Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: dave.woodhall on July 17, 2017, 06:03:47 PM
-
It looks like he's arriving so he gets his own thread.
-
Position wise, unless he plays him right wing, it's an odd one but Bruce knows him well and from that point of view, i'm fine with it.
-
Position wise, unless he plays him right wing, it's an odd one but Bruce knows him well and from that point of view, i'm fine with it.
you should just sticky 'I'm fine with it' save the time
-
Unless he is coming primarily as a wide midfield player or wing-back, it seems a strange purchase when funds are rumoured to be so tight. Obviously wish him the best though and will he be the first Egyptian to play for us?
-
Position wise, unless he plays him right wing, it's an odd one but Bruce knows him well and from that point of view, i'm fine with it.
you should just sticky 'I'm fine with it' save the time
Thanks, I might just do that.
-
I make that six right backs. Meanwhile we only have one player that ever scores, and he's injured.
Bruce is an imbecile.
-
He's a right sided wing back. He's cheap. He'll be gone next summer. We're going 3 at the back?
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, but there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
-
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
-
The latest in a long line of pulse-quickening Bruce signings. Look forward to Bruce going on about him having "that little bit of quality we've been missing."
-
Unless he's going 3 at the back...which I'm not sure suits Terry anyway, then it's a bit baffling. Unless he's playing in Adomah's role? Who knows? Not even sure Bruce does to be honest...
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, but there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
Randy lost a pharaoh amount of money too.
-
I guess the logic is
- trusts him
- knows how to play wing back (Hutton can't)
- cheap
- also cover for adomah
I don't think it means we'll play 352 all the time but I imagine it means we will at least some of the time
-
Position wise, unless he plays him right wing, it's an odd one but Bruce knows him well and from that point of view, i'm fine with it.
you should just sticky 'I'm fine with it' save the time
Thanks, I might just do that.
ha ha, fair play mate
-
I don't think it means we'll play 352 all the time but I imagine it means we will at least some of the time
8 across the back is still the most likely.
-
I'd like to say that at least this means the end of Micah fcukin Richards but I'm not at all convinced of that statement.
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, but there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
Randy lost a pharaoh amount of money too.
I hope he's not a Luxor-y player, we have enough of those.
-
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
First Egyptian since George Ramseys days
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
That must be one of the world's worst endorsements.
-
Hard to get too excited about this.
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
That must be one of the world's worst endorsements.
The former Dutch international..
(http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41635000/jpg/_41635262_mcclaren_79_bbc_203x250.jpg)
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
That must be one of the world's worst endorsements.
Aston Villa 2017.
-
Don't read this. (http://hullcityindependent.net/index.php?page=forum&forum_id=8&thread_id=25144&selpage=0&&limit=15&obf=post_number&obad=ASC)
-
I would sincerely hope we wouldn't have the same player acquisition strategy once promoted. So far it has been about getting safe and/or experienced players in. The only consideration is this season and the only goal is promotion. I'm not entirely in agreement with this approach but I can accept that this is the path being taken. If we do this next season we'll be playing Championship football in 2019/2020.
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
That must be one of the world's worst endorsements.
I was torn between that and, its Bruce's "Grant Holt moment".
But I figured that might be too negative for a signing thread :)
-
I'm guessing our Director of Football's overhaul of the scouting network must only be about finding kids for the academy as for the first team it is obv one guy just watching 'the Premiership Years' on a loop.
Any chance of buying someone with some pace? ...this then Whelan have we joined the walking football league?
-
Boring, lazy, uninspiring football management. Like his footballing 'style'.
Bruce is fecking predictable , if nothing else.
-
Don't read this. (http://hullcityindependent.net/index.php?page=forum&forum_id=8&thread_id=25144&selpage=0&&limit=15&obf=post_number&obad=ASC)
Few posts mention Elmo - and one of those suggested he didnt do too bad -dammed with feint praise if you will. Obviously he was considered to have down tools to a degree after his return from AFCON - well, we were not unfamiliar with the on the beach concept 15 months ago , were we? I expect he will not allowed to be like that under Bruce
-
No idea if he's any good but he always seems a jolly chap and it gives me an excuse to post this:-
https://youtu.be/uCMK45Sl2IM
-
Underwhelmed. Completely underwhelmed.
-
Don't read this. (http://hullcityindependent.net/index.php?page=forum&forum_id=8&thread_id=25144&selpage=0&&limit=15&obf=post_number&obad=ASC)
I had a poke around there...thank god for H&V
-
The latest in a long line of pulse-quickening Bruce signings. Look forward to Bruce going on about him having "that little bit of quality we've been missing."
Cant wait till the day we unveil John O'Shea and Wes Brown.
-
The latest in a long line of pulse-quickening Bruce signings. Look forward to Bruce going on about him having "that little bit of quality we've been missing."
Cant wait till the day we unveil John O'Shea and Wes Brown.
People were ok when Crouch was being mentioned. Expect soon a billion pound bid for Connor Wickham.
-
I never thought I'd hear myself saying 'can we not sign any more players.'
-
Is Benni McCarthy available?
-
One the plus side we are definitely not trying the "young and hungry" approach again.
-
I know it's only likely to be a short term fix but we could do worse than bring in Didier Agathe as cover at Right Back.
-
Apart from when Bruce signed Johnstone, Bree and Bedeau, you mean?
-
Good point.
-
Ahmed Elmohamady is quite injury prone us he not ? Think there may be trouble with his medical due to a long standing back injury.
The guy often has to see a cairo- practor.
Outrageous really as Bruce is majorly in de -nile if Elmo suited to anything more that the pyramid formation .
Unbelievable!
-
The epitome of 'bang average'
-
Bang average is right.....another £600 down the drain.....thats my season ticket price..and they keep on spending it on dross....i cant take much more of this!!
-
He is only 29 and has played in a team that's been promoted from this league two or three times I think? Not one to get excited about but not one to moan about either
-
He is only 29 and has played in a team that's been promoted from this league two or three times I think? Not one to get excited about but not one to moan about either
Wanna bet?
-
From some Hull journo:
The time feels right for that. The last two years of Elmohamady’s City career have not done the previous three justice.
The spark that made him such a devastating right wing-back has fizzled out and the consistency that was once a hallmark has ebbed away.
Hull City's Ahmed Elmohamady (front right) passes back to goalkeeper Allan McGregor. Referee Neil Swarbrick awards a free kick which leads to a goal for West Bromwich Albion's Saido Berahino
Two years ago, as City fans were mourning relegation, the prospect of losing Elmohamady was harrowing. Now there is an acceptance that these “negotiations” over a sale are for the best.
The last 12 months have given a jaundiced view to Elmohamady’s City career. Too many games spent toiling up against the Premier League’s best left wingers have dimmed memories of all those swashbuckling displays between 2012 and 2014.
Elmohamady was magnificent in his first season at the KCOM Stadium. Signed on loan from Sunderland, first in August and then again in January, he was the club’s Player of the Season on the way to promotion out of the Championship.
Last season, his fifth with the Tigers, hastened the sense of personal decline for Elmohamady. Dropping deeper to fill a void at right-back, he was rarely comfortable and often exposed.
That drive and vigour, not to mention the precise crossing, was seldom replicated before his form met supporters’ frustrations in the Sunderland defeat.
-
Unless he is coming primarily as a wide midfield player or wing-back, it seems a strange purchase when funds are rumoured to be so tight. Obviously wish him the best though and will he be the first Egyptian to play for us?
The rest just walk like them.
-
I strongly suspect he is coming as a RWB and back up winger. Per my post above, he seems to have struggled at right back and as you say we've already got about fifty right backs
-
I make that six right backs. Meanwhile we only have one player that ever scores, and he's injured.
Bruce is an imbecile.
Agreed 100%. Opens us Wynness and Round to ridicule for tolerating this signing.
Surely James Bree, signed in Jan by Bruce and De Last signed last summer are suited to both right back and rwb if required. That is more than sufficient not to mind Hutton, Richards,.Bacuna of which we may want to move them all on but that isn't likely to happen.
At right wing, (442, 433) we have Green and Adamoah who are probably as strong as any other duo in the division. Again, no need to strengthen here.
Yet at left back, we appear to only have one option, Neil Taylor. Nathan Baker does not resemble a professional footballer at either left centre back (as part of a 3), left back or left wing back. If we need a squad filler signing like Elmo, it should have been on the other flank to cover Taylor.
All things considered this signing is consistent with Steve Bruce's efforts thus far, clueless.
-
Bruce seems to be attempting to assemble the definitive mid table Championship team. Move over Leeds. This is our turf.
-
Fuck it. May as well be good at something.
-
Really can't get excited over this signing.
I think him coming in certainly spells out 3-5-2 is happening as we already have a million right backs.
What was the point of signing Bree though if SB is just going to sign his old mates six months later?
-
He might be being considered as a winger.
-
Bree has obviously gone off.
-
Hard cheese.
-
He just breesed in and is obviously now stinking the place out.
-
oh no here we go !!!!
-
He is only 29 and has played in a team that's been promoted from this league two or three times I think? Not one to get excited about but not one to moan about either
Scores a goal a year and assists in two other goals being scored on average, according to these statistics.
https://www.whoscored.com/Players/34876/History/Ahmed-Elmohamady
He has, if he joins, just become the best right back/right wing back at the Club and i look forward to him and Adomah tearing down that wing.
Now the left side needs attention. It's a shame Seville pulled out of the Amavi deal. That money would have been useful to replace him.
-
Not needed, now stop it Bruce.
-
Absolutely don't read this - and this was in bloody January (http://www.hullcityindependent.net/?page=forum&forum_id=8&thread_id=25616)
-
If Newcastle fans had read a thread on here about Clark they'd have had the same impression. Sometimes a move does a player good and Bruce may get the best out of him in the Championship. Or maybe not, I know nothing about him.
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, but there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
Randy lost a pharaoh amount of money too.
And here was me thinking we needed a pyramid fielders.
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, but there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
Randy lost a pharaoh amount of money too.
I hope he's not a Luxor-y player, we have enough of those.
Well I couldn't cairo less.
-
Bruce seems to be attempting to assemble the definitive mid table Championship team. Move over Leeds. This is our turf.
I think he is assembling the next bomb squad and doing very well.
-
I strongly suspect he is coming as a RWB and back up winger. Per my post above, he seems to have struggled at right back and as you say we've already got about fifty right backs
Has he played much at right wing for Hull and Sunderland out of interest? Playing RB and RW is pretty different as you're playing a lot more with your back to goal and being a FB you have more space to run into etc.
