blimey how time flies eh?  But looking back, he'd only played 10 games for us before the two Autumn England games, and my recollection was that he'd been doing very well.  He'd kept five clean sheets out of 10, and we were 7th in the table with a game in hand.

There was the Harewood 4-4 with Spuds, and he'd been ridiculously sent off v Man U, but on the whole I vaguely recall us all mostly being pleased with him, and that he deserved his England call up alongside others like Barry and Ashley Young.

Yep that's much the way I remember it too
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on July 27, 2015, 02:52:32 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

It's easy to forget as that was nearly 8 years ago, blimey how time flies eh?  But looking back, he'd only played 10 games for us before the two Autumn England games, and my recollection was that he'd been doing very well.  He'd kept five clean sheets out of 10, and we were 7th in the table with a game in hand.

There was the Harewood 4-4 with Spuds, and he'd been ridiculously sent off v Man U, but on the whole I vaguely recall us all mostly being pleased with him, and that he deserved his England call up alongside others like Barry and Ashley Young.
You're probably right - might be the rubbish in the second half of the season overwriting the good stuff from the start from my head.

5 clean sheets in his first 10 games clearly isn't bad at all.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on July 27, 2015, 03:23:13 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

It's easy to forget as that was nearly 8 years ago, blimey how time flies eh?  But looking back, he'd only played 10 games for us before the two Autumn England games, and my recollection was that he'd been doing very well.  He'd kept five clean sheets out of 10, and we were 7th in the table with a game in hand.

There was the Harewood 4-4 with Spuds, and he'd been ridiculously sent off v Man U, but on the whole I vaguely recall us all mostly being pleased with him, and that he deserved his England call up alongside others like Barry and Ashley Young.
You're probably right - might be the rubbish in the second half of the season overwriting the good stuff from the start from my head.

5 clean sheets in his first 10 games clearly isn't bad at all.

We were probably still a bit picky in those days!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: passitsideways on August 22, 2015, 05:19:00 PM
I'm not sure if this needs a new thread, but his problems with distribution have really reached a farcical level now, have they not? It wasn't just the second goal either - he'd already made a couple of poor kicks and put the fullbacks into awkward positions prior to that; and his kicking at Bournemouth wasn't good either. If GK distribution is important to how Sherwood wants to play, he can't persist with Guzan despite his other qualities; if distribution isn't that big a deal, he should basically be told to belt it upfield every single time.

It's a shame because I thought he commanded his box well and looked secure the couple of times he was faced with a shot he could actually save.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: dekko on August 22, 2015, 05:28:01 PM
I'm not sure if this needs a new thread, but his problems with distribution have really reached a farcical level now, have they not? It wasn't just the second goal either - he'd already made a couple of poor kicks and put the fullbacks into awkward positions prior to that; and his kicking at Bournemouth wasn't good either. If GK distribution is important to how Sherwood wants to play, he can't persist with Guzan despite his other qualities; if distribution isn't that big a deal, he should basically be told to belt it upfield every single time.

It's a shame because I thought he commanded his box well and looked secure the couple of times he was faced with a shot he could actually save.

Yep.

People earlier in the thread were complaining that Guzan got dropped last season because of one bad game, but I said at the time and do now that thats rubbish.  He got dropped because every time he has the ball at his feet theres a signifcant chance that he'll either punt it out of play or put it in a dangerous position.

He might have only 'passed ball directly to opposition player for him to score' a couple of times, but the problem with Guzan was summed up perfectly for me early in the second half when he spooned an easy clearance about a 3rd of the way up the pitch, Gana lost the header and Palace were able to attack and create a good goalscoring opportunity.  He does this all the time.  We need better.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on August 22, 2015, 05:30:16 PM
Guzan isn't good enough.  He was rightly dropped last season and that should have been a wake up call, but evidently not.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 22, 2015, 05:42:13 PM
I really think he's suffering from a lack of proper competition. His game has really gone backwards.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on August 22, 2015, 05:44:50 PM
I think his goal kick straight into touch in the second half today pretty much summed up all we need to know about his distribution skills. The less said about their second goal the better.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2015, 05:49:18 PM
What amazes me is before turning to goalkeeping he was apparently a midfielder. So much of his game is great but he has to be the worst keeper I can think of with the ball at his feet.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on August 22, 2015, 05:53:06 PM
May be he was shite in midfield...which is why he's now a goalkeeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ktvillan on August 22, 2015, 07:18:27 PM
Agreed, but keepers are under the microscope more than most other positions, look at how badly Encks and Carson went down hill after a set back.

A lot of my memory of the Enckleman time is a bit fuzzy, but with Carson I'm not sure that he really went down hill - I don't remember him being anything other than mediocre for us. As I recall it was a bit of a shock that he was picked for that Croatia game based on his form at the time.

It's easy to forget as that was nearly 8 years ago, blimey how time flies eh?  But looking back, he'd only played 10 games for us before the two Autumn England games, and my recollection was that he'd been doing very well.  He'd kept five clean sheets out of 10, and we were 7th in the table with a game in hand.

There was the Harewood 4-4 with Spuds, and he'd been ridiculously sent off v Man U, but on the whole I vaguely recall us all mostly being pleased with him, and that he deserved his England call up alongside others like Barry and Ashley Young.
You're probably right - might be the rubbish in the second half of the season overwriting the good stuff from the start from my head.

5 clean sheets in his first 10 games clearly isn't bad at all.

We were probably still a bit picky in those days!

I can only imagine the opposition in those 5 games failed to hit a shot on target because I had him nailed on as hopeless from day 1 and was astounded when he got selected for England, and completely unsurprised when he threw the game away.   As some one said, anything hit on target from within a 40 yard radius would sail past him and he seemed to only start to react when the ball had already travelled 38 of those yards and was pretty much already in.  Liverpool are and were renowned for talking up some of their rejects and we should think ourselves lucky O'Neill only fell for the 2m loan fee and not the full 10m con trick.  Didn't Albion end up falling for it, albeit at a reduced level post Croatia?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on August 22, 2015, 08:25:41 PM
May be he was shite in midfield...which is why he's now a goalkeeper.

No shit, Sherlock. ;)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on August 22, 2015, 08:46:45 PM
Still a very good keeper and easily one of the best in the league for me.  He had a bit of a patchy season last year, but had two very good ones before that and we're only three games into this season.  No reason to change him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: olaftab on August 22, 2015, 08:47:47 PM
Brad MLS is calling. Go and make your name there.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Archie on August 22, 2015, 10:43:44 PM
Three seasons ago he was excellent, two seasons ago good, last season average.
He is in a free fall, and we  desperately need a reliable keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on August 22, 2015, 10:52:23 PM
Three seasons ago he was excellent, two seasons ago good, last season average.
He is in a free fall, and we  desperately need a reliable keeper.


I'm afraid I agree with that.

He's a mistake waiting to happen at the moment, and has been for a fair while. His distribution is just too bad for words.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on August 22, 2015, 10:52:32 PM
He is not good enough by a mile.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: rougegorge on August 22, 2015, 11:09:29 PM
He's always looking to time waste if he thinks we have something to hold on to so he's negative in his outlook which in turn leads to errors of judgement. He had ages to do something with the ball and then rolled it out to a player under pressure.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villan from luton on August 22, 2015, 11:15:34 PM
He's always looking to time waste if he thinks we have something to hold on to so he's negative in his outlook which in turn leads to errors of judgement. He had ages to do something with the ball and then rolled it out to a player under pressure.

To be fair I think that is wrong. He was looking for options and made a wrong one.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on August 23, 2015, 09:42:14 AM
Struggling to think of viable alternatives but yesterday highlighted to me that there are issues with his distribution.  Typically/Ironically he looked very competent at the actual keeping parts versus palace.

Ideally we would find a bidder for him so we could sell at his value - he's a good keeper so we should fetch 5m - whereas if he has a year as an understudy we would do well to find a club willing to take on his wages.  Sell for 5m and buy new for 10m is not going to break the bank (wages neutral) whereas a 10m deficit and two keepers on big wages is the sort of logic which got us into this mess in the first place.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on August 23, 2015, 09:44:35 AM
Guzan is drinking in the last chance saloon . I don't think TS rates him.
Bunn will be in goal soon.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on August 23, 2015, 09:46:24 AM
Guzan is drinking in the last chance saloon . I don't think TS rates him.
Bunn will be in goal soon.
As soon as Tuesday
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 23, 2015, 06:58:35 PM
His distribution is getting worse, so obviously it has got to him, it puts extra pressure on the team.
throw in an increasing number of mistakes.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Louzie0 on August 23, 2015, 07:15:27 PM
The 4 in defence have to work with him and Amavi and Richards are new. The whole 5 are not used to working together yet.

Brad is an international goalie and maybe pressure during a match like yesterday comes from misunderstandings within the defensive team.

Richards taking more of a lead in crucial moments can certainly help but time and training between them and their seconds will probably be most effective to build confidence in each other and improve decision making under pressure, in the long run.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on August 24, 2015, 08:06:25 AM
In terms of ability, Guzan is a very good goal-keeper. His downfall, in my opinion, is in his decision making and that is a huge flaw and what separates him for the likes of Friedel  and even (in his prime) Given.

The mistake on Saturday was unarguably Amavi's But you have to question why he even had the ball in that area of the pitch, at that time of the game. The fact that it was Scott Dann who dispossessed him shows how out of position Palace were and it’s nonsensical that Guzan didn’t play an early ball up-field to capitalise. I’ve heard people say that “all Amavi had to do was put his foot through it” but that’s exactly why he shouldn’t have had the ball in the first place. If that was his only option then Guzan’s just passed the buck to him.

I said the same about his error at Man City last season. Although it was a mis-kick that lead to the goal, if you watch the couple of minutes prior to it, Guzan had tried to play out from the back a couple of times and had just been given the ball back as there was no clear route away from goal and Aguero was loitering with intent. Why he was even trying to play out to the full-back again was utterly beyond me.

I’ve said it all summer and maintain that we need an upgrade, asap.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on August 24, 2015, 08:19:44 AM
I agree Russell.  He's an integral part of the culture of defeat, but I suspect we'll be stuck with him for the rest of the season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on August 24, 2015, 08:22:20 AM
Agree with all of that. Brad is an enigma. He speaks well with intelligence and good command of his opinions and their articulation but on the pitch he is such a duffer. He seems constantly caught in two minds. If you watch him warm up he is fed numerous bck passes to clear with his right foot and he does so with competence. Then in the game he will always take two touches from a back pass to use his left foot giving time for a challenge on him. How many times have you seen him rush with the ball to edge of the area then stop dead and eventually hoof the ball long. Constantly caught in two minds. I am not convinced by what we have seen of Bunn but having a goal put past him after 28 seconds at Forest did not help his confidence.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: warleyboy on August 24, 2015, 09:19:14 AM
I'm hoping Bunn will have a great game against Notts Co which he can hopefully take into the Sunderland game.
If there was ever a chance to grab the bull by the horns, his time is now.

I have a soft spot for Guzan, very likeable, but he is a weak link in the team, as is Bacuna and Gabby.
We cannot afford to have a weak keeper with the team also trying to gel.
time for change.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on August 24, 2015, 12:03:34 PM
If you want to take criticism to the extreme, then the decision by Guzan on Saturday essentially lead to costing us a point...and if we have a bad season, then that point could be the difference between relegation and staying up. I'm sure that wont be the only late goal or unnecessary mistake that costs us points this season but it needs to be stop.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on August 24, 2015, 12:50:30 PM
I'm not sure if this needs a new thread, but his problems with distribution have really reached a farcical level now, have they not? It wasn't just the second goal either - he'd already made a couple of poor kicks and put the fullbacks into awkward positions prior to that; and his kicking at Bournemouth wasn't good either. If GK distribution is important to how Sherwood wants to play, he can't persist with Guzan despite his other qualities; if distribution isn't that big a deal, he should basically be told to belt it upfield every single time.

It's a shame because I thought he commanded his box well and looked secure the couple of times he was faced with a shot he could actually save.

I don't get it when people rave about keepers being good shot stoppers.  Surely that should be a basic requirement for any keeper?

Sadly I think Guzan has become too complacent with no real pressure for his place in the side.  Now he is coming under closer scrutiny, he isn't dealing with it very well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on August 24, 2015, 01:01:34 PM
Not sure on Guzan. I soon formed the opinion that Carson was well dodgy though, and was amazed at his England call-up.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: somec on August 24, 2015, 01:06:35 PM
So is Bunn the No 2 choice now?

What happened to that other GK we got from Norwich, Jed Someone?

Has he started for us? Has he now moved down the pecking order?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on August 24, 2015, 01:20:29 PM
Has he started for us? Has he now moved down the pecking order?

Started against Burnley on the last day of last season. Along with various early rounds of the cups over the last couple of years
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Villa in Denmark on August 24, 2015, 01:23:14 PM
In terms of ability, Guzan is a very good goal-keeper. His downfall, in my opinion, is in his decision making and that is a huge flaw and what separates him for the likes of Friedel  and even (in his prime) Given.

The mistake on Saturday was unarguably Amavi's But you have to question why he even had the ball in that area of the pitch, at that time of the game. The fact that it was Scott Dann who dispossessed him shows how out of position Palace were and it’s nonsensical that Guzan didn’t play an early ball up-field to capitalise. I’ve heard people say that “all Amavi had to do was put his foot through it” but that’s exactly why he shouldn’t have had the ball in the first place. If that was his only option then Guzan’s just passed the buck to him.

I said the same about his error at Man City last season. Although it was a mis-kick that lead to the goal, if you watch the couple of minutes prior to it, Guzan had tried to play out from the back a couple of times and had just been given the ball back as there was no clear route away from goal and Aguero was loitering with intent. Why he was even trying to play out to the full-back again was utterly beyond me.

I’ve said it all summer and maintain that we need an upgrade, asap.


Completely agree about this.  It was like some bloody 3 way chuckle brothers convention between Guzan, Vlaar and I think Richardson in the minute or so before the goal.  It looked like we were time wasting after 2 minutes of the game which is another criticism. 
Go back two years when he gave that early ball over the top for Weimann to score the winner against Man City, and then think when was the  last time he tried something similar?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on August 24, 2015, 02:23:56 PM
Odd isn't it? It's like the coaching staff have encouraged him to play out form the back as often as possible and he's taken this literally, without really thinking about what's going on around him. The panic that he omits then seems to resonate through the whole team, particularly the back 4.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on August 24, 2015, 02:50:52 PM
reading the last couple of pages of this thread you would have thought Guzan had picked the ball up and thrown it into his own net,
 when in reality he threw the ball out to another players feet,
 admittedly Amavi was soon pressured but here's the thing defenders from time to time are going to be put in tricky situations preferably not by their own players, but it happens, and will have to deal with it,

so the rest of the game what did he do wrong ?
he made a string of good to reasonable saves, well that's what he's there to do but plenty of goalkeepers don't, caught a few of his line, didn't drop the ball, had a good to reasonable match overall,
he put the ball into touch once wow wee, lets all lose sleep over that

goalkeepers will not have perfect games, the fella everyone was going on about Begovic made a Guzan man city type error in his debut game in pre season, so it happenes to the best, look at Chech at Arsenal not a great start

I'm in no way absolving Guzan for his Man City blooper which was massive, and he was dropped for it, and the lesser keeper Given came in and all to soon we were calling for Guzan to return

Guzan is now the scapegoat, he didn't make the actual mistake on Saturday but never the less gets the blame for it because oh the player that made the mistake is the new crowd favourite

in three games we have let in 3 goals, its not horrendous, and all in all he has kept well,
if he goes on a spree of really shit goalkeeping then I will add my name for the call for him to be replaced but Saturdays performance wasn't anything like as bad as people are saying

I know people have made there minds up on Guzan and that's fair enough I've done the same with certain other players,
but it still doesn't mean they are right, in my view they are bang wrong,
 Guzan will save us points this season far more than he costs us, and has been doing for the last 3/4 seasons


Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PGW on August 24, 2015, 02:57:10 PM
reading the last couple of pages of this thread you would have thought Guzan had picked the ball up and thrown it into his own net,
 when in reality he threw the ball out to another players feet,
 admittedly Amavi was soon pressured but here's the thing defenders from time to time are going to be put in tricky situations preferably not by their own players, but it happens, and will have to deal with it,

so the rest of the game what did he do wrong ?
he made a string of good to reasonable saves, well that's what he's there to do but plenty of goalkeepers don't, caught a few of his line, didn't drop the ball, had a good to reasonable match overall,
he put the ball into touch once wow wee, lets all lose sleep over that

goalkeepers will not have perfect games, the fella everyone was going on about Begovic made a Guzan man city type error in his debut game in pre season, so it happenes to the best, look at Chech at Arsenal not a great start

I'm in no way absolving Guzan for his Man City blooper which was massive, and he was dropped for it, and the lesser keeper Given came in and all to soon we were calling for Guzan to return

Guzan is now the scapegoat, he didn't make the actual mistake on Saturday but never the less gets the blame for it because oh the player that made the mistake is the new crowd favourite

in three games we have let in 3 goals, its not horrendous, and all in all he has kept well,
if he goes on a spree of really shit goalkeeping then I will add my name for the call for him to be replaced but Saturdays performance wasn't anything like as bad as people are saying

I know people have made there minds up on Guzan and that's fair enough I've done the same with certain other players,
but it still doesn't mean they are right, in my view they are bang wrong,
 Guzan will save us points this season far more than he costs us, and has been doing for the last 3/4 seasons



Hurrah a sense of reason.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Slaphead on August 24, 2015, 03:00:12 PM
I don't need to add more to this as I completely agree with John e. I think he has been encouraged to always play from the back and with an inexperienced team like ours we will often be put under pressure for it.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on August 24, 2015, 03:19:45 PM
I don't need to add more to this as I completely agree with John e. I think he has been encouraged to always play from the back and with an inexperienced team like ours we will often be put under pressure for it.

Same here.

The method of distribution isn't really something that a goalkeeper is going to decide on a whim - even at amateur level there's going to be a plan in place to whether it goes long or short, and at the moment it's clear that he's being encouraged to play it out from the back.