To me it's one of those signings that will just be another average one and he'll fall out of favour when we change manager yet again and be difficult to shift. Hope I'm wrong of course.
-
I make that six right backs. Meanwhile we only have one player that ever scores, and he's injured.
Bruce is an imbecile.
<<like>>
-
I think he played RWB initially, then right wing in a 4231. I think he was right back last season but then they only had about 14 players.
He seems to have been best at RWB as far as I can tell
-
Bruce seems to be attempting to assemble the definitive mid table Championship team. Move over Leeds. This is our turf.
I think he is assembling the next bomb squad and doing very well.
I really hope not but I can see our next manager in a few months making the usual tut tut sound regarding Bruce's signings in the same way he did when he got here and RDM before him. Right before the new manager gives Richards and Gabby a "clean slate". Shudder.
-
Runs around, looks busy and lacks quality.
Typical Bruce type signing.
How many right sided wide players do we need?
-
I make that six right backs. Meanwhile we only have one player that ever scores, and he's injured.
Bruce is an imbecile.
<<like>>
Me too.
How much longer is this potato going to be here?
-
Very good signing.
-
Very good signing.
In what respect?
-
Very good signing.
In what respect?
Income. Letters for his name on shirt sales....
-
Bruce gets his best from him and he's going to be a bargain. Gets last season's version and might as well burn the money.
-
Bruce gets his best from him and he's going to be a bargain. Gets last season's version and might as well burn the money.
Yep but it's worth noting that last season's version was playing right back, which he clearly isn't suited to. He's an attacking style player.
-
For £1m I think it's potentially a good deal
It does leave us a little heavy on that side of the pitch though!
-
Remeber seeing hima few seasons ago and thought he looked decent but then went off the boil. But, he's been playing at right-back which isn't his position and also may just have gone stale at Hull. We definitely do need a wide right player with a bit of pace and he seems to have that. Its easy to forget Green has only played a handful of games so far so we shouldn't be expecting him to be the player to get Kodj/Hogan/whoever firing so we need to rely on experience. At the moment we have Adomah and Bacuna for that position. One more won't hurt.
-
Remember those heady days under MON when the absence of a right back sent us all a bit crazy? Ask and ye shall receive.
-
If MON had this squad he'd definitely play Chester and baker as fullbacks. Maybe de Laet as left back
-
I think he will be marginally better than Adomah.
-
Adomah setting up goals for Kodjia was basically one of the few functional things we had going forward last season, and we're supposed to be cutting that particular supply line because, what, he's done well for Bruce in the past?
Well, uh, here's to hoping.
-
http://www.worldfootball.net/assists/eng-championship-2016-2017/
Top championship assists last season:
1. Hourihane (mostly for Barnsley)
2. Adomah (I'm guessing the vast bulk were for Kodjia)
I'd file adomah along with Jedinak. Not brilliant and not premier league class. But would be a big risk to change things give how little else has functioned smoothly
-
just hope its not of of those Beye type signings.
time will tell
-
Without outgoings, this seems a little strange.
And, for all the talk of 3-5-2 who would be the third CB? - If Chester and Terry are first pick for right and left, who would be the central covering CB? I'm rather hoping that Bruce does not see Richards or Hutton in that role but that is what is beginning to emerge. Chester would make a good central CB, but then Terry presumably would shift to the right: is that something he would want to do?
It's all very vague and somewhat disconcerting.
-
I don't know much about Elmohamady, but whenever I hear his name I recollect a commentary that was on the radio when the commentator/summariser described him as one of the worst footballers they had ever seen.
I think it was Hull v the stripy's. It may have been Ron Toss so it probably doesn't count as an opinion anyway.
-
I remember him featuring regularly on MOTD when he was whipping pin point crosses in from the right wing for Sunderland...sounds like he's had a fall from grace at Hull though. We haven't had anyone that can cross a ball from the right for years (special thanks to Hutton), so if the rumoured release fee is £1m then it's not exactly a big gamble for someone who could provide some decent service into the box for a change.
-
(http://i1204.photobucket.com/albums/bb411/lemsta007/elmo_zpselxugxq9.png) (http://s1204.photobucket.com/user/lemsta007/media/elmo_zpselxugxq9.png.html)
Just been on the phone to Mr Brucie
villa here i come
-
Not sure quite why most people are negative about this. He's versatile and presumably was one of the better players in his position last time he played at this level. I realise right back/right wing back isn't exactly a problem position at the moment, but if we sign him for £1m and sell Hutton for similar I think that counts as an upgrade. Bree can then either be loaned out or eased into the first team over the next season or so. Bit harsh on De Laet, but I suppose Bruce thinks Elmohamady is a better bet.
Considering some of the signings we've made over recent years, this one is pretty low risk.
-
I think there's a high risk of him being one of the players we all wish we could ship out.
The Hull fans seem genuinely delighted that he is leaving, which hardly bodes well.
Why are we buying this sort of shite?
-
But if you look at their site (link a page or two back) they all agree that he hasn't been playing in his proper position, and that when he was playing wide right and not as a defender he was okay. All agree that he's a bit of a diver though.
-
I guess Bruce has always rated him. I don't, but there are worse Hull players I guess. Seems pretty uninspiring, one of those forgettable players who will come up in a trivia quiz one day.
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
Randy lost a pharaoh amount of money too.
I hope he's not a Luxor-y player, we have enough of those.
Well I couldn't cairo less.
Aswan fan to another, stop this now.
-
Sorry if this has been mentioned before - is he the guy who did that stupid dance when they got promoted a few seasons back?
-
I remember him featuring regularly on MOTD when he was whipping pin point crosses in from the right wing for Sunderland...sounds like he's had a fall from grace at Hull though. We haven't had anyone that can cross a ball from the right for years (special thanks to Hutton), so if the rumoured release fee is £1m then it's not exactly a big gamble for someone who could provide some decent service into the box for a change.
My in-laws are all sunderland fans and when this broke last night I got a couple of messages saying he's shit but he'll get 1-2 decent crosses in during most games but the rest of the time he'll just get caught in possession or cross straight into the first man. For me, as I've said before, if we sold Bacuna, Richards and Hutton I could let it go but signing him with all the right sided players we have when we already have a squad that's too big is fucking stupid.
-
I can only say - oh dear and how predictable
How the hell do the bookies make us favourites to get promoted ::)
-
Elmohamedy what a signing, if this doesn't sell a few more season tickets I don't know what will
the Bruce revolution shaping up nicely doing everything we expected of him turning us into everything we knew he would
-
Boring, lazy, uninspiring football management. Like his footballing 'style'.
Bruce is fecking predictable , if nothing else.
Spot On
-
Surely if he just wants someone who's quick, occasionally belts a decent cross in, but is otherwise up to not much, he could just stick with Bacuna.
-
Remember when Martin O'Neill used to collect Left Backs?
-
I remember him featuring regularly on MOTD when he was whipping pin point crosses in from the right wing for Sunderland...sounds like he's had a fall from grace at Hull though. We haven't had anyone that can cross a ball from the right for years (special thanks to Hutton), so if the rumoured release fee is £1m then it's not exactly a big gamble for someone who could provide some decent service into the box for a change.
My in-laws are all sunderland fans and when this broke last night I got a couple of messages saying he's shit but he'll get 1-2 decent crosses in during most games but the rest of the time he'll just get caught in possession or cross straight into the first man. For me, as I've said before, if we sold Bacuna, Richards and Hutton I could let it go but signing him with all the right sided players we have when we already have a squad that's too big is fucking stupid.
he sounds like Hutton then thou Hutton rarely gets a good cross in
This signing is ok if Hutton and Richards would do one.
-
So, Bruce is an idiot for signing a player he's had at two previous clubs, both of which he got promoted, who he obviously knows and trusts.
WHo knows what will happen to the players we currently have? We've possibly got a number of them lined up to go and instead of selling them first and people complaining that we're left with unsuitable cover, we're preparing and getting someone in.
As for up front, currently we have Kodjia, Hogan, McCormack and the kids and Agbonlahor. The first three, if they are committed, training well and performing to their potential should be more than enough to lead the line with support from Grelaish, Adomah, the kids, etc.
Don't panic.
-
Don't panic.
What if he turns out to be the Mad Mady ?
-
Don't panic.
What if he turns out to be the Mad Mady ?
Kris Kros will jump?
-
So, Bruce is an idiot for signing a player he's had at two previous clubs, both of which he got promoted, who he obviously knows and trusts.
WHo knows what will happen to the players we currently have? We've possibly got a number of them lined up to go and instead of selling them first and people complaining that we're left with unsuitable cover, we're preparing and getting someone in.
As for up front, currently we have Kodjia, Hogan, McCormack and the kids and Agbonlahor. The first three, if they are committed, training well and performing to their potential should be more than enough to lead the line with support from Grelaish, Adomah, the kids, etc.
Don't panic.
That's 3 enormous 'ifs' where McCormack and Hogan are concerned.
-
For £1m I think it's potentially a good deal
It does leave us a little heavy on that side of the pitch though!
Put Richards & Gabby on the left then.
-
So, Bruce is an idiot for signing a player he's had at two previous clubs, both of which he got promoted, who he obviously knows and trusts.
WHo knows what will happen to the players we currently have? We've possibly got a number of them lined up to go and instead of selling them first and people complaining that we're left with unsuitable cover, we're preparing and getting someone in.
As for up front, currently we have Kodjia, Hogan, McCormack and the kids and Agbonlahor. The first three, if they are committed, training well and performing to their potential should be more than enough to lead the line with support from Grelaish, Adomah, the kids, etc.
Don't panic.
That's 3 enormous 'ifs' where McCormack and Hogan are concerned.
Yes, but the reality is that they are both proven at this level. Reports so far suggest things are going well re attitude and training....
-
Bit late to this has everyone done the making up for O Neills lack of right backs gag?
-
To be fair watching the pre season against Shrewsbury drained me of any expectation for this season, but I have no problem with this signing. It means we have 6 right sided players, but ordinarily you'd want at least 4. Bree is young and unproven, De Laet is coming back from a long term injury, Adomah is limited, Bacuna is a ****** and Hutton is surely on the home straight of his Villa career. Maybe we'll discover the 4 we want to keep by Jan and ship a couple out then.
-
Sorry if this has been mentioned before - is he the guy who did that stupid dance when they got promoted a few seasons back?