If it's established that he's not good enough to play it short and that's how the coaching staff want us to play then there is an argument that he needs to be replaced. But Sako's goal on Saturday is in no way evidence of that - he did his part properly.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on August 24, 2015, 03:58:38 PM
As I and others have said, the error on Saturday was unarguable Amavi's. In isolation Guzan's part was negligible at best. But therein lies the problem, this isn't an isolated incident and his form, in my opinion, has been on a downward trajectory for some considerable time now. We're talking about a keeper with 119 first-team games and 79 International caps. To simply say suggest that him being encouraged to play out from the back is an excuse for playing Amavi into trouble like that isn't good enough. It's got nothing to do with being (or not being) a crowd favourite, it's to do with watching a player over an extended period of time and seeing the flaws in his game get bigger and bigger. It's much the same as the situation with Gabby.

In a nutshell, for me, Guzan has shown a consistent lack of footballing intelligence and I would be looking to replace him as a matter of priority. That's not me scape-goating him, it's me passing judgment on a player that I've seen a lot of.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on August 24, 2015, 04:44:03 PM
As I and others have said, the error on Saturday was unarguable Amavi's. In isolation Guzan's part was negligible at best. But therein lies the problem, this isn't an isolated incident and his form, in my opinion, has been on a downward trajectory for some considerable time now. We're talking about a keeper with 119 first-team games and 79 International caps. To simply say suggest that him being encouraged to play out from the back is an excuse for playing Amavi into trouble like that isn't good enough.

The number of games and caps is irrelevent. Even if he'd played 500 hundred games he will still have his instructions whether to pass it short to the defence or send it long to the front men, based on the tactics we're using at the time. It's not an excuse - he's clearly being encouraged to go short at the moment, he did so and the person that he passed to (who was in plenty of space at the time) took a couple of touches and lost the ball.

As for the bit in bold, was his part negligible at best or did he play Amavi into trouble? Because surely it can't be both?

Edit: just to add the caveat, that doesn't mean that there isn't an issue - his distribution is clearly his weak point. It's that Palace's winner on Saturday isn't further evidence of it.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on August 24, 2015, 05:19:41 PM
quote fail
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on August 24, 2015, 06:03:57 PM
Just because Guzan may or may not be being instructed to pass it out from the back doesn't mean he has to every time he has the ball or in any way negate him of any responsibility for the goal conceded on Saturday...he had a decision to make and he decided to pass it to a team mate who had an opponent a few yards away from him by the time he received the ball. The pass was so telegraphed that any opponent player could have read what was about to happen and that is why Dann stole so much ground on Amavi by the time he actually received the ball...its not like Amavi had time to look up and make a pass or clearance as Dann was all over him as soon as he'd taken his first touch. Was there even a shout from Guzan to say "man on"?

If its not safe to pass short then clear it long. It really is quite simple.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on August 24, 2015, 06:10:50 PM
The goal was totally Amavi's fault. He could have passed it short or even long which is what is suggested Guzan should do. He tried to take someone on and lost the ball. Bad decision by him.

Hopefully Amavi will learn from that error because he looks a cracking prospect. I can't see how the blame for the goal is aimed at Brad at all really.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on August 24, 2015, 06:16:38 PM
Watch it again and see how little time Amavi has once he receives the ball and Dann is all over him. The point is that he shouldn't have received the ball in the first place, and if he had the option to clear it long then why didn't Guzan do that in the first place instead of stitching up his team mate?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on August 24, 2015, 06:16:54 PM
We really do have a team full of thickos if they only play to a preset plan without adjusting to what's happening on the pitch.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on August 24, 2015, 06:37:17 PM
I don't think they are thick aj I think they have not learned to be mentally strong and fully focused to the final whistle. That is why we concede so many late goals.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on August 24, 2015, 06:45:30 PM
I don't think they are thick aj I think they have not learned to be mentally strong and fully focused to the final whistle. That is why we concede so many late goals.

I agree with you there Brian, there's also been too many nicey nice players without that real will to win. Players like Gabby, who smirk their way through mistakes. Some of the beatings we've taken and the performances we've put in the last few years and I've yet to see anyone getting angry about it I'd be bloody livid if I were them.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on August 24, 2015, 07:04:28 PM
I think the reason so many of them seem to be unconcerned about defeat and humiliation can be laid, along with many other vices, at the door of the agents. In this day and age the agent has become the player's flak jacket. Agents have anaesthetized their clients to censure or criticism. Money is all that matters. When Jimmy Dugdale failed to clear off the line the goal that relegated us, the entire Holte End suffered with him and his suffering was palpable. Fast forward to summer 2015 and the Villa captain shames himself and his agents by his words and actions and I don't suppose any of them have given it a second thought.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Slaphead on August 24, 2015, 07:33:49 PM
Maybe his logic was that if he kicked it long they would immediately get possession and be on the front foot again and throwing it out would allow us to keep possession? With Benteke gone, we won't be winning as many high balls as we used to because that man was exceptional in the air.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: clash city rocker on August 24, 2015, 07:56:50 PM
Know for a fact that if a football commentator critises a player there is a chance the agent will call the commentator and basically register his displeasure at his comments.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on August 25, 2015, 06:31:17 AM
I once publicly criticised a jockey for the way he rode my horse and I came very close to being taken to court by his agent. It is probably worse in football.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on August 25, 2015, 07:31:03 AM
As I and others have said, the error on Saturday was unarguable Amavi's. In isolation Guzan's part was negligible at best. But therein lies the problem, this isn't an isolated incident and his form, in my opinion, has been on a downward trajectory for some considerable time now. We're talking about a keeper with 119 first-team games and 79 International caps. To simply say suggest that him being encouraged to play out from the back is an excuse for playing Amavi into trouble like that isn't good enough.

The number of games and caps is irrelevent. Even if he'd played 500 hundred games he will still have his instructions whether to pass it short to the defence or send it long to the front men, based on the tactics we're using at the time. It's not an excuse - he's clearly being encouraged to go short at the moment, he did so and the person that he passed to (who was in plenty of space at the time) took a couple of touches and lost the ball.

As for the bit in bold, was his part negligible at best or did he play Amavi into trouble? Because surely it can't be both?

Edit: just to add the caveat, that doesn't mean that there isn't an issue - his distribution is clearly his weak point. It's that Palace's winner on Saturday isn't further evidence of it.

Whether he's being encouraged to play it short and build from the back or not, he needs to have the intelligence to decide when the situation calls for playing it out, or giving it a big punt up field.  Normally with two minutes left I'd prefer us to retain possession and build slowly, but not when there were so many of their players in close proximity to ours in our half.  He was definitely partly at fault for the goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ozzjim on August 25, 2015, 07:54:34 AM
He was massively at fault. I also thought he was in no man's land on the first too. Both goals were abhorrently defended.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on August 25, 2015, 08:09:55 AM
Amavi was massively at fault.

Yet not a single post about the goal has been added to his thread since the match. Funny that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on August 25, 2015, 08:15:55 AM
As I and others have said, the error on Saturday was unarguable Amavi's. In isolation Guzan's part was negligible at best. But therein lies the problem, this isn't an isolated incident and his form, in my opinion, has been on a downward trajectory for some considerable time now. We're talking about a keeper with 119 first-team games and 79 International caps. To simply say suggest that him being encouraged to play out from the back is an excuse for playing Amavi into trouble like that isn't good enough.

The number of games and caps is irrelevent. Even if he'd played 500 hundred games he will still have his instructions whether to pass it short to the defence or send it long to the front men, based on the tactics we're using at the time. It's not an excuse - he's clearly being encouraged to go short at the moment, he did so and the person that he passed to (who was in plenty of space at the time) took a couple of touches and lost the ball.

As for the bit in bold, was his part negligible at best or did he play Amavi into trouble? Because surely it can't be both?

Edit: just to add the caveat, that doesn't mean that there isn't an issue - his distribution is clearly his weak point. It's that Palace's winner on Saturday isn't further evidence of it.

You don't honestly think that any side instructs their goalkeeper to ALWAYS play short from the back do you? There's a huge difference between being encouraged to do so whenever possible, and then choosing to do so in the closing stages of a match with the majority of the opposition players around your own area. And of course Guzan's experience comes into it and is the very reason that we're focusing on his part in the goal rather than Amavi's.

Edit - I note that you've also omitted to highlight "In isolation", which is fairly important in context. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on August 25, 2015, 08:20:56 AM
Amavi was massively at fault.

Yet not a single post about the goal has been added to his thread since the match. Funny that.

People know that Amavi made a mistake.  The point people are raising is that this is a common occurrence with Guzan.  Sometimes it leads to goals at worst, other times it leads to panic or us going nowhere at best.

Amavi could have played the ball straight back to Guzan but we have seen many times that Guzan panics and slashes at the ball wildly with no direction to the kick.  That is at best, at worst we get the Man City situation.

What I want from a goalkeeper is control and I am sorry but I do not see it from Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on August 25, 2015, 08:34:24 AM
He has not always been as bad as he is now. Brad desperately needs the services of a sports psychologist either that or a good mate who will tell him to act before he thinks. It is the indecision in his head that has undermined his confidence. If you think you'll kick it kick it, if you think you'll roll it roll it, just don't fall down the gap in the middle.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on August 25, 2015, 11:11:35 AM
He's strolling down Enckleman Avenue , let's hope he can quickly get his bearings and sort himself out.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on August 25, 2015, 02:23:14 PM
Amavi was massively at fault.

Yet not a single post about the goal has been added to his thread since the match. Funny that.

Speaking as someone who did blame Amavi, I think he clearly gets more slack because he's new. But he's also young and new to the league, if he consistently makes these errors over time we have a problem. On Guzan I think the issue is that over a period of time there has seemed to be a gradual decline in his level of performance, which is highlighted by his distribution. He needs proper competition.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on August 25, 2015, 04:59:15 PM
He has not always been as bad as he is now. Brad desperately needs the services of a sports psychologist either that or a good mate who will tell him to act before he thinks. It is the indecision in his head that has undermined his confidence. If you think you'll kick it kick it, if you think you'll roll it roll it, just don't fall down the gap in the middle.
I agree with the Sports Psychologist idea. It is obvious it has got to him now as he does that little trot thing when the ball is coming towards him. With keepers when one aspect starts to go wrong others seem to follow.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Nastylee on August 25, 2015, 05:10:24 PM
They were both to blame. Guzan should have been calmer and Amavi, given the situation he received the ball in, should have taken less risk.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: usav on August 25, 2015, 05:17:04 PM
They were both to blame. Guzan should have been calmer and Amavi, given the situation he received the ball in, should have taken less risk.
Agreed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on August 30, 2015, 09:38:42 AM
Very poor positioning for the goal yesterday.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on August 30, 2015, 09:50:48 AM
Very poor positioning for the goal yesterday.


Really, you don't say
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on August 30, 2015, 09:57:39 AM
Very poor positioning for the goal yesterday.


Really, you don't say

I do say.  Is that a problem?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on August 30, 2015, 01:39:04 PM
Very poor positioning for the goal yesterday.


Really, you don't say

I do say.  Is that a problem?

Just my poor attempt at sarcasm mate,
 I love you really you know that
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on August 30, 2015, 02:28:14 PM
He has not always been as bad as he is now. Brad desperately needs the services of a sports psychologist either that or a good mate who will tell him to act before he thinks. It is the indecision in his head that has undermined his confidence. If you think you'll kick it kick it, if you think you'll roll it roll it, just don't fall down the gap in the middle.
I agree with the Sports Psychologist idea. It is obvious it has got to him now as he does that little trot thing when the ball is coming towards him. With keepers when one aspect starts to go wrong others seem to follow.

His confidence is too brittle.  Sadly rather like Gabby,  he's living on past seasons.  He needs replacing sooner rather than later,
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on August 30, 2015, 02:35:47 PM
LTA I dont think I've ever replied to you or got into any sort of discussion with you ever

But just to say that you are my favourite poster on here

You make me laugh and chuckle with every post you make, in a sort of gallows humour sort of way, I honestly cannot believe how you keep it up, but good on ya, keep it going
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on August 31, 2015, 03:06:37 PM
Not sure if he's actually any good but Lindegaard is having a medical today and due to sign for Baggies on a free from Man Utd.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on September 13, 2015, 08:10:40 PM
His descent into terrible keeper territory continues apace.  Whatever he thought he was playing at in the 90th minute today, I can only guess at.  Woeful.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on September 13, 2015, 08:18:19 PM
I have no faith whatsoever in Guzan. Rest him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Archie on September 13, 2015, 08:19:42 PM
Can we change the title of the thread?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on September 13, 2015, 08:34:06 PM
Time to fuck him off and go with Bunn or Steer
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on September 13, 2015, 08:38:37 PM
Steer's just gone out on loan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Des Little on September 13, 2015, 09:17:04 PM
Guzan is a bomb scare.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on September 13, 2015, 09:25:16 PM
The dyer goal was just so pathetic, Guzan is what 6ft 5 and 15 stone yet he turns sideways and shuts his eyes on the diminutive Dyer. The little fella puts his head in and it goes in.
It's just unforgivable from Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on September 13, 2015, 09:59:43 PM
I's just too easy these days to recall Guzan costing us points. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on September 13, 2015, 10:02:27 PM
I's just too easy these days to recall Guzan costing us points. 

He's been poor for a season and a half now. Cost us a lot more than he's saved us. I don't know what's happened to him, it's been a gradual thing, he's been criticised a fair bit for America as well lately.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on September 13, 2015, 10:04:15 PM
I's just too easy these days to recall Guzan costing us points. 

He's been poor for a season and a half now. Cost us a lot more than he's saved us. I don't know what's happened to him, it's been a gradual thing, he's been criticised a fair bit for America as well lately.

Maybe being a goalie in a relentlessly crap side for 4 years has got to him?  Whatever it is, we need better.  The defence as a whole looks better, but he looks to be the weak link now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 13, 2015, 10:06:23 PM
Absolutely terrible error today.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on September 13, 2015, 10:08:30 PM
What I don't get is why the defence is so riddled with players capable of massive brain farts. Even just clogger defenders we watch playing for lower league sides don't seem to commit as many suicidal fuck ups as ours do. Game after game they take it in turns to implode under the slightest bit of pressure.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on September 13, 2015, 10:15:07 PM
We shouldn't just blame the defenders, we need to defend a whole lot better as a team. No one holding it up at the other end of the pitch. Two very poor defenders in front of the back four, even though I think Sanchez is a decent player. Sinclair and Grealish aren't the types to break up play etc.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on September 13, 2015, 10:18:59 PM
No idea what happened with the 3rd goal...from where I was standing Guzan seemed to fly through the air like some kind of demented lemming, a Leicester player got smashed and the ball rolled into the net.


I have since discovered from these pages that Guzan fu**ed up big time, Diddyman Dyer beat Guzan and two 6 feet plus CBs to the ball and that we need a new goalkeeper - desperately!!!
(I thought the last bit anyway)

Can Bunn be any worse?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 13, 2015, 11:45:45 PM
Bunn was average against Notts County.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on September 14, 2015, 12:28:27 AM
We would have scraped 1 point instead of losing all 3 today had Guzan been quicker and more committed in his challenge...or he could have stayed on his line and made a save. Instead he made a colossal fuck up of epic proportions that completed the capitulation.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: levico on September 14, 2015, 09:48:25 AM
We would have scraped 1 point instead of losing all 3 today had Guzan been quicker and more committed in his challenge...or he could have stayed on his line and made a save. Instead he made a colossal fuck up of epic proportions that completed the capitulation.

This.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: ktvillan on September 14, 2015, 09:55:59 AM
Guzan has reverted to the keeper he was in the FA Cup tie against Blackburn a few seasons ago.  He was all over the place.   Even when he was doing well I never thought he was any more than ok, there were an awful lot of shots that I thought were stoppable that went past him. I've been advocating a new keeper fro at least a year, as he's become a full on liability in too many games.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on September 14, 2015, 09:59:22 AM
We shouldn't have sold Given for this reason.  He would have been ready and willing to come in for a few games, and would have done a solid job.  Bunn is very unproven, and if you put him in and them drop him a few games later it will not help his confiderence.  If we still had Given then I would consider putting him in for awhile, but since we don't then Guzan is still our best goal keeper and deserves to be backed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on September 14, 2015, 12:39:55 PM
No idea what happened with the 3rd goal...from where I was standing Guzan seemed to fly through the air like some kind of demented lemming, a Leicester player got smashed and the ball rolled into the net.


I have since discovered from these pages that Guzan fu**ed up big time, Diddyman Dyer beat Guzan and two 6 feet plus CBs to the ball and that we need a new goalkeeper - desperately!!!
(I thought the last bit anyway)

Can Bunn be any worse?

Clearly his growing list of cock ups are playing on his mind.  Fatal if your a keeper.  If I was an opposition manager, I'd be telling my players to put plenty of pressure on him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: CT on September 14, 2015, 12:45:03 PM
Hard to judge Bunn on one game. One deflection, one penalty (his fault) and one fantastic strike.

I'm so annoyed with Guzan I'd chuck Bunn in, although what good that does in the long-term I'm not sure.

I guess we can only see if Bunn is up to it if we give him an extended go.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on September 14, 2015, 12:58:20 PM
If Bunn is not up to it, then what is he doing here?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 14, 2015, 02:18:10 PM
Guzan is not under anywhere near enough pressure for his place and his performances have declined.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on September 14, 2015, 09:52:22 PM
I am coming to the conclusion that Guzan's two very good years were the exception, rather than the rule.  He was very shaky when he first came on the scene and seems to have reverted to type.

I started to go off him when he wanted to try and control the game from the back with the ball in hand or at his feet but failing to do so.  The last 12 months have seen the errors become more frequent.

I do not believe goalkeepers need pressure from the No. 2, as it is the one position where the player is very focused and self-disciplined, as can be seen by the number of keepers that play week in, week out.

The time has come to give Bunn a prolonged run in the team.  This is another position where the manager should be looking between now and the next window for a good experienced keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on September 14, 2015, 10:08:57 PM
I've always tried to give Guzan the benefit of doubt. I was a big fan of his. I felt he should get one more go here, as opposed to forking out a lot of money on a new keeper when we needed another forward and right back more urgently.
However he's been nightmarish this season. His mind isn't right and I'm not sure there's a way back for him now. We've got to be looking for a replacement in January.