'fraid so
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
I was prepared to give him a chance. But if he hasn't even got a Tonev style YouTube montage I reckon we should hang him from the rotunda if he dares step inside Birmingham
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
Or a Traore one where it looked like we could expect Maradona second goal v England 1986 type runs and goals on a weekly basis. What an utter steaming pile of fly infested horse shite he turned out to be.
-
1m for a proven player that the manager knows, that can cross a ball, play in numerous positions and can't be on big wages either = no brainer really
The same people moaning probably did exactly the same when we signed Taylor and that worked out absolutely fine from memory
It's not a glamorous signing, but we're a mid table championship side currently that are constricted by FFP rules so i'm not sure what people expect?
-
I wonder whether Hutton will end up being the right sided CB in a back 3.
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
Sounds perfect for us then.
-
1m for a proven player that the manager knows, that can cross a ball, play in numerous positions and can't be on big wages either = no brainer really
The same people moaning probably did exactly the same when we signed Taylor and that worked out absolutely fine from memory
It's not a glamorous signing, but we're a mid table championship side currently that are constricted by FFP rules so i'm not sure what people expect?
People expect a mid table championship side with FFP troubles not to be spending money we apparently don't have on a 5th right back (or 3rd right winger if you prefer). It's really that simple, he's no better than the players we have in his positions and we already have more than enough cover there.
If he was (or ever had been) a top player who'd improve us then it'd be a different matter but the difference in quality between him and Adomah or him and Hutton is fuck all so what's the point? We've got enough mid-table championship players. If the only options are to get more of the same then I'd rather we didn't bother and keep the money in case we need it in January.
-
for the next Manager to spend?
-
Remember when Martin O'Neill used to collect Left Backs?
Shorey and moving Luke Young there while poor Wild Willy Bouma was out injured?
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
a Villa player doing the basics. Blimey what kind of witchcraft and sorcery is that?
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
a Villa player doing the basics. Blimey what kind of witchcraft and sorcery is that?
Can he throw a ball to a player in the same shirt as him?
-
1m for a proven player that the manager knows, that can cross a ball, play in numerous positions and can't be on big wages either = no brainer really
The same people moaning probably did exactly the same when we signed Taylor and that worked out absolutely fine from memory
It's not a glamorous signing, but we're a mid table championship side currently that are constricted by FFP rules so i'm not sure what people expect?
People expect a mid table championship side with FFP troubles not to be spending money we apparently don't have on a 5th right back (or 3rd right winger if you prefer). It's really that simple, he's no better than the players we have in his positions and we already have more than enough cover there.
If he was (or ever had been) a top player who'd improve us then it'd be a different matter but the difference in quality between him and Adomah or him and Hutton is fuck all so what's the point? We've got enough mid-table championship players. If the only options are to get more of the same then I'd rather we didn't bother and keep the money in case we need it in January.
Yep, this sums it up for me.
Of course Bruce has worked with him so maybe we're wrong, but I'm not holding my breath.
-
FFS his entire YT montage shows him doing just about the basics and a couple of interceptions and short passes - WTF have we bought him
a Villa player doing the basics. Blimey what kind of witchcraft and sorcery is that?
Can he throw a ball to a player in the same shirt as him?
we will soon be able to train that out of him
-
People expect a mid table championship side with FFP troubles not to be spending money we apparently don't have on a 5th right back (or 3rd right winger if you prefer). It's really that simple, he's no better than the players we have in his positions and we already have more than enough cover there.
Well firstly he's not a right back as such, it's just one position he can play. Then again Richards or Bacuna aren't right backs either never mind how many people tell me they are
As far as i can see have two right backs at the club, Hutton (who wouldn't even be classed as a footballer in my books) and Bree. And with any luck Hutton will be out the door soon enough. We also have De Laet of course, but after such a long time out i'm not expecting to see him much this season
And we now have a player that can 'cover' at RB, RWB or RW. All for a million quid
Smart business.
-
People expect a mid table championship side with FFP troubles not to be spending money we apparently don't have on a 5th right back (or 3rd right winger if you prefer). It's really that simple, he's no better than the players we have in his positions and we already have more than enough cover there.
Well firstly he's not a right back as such, it's just one position he can play. Then again Richards or Bacuna aren't right backs either never mind how many people tell me they are
As far as i can see have two right backs at the club, Hutton (who wouldn't even be classed as a footballer in my books) and Bree. And with any luck Hutton will be out the door soon enough. We also have De Laet of course, but after such a long time out i'm not expecting to see him much this season
And we now have a player that can 'cover' at RB, RWB or RW. All for a million quid
Smart business.
He covers all down the right, I agree on that.
Bacuna also covers all down the right, just because you don't rate him doesn't mean we're not paying him. Richards is clearly a right back, he's played for England as one, you're letting the fact that he's shit get in the way of being objective.
As right backs we also have hutton, bree and delaet, as you say but just because you don't expect much from the latter again doesn't mean we shouldn't count him as part of the squad.
Right wing backs is more interesting, I suspect Adomah would do well there and that it would be Bacuna's best position. I also think, from what I've seen, that Bree would be a very good option there.
Further forward you have Adomah and Green, as well as Bacuna, who can all operate on the right of midfield.
As I said, we have plenty of options for all 3 roles and there doesn't seem to be any noise about any of them being sold other than a small rumour of Hutton to Sheffield Wednesday. We already have the biggest squad in the league, we can't just keep piling more players on top unless they're too good to ignore, I don't think Elmohamady is anything like that quality. If we can move on 2-3 of the players named above then I'd be ok with this despite not particularly rating him because Bruce clearly likes him but buying him right now is just piss poor squad management.
-
Well, I suppose we could wait until after he's actually played a few games for us to say whether it's a good signing and whether he improves the team.
-
Well, I suppose we could wait until after he's actually played a few games for us to say whether it's a good signing and whether he improves the team.
Then lets lock the thread until the end of September.
-
Might be worth putting a few quid on him for first goal on the opening day if he plays.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
No but we have lots of players who can play on the right, so no point, just another wage, very silly. He's no better than what we have got
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
Indeed.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
Depends what his contract is like. We could have said the same about Habib Beye.
FWIW I think it will be a decent signing though.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
No but we have lots of players who can play on the right, so no point, just another wage, very silly. He's no better than what we have got
We haven't got many who can play wing back if Bruce wants to go with that formation. Bree, De Laet and Hutton are defenders, whereas Adomah and Green are more attacking players.
-
To counter that on the left we have just Taylor and he's as I'll suited to wing back as any of the right side players you name. Assuming Amavi is sold of course.
That's the real problem, we have weaknesses that aren't being addressed by the players who are linked.
-
Has he signed yet?
-
For the money Elmo will probably be a decent addition to the squad. Problems are we need better than 'decent' and it's a position(s) we didn't really need to strengthen.
-
I think Bacuna can play RWB but otherwise agree
Maybe Thor could play LWB but I don't see him doing that week in week out
-
I'm not quite as down on him as others. Always looked a pretty decent player to me and we need someone who can cross from wide.
I'd like to add lots of people reacted similarly to Taylor joining and he's done really well.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
it's this sort of post that does my head in
we can't just keep filling the squad with bang average players no what they cost,
they will still be on big money and on contracts and will just add to the general lowering of the bar that's been going on for years now
Hull fans don't want him why should we be happy with lesser clubs cast offs,
the whole things becoming rediculous
-
His name is an anagram of 'load mayhem'.
-
His name is an anagram of 'load mayhem'.
It's times like these you need a like button
-
It's almost At Home Madly.
-
Home malady
-
Home malady
Is that you Parker?
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
Agree
-
Home malady
Is that you Parker?
Parker? I only just met her
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
it's this sort of post that does my head in
we can't just keep filling the squad with bang average players no what they cost,
they will still be on big money and on contracts and will just add to the general lowering of the bar that's been going on for years now
Hull fans don't want him why should we be happy with lesser clubs cast offs,
the whole things becoming rediculous
You are totally ignoring context.
For example - sign a 1m player as a squad addition, but then go on to make more clearly higher quality signings, then that is fine.
The problem is when, say, you sign a piss cheap midfielder and then they play 100 (I mean 'a lot' here, so no need for anyone to say they've googled and it's actually 50) games for you and look crap in almost all of them (ie Westwood) and you don't sign anyone else.
-
His name is an anagram of 'load mayhem'.
Hole my head madam
Sounds about right.
-
We had an Egyptian goalkeeper. Nigel Sphinx.
Quality
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
it's this sort of post that does my head in
we can't just keep filling the squad with bang average players no what they cost,
they will still be on big money and on contracts and will just add to the general lowering of the bar that's been going on for years now
Hull fans don't want him why should we be happy with lesser clubs cast offs,
the whole things becoming rediculous
You are totally ignoring context.
For example - sign a 1m player as a squad addition, but then go on to make more clearly higher quality signings, then that is fine.
The problem is when, say, you sign a piss cheap midfielder and then they play 100 (I mean 'a lot' here, so no need for anyone to say they've googled and it's actually 50) games for you and look crap in almost all of them (ie Westwood) and you don't sign anyone else.
I agree with this but it backs up my point that he's not the sort of signing you make when tyou have 3-4 players in his position already because he's the sort of player you sign to cover for a year or 2 whilst Green and Bree get settled and build up some experience but we have De Laet, Hutton and Adomah who can do that already.
-
His name is an anagram of 'load mayhem'.
Homemade yam dhal.
-
So, Bruce is an idiot for signing a player he's had at two previous clubs, both of which he got promoted, who he obviously knows and trusts.
WHo knows what will happen to the players we currently have? We've possibly got a number of them lined up to go and instead of selling them first and people complaining that we're left with unsuitable cover, we're preparing and getting someone in.
As for up front, currently we have Kodjia, Hogan, McCormack and the kids and Agbonlahor. The first three, if they are committed, training well and performing to their potential should be more than enough to lead the line with support from Grelaish, Adomah, the kids, etc.
Don't panic.
That's 3 enormous 'ifs' where McCormack and Hogan are concerned.
Yes, but the reality is that they are both proven at this level. Reports so far suggest things are going well re attitude and training....
And the actual real reality is that they've both been dire for us, and the pre-season friendlies aren't doubg anything to dispel that.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
it's this sort of post that does my head in
we can't just keep filling the squad with bang average players no what they cost,
they will still be on big money and on contracts and will just add to the general lowering of the bar that's been going on for years now
Hull fans don't want him why should we be happy with lesser clubs cast offs,
the whole things becoming rediculous
You are totally ignoring context.
For example - sign a 1m player as a squad addition, but then go on to make more clearly higher quality signings, then that is fine.