Until then? Tough. I'd worry about throwing Bunn in for a long spell.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: silhillvilla on September 14, 2015, 10:11:12 PM
Maybe Eck was right to release him
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: bobdylan on September 14, 2015, 10:28:28 PM
Steer's just gone out on loan.

Can Senderos take his spot in the 25 now?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: bobdylan on September 14, 2015, 10:29:15 PM
Steer's just gone out on loan.

Can Senderos take his spot in the 25 now?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on September 14, 2015, 10:29:39 PM
Pretty much the same as you supertom...always thought that it was a mistake to let him go and pleased when Lambert resigned him...and he proved his worth for a couple of seasons, but his behaviour when not under pressure - which then puts us under pressure - and his bizarre errors are becoming more frequent and leading directly to goals.

I can see that TS doesn't want to shatter Guzan's confidence completely by dropping him - and is giving him the benefit of the doubt - but at the end of the day, as TS himself said...we lost the game.
And that was partly due to Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: andym on September 14, 2015, 10:51:47 PM
I's just too easy these days to recall Guzan costing us points. 

He's been poor for a season and a half now. Cost us a lot more than he's saved us. I don't know what's happened to him, it's been a gradual thing, he's been criticised a fair bit for America as well lately.

I can think just off the top of my head of three occasions over the last 12 months where hes made major mistakes which have directly caused goals against - leicester at home, man city and yesterday. Then there are goals like shelveys against us which although very good strikes, he was caught off his line and slow to react. Thats not great, especially when hes not winning us points in return. I think he is also a poor communicator, particularly at set pieces, and his distribution is rubbish.

He can still make the regulation saves that you would expect any keeper to, but other keepers are facing tougher chances and situations where you would normally think the attacking side has the advantage, and are also making saves there as well. Tonight for West Ham Randolph made a really good fingertip save off a big deflection to keep it at 2-0 - on present form its a save i cant see Guzan making.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: KRS on September 14, 2015, 10:55:19 PM
Guzan must also take part of the blame for the cock up with Amavi at Palace. For me that equates to 2pts dropped this season due to Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: themossman on September 21, 2015, 12:51:57 PM
Only saw the highlights but fair to say Brad had a better game and kept the score down with some decent saves?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on September 21, 2015, 01:51:11 PM
Yup. He and Sanchez were probably the only two to come out of the first half with any credit. In the second half there were a couple of sliced clearances into the Trinity, but he dealt with everything thrown at him without much fuss.

I reckon that early save from Rondon probably gave him a bit of confidence back.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on September 21, 2015, 02:18:32 PM
It was his best game for a while to be honest.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on September 21, 2015, 11:03:11 PM
I don't think his reaction saves have ever been called into question.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on September 21, 2015, 11:05:26 PM
I thought he was hesitant and fumbled a few of those shots on Saturday. I've never been a fan of his but his confidence is pretty low at the moment.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on September 22, 2015, 08:54:44 AM
It was his best game for a while to be honest.

that's right, I know your not a fan of his and that's fair enough we all have our opinions

but at least your not making rubbish up in a one eyed way to keep bashing him with no reason
he made some decent saves, his distribution was ok and didn't make any blunders, all in all one of our better performers on the day

some people thought he was the worst player on the pitch which is just a joke (imo)

also people that say well he's there to make saves that's his job, well strikers are there to score goals that's their job, but they still get credit applause for it when they do
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on September 22, 2015, 11:54:35 AM
It was his best game for a while to be honest.

that's right, I know your not a fan of his and that's fair enough we all have our opinions

but at least your making rubbish up in a one eyed way to keep bashing him with no reason

You might want to add a 'not' in there John, otherwise it comes across a bit more aggressive than I think you're intending!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: themossman on September 22, 2015, 12:07:04 PM
Also I'm uncomfortable with the words 'one eyed' and 'bashing' being used in the same sentence without a masturbatory reference.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: john e on September 22, 2015, 01:12:38 PM
It was his best game for a while to be honest.

that's right, I know your not a fan of his and that's fair enough we all have our opinions

but at least your making rubbish up in a one eyed way to keep bashing him with no reason

You might want to add a 'not' in there John, otherwise it comes across a bit more aggressive than I think you're intending!

Quite right well spotted
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on September 22, 2015, 01:36:16 PM
It was his best game for a while to be honest.

that's right, I know your not a fan of his and that's fair enough we all have our opinions

but at least your making rubbish up in a one eyed way to keep bashing him with no reason

You might want to add a 'not' in there John, otherwise it comes across a bit more aggressive than I think you're intending!

Not to mention an apostrophe and a letter e! 😀
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villabear on October 25, 2015, 07:47:35 AM
Does he know when he kicks the ball he needs to get it in between the white lines? Every kick goes way right. Definitely confidence shot and not the keeper he was.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 25, 2015, 10:49:38 AM
I was screaming at him from the Holte to get in the middle of the goal for the free kick. It was obvious to everyone in the ground where that ball was going apart from Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Smith on October 25, 2015, 11:07:17 AM
I was screaming at him from the Holte to get in the middle of the goal for the free kick. It was obvious to everyone in the ground where that ball was going apart from Guzan.

I remember a keeper I used to play with saying that the keeper likes to see the ball off the free kick takers foot and lose that if they are behind the wall meaning they get no time to react. So it is in effect a gamble that the player isn't good enough to do what their bloke did yesterday.

Having said that it looked to me like he took it to extremes yesterday.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: pbavfckuwait on October 25, 2015, 11:36:17 AM
Well Chris he should have known that guy was good enough, as he done it to him Boxing day down there ground.

The other thing with his kicking to the right of the pitch, I think this is an instruction from Dim Tim, as yesterday we hardly played anything down the left it all went to our right, that's why there was so much room for their second goal down our left.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: David_Nab on October 25, 2015, 11:39:11 AM
His positioning was so unbelievably poor ,the free kick really wasn't that good he was just too far to his left to do anything.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Witton Warrior on October 25, 2015, 09:27:41 PM
No mention yet of the piss-taking cheers every time Guzan kicked in the first half?
Thought it was really strange - people laughing and expecting a f-up
Ironically the Swansea keeper seemed even bleeding worse at kicking!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 25, 2015, 09:32:13 PM
Does he know when he kicks the ball he needs to get it in between the white lines? Every kick goes way right. Definitely confidence shot and not the keeper he was.

That's where our players often were so he was actually aiming at Gestede etc rather than it was a case of him shanking it. I said to Leeg that it was strange our players were so wide as the slightest miskick and it would go out of play as there wasn't much margin for error.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: CT on October 25, 2015, 09:35:13 PM
No mention yet of the piss-taking cheers every time Guzan kicked in the first half?
Thought it was really strange - people laughing and expecting a f-up
Ironically the Swansea keeper seemed even bleeding worse at kicking!

Very true. Symptomatic of the feeling in the crowd yesterday. When the team was read out there was hardly any reaction to any of the players. The place seemed dead and resigned to its fate.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Witton Warrior on October 25, 2015, 10:03:18 PM
No mention yet of the piss-taking cheers every time Guzan kicked in the first half?
Thought it was really strange - people laughing and expecting a f-up
Ironically the Swansea keeper seemed even bleeding worse at kicking!

Very true. Symptomatic of the feeling in the crowd yesterday. When the team was read out there was hardly any reaction to any of the players. The place seemed dead and resigned to its fate.

The "boo/mumble" when Lescott was announced was noticeable
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on January 12, 2016, 10:45:52 PM
Wonder if we've sent the last of him? Sounds like Bunny did ok though not a huge amount to do tonight
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 12, 2016, 10:49:06 PM
He hardly had anything to do. They had 1 shot on target, that I can't remember unless it was the Okore clearance, 0 corners and no crosses of note that I remember. He could have spent most of the game having a kip. Which makes a nice change.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Des Little on January 12, 2016, 10:53:11 PM
Wonder if we've sent the last of him? Sounds like Bunny did ok though not a huge amount to do tonight

I do hope so. Guzan can sling his hook now for all I care.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: andyh on January 12, 2016, 10:54:28 PM
The crowd have turned on him big time.
I'll be very surprised if we ever see him again.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 12, 2016, 10:58:01 PM
I've always been a fan of the "once you're in the jersey, it's yours to lose" theory so hopefully we'll stick with him for a while.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: olaftab on January 12, 2016, 11:09:59 PM
When subs names were announced Guzan was booed by supporters however I think he should come back into the team. Bunn had nothing to do but was very nervous and his kicking and distribution was poor.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Harte on January 12, 2016, 11:12:29 PM
We can't judge Bunn on a handfull of games so I still think we need to bring someone in. I simply don't trust Guzan and from the crowd reaction tonight when his name was read out the support generally don't like him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 12, 2016, 11:12:54 PM
When subs names were announced Guzan was booed by supporters however I think he should come back into the team. Bunn had nothing to do but was very nervous and his kicking and distribution was poor.

That one goal kick late on that went straight into the Trinity was awful. I'd still definitely keep him in Saturday though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: richtheholtender on January 12, 2016, 11:14:01 PM
The kicking goes right the way back to Bosnich.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on January 12, 2016, 11:23:12 PM
When subs names were announced Guzan was booed by supporters however I think he should come back into the team. Bunn had nothing to do but was very nervous and his kicking and distribution was poor.

That one goal kick late on that went straight into the Trinity was awful. I'd still definitely keep him in Saturday though.

From memory, that was the only poor kick.  The rest were straight down the middle and we didn't have any Guzan's hand signals as if he was directing a plane at BHX.  The one thing that Bunn didn't do was put his defenders under pressure with stupid passes.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 13, 2016, 04:01:13 AM
I'd say his poor form followed by his actions at the weekend have sealed his future. Bunn did little wrong tonight and even if he isn't the long term option, I'd be surprised if Guzan gets back in. In fact if we get a new keeper this window, I can see Bunn being second choice going forward.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on January 13, 2016, 07:36:57 AM
The kicking goes right the way back to Bosnich.
The ultimate insult......
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: villabear on January 13, 2016, 08:39:22 AM
When subs names were announced Guzan was booed by supporters however I think he should come back into the team. Bunn had nothing to do but was very nervous and his kicking and distribution was poor.

That one goal kick late on that went straight into the Trinity was awful. I'd still definitely keep him in Saturday though.

From memory, that was the only poor kick.  The rest were straight down the middle and we didn't have any Guzan's hand signals as if he was directing a plane at BHX.  The one thing that Bunn didn't do was put his defenders under pressure with stupid passes.

Remember when Lambert came back from Germany with his expansive 'get the full backs to go towards their corner flag and get Guzan to pass to them and put us in the shit routine?' ahh, heady days indeed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 13, 2016, 08:53:59 AM
I'd say his poor form followed by his actions at the weekend have sealed his future. Bunn did little wrong tonight and even if he isn't the long term option, I'd be surprised if Guzan gets back in. In fact if we get a new keeper this window, I can see Bunn being second choice going forward.

I thought the back four looked far more assured with Bunn behind them.  Guzan always seems very nervous and I think that impacts on the defenders in front of him.  I'm not sure Bunn is the answer going forward though and still think we need to bring a keeper in this month if possible.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Appreciation thread.
Post by: Archie on January 14, 2016, 07:18:38 PM
I do not know Bunn tbh,  but one of his more remarkable credits is that he is not Brad Guzan!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on January 14, 2016, 07:28:21 PM
If it's OK with the moderators, I would like the title of this thread changed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Bad English on January 14, 2016, 07:33:26 PM
If it's OK with the moderators, I would like the title of this thread changed.
If you edit your first post on the thread you can change your own thread title.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LTA on January 15, 2016, 05:53:20 PM
I would imagine the club will want rid of Guzan this month for a replacement keeper if they can a) find one and b) convince one to come.

Guzans big issue for me is the lack of pressure on him from number 2 keepers, so I guess it's understandable that he's developed a "look at me I'm the bollocks" attitude.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 15, 2016, 06:15:47 PM
The kicking goes right the way back to Bosnich.
But Bosnich was class in every other area. Meaning he could get away with it. Guzan is dog turd.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 15, 2016, 06:49:03 PM
Reading between the lines of Remix Garde's comments on the OS about being impressed with the way Mark Bunn 'behaves' suggests that isn't the case with Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Villafirst on January 15, 2016, 06:52:20 PM
Fuck Guzan off back to the States alongside the useless ex chairman
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Villafirst on January 15, 2016, 06:53:54 PM
The kicking goes right the way back to Bosnich.
But Bosnich was class in every other area. Meaning he could get away with it. Guzan is dog turd.

Dog shit sounds better...
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Pete3206 on January 15, 2016, 06:59:59 PM
Fuck Guzan off back to the States alongside the useless ex chairman

Cracking stuff
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: CT on January 15, 2016, 07:15:02 PM
Guzan isn't fit to lace Bozzie's boots.

I'll be glad when he's gone, only so I don't have to hear Chris Waddle getting his name wrong.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 15, 2016, 07:55:26 PM
I'm not sure if the anger and insults directed at Guzan is due to the crap season both he and we are having, stupidity or just your typical football fan fickleness.

He's been an exceptional pro for us since he claimed the number 1 shirt back in the autumn of 2012. By 2013 we were all lining up to declare him Player of the Season. He followed that up with another great season, saving and earning us just as many points as Benteke. If he had one real weakeness, it was his kicking but other than that he's more than done his part in keeping us up every season.

Admittedly, this season he's been way below the standards he's set himself and there may be several reasons for that. I doubt he's had more than a couple of weeks off over the last few years, what with the World Cup and international summer tournaments for the US. The change in goalkeeping coach brought in by Sherwood (Tony Parks) and kept on by Garde is could possibly be another reason for his drop in form. The less said about the defence in front of him the better. It can't be easy for any goalkeeper so he has my sympathy. No doubt his confidence has taken a beating this season and it couldn't have helped reading since May how we were looking for (and failed to sign) a new goalkeeper.

Guzan is currently out the side due to his performances. Whether he's willing to try and fight his way back in the side is another matter. Sometimes a change of scene is as good as a rest and maybe a new club will help him get back to the standards he's shown for us and his international team over the years. He's been a more than decent keeper for us, as this thread clearly demonstrates but if he is to leave he'll go with my thanks for what he's done over the years, not some kneejerk reaction to him spitting his chewing gum or the few howlers he's let in this season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Fasth56 on January 15, 2016, 10:16:39 PM
No keeper should be beaten at the near post and he has managed not only once against Tottingham but followed that up against Sunderland and what about his positioning for the Swansea free kick, I could have put it in with the amount of space he left on his right hand side. These examples are without mentioning his inept playing it out from the back which has resulted in two or three goals.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ads on January 15, 2016, 10:30:31 PM
He's a poor player, but he's not alone in that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on January 15, 2016, 10:41:54 PM
I'm not sure if the anger and insults directed at Guzan is due to the crap season both he and we are having, stupidity or just your typical football fan fickleness.

He's been an exceptional pro for us since he claimed the number 1 shirt back in the autumn of 2012. By 2013 we were all lining up to declare him Player of the Season. He followed that up with another great season, saving and earning us just as many points as Benteke. If he had one real weakeness, it was his kicking but other than that he's more than done his part in keeping us up every season.

Admittedly, this season he's been way below the standards he's set himself and there may be several reasons for that. I doubt he's had more than a couple of weeks off over the last few years, what with the World Cup and international summer tournaments for the US. The change in goalkeeping coach brought in by Sherwood (Tony Parks) and kept on by Garde is could possibly be another reason for his drop in form. The less said about the defence in front of him the better. It can't be easy for any goalkeeper so he has my sympathy. No doubt his confidence has taken a beating this season and it couldn't have helped reading since May how we were looking for (and failed to sign) a new goalkeeper.

Guzan is currently out the side due to his performances. Whether he's willing to try and fight his way back in the side is another matter. Sometimes a change of scene is as good as a rest and maybe a new club will help him get back to the standards he's shown for us and his international team over the years. He's been a more than decent keeper for us, as this thread clearly demonstrates but if he is to leave he'll go with my thanks for what he's done over the years, not some kneejerk reaction to him spitting his chewing gum or the few howlers he's let in this season.
Very good post, I'd agree with all of this. He's not alone in a huge loss of form. If we had more quality, better management and coaching he might himself be in better form.

He's done brilliantly for us in previous seasons and this hatred towards him does not sit comfortably with me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: MorrisNielson on January 15, 2016, 10:53:12 PM
Just did a quick bit of number crunching on goalies to see how they compare, as it seems that Guzan may well not play again for the 1st team.
Obviously, it is unfair to compare different era’s and there’s more to keeping that just conceding goals.
Its only a ‘rough’ guide so bear that in mind. The stats are for starts only so don’t include sub appearances or account for sendings off / injures. It only includes goalies who started 25 or more league and cup games.
Like I say, just a ‘rough’ guide, so don’t take it too seriously! (plus I haven't actually checked the figures too closely)

(http://i.imgur.com/lUCAuFT.png)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Concrete Tom on January 15, 2016, 11:45:53 PM
Your "rough" guide has Enckleman near the top. Just saying.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 15, 2016, 11:57:44 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Martin Wadsworth on January 16, 2016, 01:13:57 AM
It was different seeing balls kicked by the goalkeeper ending up in the centre circle the other night. Guzman had a job keeping them on the pitch.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SamTheMouse on January 16, 2016, 09:00:49 AM
Bosnich was good, but he did have the teeny tiny advantage of playing behind God and Shaun Teale most of the time.

I think even I could keep goal halfway competently with those two in front of me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan thread.
Post by: Risso on January 16, 2016, 02:43:50 PM
I'm not sure if the anger and insults directed at Guzan is due to the crap season both he and we are having, stupidity or just your typical football fan fickleness.

He's been an exceptional pro for us since he claimed the number 1 shirt back in the autumn of 2012. By 2013 we were all lining up to declare him Player of the Season. He followed that up with another great season, saving and earning us just as many points as Benteke. If he had one real weakeness, it was his kicking but other than that he's more than done his part in keeping us up every season.

Admittedly, this season he's been way below the standards he's set himself and there may be several reasons for that. I doubt he's had more than a couple of weeks off over the last few years, what with the World Cup and international summer tournaments for the US. The change in goalkeeping coach brought in by Sherwood (Tony Parks) and kept on by Garde is could possibly be another reason for his drop in form. The less said about the defence in front of him the better. It can't be easy for any goalkeeper so he has my sympathy. No doubt his confidence has taken a beating this season and it couldn't have helped reading since May how we were looking for (and failed to sign) a new goalkeeper.

Guzan is currently out the side due to his performances. Whether he's willing to try and fight his way back in the side is another matter. Sometimes a change of scene is as good as a rest and maybe a new club will help him get back to the standards he's shown for us and his international team over the years. He's been a more than decent keeper for us, as this thread clearly demonstrates but if he is to leave he'll go with my thanks for what he's done over the years, not some kneejerk reaction to him spitting his chewing gum or the few howlers he's let in this season.

Disagree entirely, there's nothing exceptional about him and there never has been. An average at best keeper, but for the last two seasons he's been utterly inept. The chewing gum incident is just the final straw. As in any job, if you're doing a shit job don't sit there taking the piss.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on January 16, 2016, 02:49:06 PM
Guzan=Westwood=Richardson=Clark=CNZ=why we are constantly in a relegation scrap. Average won't cut it in the premiership.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on January 16, 2016, 02:51:09 PM
He had a good season, he's in his late 20's isn't he? 1 good season, then the clangers started and have progressively gotten worse. He was never a good keeper to begin with and that's why we were letting him go before cheap skating him back in because we A. Couldn't be arsed scouting anyone and B. Wouldn't spend any money.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 16, 2016, 02:54:53 PM
I'm not sure if the anger and insults directed at Guzan is due to the crap season both he and we are having, stupidity or just your typical football fan fickleness.

He's been an exceptional pro for us since he claimed the number 1 shirt back in the autumn of 2012. By 2013 we were all lining up to declare him Player of the Season. He followed that up with another great season, saving and earning us just as many points as Benteke. If he had one real weakeness, it was his kicking but other than that he's more than done his part in keeping us up every season.

Admittedly, this season he's been way below the standards he's set himself and there may be several reasons for that. I doubt he's had more than a couple of weeks off over the last few years, what with the World Cup and international summer tournaments for the US. The change in goalkeeping coach brought in by Sherwood (Tony Parks) and kept on by Garde is could possibly be another reason for his drop in form. The less said about the defence in front of him the better. It can't be easy for any goalkeeper so he has my sympathy. No doubt his confidence has taken a beating this season and it couldn't have helped reading since May how we were looking for (and failed to sign) a new goalkeeper.

Guzan is currently out the side due to his performances. Whether he's willing to try and fight his way back in the side is another matter. Sometimes a change of scene is as good as a rest and maybe a new club will help him get back to the standards he's shown for us and his international team over the years. He's been a more than decent keeper for us, as this thread clearly demonstrates but if he is to leave he'll go with my thanks for what he's done over the years, not some kneejerk reaction to him spitting his chewing gum or the few howlers he's let in this season.
As a major critic of Guzan recently I agree with this post.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 16, 2016, 03:07:49 PM
He doesn't do the fundamentals of goalkeeping well and has got progressively worse at the fundamentals the past two years. That's what will end his career with us. It's all good and well pulling off spectacular saves but if everything else is sub par and then throw in the growing number of hideous clangers, it just isn't a good combo for a top flight keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on January 16, 2016, 03:45:17 PM
I'm not sure if the anger and insults directed at Guzan is due to the crap season both he and we are having, stupidity or just your typical football fan fickleness.

He's been an exceptional pro for us since he claimed the number 1 shirt back in the autumn of 2012. By 2013 we were all lining up to declare him Player of the Season. He followed that up with another great season, saving and earning us just as many points as Benteke. If he had one real weakeness, it was his kicking but other than that he's more than done his part in keeping us up every season.

Admittedly, this season he's been way below the standards he's set himself and there may be several reasons for that. I doubt he's had more than a couple of weeks off over the last few years, what with the World Cup and international summer tournaments for the US. The change in goalkeeping coach brought in by Sherwood (Tony Parks) and kept on by Garde is could possibly be another reason for his drop in form. The less said about the defence in front of him the better. It can't be easy for any goalkeeper so he has my sympathy. No doubt his confidence has taken a beating this season and it couldn't have helped reading since May how we were looking for (and failed to sign) a new goalkeeper.

Guzan is currently out the side due to his performances. Whether he's willing to try and fight his way back in the side is another matter. Sometimes a change of scene is as good as a rest and maybe a new club will help him get back to the standards he's shown for us and his international team over the years. He's been a more than decent keeper for us, as this thread clearly demonstrates but if he is to leave he'll go with my thanks for what he's done over the years, not some kneejerk reaction to him spitting his chewing gum or the few howlers he's let in this season.

Disagree entirely, there's nothing exceptional about him and there never has been. An average at best keeper, but for the last two seasons he's been utterly inept. The chewing gum incident is just the final straw. As in any job, if you're doing a shit job don't sit there taking the piss.

agree totally

put him up for sale and see who is interested

it will be like when we released him and no one wanted him

for nothing
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 16, 2016, 04:00:19 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.

Leeds ?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 16, 2016, 04:14:40 PM
I'm not sure if the anger and insults directed at Guzan is due to the crap season both he and we are having, stupidity or just your typical football fan fickleness.

He's been an exceptional pro for us since he claimed the number 1 shirt back in the autumn of 2012. By 2013 we were all lining up to declare him Player of the Season. He followed that up with another great season, saving and earning us just as many points as Benteke. If he had one real weakeness, it was his kicking but other than that he's more than done his part in keeping us up every season.

Admittedly, this season he's been way below the standards he's set himself and there may be several reasons for that. I doubt he's had more than a couple of weeks off over the last few years, what with the World Cup and international summer tournaments for the US. The change in goalkeeping coach brought in by Sherwood (Tony Parks) and kept on by Garde is could possibly be another reason for his drop in form. The less said about the defence in front of him the better. It can't be easy for any goalkeeper so he has my sympathy. No doubt his confidence has taken a beating this season and it couldn't have helped reading since May how we were looking for (and failed to sign) a new goalkeeper.

Guzan is currently out the side due to his performances. Whether he's willing to try and fight his way back in the side is another matter. Sometimes a change of scene is as good as a rest and maybe a new club will help him get back to the standards he's shown for us and his international team over the years. He's been a more than decent keeper for us, as this thread clearly demonstrates but if he is to leave he'll go with my thanks for what he's done over the years, not some kneejerk reaction to him spitting his chewing gum or the few howlers he's let in this season.
Very good post, I'd agree with all of this. He's not alone in a huge loss of form. If we had more quality, better management and coaching he might himself be in better form.

He's done brilliantly for us in previous seasons and this hatred towards him does not sit comfortably with me.

I also agree with the two posters above, but I think we are fighting a losing battle now
his every move is now analysed to a ridiculous degree, if the next keeper is judged by the same standards he will also be found wanting

all keepers make mistakes, all keepers are beaten at the near post, just look at Joe Hart and Petr Cech this season, it didn't make them bad keepers

where I would agree with the criticisms would be on his distribution ie his kicking, that is woefull and he hasn't improved

but iv'e said this before, whatever goalkeeper we bring in on the budgets we have will be no better probably worse,
imo we would be far better trying to get Guzans confidence going again and try and get him back to his best

and people using a messing about with chewing gum as a valid reason to give him pelters just shows how pathetic the arguments have become, that's why I say we are fighting a losing battle,
 you cant argue with a closed mind
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: johnny from donny on January 16, 2016, 04:16:54 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.

Leeds ?
That was Gary Sprake I think
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 16, 2016, 04:19:32 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.

Leeds ?
That was Gary Sprake I think

no first game of the season I think early 70's against leeds, he threw one in the net (not quite but it looked like that)
I could be wrong of course  as my memory is shot
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on January 16, 2016, 05:07:29 PM
Guzan is a strong personality. I think he has a big influence in the dressing room. Often under Lambert if we had team huddles in the center circle before the game, Guzan would orchestrate. So for me the key issue here, is whether Guzan still has a positive influence on the side or not. Does he unify the dressing room or contribute to the supposed splits?
His form is woefully out of soughts. He needs a spell out, that's for sure, but if his attitude has soured then he also needs to be shown the exit door ASAP.
I think we've clearly got a few poisonous personalities in the squad. Whether Guzan is one, who knows, but anyone undermining the manager has to go. Gabby for one has been found out. I wonder how many others have.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 16, 2016, 05:25:00 PM
Guzan is a strong personality. I think he has a big influence in the dressing room. Often under Lambert if we had team huddles in the center circle before the game, Guzan would orchestrate. So for me the key issue here, is whether Guzan still has a positive influence on the side or not. Does he unify the dressing room or contribute to the supposed splits?
His form is woefully out of soughts. He needs a spell out, that's for sure, but if his attitude has soured then he also needs to be shown the exit door ASAP.
I think we've clearly got a few poisonous personalities in the squad. Whether Guzan is one, who knows, but anyone undermining the manager has to go. Gabby for one has been found out. I wonder how many others have.

I don't disagree with any of that
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: alanclare on January 17, 2016, 02:46:35 PM

 As in any job, if you're doing a shit job don't sit there taking the piss.
Fine example ofi Shakespearean English.t
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Harte on January 17, 2016, 03:18:55 PM
Guzan has had one good season where he was probably playing beyond his ability. But that is history. He's been poor for us for the last season and a half. Positioning, shot stopping, distribution, all of them weaknesses in his game.

I'm glad he's been dropped because it's been coming for a while now.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 17, 2016, 03:28:10 PM
Guzan has had one good season where he was probably playing beyond his ability. But that is history. He's been poor for us for the last season and a half. Positioning, shot stopping, distribution, all of them weaknesses in his game.

I'm glad he's been dropped because it's been coming for a while now.

He was dropped last season as well Chris, but then Sherwood seemed to give up the search for a new keeper when we missed out on Begovic.  Time to move on.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Harte on January 17, 2016, 03:30:19 PM
Guzan has had one good season where he was probably playing beyond his ability. But that is history. He's been poor for us for the last season and a half. Positioning, shot stopping, distribution, all of them weaknesses in his game.

I'm glad he's been dropped because it's been coming for a while now.

He was dropped last season as well Chris, but then Sherwood seemed to give up the search for a new keeper when we missed out on Begovic.  Time to move on.
You're right, after Man City away. Should've stayed dropped.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Flamingo Lane on January 17, 2016, 03:46:45 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.

Leeds ?
That was Gary Sprake I think

no first game of the season I think early 70's against leeds, he threw one in the net (not quite but it looked like that)
I could be wrong of course  as my memory is shot


75-76 v Leeds, first game of the season, Cumbes made an absolute howler, footage can be found in the Memories section.  I also remember him letting in more than one soft goal in games v West Brom.  Still liked him though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 17, 2016, 10:39:26 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.

Leeds ?
That was Gary Sprake I think

no first game of the season I think early 70's against leeds, he threw one in the net (not quite but it looked like that)
I could be wrong of course  as my memory is shot


75-76 v Leeds, first game of the season, Cumbes made an absolute howler, footage can be found in the Memories section.  I also remember him letting in more than one soft goal in games v West Brom.  Still liked him though.

Shocking fumble against Leeds. The Albion game may be the one.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: levico on January 18, 2016, 03:44:22 PM
Definitely against Albion - I remember it well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 18, 2016, 04:35:14 PM
Then he (Cumbes) went and played cricket in the summer, those were the days

I think he's one of the top blokes at old Trafford now, don't know if he's still there
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on January 18, 2016, 04:37:59 PM
Guzan's always struck me as being a bit of a dumbo. I couldn't really care less about the chewing-gum incident, but it does kind of suggest that he hasn''t really grasped the severity of the situation.

The issue with his distribution is more to do with his terrible decision making than it is his ability to kick a football. The same can be said of his general positioning at free-kicks too. He always seems to set the wall-up in a position that impairs his view, and therefore not giving himself enough time to react to the direction of the shot.

It's no coincidence that his removal form the team coincided with our up-turn of results last season. The general aura of panic was removed as soon as Given was brought in top the team, and the effect was visible throughout the whole team. Exactly the same thing has happened now wit Bunn's inclusion. Guzan's career has been on a downward trajectory for some time now, and the sooner we get rid the better in my opinion.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Smith on January 18, 2016, 04:50:41 PM
Then he (Cumbes) went and played cricket in the summer, those were the days

I think he's one of the top blokes at old Trafford now, don't know if he's still there


I am sure I saw somewhere that he had retired but was apparently one of the main drivers of the redevelopment of the ground.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: frank black on January 18, 2016, 05:41:01 PM
I think Bunns worse than Guzan.

When the shots-headers come in he doesn't look anywhere near em, in fact he moves/dives after they go past him. He's been lucky they have been just past the posts.

Mind you they're both pretty gash.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 18, 2016, 05:44:30 PM
I don't think there was much of an improvement to the defence when Given came in. We conceded 12 in the last 4 games he started.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on January 18, 2016, 05:47:36 PM
It's no coincidence that his removal form the team coincided with our up-turn of results last season. The general aura of panic was removed as soon as Given was brought in top the team, and the effect was visible throughout the whole team.

Guzan was in goal for the wins over West Brom, Spurs and Sunderland. Was dropped after the Man City game, Given came in and conceded two goals against Everton, kept a clean sheet against West Ham (who had one shot on goal) then followed it up by conceding six in his last league match. Eight goals in three matches doesn't sound like a massive improvement to me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on January 18, 2016, 09:26:18 PM
I don't think there was much of an improvement to the defence when Given came in. We conceded 12 in the last 4 games he started.
The defence is the bigger problem. As for Given, he wasn't fantastic by any stretch but lets face it there are howlers and then there's the kind of howler Guzan had at Man City, which really happened after a season of looking decidedly dodgy for the most part. I also recall that Southampton match could have run into a cricket score were it not for Given.

We are of course long overdue signing a decent new stopper though. No debate about that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on January 19, 2016, 11:01:43 AM
It's no coincidence that his removal form the team coincided with our up-turn of results last season. The general aura of panic was removed as soon as Given was brought in top the team, and the effect was visible throughout the whole team.

Guzan was in goal for the wins over West Brom, Spurs and Sunderland. Was dropped after the Man City game, Given came in and conceded two goals against Everton, kept a clean sheet against West Ham (who had one shot on goal) then followed it up by conceding six in his last league match. Eight goals in three matches doesn't sound like a massive improvement to me.

Guzan played in the league win over West Brom (in which we conceded) but Given kept a clean sheet in the Cup game a few days later. Yes, Guzan was dropped after the Man City game, but it's probably worth noting that it was because of a monumental error that cost us at least a point. Given was also in goal at Wembley v Liverpool when the team gave an as assured performance as they ever did in either Lambert or Sherwood's tenures.

As far as I'm concerned it was no coincidence last season that our upturn of form happened directly after Guzan was dropped, and exactly the same has happened this season. Hopefully this time his absence from the starting line-up will be longer lived.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on January 19, 2016, 11:20:50 AM
As far as I'm concerned it was no coincidence last season that our upturn of form happened directly after Guzan was dropped, and exactly the same has happened this season. Hopefully this time his absence from the starting line-up will be longer lived.


That's the point - it didn't happen directly after Guzan was dropped. Unless our "upturn in form" didn't include the wins away at Spurs and Sunderland?

What happened was is that there were some good performances with Guzan in goal, some good performances with Given in goal and some pretty shit ones with both of them as well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on January 19, 2016, 11:31:16 AM
As far as I'm concerned it was no coincidence last season that our upturn of form happened directly after Guzan was dropped, and exactly the same has happened this season. Hopefully this time his absence from the starting line-up will be longer lived.


That's the point - it didn't happen directly after Guzan was dropped. Unless our "upturn in form" didn't include the wins away at Spurs and Sunderland?

What happened was is that there were some good performances with Guzan in goal, some good performances with Given in goal and some pretty shit ones with both of them as well.

Granted. But in my opinion it was the calmness that Given brought to the rest of the side for the games that got us across the line in the League and to the cup final (where I also though he kept the score-line down!) that was crucial. I’m not particularly arguing that Given made a huge impact, more that removing Guzan did. Same this time around. I honestly think that we’d have been 4 or 5 points better off last season and 2-3 this, had Given/Bunn been the first choice all season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on January 19, 2016, 12:10:03 PM
It is probably helpful to point out that Given's wages were 2-3 times that of Guzan's and his worth to the team 2011-15 was about the same
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on January 19, 2016, 12:22:23 PM
Granted. But in my opinion it was the calmness that Given brought to the rest of the side for the games that got us across the line in the League and to the cup final (where I also though he kept the score-line down!) that was crucial. I’m not particularly arguing that Given made a huge impact, more that removing Guzan did. Same this time around. I honestly think that we’d have been 4 or 5 points better off last season and 2-3 this, had Given/Bunn been the first choice all season.

I disagree on pretty much every point. Guzan's confidence is at rock-bottom and the sooner we replace him with a new long-term option the better it will be for all parties, but as a few people alluded to earlier in the thread I think there's a fair bit of revisionism about how long he has been out of form.

Given coming in last season changed very little (apart from the number of goals we were conceding went up quite dramatically). I don't think with Guzan in goal we would have conceded six to Southampton or four to Arsenal.