The problem is when, say, you sign a piss cheap midfielder and then they play 100 (I mean 'a lot' here, so no need for anyone to say they've googled and it's actually 50) games for you and look crap in almost all of them (ie Westwood) and you don't sign anyone else.
I agree with this but it backs up my point that he's not the sort of signing you make when tyou have 3-4 players in his position already because he's the sort of player you sign to cover for a year or 2 whilst Green and Bree get settled and build up some experience but we have De Laet, Hutton and Adomah who can do that already.
Was thinking about it earlier Paul - De Laet hasn't featured yet so there still must be fitness concerns, a team have put a bid in for Hutton, Bacuna is on international duty so will need some and Bree is still young and a bit raw. On reflection, we might just need that extra cover at RB, especially early in the season.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
it's this sort of post that does my head in
we can't just keep filling the squad with bang average players no what they cost,
they will still be on big money and on contracts and will just add to the general lowering of the bar that's been going on for years now
Hull fans don't want him why should we be happy with lesser clubs cast offs,
the whole things becoming rediculous
You are totally ignoring context.
For example - sign a 1m player as a squad addition, but then go on to make more clearly higher quality signings, then that is fine.
The problem is when, say, you sign a piss cheap midfielder and then they play 100 (I mean 'a lot' here, so no need for anyone to say they've googled and it's actually 50) games for you and look crap in almost all of them (ie Westwood) and you don't sign anyone else.
I agree with this but it backs up my point that he's not the sort of signing you make when tyou have 3-4 players in his position already because he's the sort of player you sign to cover for a year or 2 whilst Green and Bree get settled and build up some experience but we have De Laet, Hutton and Adomah who can do that already.
Was thinking about it earlier Paul - De Laet hasn't featured yet so there still must be fitness concerns, a team have put a bid in for Hutton, Bacuna is on international duty so will need some and Bree is still young and a bit raw. On reflection, we might just need that extra cover at RB, especially early in the season.
Bacuna will be back very soon and you're not counting Richards (I understand why though) but if Hutton going is possible then I'd be more open to him coming in.
-
So, Bruce is an idiot for signing a player he's had at two previous clubs, both of which he got promoted, who he obviously knows and trusts.
WHo knows what will happen to the players we currently have? We've possibly got a number of them lined up to go and instead of selling them first and people complaining that we're left with unsuitable cover, we're preparing and getting someone in.
As for up front, currently we have Kodjia, Hogan, McCormack and the kids and Agbonlahor. The first three, if they are committed, training well and performing to their potential should be more than enough to lead the line with support from Grelaish, Adomah, the kids, etc.
Don't panic.
That's 3 enormous 'ifs' where McCormack and Hogan are concerned.
Yes, but the reality is that they are both proven at this level. Reports so far suggest things are going well re attitude and training....
And the actual real reality is that they've both been dire for us, and the pre-season friendlies aren't doubg anything to dispel that.
And pre-season friendlies with multiple changes and substitutions mean absolute fuck all in the grand scheme of things.
McCormack wasn't well last year, so here's hoping he's in a better place. As for Hogan, he had less than four months playing with us.
However, let's agree to differ. It's like an old record, I'm optimistic, you're pessimistic. Over the last few years you've been closer to right than I have.
-
When considering the validity of pre-season performance, I always think back to the Yawnthorns in 95.
A week before the start of the season, a full strength side containing all the new signings lost 1-0 to a really shit Albion team, and looked abject. This of course was on the back of staying up on the last day the previous season, so hopes were not high.
The next performance from that team was finnising the champions off by half time, and they went on to win the league cup and finished 4th.
-
So, Bruce is an idiot for signing a player he's had at two previous clubs, both of which he got promoted, who he obviously knows and trusts.
WHo knows what will happen to the players we currently have? We've possibly got a number of them lined up to go and instead of selling them first and people complaining that we're left with unsuitable cover, we're preparing and getting someone in.
As for up front, currently we have Kodjia, Hogan, McCormack and the kids and Agbonlahor. The first three, if they are committed, training well and performing to their potential should be more than enough to lead the line with support from Grelaish, Adomah, the kids, etc.
Don't panic.
That's 3 enormous 'ifs' where McCormack and Hogan are concerned.
Yes, but the reality is that they are both proven at this level. Reports so far suggest things are going well re attitude and training....
And the actual real reality is that they've both been dire for us, and the pre-season friendlies aren't doubg anything to dispel that.
How can you make out that Hogan has been dire? It's like buying Gary Lineker and asking him to chase the ball into the corners and nothing more.
-
Hogan thrived in a 4 5 1 at Brentford with them playing actual football and using his movement. He is a good player.
McCormack has always done better with a target man type partner. They are not suited to play together at all. Selling McCormack and buying Crouch with the way Bruce wants to play would be our best business of the summer.
-
When considering the validity of pre-season performance, I always think back to the Yawnthorns in 95.
A week before the start of the season, a full strength side containing all the new signings lost 1-0 to a really shit Albion team, and looked abject. This of course was on the back of staying up on the last day the previous season, so hopes were not high.
The next performance from that team was finnising the champions off by half time, and they went on to win the league cup and finished 4th.
95 wowzers. Sad twats came on the pitch at the Brummie Road End too.
-
Hogan thrived in a 4 5 1 at Brentford with them playing actual football and using his movement. He is a good player.
McCormack has always done better with a target man type partner. They are not suited to play together at all. Selling McCormack and buying Crouch with the way Bruce wants to play would be our best business of the summer.
On hogan, as I said in another thread, it is notable that he was successful in a 451. He has a real lack of physical presence, so I assume they were playing A LOT of on the ground football as well as on the break?
I wonder whether teams playing against villa will just refuse to offer the space in behind for him to run into so regularly?
-
Brentford played good passing football when I saw them last season. Basically the opposite of the rubbish we serve up.
-
I'm ok with it
But if he keeps green and grealish out of the team I'll be disappointed. I've assumed he's a wing back and right wing cover
-
Exactly. You play a good passing game and Hogan will finish the moves off. You lump the ball to a kid on the right wing and put all your hopes on him or lump into the corners for Hogan to run onto you get what we saw at Shrewsbury and Walsall.
-
Brentford played good passing football when I saw them last season. Basically the opposite of the rubbish we serve up.
It saddens me that I think you're right. I like SB the man but not SB the manager who will grind us (the supporters) into the ground. I just hope somehow we grind enough Championship teams into the ground to get into the play-offs.
-
Brentford played good passing football when I saw them last season. Basically the opposite of the rubbish we serve up.
Dean Smith would be my next choice of manager without doubt
-
Brentford played good passing football when I saw them last season. Basically the opposite of the rubbish we serve up.
Dean Smith would be my next choice of manager without doubt
I'm not sure if he's done that much there. He may have done, it's just hard to know as they played attractive, passing football from a mid-table Championship position before he arrived too.
-
Brentford played good passing football when I saw them last season. Basically the opposite of the rubbish we serve up.
Dean Smith would be my next choice of manager without doubt
No chance, we're far too big a job. He'd be swallowed whole by it.
-
If our players can't pass the ball what good would Dean Smith do ?
Jesus wept. Are people seriously suggesting Bruce tells them to give the ball away and play like a bunch of spanners ?
-
Hogan is a really good player, if he looks 'dire' whilst playing for us it is because we're not using him properly. This can become the case with forwards. I'm more concerned with the trio of exciting midfielders we signed in January that look like the three stooges. I've seen virtually nothing from the three of them so far and there's little excuse barring the injury to Bjarnasson (who looks the worst of the three). We also don't have 1 wide attacking player that looks any good either.
-
If our players can't pass the ball what good would Dean Smith do ?
Jesus wept. Are people seriously suggesting Bruce tells them to give the ball away and play like a bunch of spanners ?
Then what are we supposed to do - just accept it and the players underperforming?
The twat of a Manager has them all week to drill them into a method of play - clearly he either a) is not doing so - so if they are not listening drop the feckers or b) is incapable of doing it
I know which one my money would be on
-
With Elmo coming in I feel time Is right to move Hutton on. Elmo would be more effective attacking and crossing ball but fear has defensive weakness'. The plus is that Bruce knows how to get best out of him and he'll be reinvigorate we all hope to prove his worth. At end of day he's a premier league player and experienced I hope he can fit in .
On bigger scale somewhat concerned on the team as a unit and think Bruce needs to get them bonding of field as alot of new player not knowing each other.
Utv.
-
Now confirmed, in typically 'quirky' fashion too.
-
Welcome Elmo, please don't be shit.
-
Three fucking year contract! When will we learn.
-
Welcome and good luck Ahmed.
-
Good luck, and don't you dare do that ridiculous 'dance' in a Villa shirt.
-
Three fucking year contract! When will we learn.
What's the problem with that?
Good luck and welcome.
-
Welcome, please don't be shit.
-
Three fucking year contract! When will we learn.
What's the problem with that?
Apart from giving a 3 year contract to a 30 year old* - nothing if we're planning to spend the next 3 years in the Championship.
*September 9.
Welcome, indeed. Good luck? He has it in bucketloads if this contract is anything to go by.
-
So he's 29 then.
-
Welcome, please don't be shit.
You and your high expectations Dave.
Actually you're right, please don't be shit.
-
Good luck, and don't you dare do that ridiculous 'dance' in a Villa shirt.
unless we are promoted
-
Oh well. Good luck and all that.
-
And if he's fantastic for us (yes yes I know) and we only gave him a 2 year contract folks would complain about that. 3 years is about right for a player his age imo.
-
He certainly give plenty to talk about..
-
And if he's fantastic for us (yes yes I know) and we only gave him a 2 year contract folks would complain about that. 3 years is about right for a player his age imo.
How many occasions have we had cause to bemoan a too-short contract in recent years, and how many times has giving long contracts bitten us spectacularly on the arse?
-
3 years isn't a long contract though.
-
3 years isn't a long contract though.
it is when you're 30 in Sept and the pedigree is questionable
-
Virtually no player 32 or under would even sign a 2 year contract. The only 2 year contracts I can remember in recent times were Cole, Richardson and Lescott.
-
Welcome Elmo
-
Welcome. Please don't be shit.
-
He certainly give plenty to talk about..
Ha ha that's funny but worrying in equal measure!
-
I thought he came across quite well in the interview, intelligent even.....
-
Has anybody got a spare aircraft hangar in which to contain my excitement?
-
And if he's fantastic for us (yes yes I know) and we only gave him a 2 year contract folks would complain about that. 3 years is about right for a player his age imo.