But hey, opinions and all that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Fin Feds Dad on January 19, 2016, 12:39:56 PM
If he wasn't considered good enough to end the season, there is no way he should have started the next season - simple as that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 19, 2016, 02:17:00 PM
Now I agree with that, him being dropped at the end of last year and then us conducting a pretty open pursuit of a new goalkeeper in the summer completely undermined him. He should have gone then.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Breezeblock on January 19, 2016, 02:26:19 PM
Just did a quick bit of number crunching on goalies to see how they compare, as it seems that Guzan may well not play again for the 1st team.
Obviously, it is unfair to compare different era’s and there’s more to keeping that just conceding goals.
Its only a ‘rough’ guide so bear that in mind. The stats are for starts only so don’t include sub appearances or account for sendings off / injures. It only includes goalies who started 25 or more league and cup games.
Like I say, just a ‘rough’ guide, so don’t take it too seriously! (plus I haven't actually checked the figures too closely)

(http://i.imgur.com/lUCAuFT.png)

Sorry chap but any table that has Jim "careless hands" Cumbes as our best keeper is going to be taken with a shovelful of salt.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on January 19, 2016, 06:22:06 PM
Just did a quick bit of number crunching on goalies to see how they compare, as it seems that Guzan may well not play again for the 1st team.
Obviously, it is unfair to compare different era’s and there’s more to keeping that just conceding goals.
Its only a ‘rough’ guide so bear that in mind. The stats are for starts only so don’t include sub appearances or account for sendings off / injures. It only includes goalies who started 25 or more league and cup games.
Like I say, just a ‘rough’ guide, so don’t take it too seriously! (plus I haven't actually checked the figures too closely)

(http://i.imgur.com/lUCAuFT.png)

Sorry chap but any table that has Jim "careless hands" Cumbes as our best keeper is going to be taken with a shovelful of salt.

And Enkelman 7th in the all time list,
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on January 19, 2016, 07:25:58 PM
Then he (Cumbes) went and played cricket in the summer, those were the days

I think he's one of the top blokes at old Trafford now, don't know if he's still there


I am sure I saw somewhere that he had retired but was apparently one of the main drivers of the redevelopment of the ground.

I think he retired as CEO (may have been chief commercial officer) and was replaced by a Brummie, Dan Gidney, who used to manage the Ricoh and is definitely a nose. I knew him in Paris about 25 years ago.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 19, 2016, 10:20:27 PM
Overall he was ok tonight.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 20, 2016, 03:58:28 AM
He was good and bad in the highlights I saw. A good diving save and a cross that he completely missed and they should have scored from. Pretty much the Brad that we have come to know.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 20, 2016, 06:43:34 AM
If that was the header that went over the bar neat the end of the first half it was offside any way.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on January 20, 2016, 10:36:17 AM
Just did a quick bit of number crunching on goalies to see how they compare, as it seems that Guzan may well not play again for the 1st team.
Obviously, it is unfair to compare different era’s and there’s more to keeping that just conceding goals.
Its only a ‘rough’ guide so bear that in mind. The stats are for starts only so don’t include sub appearances or account for sendings off / injures. It only includes goalies who started 25 or more league and cup games.
Like I say, just a ‘rough’ guide, so don’t take it too seriously! (plus I haven't actually checked the figures too closely)

(http://i.imgur.com/lUCAuFT.png)


J Warner at the bottom of the list. His average not helped by this.

...when Villa reached the final where they again met local rivals West Bromwich Albion. In the final, played at Kennington Oval on 19 March 1892, Warner and his colleagues in the Villa defence were no match for Billy Bassett and the Albion forwards who won the match comfortably 3–0, with goals from Jasper Geddes, Sammy Nicholls and Jack Reynolds.
Suspicions were immediately raised over Warner's performance in the Cup Final. In the weeks preceding the Final, Warner skipped training sessions with the rest of the Villa side, and was also seen in earnest conversation with a mysterious man in a sharp suit and hat. He fumbled Geddes long-range shot and allowed the ball into the back of the net for West Brom's first goal, while he fumbled a straightforward save twenty minutes later, allowing Nicholls to score. Then finally in the second half Reynolds long-range shot flew into the net past a hopelessly out-of-position Warner. Rumours began to circulate that Warner had lost a substantial amount of money on a bet and had agreed to throw the Cup Final to recoup his losses.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jimmy_Warner



Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on January 24, 2016, 05:17:23 PM
Jimmy Cumbes is Number 1 and I remember him throwing the ball into the back of his own net.

Leeds ?
That was Gary Sprake I think

no first game of the season I think early 70's against leeds, he threw one in the net (not quite but it looked like that)
I could be wrong of course  as my memory is shot
It was first game after promtion back to the first division in 1975 v Leeds at VP, they had a shot he palmed it into the air and it dropped over his head into the net for their equaliser after Leighton Philips had given us the lead, they went on to win via a penalty if memory serves. Jimmy didn't last too long after that, within a few weeks we'd bought "Budgie" from Blackpool.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on January 24, 2016, 05:26:41 PM
One of the most amazing things about that list is that there are 20 Villa keepers with a worse record than a centre half playing in goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Harte on January 24, 2016, 05:29:07 PM
Con Martin, is that? Played in the 50s?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on January 24, 2016, 05:35:39 PM
Yes. At corners we were terrified he would forget he had a 5 on his back and catch the ball.  He had the most amazing red/blonde hair like a tight waved hairy lean to sticking out at 45° from his head. Smashing bloke.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on April 10, 2016, 03:01:48 PM
I think the amount of abuse being thrown at Guzan is a bit unfair, granted, he's made mistakes but given the amount of pressure our keepers come under its obvious he will make more than if he was playing behind defenders who could actually defend. He almost single-handedly kept us up a few seasons back and he doesn't deliberately set out to make mistakes. Sorry but I think it's a bit harsh to jeer/cheer(ironically)/boo his every move.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on April 10, 2016, 04:14:57 PM
I think the amount of abuse being thrown at Guzan is a bit unfair, granted, he's made mistakes but given the amount of pressure our keepers come under its obvious he will make more than if he was playing behind defenders who could actually defend. He almost single-handedly kept us up a few seasons back and he doesn't deliberately set out to make mistakes. Sorry but I think it's a bit harsh to jeer/cheer(ironically)/boo his every move.
Maybe, just maybe he is being booed for something else
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on April 10, 2016, 04:16:33 PM
I think the amount of abuse being thrown at Guzan is a bit unfair, granted, he's made mistakes but given the amount of pressure our keepers come under its obvious he will make more than if he was playing behind defenders who could actually defend. He almost single-handedly kept us up a few seasons back and he doesn't deliberately set out to make mistakes. Sorry but I think it's a bit harsh to jeer/cheer(ironically)/boo his every move.

It's looking as though that one season was the exception, not the rule.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on April 10, 2016, 04:20:45 PM
He hasn't been forgiven for Wycombegate.   The cock ups that have followed have just compounded people's anger towards him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on April 10, 2016, 04:28:33 PM
I think the amount of abuse being thrown at Guzan is a bit unfair, granted, he's made mistakes but given the amount of pressure our keepers come under its obvious he will make more than if he was playing behind defenders who could actually defend. He almost single-handedly kept us up a few seasons back and he doesn't deliberately set out to make mistakes. Sorry but I think it's a bit harsh to jeer/cheer(ironically)/boo his every move.
Maybe, just maybe he is being booed for something else
Ah - you refer to the chewing gum incident at Wycombe, we probably wouldn't have heard too much about that if we'd been top of the league and winning 3-0. Wasn't lescott involved in that incident too but he doesn't seem to be copping it like Guzan is.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Des Little on April 10, 2016, 04:31:48 PM
He hasn't been forgiven for Wycombegate.   The cock ups that have followed have just compounded people's and towards him.

That's my view. I'll never forget that stunt at Wycombe. Spoke volumes about his attitude, therefore the quicker he goes the better.

Just to watch him dilly dally around the centre circle as long as he possibly can before he has to run to the Holte before kick off makes his selection worthwhile. Pathetic bloke.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Singapore Villa on April 10, 2016, 04:31:53 PM
His confidence is completely shot.  Demonstrated clearly during the first half yesterday when a hopeful ball was played over the top into the channel, centre back was turned and under pressure yet Guzan was rooted to his line.  Unless he has a lobotomy in summer he needs replacing.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on April 10, 2016, 05:31:43 PM
I think the amount of abuse being thrown at Guzan is a bit unfair, granted, he's made mistakes but given the amount of pressure our keepers come under its obvious he will make more than if he was playing behind defenders who could actually defend. He almost single-handedly kept us up a few seasons back and he doesn't deliberately set out to make mistakes. Sorry but I think it's a bit harsh to jeer/cheer(ironically)/boo his every move.
Maybe, just maybe he is being booed for something else
Ah - you refer to the chewing gum incident at Wycombe, we probably wouldn't have heard too much about that if we'd been top of the league and winning 3-0. Wasn't lescott involved in that incident too but he doesn't seem to be copping it like Guzan is.
He does.
Every time his name is read out, every time he is on the ball in the first few minuets and at times during the game
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: class-of-82 on April 10, 2016, 05:41:28 PM
If he couldn't put a 39 year old friedel under pressure for the goalies shirt then what does that tell you
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chris Harte on April 11, 2016, 07:45:06 AM
If he couldn't put a 39 year old friedel under pressure for the goalies shirt then what does that tell you
Perhaps that Friedel was an exceptional goalkeeper. As the insane number of consecutive games he played for Blackburn/Villa/Spurs will testify.

That's not to say that I'm defending Guzan. He's been poor for the last two seasons. I can't help feeling had we retained Shay Given and let Guzan go to Stoke instead things might have been a bit different. Not out-of-trouble different but at least with more points than we have currently. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on April 11, 2016, 09:48:23 AM
Guzan is the same as the rest of our defence. Each of them seems to have one major rick per game. That's, potentially five unforced errors per game.  14 goals given away this season from unforced errors. It just happened to be Clark's turn on Saturday. Guzan will always be a number two. We need to replace him, Bunn too. The relationship is broken and he must feel shit but he lacks quality.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: martin o`who?? on April 11, 2016, 01:59:11 PM
I think the amount of abuse being thrown at Guzan is a bit unfair, granted, he's made mistakes but given the amount of pressure our keepers come under its obvious he will make more than if he was playing behind defenders who could actually defend. He almost single-handedly kept us up a few seasons back and he doesn't deliberately set out to make mistakes. Sorry but I think it's a bit harsh to jeer/cheer(ironically)/boo his every move.
Maybe, just maybe he is being booed for something else
Ah - you refer to the chewing gum incident at Wycombe, we probably wouldn't have heard too much about that if we'd been top of the league and winning 3-0. Wasn't lescott involved in that incident too but he doesn't seem to be copping it like Guzan is.
He does.
Every time his name is read out, every time he is on the ball in the first few minuets and at times during the game
I was in the Trinity for the first time in years and it sounded horrendous every time the ball went near him - which isn't helping anybody.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: VillaAlways on April 26, 2016, 07:47:51 AM
Hilarious trolling!!

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-stopper-brad-guzan-11241813
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Edvard Remberg on April 26, 2016, 03:18:49 PM
Hilarious trolling!!

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-stopper-brad-guzan-11241813
I laughed at this when I saw it this morning.

link to tweet:

https://twitter.com/bguzan/status/724704140631375872

#LearnFromLescott was my favorite
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: dave shelley on April 26, 2016, 03:35:15 PM
The only goalkeeper in history that needs to enter the field of play with a bucket to help him catch the ball.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: olaftab on April 26, 2016, 03:42:09 PM
Poor chap should head west now and not come back ....ever!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on June 10, 2016, 04:51:38 PM
Anybody know if Tony Coton is still with the club?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 10, 2016, 04:53:13 PM
Anybody know if Tony Coton is still with the club?

Parkes. No he's gone
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on June 10, 2016, 05:01:38 PM
Brad kept a clean sheet

http://7500toholte.sbnation.com/2016/6/8/11884374/guzan-keeps-clean-sheet-as-united-states-thrash-costa-rica
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on June 10, 2016, 05:33:31 PM
Anybody know if Tony Coton is still with the club?

Parkes. No he's gone

Coton. Head of Goalkeeping Recruitment.  Ex Blues and Man City.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: itbrvilla on June 10, 2016, 05:34:34 PM
Anybody know if Tony Coton is still with the club?

Parkes. No he's gone

Coton. Head of Goalkeeping Recruitment.  Ex Blues and Man City.
how often would be need to do anything? Does he get paid to do nothing?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on June 10, 2016, 05:38:15 PM
Anybody know if Tony Coton is still with the club?

Parkes. No he's gone

Coton. Head of Goalkeeping Recruitment.  Ex Blues and Man City.

Oh sorry ok. I forgot he existed.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on June 10, 2016, 06:02:39 PM
Head of goalkeeping recruitment? Is that a real position?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on June 11, 2016, 08:10:42 AM
bugger me head of goalkeeping recruitment i would put on par with a full time millenium party organiser
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ads on June 11, 2016, 10:51:05 AM
He's a goalkeeping scout. Not sure if he's still with us though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: passitsideways on June 12, 2016, 02:55:46 AM
Apparently he was superb vs Paraguay tonight, so maybe this gets more MLS clubs calling.

Alternatively, maybe a few more competent defenders might do him the world of good. There's undoubtedly still a good keeper in there, but probably won't happen with us.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: JD on June 12, 2016, 04:51:19 AM
He made some great saves tonight and looked very secure (looked like the old Brad). Let's hope he can rediscover his confidence as he looked very good.

On another note Carlos Sanchez was captaining Colombia tonight (in the first half, until James Rodriquez came on at half time). He didn't look particularly good and Colombia lost 3-2 to Costa Rica and missed out on top place in their group.     
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Richard on June 12, 2016, 08:34:36 AM
And that's another thing re Sanchez I'd rather we had players who don't come back late for pre season due to over blown tournaments like this.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on June 12, 2016, 08:37:54 AM
And that's another thing re Sanchez I'd rather we had players who don't come back late for pre season due to over blown tournaments like this.

So basically we wouldn't want to sign anybody good enough to play international football?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on June 12, 2016, 08:39:50 AM
And that's another thing re Sanchez I'd rather we had players who don't come back late for pre season due to over blown tournaments like this.

African Nations are next year. We'd best get rid of Gueye and Ayew too then mate.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on June 12, 2016, 08:44:28 AM
And Gestede.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on June 12, 2016, 09:15:04 AM
And Gestede.

Really? I didn't know that. Hopefully, RDM is 'on it' as the kids say!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on June 12, 2016, 09:33:40 AM
I wouldn't want to make the same massive mistake Sherwood did last season and go into a new season hoping that Brad would capture some form from over two years ago.

He was very good for two seasons but that seems like such a long time ago. I'd let him go now in all honesty. Probably best for him and us. A new start as they say.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on June 12, 2016, 09:46:46 AM
And Gestede.

Really? I didn't know that. Hopefully, RDM is 'on it' as the kids say!

Maybe - there is still talk that Benin might be disqualified. And there's no guarantee that they'll get through the group.

So we might still have his unique set of skills for that month.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on June 12, 2016, 10:10:47 AM
Yes, and didn't our Benin residing poster say he was poor for the national side?  May not get in the squad.  Especially if Jamie Vardy has a grannie who is Beninois
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: mr underhill on June 12, 2016, 10:27:32 AM
I'm coming to the conclusion that the plethora of goals Rudy bagged alongside Rhodes the season before last was a one off.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: JD on June 12, 2016, 10:37:33 AM
And that's another thing re Sanchez I'd rather we had players who don't come back late for pre season due to over blown tournaments like this.

I don't think the Copa America is an over blown tournament. Especially as it now includes all the Americas.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: JD on June 12, 2016, 10:38:54 AM
And Gestede.

Really? I didn't know that. Hopefully, RDM is 'on it' as the kids say!

Maybe - there is still talk that Benin might be disqualified. And there's no guarantee that they'll get through the group.

So we might still have his unique set of skills for that month.

Benin's game last week was cancelled so maybe they are banned. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on June 12, 2016, 01:09:07 PM
And Gestede.

Really? I didn't know that. Hopefully, RDM is 'on it' as the kids say!

Maybe - there is still talk that Benin might be disqualified. And there's no guarantee that they'll get through the group.

So we might still have his unique set of skills for that month.

Benin's game last week was cancelled so maybe they are banned. 

That game is supposed to be replayed today - so if it doesn't go ahead then they're probably out.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brentastonb6 on June 12, 2016, 08:57:15 PM
Bringing the thread back to dear old Bradley I hate the bloke with a passion and resent signing onto the official Villa site to be told how well he"s doing for the U.S when the tosspot couldn't catch a cold in our shirt. I can't forgive him amongst others this season for making match costing mistakes  For which there was no apology to either teammates or fans . I took my two sons to the Swansea away game and sadly Bradley must have seen some dandelion fluff in the air at the time he was meant to be getting near to a catch / punch  - no one else to blame , they score , we lose 1-0 ...
Silence from the useless wanker.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on June 14, 2016, 09:52:18 AM
He gave an interview the other week saying he was getting abused out and about in Birmingham and could understand it. Will try to find it to bring some balance.

Brad Guzan has been a good servant for this club. Aside from the release for two months he's been at this club  for 8 years now.

I have to say I was a little uncomfortable with the abuse he was getting at the Bournemouth  home game. Yes he's been poor for a good 18 months now but the club has worn his form down and he needs a fresh start now.

As far as I'm aware apart from the incident at Wycombe he has conducted himself well of the pitch which you can't say for Gabby, Richards, Lescott and Bacuna so I'm all for those getting abuse.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on June 14, 2016, 09:53:48 AM
Bringing the thread back to dear old Bradley I hate the bloke with a passion and resent signing onto the official Villa site to be told how well he"s doing for the U.S when the tosspot couldn't catch a cold in our shirt. I can't forgive him amongst others this season for making match costing mistakes  For which there was no apology to either teammates or fans . I took my two sons to the Swansea away game and sadly Bradley must have seen some dandelion fluff in the air at the time he was meant to be getting near to a catch / punch  - no one else to blame , they score , we lose 1-0 ...
Silence from the useless wanker.

Here we go mate.

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-brad-guzan-reveals-11426889
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 14, 2016, 10:00:48 AM
I agree.  He had a poor season in a very, very poor team.  He also spat some gum.

Does that really counter 7 years decent service including one or two very good seasons?

I agree a fresh start would be best for all concerned, but the way we turn on long standing decent servants of the club going through a very sticky patch is a bit much for me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on June 14, 2016, 10:08:17 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on June 14, 2016, 10:09:45 AM
I agree.  He had a poor season in a very, very poor team.  He also spat some gum.

Does that really counter 7 years decent service including one or two very good seasons?

I agree a fresh start would be best for all concerned, but the way we turn on long standing decent servants of the club going through a very sticky patch is a bit much for me.