Only problem I have with this is say SB is sacked in October after a mediocre start to the season which is what plenty are predicting. Then a new manager comes in and decides to play 4 at the back. He likes Bree and Hutton for RB and thinks Adomah and Green is enough for right midfield.
Elmohamady on a three year deal becomes an issue then just like Habib Beye on a three year deal did although I'd like to think he isn't getting anywhere near 40k otherwise that would be seriously bonkers.
-
You can say that about nearly any player we'll sign though. The next manager (whenever that is) won't fancy a bunch of players that are at the club. He's probably not someone i'd have signed but now that we have, a 3 year contract is standard given his age. As I said earlier, very few 29/30 year olds will sign a 2 year deal.
As you say though, wages is the key. It was the wages we were paying Beye that was more the problem and stopped us being able to shift him rather than than being on a 3 year contract. Same with Zog, sensible wages and someone would probably have taken him after a year or 2, but no one else was daft enough to pay what we were paying him.
-
Why are we going 352 when we've only played 442 pre-season?
Adomah and Elmo will be our width and outlet balls wide.
-
Are Hull going to have enough players left to field a team against us on opening day?
-
Has anybody got a spare aircraft hangar in which to contain my excitement?
There's a venue in Small Heath with plenty of room.
-
Are Hull going to have enough players left to field a team against us on opening day?
I thought that was their issue last year? They should have enough tv money to buy two teams in in two weeks.
-
Agreed 8m for Stewart from Liverpool who we were linked with but are going for the long term option in Whelan instead. Hull will either be top 6 or bottom 6 I reckon.
-
Welcome to Aston Villa
-
Agreed 8m for Stewart from Liverpool who we were linked with but are going for the long term option in Whelan instead. Hull will either be top 6 or bottom 6 I reckon.
I saw this yesterday, I've never heard of him. I'm glad we haven't paid £8m for someone who's only played 9 times for Liverpool and has been loaned out three times since he's been there.
-
Welcome Ahmed I hope you do well for us.
-
Meh. Gives me something to talk about with my Egyptian customers I suppose.
Not a signing to set the pulse racing but is by no means a bad player. If he can actually putt in a cross (Huttons main downfall) then he will improve us.
-
The problem I have with this sort of signing is that we are putting another salary on the payroll for 3 years when we should be looking at two more quality Premiership loans. I would start with Chelsea as I would hope John Terry knows who is worth a season long loan. Huddersfield did it to great effect last season.
-
Optimists say he'll be an excellent addition.
Pessimists say it's a waste of money.
As that amount of money is £1m, I don't think the latter should get too worried. In the mad world of football, it's hardly risk of the century, is it?
it's this sort of post that does my head in
Pleased to be of assistance.
-
The problem I have with this sort of signing is that we are putting another salary on the payroll for 3 years when we should be looking at two more quality Premiership loans. I would start with Chelsea as I would hope John Terry knows who is worth a season long loan. Huddersfield did it to great effect last season.
I hate loans
-
If we could loan this year's Tammy Abraham I'd be pretty happy
-
I too dislike loans. I don't like Villa to help other clubs in a more fortunate position than ourselves in any way.
-
I too dislike loans. I don't like Villa to help other clubs in a more fortunate position than ourselves in any way.
We're not really helping Man. United with Johnstone though, he's pretty much surplus to requirements there.
I have my reservations about him so I'd rather see if he can go up a level this season rather than fork out 5m for him straight away.
It's a bit like if we'd signed Carson for 8m and then had a terrible keeper on our books and had to make another big loss.
-
Yes. Considering we tend to buy players, keep them in the team for a couple of seasons and then sell them for a big loss, loans seem quite a useful option!
-
Meh. Gives me something to talk about with my Egyptian customers I suppose.
Not a signing to set the pulse racing but is by no means a bad player. If he can actually putt in a cross (Huttons main downfall) then he will improve us.
Will that mean you'll "Talk like an Egyptian?"
-
Could go either way on this one. But looks a solid signing to me. Sometimes things just click when a certain player is used to and likes working with a manager. Welcome and good luck Ahmed.
-
Good service into Hulk today.
-
Really impressed me today. Looks much more comfortable than Adomah when running with the ball and delivery and decision making were consistently good.
More like today and he's an absolute steal at that price.
-
He's way better than Adomah from that showing. Has pace too.
-
Outstanding today no two ways about it
-
Very good today
Opponents were poor so keen to see him against some better players
-
I reckon he's going to be a really important player this year.
-
He seemed to want to go past the full back and get his cross in, not go right up to him and do a trick. B+
-
Where was Adomah on this trip?
-
injured
-
Elmo crosses ball well and will provide a good service for strikers .
I do hope too midfielders will be getting in and around the box to add support.
-
Going by one friendly so it could be off, but I did like the solid professional way he went about his game. Did mess up, didn't break position, did his job with no fuss. Kind of liked that.
-
Looked strong and nippy. What you want from a wide player. Someone Green could learn from, too.
-
Very impressed, especially as already said he wanted to get past defenders not bamboozle them like so many we have had. We should run a sweep on when "St Elmo's on fire" first appears in a tabloid rag.
-
If we are going to play 4-4-2, then I think we could do with signing a similar type of player to him to play on the left.
-
can't really play with two wingers unless the 2 up front is more of a 9 & 10.
-
If we are going to play 4-4-2, then I think we could do with signing a similar type of player to him to play on the left.
Yep, we're in danger of becoming one sided. Still, better than no sided.
I think Elmo' will become a favourite and prove to be a very good signing as we take the league by storm this season.
-
can't really play with two wingers unless the 2 up front is more of a 9 & 10.
Getting the balance up front is key really if we are to play a front two. As we saw last season, Kodjia and Hogan up front didn't really work as they are quite similar. We did, however, look more of a threat on the few occasions when Kodjia was partnered with Gestede and feel that Kodjia may be more suited to playing alongside a target man. I think Hogan though might benefit from playing alongside a more creative player and hopefully Grealish can really come to the fore this season.
-
Kodjia is such a livewire that it's hard to work out what suits him best
Agree they didn't look great as a two last year, but hopefully they'll get better support from midfield now
Agree that grealish (and Elmo) should suit Hogan.
-
To be fair that's why I'd play hogan ahead of Kodjia - and why we looked better with him. Shifting the ball quickly and then into a finisher made us look a lot sharper and Hogan can finish. Kodjia is a different player and having to try and fit around him probably hindered us in terms of shape last season.
-
To be fair that's why I'd play hogan ahead of Kodjia - and why we looked better with him. Shifting the ball quickly and then into a finisher made us look a lot sharper and Hogan can finish. Kodjia is a different player and having to try and fit around him probably hindered us in terms of shape last season.
It's a difficult one isn't it. We're not really in a position to drop out top scorer for someone who, at best, struggled once he joined us last season (injuries, tactics admittedly are mitigating circumstances). Does Kodjia out wide left work or does it lose upset the balance of the team too much?
Personally, I would look at a midfield of Whelan, Hot Lips, Grealish/Lansbury with Elmo and Kodjia wide and Hogan up top. Even then, that leaves no place for Green, do we try to fit in Jedinak. While we might not be bursting with talent, we do have options to change things up and enough personnel to keep everyone fresh, which will hopefully bode well for next season
-
To be fair that's why I'd play hogan ahead of Kodjia - and why we looked better with him. Shifting the ball quickly and then into a finisher made us look a lot sharper and Hogan can finish. Kodjia is a different player and having to try and fit around him probably hindered us in terms of shape last season.
It's a difficult one isn't it. We're not really in a position to drop out top scorer for someone who, at best, struggled once he joined us last season (injuries, tactics admittedly are mitigating circumstances). Does Kodjia out wide left work or does it lose upset the balance of the team too much?
Personally, I would look at a midfield of Whelan, Hot Lips, Grealish/Lansbury with Elmo and Kodjia wide and Hogan up top. Even then, that leaves no place for Green, do we try to fit in Jedinak. While we might not be bursting with talent, we do have options to change things up and enough personnel to keep everyone fresh, which will hopefully bode well for next season
From what we saw of him last season, I don't really think Hogan is the sort of forward who can play up front on his own. Playing with someone like Grealish might bring the best out in him though.
I just can't see Kodjia being anywhere near full fitness at the moment and therefore we will have to start with Hogan.
-
I'd agree about playing up front alone based on what we saw
Except that's exactly what he did for Brentford. But we'd have to adjust our style significantly from last season
-
Hopefully Kodjia and Hogan can develop a partnership with some work.
-
If they did we'd win the league comfortably.
-
Hopefully Kodjia and Hogan can develop a partnership with some work.
What was the home game at VP last season when Hogan went off injured ? He and Kodjia showed the shoots of a good partnership prior to him going off
-
Hopefully Kodjia and Hogan can develop a partnership with some work.
What was the home game at VP last season when Hogan went off injured ? He and Kodjia showed the shoots of a good partnership prior to him going off
Thinking it might have been Norwich?
-
Kodjia is such a livewire that it's hard to work out what suits him best
Agree they didn't look great as a two last year, but hopefully they'll get better support from midfield now
Agree that grealish (and Elmo) should suit Hogan.
To be fair that's why I'd play hogan ahead of Kodjia - and why we looked better with him. Shifting the ball quickly and then into a finisher made us look a lot sharper and Hogan can finish. Kodjia is a different player and having to try and fit around him probably hindered us in terms of shape last season.
We looked totally clueless without Kodjia in the games in January save for one decent half v Preston.
The game he missed v SHA we offered nothing upfront until Gabby came on and started putting himself about.
Kodjia is better as a free spirit so same as last season, one upfront but with much better support out wide (I'd probably go with Green as one option, not sure on the other as Adomah is inconsistant) and much more licence for two of the midfielders to get forward and actually into the opposition penalty area. Too many times last season tactics meant he was completely isolated so had to hold the ball up and try to beat 2-3 men.
Given Gabby seems to be taking football seriously again atm I might actually plump for him to start the Hull game. Hogan just dosen't convince me as a loan striker, QPR and Reading games he could barely hold the ball up. I'd have him prove he deserves a start by scoring a few as an impact sub but assume he'll get the nod due to the massive price tag.
-
We saw in the second half against Brighton how much better we are as an attacking force when Davis played hold up. Hogan and Kodjia need a pivotal player to play off. Holding the ball on the edge of the opposition box might even encourage our midfield to make a dart or two.
-
Hogan just dosen't convince me as a loan striker
Reckon that's going to be McCormack's role this season.