I don't agree with this. At best I think he was just average and at worst he was appalling. He should have just been a second choice keeper but the cutbacks at the club forced us to use him as our number one. Big mistake.
By the way, turning on longstanding players during a sticky patch is one thing, but remember this 'sticky patch' lasted 6 long dreadful years. It's no wonder the fans turned on the players. Agbonlahor is proof of that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on June 14, 2016, 10:10:45 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 

Indeed. Worst keeper I've seen in a Villa shirt. Certainly the worst long standing first choice anyway.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on June 14, 2016, 10:33:10 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 

Gabby is a total disgrace off the pitch, I would class spitting a bit of gum out at Wycombe as far less of a crime to me than someone actually being unfit to play games in April.

Gabby in the run in once we were down didn't for once have the balls to go out on the pitch and take the abuse that others were getting.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on June 14, 2016, 10:35:05 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 

Indeed. Worst keeper I've seen in a Villa shirt. Certainly the worst long standing first choice anyway.

I know you've never rated him but I really don't see how he was than Carson who let's remember was comedy central behind a backline of Mellberg, Laursen and Bouma, proper defenders.

07/08 we conceded about 60 goals didn't we?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on June 14, 2016, 10:36:09 AM
For me, a decent keeper who lost a lot of confidence. The amount of stick he took last year though might suggest it would be a good idea if he starts afresh somewhere else though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on June 14, 2016, 10:39:32 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 

Gabby is a total disgrace off the pitch, I would class spitting a bit of gum out at Wycombe as far less of a crime to me than someone actually being unfit to play games in April.

Gabby in the run in once we were down didn't for once have the balls to go out on the pitch and take the abuse that others were getting.

That's fair enough. Neither of them should play for us again

Although, as someone who was about 10 yards away from Guzan when he was fucking about in the dugout at Wycombe, he lacked the balls to acknowledge the fans behind him who were trying to remind him that there was a game on and he should perhaps concentrate on it. At least Lescott managed to turn round to sneer at us. Sort of summed up the players' attitude towards us perfectly. The fact that we're having this discussion highlights just what a shit team we had last year and I'd sack the lot of them, given the choice. No second or third chances now. We've got money to spend now and they all look very dispensable all of a sudden.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on June 14, 2016, 10:43:06 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 

Indeed. Worst keeper I've seen in a Villa shirt. Certainly the worst long standing first choice anyway.

I know you've never rated him but I really don't see how he was than Carson who let's remember was comedy central behind a backline of Mellberg, Laursen and Bouma, proper defenders.

07/08 we conceded about 60 goals didn't we?

You're right Carson was just dreadful, but the fact that Guzan's time as first choice keeper came during the worst Villa era I can remember made it feel a lot worse.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 14, 2016, 11:10:58 AM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 
When I said fresh start, I didn't mean at Villa.  But other than this season I don't think he's been anywhere near as bad as some are making out.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on June 14, 2016, 11:22:16 AM
He has. Piss poor excuse for a keeper. I hope he still has nightmares about passing it to the Man City player.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ads on June 14, 2016, 11:30:51 AM
I'm coming to the conclusion that the plethora of goals Rudy bagged alongside Rhodes the season before last was a one off.

What about all the goals he bagged the season before that?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on June 14, 2016, 11:33:28 AM
I'm coming to the conclusion that the plethora of goals Rudy bagged alongside Rhodes the season before last was a one off.

What about all the goals he bagged the season before that?

He had a decent goalscoring for Blackburn. His record elsewhere has been poor though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: chrisw1 on June 14, 2016, 11:48:15 AM
He has. Piss poor excuse for a keeper. I hope he still has nightmares about passing it to the Man City player.
What you think he's been shit for his entire time with us?  People in this very thread were saying there were very few keepers in the prem they would swap him for in 2012-13, so he can't have been that bad back then?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brentastonb6 on June 14, 2016, 02:01:30 PM
Bringing the thread back to dear old Bradley I hate the bloke with a passion and resent signing onto the official Villa site to be told how well he"s doing for the U.S when the tosspot couldn't catch a cold in our shirt. I can't forgive him amongst others this season for making match costing mistakes  For which there was no apology to either teammates or fans . I took my two sons to the Swansea away game and sadly Bradley must have seen some dandelion fluff in the air at the time he was meant to be getting near to a catch / punch  - no one else to blame , they score , we lose 1-0 ...
Silence from the useless wanker.

Here we go mate.

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-brad-guzan-reveals-11426889

Thanks 'mate' I'm still none the wiser, do you want me to accept a sort of apology from Brad in the Mail -circulation 4 pensioners and three Bluenoses after the relegation ? Like I said he's not alone, I know or would like to think players don't set out to make mistakes, they are human so like the rest of us when we make a mistake which hurts others be it unintentionally or not  I always thought it was good manners to apologise? Don't we have an official site that most fans view ?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on June 14, 2016, 05:12:12 PM
I'm coming to the conclusion that the plethora of goals Rudy bagged alongside Rhodes the season before last was a one off.

What about all the goals he bagged the season before that?

He got 13 the season before.  He finished the season on fire with 6 in 3 games, but other than it was fairly mediocre fare.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: dave shelley on June 14, 2016, 06:16:25 PM
Maybe we should keep Gabby as well because he's been with us for years. Last season Guzan had the worst season I've ever seen a Villa keeper have. New broom at Villa please, Roberto 

Indeed. Worst keeper I've seen in a Villa shirt. Certainly the worst long standing first choice anyway.

You must be too young to have seen Tommy Hughes and Evan Williams then.  Awful.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: The Man With A Stick on June 14, 2016, 06:18:07 PM
We shouldn't settle for shite like Guzan and Clark, hoping they miraculously come good just because we've dropped a division.  Players like that who have failed time and time again should be replaced ASAP.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Steve R on June 14, 2016, 06:51:07 PM
We shouldn't settle for shite like Guzan and Clark, hoping they miraculously come good just because we've dropped a division.  Players like that who have failed time and time again should be replaced ASAP.

Guzan has played quite well for the USA in CA, away from the poisonous situation at VP he seems to be a different player. He doesn't deserve anywhere near the amount of abuse aimed in his direction.

Having said that, its probably better for him that he finds a new club.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: N'ZMAV on June 14, 2016, 07:11:45 PM
We shouldn't settle for shite like Guzan and Clark, hoping they miraculously come good just because we've dropped a division.  Players like that who have failed time and time again should be replaced ASAP.
I agree, they won't improve, they're let downs. Poor ability and poor mentally. They're too used to losing. Time to cut out losses with such shit.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: supertom on June 14, 2016, 07:28:23 PM
I'm coming to the conclusion that the plethora of goals Rudy bagged alongside Rhodes the season before last was a one off.

What about all the goals he bagged the season before that?

He got 13 the season before.  He finished the season on fire with 6 in 3 games, but other than it was fairly mediocre fare.
He deserves a shot next season though. Not necessarily as our first choice because we most definitely need to sign a new front man, but at the very least Rudy tries and hopefully between RDM and Clarke, we'll actually help the man out and play to his strengths. Instead of playing a striker who's primary attribute is heading the ball, and then not playing a winger, and playing fullbacks who can't control, pass or cross a ball.

I'd fancy Rudy to contribute double figures quite easily. He's not a particularly good player, but I quite like him I must admit.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: The Man With A Stick on June 14, 2016, 08:41:28 PM
We shouldn't settle for shite like Guzan and Clark, hoping they miraculously come good just because we've dropped a division.  Players like that who have failed time and time again should be replaced ASAP.

Guzan has played quite well for the USA in CA, away from the poisonous situation at VP he seems to be a different player. He doesn't deserve anywhere near the amount of abuse aimed in his direction.

Having said that, its probably better for him that he finds a new club.

He definitely doesn't deserve the abuse that Gabby, Richards, Lescott, etc. get, he's just plain not good enough.  New owner, new manager (again), it's about time we remembered who the fuck we are and started getting some bloody standards around the place again.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: tomd2103 on June 15, 2016, 12:05:24 AM
I'm coming to the conclusion that the plethora of goals Rudy bagged alongside Rhodes the season before last was a one off.

What about all the goals he bagged the season before that?

He got 13 the season before.  He finished the season on fire with 6 in 3 games, but other than it was fairly mediocre fare.
He deserves a shot next season though. Not necessarily as our first choice because we most definitely need to sign a new front man, but at the very least Rudy tries and hopefully between RDM and Clarke, we'll actually help the man out and play to his strengths. Instead of playing a striker who's primary attribute is heading the ball, and then not playing a winger, and playing fullbacks who can't control, pass or cross a ball.

I'd fancy Rudy to contribute double figures quite easily. He's not a particularly good player, but I quite like him I must admit.

He's a decent option to have on the bench and bring on in the closing stages if a changed is needed. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ozzjim on June 16, 2016, 12:36:41 AM
He is a decent option to start 20-25 games and come on in the others. Realistically in that league he has shown he can do it already, he looked a threat for us at times in the Premiership and was always one that gave his all. We would have to spend more than 5-6m to get a player with his record in the Championship so keep him and use him effectively. There are plenty of sides in that division he will enjoy playing against.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on June 16, 2016, 01:06:37 AM
He is a decent option to start 20-25 games and come on in the others. Realistically in that league he has shown he can do it already, he looked a threat for us at times in the Premiership and was always one that gave his all. We would have to spend more than 5-6m to get a player with his record in the Championship so keep him and use him effectively. There are plenty of sides in that division he will enjoy playing against.

Shurely shome mishtake.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: old man villa fan on June 16, 2016, 08:04:54 AM
He is a decent option to start 20-25 games and come on in the others. Realistically in that league he has shown he can do it already, he looked a threat for us at times in the Premiership and was always one that gave his all. We would have to spend more than 5-6m to get a player with his record in the Championship so keep him and use him effectively. There are plenty of sides in that division he will enjoy playing against.

I think he could be a useful alternative but we shouldn't be building the rest of the team around his strengths.  Looking back to his time at Blackburn with Rhodes, for all their goals together, they still finished off the pace.  Was this because they concentrated their efforts in one way of playing and it was either hit or miss, with no consistency.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Tom_Mc9? on June 16, 2016, 08:22:06 AM
With regard to Gestede, I can't believe we spent all that money on him and hardly played to his strengths. Often we tried to play nice passes through to him when he needed to be hitting crosses into him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on June 16, 2016, 08:36:29 PM
with a big lump like gestede there is only one way you can play which makes you predictable

he has no physical presence whatsover, cant hold play up and unless he was running onto the ball i thought his heading was for the most part shit

if we could recoup 5 million id cut our losses as when when get back up he aint going to cut it
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on June 16, 2016, 09:00:59 PM
Bringing the thread back to dear old Bradley I hate the bloke with a passion and resent signing onto the official Villa site to be told how well he"s doing for the U.S when the tosspot couldn't catch a cold in our shirt. I can't forgive him amongst others this season for making match costing mistakes  For which there was no apology to either teammates or fans . I took my two sons to the Swansea away game and sadly Bradley must have seen some dandelion fluff in the air at the time he was meant to be getting near to a catch / punch  - no one else to blame , they score , we lose 1-0 ...
Silence from the useless wanker.

Here we go mate.

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/aston-villa-brad-guzan-reveals-11426889

Thanks 'mate' I'm still none the wiser, do you want me to accept a sort of apology from Brad in the Mail -circulation 4 pensioners and three Bluenoses after the relegation ? Like I said he's not alone, I know or would like to think players don't set out to make mistakes, they are human so like the rest of us when we make a mistake which hurts others be it unintentionally or not  I always thought it was good manners to apologise? Don't we have an official site that most fans view ?

He at least said something.

Silence from Gabby, Richards, Bacuna and brain dead comments from Lescott on the day we went down.

That's why I don't quite lump Brad in with those morons.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: MonsXI on June 16, 2016, 09:46:13 PM
Ogmjgpfhojojh
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Phil from the upper holte on June 16, 2016, 09:48:59 PM
with a big lump like gestede there is only one way you can play which makes you predictable

he has no physical presence whatsover, cant hold play up and unless he was running onto the ball i thought his heading was for the most part shit

if we could recoup 5 million id cut our losses as when when get back up he aint going to cut it

Don't agree because he did make it in the championship
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on June 17, 2016, 07:25:28 AM
with a big lump like gestede there is only one way you can play which makes you predictable

he has no physical presence whatsover, cant hold play up and unless he was running onto the ball i thought his heading was for the most part shit

if we could recoup 5 million id cut our losses as when when get back up he aint going to cut it

Don't agree because he did make it in the championship

when we get back up he aint going to cut it we need to be looking long term for a change

he had a purple patch at blackburn and they didnt make the play offs, overall his career stats are gash
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Mister E on June 17, 2016, 07:28:35 AM
with a big lump like gestede there is only one way you can play which makes you predictable

he has no physical presence whatsover, cant hold play up and unless he was running onto the ball i thought his heading was for the most part shit

if we could recoup 5 million id cut our losses as when when get back up he aint going to cut it

Don't agree because he did make it in the championship
1 season ...
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on June 17, 2016, 07:35:24 AM
my point was he isnt good enough for the prem when we get back there

holding onto the dross that got us relegated because they might do a job in the championship is not the way forward and im sure rdm will see be able to see that
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on June 17, 2016, 07:47:34 AM
I would like to have a better opinion of Rudy Gestede.  He appears to be a sincere and good man but I am put off him by his lack of physical presence.  He is tall and skinny but we have had tall and lanky front men with the ability to mix it in the box.  Peter Crouch immediately comes to mind.  Gestede is like a sapling in the forest of bodies in the penalty area.  He also gets bullied out of clean vertical jumps in the middle of the pitch that cause any of his headers to fly anywhere.  It is not fair to compare him to Benteke but when he won the ball in a jump he could actually direct it as a pass.  Sorry to have drifted off topic.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on June 17, 2016, 09:42:35 AM
my point was he isnt good enough for the prem when we get back there

holding onto the dross that got us relegated because they might do a job in the championship is not the way forward and im sure rdm will see be able to see that

As much as we want to we can't just replace 20 players, it dosen't work like that.

In any case we are a bit short upfront regardless...Gabby and Kozak surely have no future here and I'd get shot of Sinclair in a flash.

So leaves us with Ayew, Gestede and then kids like Green and RHM who in any case look more like wide forwards in a 4-3-3. Robinson aswell.

Ayew let's not forget is better imo as wide forward although he'd do a good job as centre forward against poorer defences. If he stays of course.

All things considered Gestede is pretty safe here, I'd be amazed if he was sold this summer compared to the other strikers.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ads on June 17, 2016, 10:17:31 AM
You need variety up front. If we can bring in a couple of goal scorers with genuine pace and mobility, then we will have a decent blend with Ayew's effort and guile and Gestede's aerial ability in the 18 yard box.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: peter w on June 17, 2016, 11:05:39 AM
Plus Gestede was found wanting against better defenders going down to his level may work for him and us.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on June 19, 2016, 11:03:49 AM
We need a winger as a matter of some urgency. A winger who is fast and tricky and one who can cross a ball at pace. If we obtain this person
both Gestede and Ayew will score a multitude of goals in that division.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Richard on June 19, 2016, 11:24:46 AM
I quite like that Traore guy !
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on June 19, 2016, 11:30:26 AM
I quite like that Traore guy !
Got to prove that he can cross a ball regularly though:-)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Zouch Villa on June 19, 2016, 11:31:16 AM
I'm as much a fan as a H&V tangent as the next man, but are we now blaming Guzan for Rudy's lack of goals or the poor quality of ball in to him last season?  As for Barry and 'that penalty'...
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on June 19, 2016, 12:12:02 PM
I'm as much a fan as a H&V tangent as the next man, but are we now blaming Guzan for Rudy's lack of goals or the poor quality of ball in to him last season?  As for Barry and 'that penalty'...

Guzan has demoralized Rudy by saving every single shot in training.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on June 19, 2016, 12:42:11 PM
I'm as much a fan as a H&V tangent as the next man, but are we now blaming Guzan for Rudy's lack of goals or the poor quality of ball in to him last season?  As for Barry and 'that penalty'...

Guzan has demoralized Rudy by saving every single shot in training.

the only worry is that he was standing in the car park at the time
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on June 22, 2016, 01:59:45 AM
Brad in goal for the Amercan Colonies in the Copa semi that's about to kick off
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: GarTomas on June 22, 2016, 02:16:35 AM
Brad in goal for the Amercan Colonies in the Copa semi that's about to kick off

And arguably responsible for USA being one down after 3 minutes
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Karlos96 on June 22, 2016, 02:45:10 AM
4-0

http://www.flashscores.co.uk/match/Igf9AOWP/#video (http://www.flashscores.co.uk/match/Igf9AOWP/#video)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: CT Villan on June 22, 2016, 04:18:20 AM
I would say definitely at fault for the first, he also took a step in the wrong direction for the Messi free-kick but I'm not sure he would have saved it even if he hadn't moved. Also didn't like the way he took out the Argentinian striker (Lavezzi ?) by the throat after the ref blew for offside.

That said, Guzan was simply brilliant compared to Bradley, Beckerman and Brooks  :o
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: TheMalandro on June 22, 2016, 05:15:32 AM
I enjoyed the highlights, cheers Brad
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ExclDawg on July 20, 2016, 02:38:24 PM
Saw this about an hour ago and didn't see it posted anywhere:


http://www.espnfc.com/soccer-transfers/story/2914970/middlesbrough-keen-to-sign-brad-guzan-from-aston-villa-sources
Middlesbrough keen to sign Brad Guzan from Aston Villa - sources

Middlesbrough are in talks to sign U.S. goalkeeper Brad Guzan from Aston Villa, sources close to the North East club have told ESPN FC.

Guzan's future at Villa has been in doubt since the club's relegation and the Championship club are willing to let him move on as they look to trim their wage bill.

The 31-year-old came in for criticism from some fans last season as Villa struggled and he lost his place in the starting XI to Mark Bunn for the final few weeks of 2015-16.

The recent arrival of goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini from Hellas Verona has raised further questions over Guzan's future at Villa Park with the Italian expected to be No. 1 under Roberto Di Matteo next season.