-
I agree - he was our season and without him we were toothless. So you develop an alternative. The problem I had and still have is that we were an eggs in one basket team. The style he plays (Kodjia) means he is difficult to play in a 4-4-2 as he very much likes to drift wide meaning that other players need to get into the box, also rendering the wide player useless for much of the time unless they too have a physical presence in the box, or can finish.
Seeing the goals and chances Hogan scored/attempted v Duisburg it is clear that he is a player who does his best work in the box, a finisher. We have two distinct different forwards and we have to try and see if they can play together because we will destroy teams if they can. If they can't we then have to go back and look at our set-up and think which player as the forward option is best for the team and how we play. i think that is Hogan. Players tried to get into the box on Sunday, and it'll be interesting to see how we go v Watford. I'd be tempted to stick Gabby and Hogan up front and ask Gabby to drift left a la Kodjia to see if the team can play with the shape we would need if Hogan and Kodjia were up top together.
-
We saw in the second half against Brighton how much better we are as an attacking force when Davis played hold up. Hogan and Kodjia need a pivotal player to play off. Holding the ball on the edge of the opposition box might even encourage our midfield to make a dart or two.
Agreed, have been very impressed with Davis' ability to hold the ball when I've seen him. The fact he's got some pace too makes him a real talent but I guess we'll only see him in cameos.
-
I didn't see Davis v Brighton
From pre season he didn't look great / ready to me. Held it up against weak challenges, but seems very one footed and not sure he's the technique. But can't judge on pre season
-
I didn't see Davis v Brighton
From pre season he didn't look great / ready to me. Held it up against weak challenges, but seems very one footed and not sure he's the technique. But can't judge on pre season
Being very one footed hasn't hindered virtually every left footed player ever born.
-
I know he's a kid, and I know he's had barely a look in, but I thought Davis looked like a fan who'd wandered onto the pitch when I saw him play (against Brighton). He seemed extremely slow and ponderous.
-
I didn't see Davis v Brighton
From pre season he didn't look great / ready to me. Held it up against weak challenges, but seems very one footed and not sure he's the technique. But can't judge on pre season
Being very one footed hasn't hindered virtually every left footed player ever born.
-
I know he's a kid, and I know he's had barely a look in, but I thought Davis looked like a fan who'd wandered onto the pitch when I saw him play (against Brighton). He seemed extremely slow and ponderous.
Thought the same in the recent games in Germany. I didn't see what the fuss was all about. I can see what people see in Green, RHM has done it at a lower level so the jury is out. JDH looked excellent and the most exciting of them all.
-
I agree - he was our season and without him we were toothless. So you develop an alternative. The problem I had and still have is that we were an eggs in one basket team. The style he plays (Kodjia) means he is difficult to play in a 4-4-2 as he very much likes to drift wide meaning that other players need to get into the box, also rendering the wide player useless for much of the time unless they too have a physical presence in the box, or can finish.
Seeing the goals and chances Hogan scored/attempted v Duisburg it is clear that he is a player who does his best work in the box, a finisher. We have two distinct different forwards and we have to try and see if they can play together because we will destroy teams if they can. If they can't we then have to go back and look at our set-up and think which player as the forward option is best for the team and how we play. i think that is Hogan. Players tried to get into the box on Sunday, and it'll be interesting to see how we go v Watford. I'd be tempted to stick Gabby and Hogan up front and ask Gabby to drift left a la Kodjia to see if the team can play with the shape we would need if Hogan and Kodjia were up top together.
I just can't see Hogan and Kodjia hitting it off to be honest Peter. I thought Kodjia looked most dangerous last season when he was partnered with Gestede and was running on to his flick ons. I think Hogan would be more suited to playing with someone like Grealish who can get the ball on the turn in the final third and pick out his runs. Don't think Kodjia will be fit for the start of the season, so I would go with Grealish and Hogan against Watford on Saturday and see how that goes.
-
I thought Kodjia looked most dangerous last season when he was partnered with Gestede
In fairness, Stephen Hawking would look relatively dangerous playing next to Gestede.
-
I agree - he was our season and without him we were toothless. So you develop an alternative. The problem I had and still have is that we were an eggs in one basket team. The style he plays (Kodjia) means he is difficult to play in a 4-4-2 as he very much likes to drift wide meaning that other players need to get into the box, also rendering the wide player useless for much of the time unless they too have a physical presence in the box, or can finish.
Seeing the goals and chances Hogan scored/attempted v Duisburg it is clear that he is a player who does his best work in the box, a finisher. We have two distinct different forwards and we have to try and see if they can play together because we will destroy teams if they can. If they can't we then have to go back and look at our set-up and think which player as the forward option is best for the team and how we play. i think that is Hogan. Players tried to get into the box on Sunday, and it'll be interesting to see how we go v Watford. I'd be tempted to stick Gabby and Hogan up front and ask Gabby to drift left a la Kodjia to see if the team can play with the shape we would need if Hogan and Kodjia were up top together.
I just can't see Hogan and Kodjia hitting it off to be honest Peter. I thought Kodjia looked most dangerous last season when he was partnered with Gestede and was running on to his flick ons. I think Hogan would be more suited to playing with someone like Grealish who can get the ball on the turn in the final third and pick out his runs. Don't think Kodjia will be fit for the start of the season, so I would go with Grealish and Hogan against Watford on Saturday and see how that goes.
I think They can become a good partnership but it means hard work on the training ground getting them used to how the other plays. Kodjia naturally draws defenders out of position because he's capable of making half a yard and then has the ability to hit the target once he's has that space. This should open gaps for Hogan to run into but he needs to learn to time those runs and Kodjia needs to know that he'll make them. Last season our entire attack looked like they only played together on match days so everything was utterly disjointed. That's why I don't accept the idea that Bruce deserved a pass and should be judged from now. A proper plan in training could've had problems like this solved well before the end of the season and now injury means they'll not have worked together all summer so nothing will have changed and we know from experience that it won't happen during the season.
-
I agree - he was our season and without him we were toothless. So you develop an alternative. The problem I had and still have is that we were an eggs in one basket team. The style he plays (Kodjia) means he is difficult to play in a 4-4-2 as he very much likes to drift wide meaning that other players need to get into the box, also rendering the wide player useless for much of the time unless they too have a physical presence in the box, or can finish.
Seeing the goals and chances Hogan scored/attempted v Duisburg it is clear that he is a player who does his best work in the box, a finisher. We have two distinct different forwards and we have to try and see if they can play together because we will destroy teams if they can. If they can't we then have to go back and look at our set-up and think which player as the forward option is best for the team and how we play. i think that is Hogan. Players tried to get into the box on Sunday, and it'll be interesting to see how we go v Watford. I'd be tempted to stick Gabby and Hogan up front and ask Gabby to drift left a la Kodjia to see if the team can play with the shape we would need if Hogan and Kodjia were up top together.
I just can't see Hogan and Kodjia hitting it off to be honest Peter. I thought Kodjia looked most dangerous last season when he was partnered with Gestede and was running on to his flick ons. I think Hogan would be more suited to playing with someone like Grealish who can get the ball on the turn in the final third and pick out his runs. Don't think Kodjia will be fit for the start of the season, so I would go with Grealish and Hogan against Watford on Saturday and see how that goes.
I think They can become a good partnership but it means hard work on the training ground getting them used to how the other plays. Kodjia naturally draws defenders out of position because he's capable of making half a yard and then has the ability to hit the target once he's has that space. This should open gaps for Hogan to run into but he needs to learn to time those runs and Kodjia needs to know that he'll make them. Last season our entire attack looked like they only played together on match days so everything was utterly disjointed. That's why I don't accept the idea that Bruce deserved a pass and should be judged from now. A proper plan in training could've had problems like this solved well before the end of the season and now injury means they'll not have worked together all summer so nothing will have changed and we know from experience that it won't happen during the season.
Having watched them play together a few times last season Paul, I think there is always going to be a lack of a focal point with those two playing together. Kodjia likes to drift into wide areas and Hogan really plays on the shoulder of defenders. There isn't that target man type or a 'number 10' who can get the ball to feet and create things.
-
I agree - neither a target man or number 10 in that partnership.
That can work, but it's why I don't think we'll play both upfront together week in and week out. But I do think a proper no 9 would be a good squad addition (not convinced gabby or Davis can offer this)
-
I agree - he was our season and without him we were toothless. So you develop an alternative. The problem I had and still have is that we were an eggs in one basket team. The style he plays (Kodjia) means he is difficult to play in a 4-4-2 as he very much likes to drift wide meaning that other players need to get into the box, also rendering the wide player useless for much of the time unless they too have a physical presence in the box, or can finish.
Seeing the goals and chances Hogan scored/attempted v Duisburg it is clear that he is a player who does his best work in the box, a finisher. We have two distinct different forwards and we have to try and see if they can play together because we will destroy teams if they can. If they can't we then have to go back and look at our set-up and think which player as the forward option is best for the team and how we play. i think that is Hogan. Players tried to get into the box on Sunday, and it'll be interesting to see how we go v Watford. I'd be tempted to stick Gabby and Hogan up front and ask Gabby to drift left a la Kodjia to see if the team can play with the shape we would need if Hogan and Kodjia were up top together.
I just can't see Hogan and Kodjia hitting it off to be honest Peter. I thought Kodjia looked most dangerous last season when he was partnered with Gestede and was running on to his flick ons. I think Hogan would be more suited to playing with someone like Grealish who can get the ball on the turn in the final third and pick out his runs. Don't think Kodjia will be fit for the start of the season, so I would go with Grealish and Hogan against Watford on Saturday and see how that goes.
I think They can become a good partnership but it means hard work on the training ground getting them used to how the other plays. Kodjia naturally draws defenders out of position because he's capable of making half a yard and then has the ability to hit the target once he's has that space. This should open gaps for Hogan to run into but he needs to learn to time those runs and Kodjia needs to know that he'll make them. Last season our entire attack looked like they only played together on match days so everything was utterly disjointed. That's why I don't accept the idea that Bruce deserved a pass and should be judged from now. A proper plan in training could've had problems like this solved well before the end of the season and now injury means they'll not have worked together all summer so nothing will have changed and we know from experience that it won't happen during the season.
Having watched them play together a few times last season Paul, I think there is always going to be a lack of a focal point with those two playing together. Kodjia likes to drift into wide areas and Hogan really plays on the shoulder of defenders. There isn't that target man type or a 'number 10' who can get the ball to feet and create things.
Jack's the number 10 - his off-the-ball movement's fine, and he should be the one who benefits the most from Terry's ability to pass through the lines. Of course, the issue with him is what he does once he gets on it - his decision-making and speed of thought can be so rubbish.
-
I agree - he was our season and without him we were toothless. So you develop an alternative. The problem I had and still have is that we were an eggs in one basket team. The style he plays (Kodjia) means he is difficult to play in a 4-4-2 as he very much likes to drift wide meaning that other players need to get into the box, also rendering the wide player useless for much of the time unless they too have a physical presence in the box, or can finish.
Seeing the goals and chances Hogan scored/attempted v Duisburg it is clear that he is a player who does his best work in the box, a finisher. We have two distinct different forwards and we have to try and see if they can play together because we will destroy teams if they can. If they can't we then have to go back and look at our set-up and think which player as the forward option is best for the team and how we play. i think that is Hogan. Players tried to get into the box on Sunday, and it'll be interesting to see how we go v Watford. I'd be tempted to stick Gabby and Hogan up front and ask Gabby to drift left a la Kodjia to see if the team can play with the shape we would need if Hogan and Kodjia were up top together.
I just can't see Hogan and Kodjia hitting it off to be honest Peter. I thought Kodjia looked most dangerous last season when he was partnered with Gestede and was running on to his flick ons. I think Hogan would be more suited to playing with someone like Grealish who can get the ball on the turn in the final third and pick out his runs. Don't think Kodjia will be fit for the start of the season, so I would go with Grealish and Hogan against Watford on Saturday and see how that goes.
I think They can become a good partnership but it means hard work on the training ground getting them used to how the other plays. Kodjia naturally draws defenders out of position because he's capable of making half a yard and then has the ability to hit the target once he's has that space. This should open gaps for Hogan to run into but he needs to learn to time those runs and Kodjia needs to know that he'll make them. Last season our entire attack looked like they only played together on match days so everything was utterly disjointed. That's why I don't accept the idea that Bruce deserved a pass and should be judged from now. A proper plan in training could've had problems like this solved well before the end of the season and now injury means they'll not have worked together all summer so nothing will have changed and we know from experience that it won't happen during the season.
Having watched them play together a few times last season Paul, I think there is always going to be a lack of a focal point with those two playing together. Kodjia likes to drift into wide areas and Hogan really plays on the shoulder of defenders. There isn't that target man type or a 'number 10' who can get the ball to feet and create things.
Jack's the number 10 - his off-the-ball movement's fine, and he should be the one who benefits the most from Terry's ability to pass through the lines. Of course, the issue with him is what he does once he gets on it - his decision-making and speed of thought can be so rubbish.
Agree and if Grealish can start having the kind of impact we all hope he will, he could really be the difference this season. He really should be too good for this league and should be regularly contributing both goals and assists. As I said before, I would start him and Hogan together on Saturday.
-
[quote author=passitsideways
Jack's the number 10 - his off-the-ball movement's fine, and he should be the one who benefits the most from Terry's ability to pass through the lines. Of course, the issue with him is what he does once he gets on it - his decision-making and speed of thought can be so rubbish.
[/quote]
He wants to make things happen but he needs players to be moving into space. Just moving the ball on for the sake of it doesn't create good opportunities. Speed of thought/instinctiveness relies on vision but is totally reliant on other players movement. Similarly, decision making requires options.
His best spell and possibly his only consistent spell was working with Benteke and Delph when Sherwood came in. There was movement all around him that took players away from him and gave him options.
-
[quote author=passitsideways
Jack's the number 10 - his off-the-ball movement's fine, and he should be the one who benefits the most from Terry's ability to pass through the lines. Of course, the issue with him is what he does once he gets on it - his decision-making and speed of thought can be so rubbish.
He wants to make things happen but he needs players to be moving into space. Just moving the ball on for the sake of it doesn't create good opportunities. Speed of thought/instinctiveness relies on vision but is totally reliant on other players movement. Similarly, decision making requires options.
His best spell and possibly his only consistent spell was working with Benteke and Delph when Sherwood came in. There was movement all around him that took players away from him and gave him options.
[/quote]
Spot on, movement is the key to our problems.
-
For me Jack's main problem (apart from perhaps already thinking he's the finished article) is he's so slow. He never seems to be in full flight / mid run when he receives the ball. 99% of the time it's when he's stood still, which slows things down to a snails pace all the time. For me anyway
-
For me Jack's main problem (apart from perhaps already thinking he's the finished article) is he's so slow. He never seems to be in full flight / mid run when he receives the ball. 99% of the time it's when he's stood still, which slows things down to a snails pace all the time. For me anyway
And, slow to decide what he's going to do with the ball, as well.
-
A couple of times I've seen Grealish dally on the ball for an age and then play it to someone who has no chance of doing anything with it. Part of that is definitely a lack of options but sometimes he could look to play it simple if there's not anything on. That might be the pressure of being one of Villa's only creative players and the expectation on him to do something magical every time.
-
Another perspective is that it is his game and how he does things - what we need to do is find a way that uses his obvious ability to best effect.
He has no natural pace but can go past players with ease. I think Jacks biggest issue certainly was throwing his arms up in the air when things did not go his way - maybe he will be more of a team player this season as he starts to mature.
He is classically at the brink or really good or an also ran who thought he had made it
-
All of these comments are valid
But I still maintain that the kid I saw emerge under Sherwood is a genuinely special talent
-
All of these comments are valid
But I still maintain that the kid I saw emerge under Sherwood is a genuinely special talent
Agreed. But it's time he stepped up. I just really hope this is his season.
-
Grealish has the ability to hang onto the ball better than anyone else in the squad and to do something positive with it. He looked hampered last season in that the rest of the midfield were often too deep presumably concerned with their defensive roles. With what appears to be a much improved defence and some pace offered in Elmo' maybe we will see the midfield pushing on that bit more with some movement giving Grealish more space and options. That's what I hope to see anyway.
-
All of these comments are valid
But I still maintain that the kid I saw emerge under Sherwood is a genuinely special talent
Absolutely - that level of close control and spatial awareness is not something that comes around very often.
Just that this club hasn't been the most ideal situation for a player like him to develop, although obviously part of the blame has to be assigned to his apparent somewhat questionable attitude.
He and Alex Iwobi come off as quite similar to one another in terms of playing style, and the latter obviously is getting constant first-team action at Arsenal - I do feel that's where he might've been right now if the situation had been better than it has in the past few years.
-
Grealish has the ability to hang onto the ball better than anyone else in the squad and to do something positive with it. He looked hampered last season in that the rest of the midfield were often too deep presumably concerned with their defensive roles. With what appears to be a much improved defence and some pace offered in Elmo' maybe we will see the midfield pushing on that bit more with some movement giving Grealish more space and options. That's what I hope to see anyway.
Hawkes likes this
-
Grealish can do a decent job in the top flight, so at this level I think he can be very dangerous.
-
33 stitches in his lip but still wants to play this week according to Bruce. Fairplay.
-
Mick Jagger?
-
33 stitches in his lip but still wants to play this week according to Bruce. Fairplay.
Trying to figure out how you can fit 33 stitches on a lip. What was the challenge like that injured him that badly? Was he tackled by a jigsaw?
-
33 stitches in his lip but still wants to play this week according to Bruce. Fairplay.
Trying to figure out how you can fit 33 stitches on a lip. What was the challenge like that injured him that badly? Was he tackled by a jigsaw?
It's a puzzle, isn't it.
-
33 stitches in his lip but still wants to play this week according to Bruce. Fairplay.
Trying to figure out how you can fit 33 stitches on a lip. What was the challenge like that injured him that badly? Was he tackled by a jigsaw?
Was he tackled BY Jigsaw?
Hi Elmo, I want to play a game...
-
I remember when Jonny Wilkinson played for England with a bunch of stitches in his lip. He looked like Frankenstein's monster.
-
Fair play to Elmo. Puts the like of Richards and Agbonlahor to shame.
-
I'm still not convinced by him. He needs to look at the other side of the pitch to see how Taylor and Green work so hard to support each other.
-
I'm still not convinced by him.
Same here, not sure what he brings to the team.
-
looks no better than Albert to me, but fair play to the guy for wanting to play yesterday.
-
Green and Taylor look much more competent that those on the right side. They give the ball away a lot less and leave the other less isolated.
I'd be having a good luck at De Laet and Adomah against Wigan. However Bruce does love Elmo and I can't see him getting dropped any time soon, especially after a 4-2 gubbing.
-
I'm still not convinced by him.
Same here, not sure what he brings to the team.
Speed and movement. He didn't do anything amazing yesterday but neither did he do anything terrible. Just a hard working performance where he did the basics well and helped keep their defence on their toes.
-
I prefer Adomah but Elmo has been ok so far. He's more of a right sided midfielder than a winger to me.
-
looks no better than Albert to me, but fair play to the guy for wanting to play yesterday.
I think Albert gets far more involved when he plays.
Infact, that's one of the things I like about him.
The quality may not always be there, but the effort is.
-
I'm still not convinced by him.
Same here, not sure what he brings to the team.
Speed and movement. He didn't do anything amazing yesterday but neither did he do anything terrible. Just a hard working performance where he did the basics well and helped keep their defence on their toes.
Agreed.
-
I'm still not convinced by him. He needs to look at the other side of the pitch to see how Taylor and Green work so hard to support each other.
To be fair, he has had Hutton behind him in a few of the games. You lose count of the number of times in a game Hutton puts the winger in front of him in trouble with a poor pass. He did it to Adomah on a regular basis last season.
For what it's worth, I think Elmohamady is an improvement on Adomah, though I do wish we would stop hitting every goal kick in his direction especially as Johnstone's kicking isn't exactly accurate and doesn't get there a lot of the time.
-
I do wish we would stop hitting every goal kick in his direction especially as Johnstone's kicking isn't exactly accurate and doesn't get there a lot of the time.
It's an idiotic tactic Bruce used previously at Hull. Goalkeeper boots the ball up to Elmo to head on. After 3 or 4 consecutive attempts, Johnstone obviously took it upon himself not to bother with the foolish nonsense. No doubt Bodger Bruce will have him practicing it all week at Bodymoor Heath.
Overall I've been very impressed with Johnstone's kicking both in terms of distance and accuracy.
-
I do wish we would stop hitting every goal kick in his direction especially as Johnstone's kicking isn't exactly accurate and doesn't get there a lot of the time.