Middlesbrough have already signed former Barcelona and Manchester United goalkeeper Victor Valdes this summer and they want to bring in Guzan to provide cover and competition for the Spaniard as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.

Guzan was first-choice keeper for United States during this summer's Copa America as they reached the semifinals and he is keen on staying in the Premier League.

The shot-stopper, who joined Villa from Chivas in 2008, has made over 150 appearances for the club and Villa are prepared to let him leave on a free transfer to speed up his departure with the player entering the final year of his contract.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on July 27, 2016, 08:31:52 PM
Best of luck Brad. For a season or so you were a fine goalkeeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brentastonb6 on July 27, 2016, 11:40:33 PM
Best of luck Brad. For a season or so you were a fine goalkeeper.
Was it Spring, Summer, Autumn or Winter and what was the year ?  8)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ian. on July 27, 2016, 11:56:28 PM
All the best Brad.

He was brilliant for a couple of years, him and Benteke are the reasons we stayed up longer than we did. Probably for the best for us and him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Villa in Denmark on July 28, 2016, 12:16:04 AM
All the best Brad.

He was brilliant for a couple of years, him and Benteke are the reasons we stayed up longer than we did. Probably for the best for us and him.

Yep the 1st 18 months under Lambert he was as big a reason as Benteke that we stayed up.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: villadelph on July 28, 2016, 03:34:54 AM
Did well for a good bit, but couldn't stand to see his face in the shirt anymore. Too bad I'm an american.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave Wall on July 28, 2016, 05:10:32 AM
Good luck Brad in the future.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on July 28, 2016, 06:06:37 AM
All the best Brad.

He was brilliant for a couple of years, him and Benteke are the reasons we stayed up longer than we did. Probably for the best for us and him.

Yep the 1st 18 months under Lambert he was as big a reason as Benteke that we stayed up.

Aye well said. Thanks for the good Brad. A change is best for everyone.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on July 28, 2016, 07:05:50 AM
All the best Brad.

He was brilliant for a couple of years, him and Benteke are the reasons we stayed up longer than we did. Probably for the best for us and him.

Yep the 1st 18 months under Lambert he was as big a reason as Benteke that we stayed up.

Agree totally. Like a lot of players last season, he just lost confidence. Good luck to him.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Gareth on July 28, 2016, 08:00:45 AM
A top, top shot stopper, unfortunately he went very stale over last 2 years - not sure he'll ever sort out his positioning issues or his horrendous kicking.  Ironically I think he actually improved his claiming & catching of crosses but he became an accident waiting to happen.

Shame that the stupid over blown incident at Wycombe has led to him being lumped in with the cowards & frauds Richards / Lescott / Gabby & Bacuna. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Risso on July 28, 2016, 08:54:45 AM
Good riddance, dreadful keeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on July 28, 2016, 09:02:27 AM
Not one of the worst we've ever had and not one of the best either.  I just hope the new keeper is an improvement.  Did we get a fee for him?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: dave shelley on July 28, 2016, 09:17:09 AM
Good riddance, dreadful keeper.

That's my opinion too.  I played a bit in goal during my time and bloody hell some of the errors he made I can never remember making. 

TBF, I wasn't much cop either.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on July 28, 2016, 09:28:04 AM
Why are you waving goodbye to someone who hasn't left us?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: RussellC on July 28, 2016, 10:34:42 AM
A top, top shot stopper, unfortunately he went very stale over last 2 years - not sure he'll ever sort out his positioning issues or his horrendous kicking.  Ironically I think he actually improved his claiming & catching of crosses but he became an accident waiting to happen.

Shame that the stupid over blown incident at Wycombe has led to him being lumped in with the cowards & frauds Richards / Lescott / Gabby & Bacuna. 

I agree that it's unfair to lump him in with those players. I don't doubt for a second that he ever took being at villa as lightly as those others.

However, I would disagree about his pedigree as a shot-stopper. I don't think I've ever known a keeper to be so frequently beaten by free-kicks through failure to move the feet quickly enough. Shay Given was a much better shot-stopper in my mind.

Added to that that his communicating, distribution and decision-making were all terrible, and he didn't seem to be able to handle any kind of pressure I'm glad to see the back of him. Sadly he's one of many players in our squad who has become a habitual loser over the past few seasons.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: aj2k77 on July 28, 2016, 10:46:53 AM
Beaten at his near post routinely over the last 2 years. Glad he's gone.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Bottom Right 89 on July 28, 2016, 10:49:06 AM
Has he gone yet?

Gave us 7 years of distinction, 1 year of stinkin out the Holte end goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: not3bad on July 28, 2016, 03:05:03 PM
Thanks for the first couple of years with Lambert. The loss of belief towards the end was palpable.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ron Manager on July 28, 2016, 03:19:22 PM
Early this morning it was reported he had signed.That was incorrect he is at having the medical right now  according to  SSN.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: in exile on July 28, 2016, 05:04:52 PM
Taken from Oneboro forum...

"His flaw is the fact that all he is is a shot stopper. He's bad at coming for crosses, can't communicate, can't organise, has horrendous distribution.

I'd honestly rather just stick a pigeon in goal."

Not too keen on him I'd say
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Nelly on July 28, 2016, 05:08:29 PM
I still think if he had a defence in front of him he'd have done a bit better. He definitely helped keep us up for a few seasons and not to forget those bosnich-esque saves at Sunderland in the league cup.

All the best, Guzan.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: mr-villa on July 28, 2016, 06:17:48 PM
If he goes will he play for them on Saturday?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: kieron on July 28, 2016, 06:26:01 PM
If he goes will he play for them on Saturday?

I seriously doubt 'Boro would put him in the firing line like that in his first outing for them; especially at VP.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: UK Redsox on July 28, 2016, 07:47:56 PM
If he goes will he play for them on Saturday?

Nah, he'll be at their stadium practicing sitting on the bench. He's probably going back to being just a cup keeper
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Pete3206 on July 28, 2016, 09:34:10 PM
So long butter fingers
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LukeJames on July 28, 2016, 09:41:07 PM
Did alright for a couple of seasons, pulled off an absolute world class save against QPR at home when we went on one of those runs to just about do enough to keep us up.
Then he just went shite and turned into a bit of a twat unfortunately.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on July 28, 2016, 09:44:39 PM
I still think if he had a defence in front of him he'd have done a bit better. He definitely helped keep us up for a few seasons and not to forget those bosnich-esque saves at Sunderland in the league cup.

All the best, Guzan.

Yep, when you think of the defence Carson played behind for a season (Mellberg-Laursen-Knight-Bouma) and then some of the car crash back 4s Guzan had to play behind he was certainly unlucky.

A good servant for me but sadly his standards dropped with the club and he's been very poor for last 18 months so best for all parties he moves onto a new challenge.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Louzie0 on July 28, 2016, 09:45:18 PM
So long butter fingers

...is definitely not the message for last season's Guess The Crowd teams!
Recruiting now, see the, 'Coming soon....Championship GTC!' thread and join us again.
UTV, Louzie0
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: sickbeggar on July 28, 2016, 09:47:39 PM
Never sure whether it was the defence in front of him that gave him the willies or the other way round last season. whatever happened something went badly wrong. he needs a change and a new start and so do we. But we've had worse in goal.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: brian green on July 28, 2016, 09:47:57 PM
He was okay at the outset, nothing special but competent and a good club man.  What he became played a big part in our humiliation.  I think he was easily led by the bad lots in the dressing room and that compounded his collapse in performance and confidence.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on July 28, 2016, 10:45:20 PM
I think some of the stick he has been getting has been unfair.  Overall one of our better performers the last 4 or 5 five years and produced some very good performances during the Lambert years which played a big part in keeping us up.  He has been making too many mistakes in recent seasons and his confidence is gone.  Can understand getting him off the wage bill too. 

I would like to see him stay if things were different.  But given the promise of Bunn and the big plans the new manager has for the new keeper then this would make sense.  The very best of luck to Brad.  I for one am pleased that he has been picked up by a top flight club and hope he can play some role in their bid to stay up.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Mortimer's Bear on July 29, 2016, 07:44:25 AM
But given the promise of Bunn

I must have missed that game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Des Little on July 29, 2016, 08:00:24 AM
If he goes will he play for them on Saturday?

Nah, he'll be at their stadium practicing sitting on the bench. He's probably going back to being just a cup keeper

He'll be able to perfect his chewing gum spitting technique this season. The cock.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PaulWinch again on July 29, 2016, 08:03:20 AM
He was ok. I don't have a big problem with him. He acted stupidly on one obvious occasion, but that's about it. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: rob_bridge on July 29, 2016, 08:46:21 AM
Great understudy to Guzan and then Given.

At his best incredibly good especially most of 2012-14 when Lambert set us up for target practice.

Thereafter largely fucking woeful - nail in the coffin was Sherwood coming in and recalling his mate Given. Seemed to give up after that. Sherwood' susbequent recruiting probably assisted in exacerbating his unrpofessionalism
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ting Tong Tony on July 29, 2016, 09:09:12 AM
Lost his confidence the last few seasons, but a decent keeper and nice fella, I wish him well
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on July 29, 2016, 09:10:44 AM
Lost his confidence the last few seasons, but a decent keeper and nice fella, I wish him well
That user name.......really?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: JUAN PABLO on July 29, 2016, 09:12:16 AM
Lost his confidence the last few seasons, but a decent keeper and nice fella, I wish him well

I know youre english is not good Dr but that username
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 29, 2016, 10:33:51 AM
Bye Brad. Deal done.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Clark W Griswold on July 29, 2016, 10:35:30 AM
First part of the twat brigade gone, if we can get a couple more of them out that would be great.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 29, 2016, 10:36:08 AM
Lost his confidence the last few seasons, but a decent keeper and nice fella, I wish him well

Enjoy defending that username. Nothing like a bit of subtle racism.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 29, 2016, 10:46:49 AM
And that's nothing like a bit of subtle racism.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: AVH87 on July 29, 2016, 10:53:45 AM
It's an ill-advised choice of username, however it was seen as acceptable to be used as the name of a character for a prime-time BBC Comedy, so maybe the poster needs to be given the chance to change it.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: cdbearsfan on July 29, 2016, 11:13:47 AM
Ah, Little Britain. About forty episodes made with only seven jokes.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: bodkins14 on July 29, 2016, 11:18:40 AM
Gone - goodbye
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Axl Rose on July 29, 2016, 11:40:07 AM
Like pretty much everyone else in it, he came across as a fucking twat in that Villa Santa bollocks video. After that, I just sensed he was a gobshite chav.

Thank you for your part in keeping us up in seasons past. You won't be forgiven for being such a bellend last season, however. Good riddance.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dr Butler on July 29, 2016, 11:47:12 AM
Ah, Little Britain. About forty episodes made with only seven jokes.

I must of missed 2 of them then...:)

UTV
The Doc
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Bottom Right 89 on July 29, 2016, 11:52:27 AM
Just like a meal at a restaurant, doesn't matter if the food was great if the coffee is shit and they make a mistake on the bill leaves you with a bad taste. I ran out of excuses for this guy last season.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dr Butler on July 29, 2016, 11:57:26 AM
his finest moment ?



cheers Brad....thanks for the memory

UTV
The Doc
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 29, 2016, 12:06:46 PM
The save from Chris Samba for me
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dr Butler on July 29, 2016, 12:12:24 PM
The save from Chris Samba for me

this one TV ?



twas a good un for sure...

UTV
The Doc
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: pooligan on July 29, 2016, 12:15:56 PM
I can't say i am sorry that he has finally gone. Never really rated him and last season he was just pants. Some of the cock ups he made in the last couple of seasons were laughable unless you were a Villa fan .
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 29, 2016, 12:16:33 PM
Yes Dr B, it was quite stunning
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: CT on July 29, 2016, 12:16:54 PM
When people talk about a "Worldy" - that was one for me. That was a great game against QPR.

I'm pleased he's gone but I wish him well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Duncan Shaw on July 29, 2016, 12:22:34 PM
When people talk about a "Worldy" - that was one for me. That was a great game against QPR.

I'm pleased he's gone but I wish him well.
This for me too, good luck to him.
I can't understand for the life of me why he's gone there though.  They've got their main man from last season and have got Valdes, surely both above him in the pecking order?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: darren woolley on July 29, 2016, 12:23:29 PM
I also wish him well but I'm glad he's gone now for a few more out the door.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: cdward on July 29, 2016, 12:47:02 PM
You know it's time to go when Bunn looks a better keeper than you are.
He was a good back-up behind Friedel, got his chance and was steady without being exceptional, he peaked for about a season where he was on top form, but the last 2 seasons he just regressed to the point of being a liability.
I expect him to be re-invigorated with a new club and improve on his recent form.
Overall a 7 out of 10.
All the best Brad, i think the time is right for all parties. PS see if you can put a word in for Gabby, Lescott and Richards.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Lobsterboy on July 29, 2016, 03:30:01 PM
Good luck and best wishes for the future but realistically he has been an absolute disaster zone for the last couple of seasons - his confidence was shot to pieces and probably the best move for everyone concerned.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Toronto Villa on July 29, 2016, 03:34:54 PM
I'll remember Brad for his save vs QPR and some of his heroics over the years that kept us in games. He was a significant reason why didn't go down sooner. But ultimately he was one of the big reasons we did, because his inability to do the basics let the entire team down. For a club shorn of confidence he could have done his bit to improve the defence but he was every bit as inept. And fucking cock ups became all too common varying from a lack of simple discipline to the grander ones like at Man City.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Gregorys Boy on July 29, 2016, 04:30:25 PM
I'll remember Brad for his save vs QPR and some of his heroics over the years that kept us in games. He was a significant reason why didn't go down sooner. But ultimately he was one of the big reasons we did, because his inability to do the basics let the entire team down. For a club shorn of confidence he could have done his bit to improve the defence but he was every bit as inept. And fucking cock ups became all too common varying from a lack of simple discipline to the grander ones like at Man City.

I'm not convinced by that myself. yes he has made his fair share of mistakes, but I wouldn't say he's made enough to point to him as a big reason for us going down.  Think he has suffered due to the defence in front of him.   The move makes sense as he would basically be the third choice keeper if he stayed and it is a fresh start for him.  But I like him and wish him well.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: oswald funkletrumpet on July 29, 2016, 06:51:50 PM
When people talk about a "Worldy" - that was one for me. That was a great game against QPR.

I'm pleased he's gone but I wish him well.
This for me too, good luck to him.
I can't understand for the life of me why he's gone there though.  They've got their main man from last season and have got Valdes, surely both above him in the pecking order?

because no one else wants him. just like when we released him then had him back
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on July 29, 2016, 08:12:43 PM
I'll remember Brad for his save vs QPR and some of his heroics over the years that kept us in games. He was a significant reason why didn't go down sooner. But ultimately he was one of the big reasons we did, because his inability to do the basics let the entire team down. For a club shorn of confidence he could have done his bit to improve the defence but he was every bit as inept. And fucking cock ups became all too common varying from a lack of simple discipline to the grander ones like at Man City.

I'm not convinced by that myself. yes he has made his fair share of mistakes, but I wouldn't say he's made enough to point to him as a big reason for us going down.  Think he has suffered due to the defence in front of him.   The move makes sense as he would basically be the third choice keeper if he stayed and it is a fresh start for him.  But I like him and wish him well.

His standards I think started to drop in the last few months of Lambert, little errors here and there that lead to goals and then we had that almighty miskick at Man. City.

It was a combination of things I think, being part of long losing runs, never really being challenged for his position with Given out of favour for a long time and just generally being dragged down mentally as the club has.

I wish him well though. Good servant and gave us some good memories which isn't what people like Bacuna, Lescott and Richards have done.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: wittonwarrior on July 29, 2016, 09:58:55 PM
I'll remember Brad for his save vs QPR and some of his heroics over the years that kept us in games. He was a significant reason why didn't go down sooner. But ultimately he was one of the big reasons we did, because his inability to do the basics let the entire team down. For a club shorn of confidence he could have done his bit to improve the defence but he was every bit as inept. And fucking cock ups became all too common varying from a lack of simple discipline to the grander ones like at Man City.

I'm not convinced by that myself. yes he has made his fair share of mistakes, but I wouldn't say he's made enough to point to him as a big reason for us going down.  Think he has suffered due to the defence in front of him.   The move makes sense as he would basically be the third choice keeper if he stayed and it is a fresh start for him.  But I like him and wish him well.

His standards I think started to drop in the last few months of Lambert, little errors here and there that lead to goals and then we had that almighty miskick at Man. City.

It was a combination of things I think, being part of long losing runs, never really being challenged for his position with Given out of favour for a long time and just generally being dragged down mentally as the club has.

I wish him well though. Good servant and gave us some good memories which isn't what people like Bacuna, Lescott and Richards have done.

Never rated  him one iota but you are so right he was a good servant (and a terrible kicker) and he will be talked about a  lot longer in future generations than  the likes of Richards, Lescott and Bacuna.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on July 30, 2016, 09:27:43 AM
He's a better keeper than Pantillimon if he comes
if Guzan could have regained his confidence which is always a big if, he would have been worth keeping
I reckon I'm his biggest fan on here, and I think it might be the right time to move on because of the lost faith from the fans but I can't see us getting anyone better for the money we will be spending

his kicking was rubbish, and that was a big weaknes in today's game,
 but I don't think he was a devisive character behind the scenes in fact I think he played with true passion for the club, unlike many others


Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: eamonn on July 30, 2016, 09:52:12 AM
Agreed with SoccerHQ. Guzan always came across as more articulate and respectful in Pravda interviews too. Well, apart from that awful Micah Santa Richards one and chewing-gum gate a few weeks later didn't help either.

Overall I think he was more good than bad but like a handful of other players we're yet to shift, it's healthier for both parties that he moves on.

Scott Sinclair's partner was on Loose Women the other day by the way. They have a lovely babby the spit of Scott. I did think she might slip-up during the girly chat and mention he would be off but talk was confined to children and Corrie.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on May 13, 2017, 06:29:19 PM
Today Guzan gave away a penalty and his own fans were chanting for him to be sent off!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ad@m on May 13, 2017, 06:48:21 PM
Back to back relegations.  If Mourinho thinks Arsene Wenger's a specialist in failure I'd love to know his thoughts on Bradley!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 13, 2017, 07:01:03 PM
Probably not much as he only played about 8 league games for Boro.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on May 13, 2017, 09:05:07 PM
He actually agreed to sign for an MLS club in January but Boro decided to keep him until end of the season!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: FrankyH on May 13, 2017, 09:16:29 PM
Back to back relegations.  If Mourinho thinks Arsene Wenger's a specialist in failure I'd love to know his thoughts on Bradley!

Who was the blose central defender , got relegated with that shower ,moved to Wolves and got relegated 2 seasons in a row.Three relegation's on the trot must be a record
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on May 13, 2017, 09:17:47 PM
Roger Johnson?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Richard E on May 13, 2017, 09:21:28 PM
Roger Johnson?

Yes. Initially he looked like a good player but then it turned out that playing alongside Scott Dann, who actually is good, was disguising his rubbishness. If I remember correctly he turned up 'unfit' for training at Wolves.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Tayls_7 on May 13, 2017, 09:29:56 PM
Roger Johnson?

Yes. Initially he looked like a good player but then it turned out that playing alongside Scott Dann, who actually is good, was disguising his rubbishness. If I remember correctly he turned up 'unfit' for training at Wolves.

Poor bloke. If he'd played for us he could have played out his contract or even been 90 mins from a new one. 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: FrankyH on May 13, 2017, 09:30:31 PM
Roger Johnson?

That's the one.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on May 13, 2017, 09:36:25 PM
Roger Johnson?

Yes. Initially he looked like a good player but then it turned out that playing alongside Scott Dann, who actually is good, was disguising his rubbishness. If I remember correctly he turned up 'unfit' for training at Wolves.

Poor bloke. If he'd played for us he could have played out his contract or even been 90 mins from a new one. 

That would explain the long face.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: eamonn on May 13, 2017, 09:45:23 PM
Probably not much as he only played about 8 league games for Boro.

Really?. Thought he was a regular.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: adrenachrome on May 14, 2017, 07:56:38 PM
Probably not much as he only played about 8 league games for Boro.

Really?. Thought he was a regular.

Shirley his bowel movements are not germane to the issue at hand.
 
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on May 15, 2017, 03:19:43 PM
Probably not much as he only played about 8 league games for Boro.

Really?. Thought he was a regular.

Shirley his bowel movements are not germane to the issue at hand.
 

I'm sure he has no problem going to the toilet, dropping things comes easy to Brad.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: darren woolley on May 15, 2017, 05:05:19 PM
Probably not much as he only played about 8 league games for Boro.



Really?. Thought he was a regular.

Shirley his bowel movements are not germane to the issue at hand.
 

I'm sure he has no problem going to the toilet, dropping things comes easy to Brad.

Plus he's a shite goalkeeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on May 15, 2017, 05:38:24 PM
Probably not much as he only played about 8 league games for Boro.



Really?. Thought he was a regular.

Shirley his bowel movements are not germane to the issue at hand.
 

I'm sure he has no problem going to the toilet, dropping things comes easy to Brad.

Plus he's a shite goalkeeper.

This is post of the year for me.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: eamonn on May 16, 2017, 09:00:51 AM
Haha, absolutely. So out of character too!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on May 16, 2017, 06:50:06 PM
Haha, absolutely. So out of character too!

Exactly! And he's bang right of course.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on May 16, 2017, 07:05:24 PM
Vicious bastard!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ChicagoLion on May 21, 2017, 04:49:30 PM
Let's the first one in, scouse in Europe.
Should not be beaten at near post.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Diablo on October 26, 2017, 07:24:03 AM
Great to read Brad Guzan is doing well in the States with Atlanta United - crazy attendance figures?! http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41726695
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Damo70 on October 26, 2017, 07:38:01 AM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Lizz on October 26, 2017, 07:48:30 AM
Alan Green of R5 fame is working for Atlanta United in an announcer type role.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: German James on October 26, 2017, 08:00:33 AM
"Speaking about [Atlanta owner] Blank, Guzan added: '... To play for someone who is fully invested makes it easier to go about doing your job as a player.'" - I bet it does! Good for him!
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ad@m on October 26, 2017, 08:05:41 AM
"Speaking about [Atlanta owner] Blank, Guzan added: '... To play for someone who is fully invested makes it easier to go about doing your job as a player.'" - I bet it does! Good for him!

That quote raised my eyebrow too. I wonder if Randy's listening?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on October 26, 2017, 02:00:25 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

I agree. I think that is what happened to Mervyn Day back in the 70s at West Ham too.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Diablo on October 26, 2017, 05:08:53 PM
Chuffed he's obviously enjoying his football and getting some success after his difficult period here and at Middlesbrough.

"I was at Middlesbrough and at the time things weren't great in terms of my personal situation," said the 33-year-old. "I had always known I wanted to come back to the MLS at some point in my career, I just didn't know when that time was.

"You hopefully become stronger with the difficult times you go through. I do not have any regrets, I enjoyed my time in the UK.

I wonder what he means by things weren't great in terms of my personal situation? Sounds like he had more going on than just football.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Pat McMahon on October 26, 2017, 05:11:18 PM
Chuffed he's obviously enjoying his football and getting some success after his difficult period here and at Middlesbrough.

"I was at Middlesbrough and at the time things weren't great in terms of my personal situation," said the 33-year-old. "I had always known I wanted to come back to the MLS at some point in my career, I just didn't know when that time was.

"You hopefully become stronger with the difficult times you go through. I do not have any regrets, I enjoyed my time in the UK.

I wonder what he means by things weren't great in terms of my personal situation? Sounds like he had more going on than just football.


He was living in Middlesbrough.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on October 26, 2017, 05:14:07 PM
"Speaking about [Atlanta owner] Blank, Guzan added: '... To play for someone who is fully invested makes it easier to go about doing your job as a player.'" - I bet it does! Good for him!

I'd like to think that whoever wrote the article was going to add the owner's name later and forgot to Wiki him.

Unfortunately not though.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on October 26, 2017, 05:41:07 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap. Decent for a back up role but he should never have been our first choice. Personally I thought he was bloody useless.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on October 26, 2017, 05:56:13 PM
Chuffed he's obviously enjoying his football and getting some success after his difficult period here and at Middlesbrough.

Quote
"I was at Middlesbrough and at the time things weren't great in terms of my personal situation," said the 33-year-old. "I had always known I wanted to come back to the MLS at some point in my career, I just didn't know when that time was.

"You hopefully become stronger with the difficult times you go through. I do not have any regrets, I enjoyed my time in the UK.

I wonder what he means by things weren't great in terms of my personal situation? Sounds like he had more going on than just football.


He was living in Middlesbrough.

(http://replygif.net/i/159.gif)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on October 26, 2017, 06:59:05 PM
I loved him, one of my favourite players at the time

i remember defending him to the death on here even when he’d had his shitiest games which were quite frequent towards the end times
in the end I did eventually realise that it was best for all parties for him to leave

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Steve67 on October 26, 2017, 07:10:18 PM
Is that an admission John? If only we could get Clampy to do the same about Bacuna! Joke.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on October 26, 2017, 07:12:19 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap. Decent for a back up role but he should never have been our first choice. Personally I thought he was bloody useless.

It was time to say goodbye by the end, but he was plenty better than what he replaced or what replaced him.

Damning with faint praise admittedly.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: LeeB on October 26, 2017, 07:58:34 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap. Decent for a back up role but he should never have been our first choice. Personally I thought he was bloody useless.

It was time to say goodbye by the end, but he was plenty better than what he replaced or what replaced him.

Damning with faint praise admittedly.

He made me angry with his part in what was probably the best performance by a Villa side in years away at Man City, he lost me then.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: West Derby Villan on October 26, 2017, 08:24:48 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap. Decent for a back up role but he should never have been our first choice. Personally I thought he was bloody useless.

It was time to say goodbye by the end, but he was plenty better than what he replaced or what replaced him.

Damning with faint praise admittedly.

He made me angry with his part in what was probably the best performance by a Villa side in years away at Man City, he lost me then.

Agree whole heartedly, shocking display
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on October 26, 2017, 09:49:17 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap.

Bearing in mind we were still paying Given a lot of money at the time, i'm not sure how that line of thinking works.

He deserved to keep his place for a while but he wasn't getting better as a keeper although towards the end he didn't exactly have the best of defences in front of him.

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on October 26, 2017, 09:54:38 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap. Decent for a back up role but he should never have been our first choice. Personally I thought he was bloody useless.

It was time to say goodbye by the end, but he was plenty better than what he replaced or what replaced him.

Damning with faint praise admittedly.

He made me angry with his part in what was probably the best performance by a Villa side in years away at Man City, he lost me then.

I had to really dig in after that
it was the night it was going to get a whole lot harder constantly leaping to his defence
still gave it my best shot mind
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: passitsideways on October 26, 2017, 11:13:27 PM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 26, 2017, 11:23:35 PM
We ruined Guzan. After all the goals he/we conceded the poor f***er was shellshocked by the time he left us.

Na, he was never good enough to be a number one keeper and he was only promoted to that position because he was cheap. Decent for a back up role but he should never have been our first choice. Personally I thought he was bloody useless.

What just because he replaced Given who was really declining at that point. If Given had been our regular keeper during 12/13 we'd have gone down that season judging by some of his pathetic displays in the cups.

Guzan more than played his part in 12/13 and I thought his level was pretty good the following season. He started declining in the 14/15 which lead to the error v Man. City where most lost full confidence in him.

It was a mistake not to replace him in summer 2015 and we all now what happened next.

We've had worse keepers. Scott Carson for a start. Guzan for the most part was the same standard as Sorensen.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on October 26, 2017, 11:45:27 PM
A poor mans Friedel.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 26, 2017, 11:50:49 PM
A poor mans Friedel.


Friedel was solid but I never really thought we had the form he frequently showed for Blackburn. His last season we conceded a hatful. And he could never save a penalty which was bonkers as again he'd saved loads at Blackburn.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: eamonn on October 27, 2017, 01:22:58 AM
Agreed on Friendly to a degree. About right for a team regularly finishing sixth but I actually thought he'd be better.

I wonder what Given says about us in his new book. The official store are selling it so I'm guessing it's generally favourable. Mind you, getting £10m odd off us over five years for one year's work is good going, he has every reason to speak highly of us.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on October 27, 2017, 07:04:10 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ad@m on October 27, 2017, 08:16:16 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.

The fact he was the MLS's Goalkeeper of the Year at the point we signed him proves he wasn't rubbish.

He was a generally steady goalie with a habit for the occasional clanger.  Like most goalies to be honest.  He was never going to play for one of the top teams but if he didn't have a bunch of hapless kids in front of him towards the end he also wouldn't have looked as bad as is being suggested.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Clampy on October 27, 2017, 08:35:54 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.


Great shot stopper and he saved us from dropping two points yesterday.
I still think he occasionally flaps at crosses though.

Are you sure it's not revisionism?  :)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 27, 2017, 10:00:49 AM
Have the day off today so actually watched all of Atlanta-Colombus Crew last night.

First of goal what a nuts game. How it stayed 0-0 is beyond me. Both teams hit the woodwork twice and they were some incredible misses, most entertaining goalless draw in a long while.

Guzan was back to good standard. Some good saves and his kicking was pretty good aswell. Don't know if he's premier league standard anymore but I do think the years here playing infront of substandard defences declined him so much.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 27, 2017, 10:05:05 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.


Lambert must have rated him in some of the cup games he'd seen as he made the move to bring him back and it proved a good decision for 18 months unless you want to point out all the errors he made in 12-13 and 13-14.

Only surprise to me was Given starting that season as number 1 as his Everton home performance quickly showed he was no longer good enough to be a regular premier league goalkeeper.

I'm sure you'd agree with that from watching his games for ROI in the 2012 euros SH.....:)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: john e on October 27, 2017, 11:35:32 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.


Great shot stopper and he saved us from dropping two points yesterday.
I still think he occasionally flaps at crosses though.

Are you sure it's not revisionism?  :)
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.


Great shot stopper and he saved us from dropping two points yesterday.
I still think he occasionally flaps at crosses though.

Are you sure it's not revisionism?  :)

ha ha, as the good book says ‘be sure your old posts will find you out’
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Diablo on October 27, 2017, 11:37:50 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.


Lambert must have rated him in some of the cup games he'd seen as he made the move to bring him back and it proved a good decision for 18 months unless you want to point out all the errors he made in 12-13 and 13-14.

Only surprise to me was Given starting that season as number 1 as his Everton home performance quickly showed he was no longer good enough to be a regular premier league goalkeeper.

I'm sure you'd agree with that from watching his games for ROI in the 2012 euros SH.....:)
It may be my poor memory playing tricks on me but wasn't Given recovering from an injury in the 2012 Euros?
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: passitsideways on October 27, 2017, 11:51:04 AM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.

I don't know how the personnel decision-making process taken by the club is supposed to have any relevance to the question of how objectively good a keeper he was.

What we do have though is the fact that he was voted our player of the season, the same season we had a fella called Benteke banging in goals left and right. Maybe one could argue whether he really should have won it over the big man, but you must be talking about a different kind of rubbish compared to everyone else.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on October 27, 2017, 01:48:07 PM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.

I don't know how the personnel decision-making process taken by the club is supposed to have any relevance to the question of how objectively good a keeper he was.

What we do have though is the fact that he was voted our player of the season, the same season we had a fella called Benteke banging in goals left and right. Maybe one could argue whether he really should have won it over the big man, but you must be talking about a different kind of rubbish compared to everyone else.

Didn’t we once vote Stephen Ireland our player of the year? I wouldn’t look too much into that.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: saunders_heroes on October 27, 2017, 01:49:22 PM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.


Great shot stopper and he saved us from dropping two points yesterday.
I still think he occasionally flaps at crosses though.

Are you sure it's not revisionism?  :)

Even in the rare events where I praised him I threw in a caveat. 😎
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on October 27, 2017, 10:53:26 PM
Complete and utter revisionism to suggest he was never good enough to be the starter. Decent backups don't hold their form for a full season like he did (after taking over from Given three games into the 2012-13 season), and his form only dwindled from the second half of the 2013-14 season.

The absolute worst kicker I've seen at the professional level though - even when he was good, he was only barely capable of punting it up the pitch, so no surprise that becoming incapable of even doing that constantly would affect the rest of his game.

He was released then re-signed when we realised an upgrade would cost more money than we would pay. It was one of those moments when we realised we were being run by an idiot, and it summed up our decline as a club.
It’s not revisionism, I said at the time it was a bonkers decision to make a player our first choice keeper just weeks after letting him go for not being good enough. I never rated him from day one, he was rubbish in my opinion.

I don't know how the personnel decision-making process taken by the club is supposed to have any relevance to the question of how objectively good a keeper he was.

What we do have though is the fact that he was voted our player of the season, the same season we had a fella called Benteke banging in goals left and right. Maybe one could argue whether he really should have won it over the big man, but you must be talking about a different kind of rubbish compared to everyone else.

Didn’t we once vote Stephen Ireland our player of the year? I wouldn’t look too much into that.

If I remember, that was just an accumulation of the largest number of MOTM awards from the 19 matches at Villa Park, rather than something anyone voted for.

I'd also say it's a bit different Guzan winning it ahead of a striker scoring 20+ goals.

It's not like Ireland won over loads of other more deserving characters.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on October 27, 2017, 10:58:10 PM
If I remember, that was just an accumulation of the largest number of MOTM awards from the 19 matches at Villa Park, rather than something anyone voted for.

When the largest number of MOTM at home over a season is your goalkeeper.. well its not a good sign :)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Dave on October 27, 2017, 11:04:17 PM
If I remember, that was just an accumulation of the largest number of MOTM awards from the 19 matches at Villa Park, rather than something anyone voted for.

When the largest number of MOTM at home over a season is your goalkeeper.. well its not a good sign :)

I know he did very little up front, but Stephen Ireland definitely wasn't a goalkeeper.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: ciggiesnbeer on October 28, 2017, 04:10:01 AM
If I remember, that was just an accumulation of the largest number of MOTM awards from the 19 matches at Villa Park, rather than something anyone voted for.

When the largest number of MOTM at home over a season is your goalkeeper.. well its not a good sign :)

I know he did very little up front, but Stephen Ireland definitely wasn't a goalkeeper.

Ah gotcha thanks. Yeah I got confused there.  I think "player of the season" being discussed in the same breath as Stephen Ireland or Brad Guzan sort of led to a processing breakdown in my brain.
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Pete3206 on October 28, 2017, 01:42:41 PM
Stephen Ireland and "player" also seems like a contradiction in terms.

Anyhoo, Brad's current home stadium is a tad impressive.

(https://atlanta-mp7static.mlsdigital.net/images/1006%20MLS%20Bowl_01.jpg)
Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 16, 2017, 07:38:02 PM
Agreed on Friendly to a degree. About right for a team regularly finishing sixth but I actually thought he'd be better.

I wonder what Given says about us in his new book. The official store are selling it so I'm guessing it's generally favourable. Mind you, getting £10m odd off us over five years for one year's work is good going, he has every reason to speak highly of us.

Flicked through some of his book in my lunch break yesterday.

Nothing earth shattering. He says he took a massive pay cut to join us which explains the 5 year contract. Criticised Lerner for cost cutting and jettisoning the experienced players (says if he knew it would happen he'd have stayed at City and bench warmed there which is a reasonable point).

Said Lambert didn't fancy him as number one as soon as he came back from the euros and knew with his first mistake he'd be out (Fellani header that went through his hands). Thought Sherwood should've been given more time.

Criticized N'zogbia for being more interested in fashion and all the trappings of a premier league footballer and just not working hard enough on the pitch. Also said he nearly joined Liverpool in 2013 which I had forgot about (if it was even reported?).

And that's it so 15 quid saved to buy the Ron Saunders booked instead....

Title: Re: The Brad Guzan Depreciation thread.
Post by: Ad@m on August 06, 2018, 11:58:02 AM


Could have done with this when he played for us. There were plenty of times I was left wondering what on earth was going through his mind!!
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