It's an idiotic tactic Bruce used previously at Hull. Goalkeeper boots the ball up to Elmo to head on. After 3 or 4 consecutive attempts, Johnstone obviously took it upon himself not to bother with the foolish nonsense. No doubt Bodger Bruce will have him practicing it all week at Bodymoor Heath.
Overall I've been very impressed with Johnstone's kicking both in terms of distance and accuracy.
The tactic makes a lot of sense if you've got hogan up front
-
I do wish we would stop hitting every goal kick in his direction especially as Johnstone's kicking isn't exactly accurate and doesn't get there a lot of the time.
It's an idiotic tactic Bruce used previously at Hull. Goalkeeper boots the ball up to Elmo to head on. After 3 or 4 consecutive attempts, Johnstone obviously took it upon himself not to bother with the foolish nonsense. No doubt Bodger Bruce will have him practicing it all week at Bodymoor Heath.
Overall I've been very impressed with Johnstone's kicking both in terms of distance and accuracy.
Have to disagree with the last bit I'm afraid. I think Johnstone looks a better keeper in many aspects than last season already, but his kicking still leaves a lot to be desired in terms of accuracy. I hope to see that tactic stopped to be honest as it is so easy to counteract by putting someone in front of Elmohamady any way.
-
Hopeless tonight I thought.
-
Not just tonight. Every match he has played in so far.
-
My Hull mate said he was poor last season and looked disinterested. Ditto for us. Snodgrass to play on the right?
-
Utter waste of space and time. I'd rather see Adomah playing any day of the week.
No doubt he will be undroppable as he is obviously a Bruce favourite.
-
His crossing tonight was a proper atrocity to mankind.
-
Can't fucking cross and yet its his special ability. Useless.
-
Huttonesque crossing tonight.
-
He was utter shit, not even close to Adomah ability
-
He stunk the house out tonight that's for sure.
We'll go nowhere whilst we continue to sign these players looking for one last pay cheque before retirement (Elomohamady, Whelan, Terry etc).
-
Just such an underwhelming option for me as the most attacking outlet on the right, he just strikes me as a right back playing out of position.
Bit like when we used to play De La Cruz or even Milner there, yes they'll run up and down the line but we actually need some quality and goal threat.
Snodgrass will fit that bill nicely.
-
He was utter shit, not even close to Adomah ability
I Want Albert in the team!
-
Poor tonight I thought. Very ordinary crosses and often fails to cover his defender. I want so much more from him. He's more than capable of delivering.
-
As many have said, what does he bring except the flick on goal keeper punt, no pace to get past the defender and crap crossing.
He runs around a lot but that's it
Steve Bruce type of player all right.
-
Had a poor one tonight and should have made way for Adomah in the second half.
-
Just such an underwhelming option for me as the most attacking outlet on the right, he just strikes me as a right back playing out of position.
I'd say that right wing-back is his ideal position. He's not a right-back, nor a midfielder, nor a winger.
But nor should the team in a million years be arranged to accommodate a fairly incidental player at right wing-back and better players suffer because of it.
-
Everything we did well going forward ended if it ended up with him. Fucking diabolical.
-
Taxi!
-
Snodgrass will take that position I imagine?
-
I've only seen a few games, but I have to say that Albert offers us better quality than him.
-
Adomah, as limited as he is, is streets ahead of this guy.
-
Adomah, as limited as he is, is streets ahead of this guy.
Both lack pace to be really dangerous,Adomah has a bit better deliverey.
-
Adomah, as limited as he is, is streets ahead of this guy.
Both lack pace to be really dangerous,Adomah has a bit better deliverey.
Adomah is dangerous though, he has bucketloads of assists at this level and lays more goals on for us than most. I don't think Elmo is bad either. Snodgrass is better than both of them but think Bruce will play him behind the striker.
-
Adomah, as limited as he is, is streets ahead of this guy.
Both lack pace to be really dangerous,Adomah has a bit better deliverey.
Adomah is dangerous though, he has bucketloads of assists at this level and lays more goals on for us than most. I don't think Elmo is bad either. Snodgrass is better than both of them but think Bruce will play him behind the striker.
You'd have to drop Onomah or Hourihane to do that though. Hard to do that at the moment at least. I'd play Snoddy right ahead of Elmo
-
can we get rid of him before the transfer window ends . I don't see the point of him while we have Snodgrass and Albert , who is a better player than him and no point having him as a RB with De laet , Bree and Hutton here .
Id be really happy to see Elmo , Hutton , Richards and Agbonlahor gone to be honest.
-
Jesus Christ.
-
Jesus Christ.
is he on our books too :) thought McGrath had retired
-
Snodgrass has been complaining about being played at left wing at Wet Spam so I think he will play behind the strikers so Elmo is safe.
-
Snodgrass is certainly a wide player from what I've seen, he played there at Hull and Norwich.
-
Snodgrass has been complaining about being played at left wing at Wet Spam so I think he will play behind the strikers so Elmo is safe.
Snodgrass: I left West Ham because I want to play on the right or behind the striker
Conclusion: current right winger will remain in the team
🤔
-
Bloody amazing, really. We have Adomah: someone who is limited but gets the ball into scores.
We then sign Elmo who has an assist record.
We have Green, who is benefitting from being in the first team and will get better.
So Snoddy - WHY?
-
We have a bloated squad and so bringing in an expensive loanee really seems to be a 'smart move'.
NOT
-
Bloody amazing, really. We have Adomah: someone who is limited but gets the ball into scores.
We then sign Elmo who has an assist record.
We have Green, who is benefitting from being in the first team and will get better.
So Snoddy - WHY?
If he's going to play on the left then I can see the logic, as we could do with an option out there really. Whether he is the right option I'm not sure, as we could really do with pacy options out wide. I just worry that this signing signifies more tinkering with the formation in the weeks ahead.
-
I'd rather we stuck with Green on the left, its better for us and his development. He pops up in some excellent positions and I think he will get double figures if he plays the games.
-
So do I.
I imagine that even SB will keep Green out on the left, with Snodgrass playing the no. 10 (c. P Lambert) role.
-
So do I.
I imagine that even SB will keep Green out on the left, with Snodgrass playing the no. 10 (c. P Lambert) role.
so, where will Onomah play?
I'm confused!
-
So do I.
I imagine that even SB will keep Green out on the left, with Snodgrass playing the no. 10 (c. P Lambert) role.
so, where will Onomah play?
I'm confused!
This is where I am stuck as well, we have a few Snodgrass's already - Onomah adds something new to the starting 11 ( a box to box player) - As for Elmo he is our best option wide right - better than Adomah - he has a touch of pace and can cross.
Can see Whelan's place at danger unless he ups it, as Bruce will view each and every player much the way we view him, only Bruce can do something about it each and every game.
-
This bloke is a complete and utter waste of fucking time, but appears to be undroppable.
When Bruce is fucked off, hopefully 'Elmo' will follow shortly aftwards.
'Elmo'? Fucking 'Elmo'?
More like Kermit the fucking frog.
-
He certainly isn't a left winger!
-
Boring selection.
Boring player.
-
He is shit. Shit in everything he does. The worst player I have seen in a Villa shirt ....ever. There I have said it.
-
He is shit. Shit in everything he does. The worst player I have seen in a Villa shirt ....ever. There I have said it.
Blimey, that's quite a claim.
We've had a few .... so depressing I can't even bring myself to name a few challengers.
-
Not the worst player ever but I never get the feeling he's going to do anything on the pitch, create or score. Wasn't he the sort of player who put in loads of crosses at his previous clubs?
If we have to have him in the team I'd put him at RB. Might not be great there but surely if we want to be on the front foot it makes more sense than him wasting an attacking spot.
3 year deal wasn't it PWS? We can see where this signing is going.
-
A nothing player. I hope Snodgrass is some use, because Elmo certainly isn't.
-
How he can play over Adomah is disgusting
-
I'd definitely have Adomah in the squad ahead of him
-
I'd definitely have Adomah in the squad ahead of him
How many assists did Adomah get last season, into double figures wasn't it?
-
Poor player who hopefully Bruce will take with him when he fecks off out of here, and to think I had to listen on the coach on the way home from Bristol how good he is and better than any other Villa players, dear me
-
Good to see a lot of people now seeing the player I suspected we were getting. Some of the comments on this thread after the germany tournament were massively over the top. What we bought was a guy who was passable cover for right back and right mid and acceptable as a right wing back. Adomah is a better player with a far better record (even if he is also fairly limited at times) but Elmo gives him the option to smack long balls out to the wing so he plays regularly.
-
The three pricks behind me were slagging Elmo today when there was no one within a mile of him trying to support or make a run.
I just couldn't help myself. I asked the bloke what the fuck he was supposed to do when none of his team mates offered any help.
He said he should "run and take everyone on".
OK, brilliant.
Don't get me wrong, he's a bang average player, but playing in a side set up to defend, and defend deep, he had no chance.
-
I did he assume he'd been bought to play wing back and not that he'd be ever present on the right wing
-
He's not as good as Albert end of but might be worth trying at right back as suggested earlier.
-
Fucking crap, Bruces illegitimate son can fuck off. He's absolutely shit, waste of money, waste of wages, has nothing going for him apart from he knows Potato.
-
Thought he was misused. Won everything in the air and cleary had the beating in a foot race with his full back. But would prefer AA given his form last year
-
I did he assume he'd been bought to play wing back and not that he'd be ever present on the right wing
Yup, three at the back with wing backs. That lasted what, one game? Bodger Bruce and his square peg in a round hole approach to football strikes again.
-
His game changed yesterday instead of trying to move the ball forward he was attempting to hit the ball forward and twice from really good balls from Terry he struggled to control the damm thing in a wide forward position on the right when he could have done some damage.
All in all going backwards rather than forwards with his displays.
-
I did he assume he'd been bought to play wing back and not that he'd be ever present on the right wing
Yup, three at the back with wing backs. That lasted what, one game? Bodger Bruce and his square peg in a round hole approach to football strikes again.
That Bruce has no settled idea of his favourite style of play or formation is one of the biggest indictments. How can the players know what they're supposed to be doing if the manager doesn't?
-
Elmohamady - simply not good enough
-
Should have scored from Green's cross early in the second half but slipped as it came in - a bit unlucky. The pen was a 50/50 shout.
-
Should have scored from Green's cross early in the second half but slipped as it came in - a bit unlucky. The pen was a 50/50 shout.
He should have scored, shocking attempt, it was never a pen. We might see a more improved player when JK is fit and firing.
-
The last two performances have been poor. I wish Bruce would stop instructing Johnstone to kick every ball in his general direction. It is such a poor tactic.
-
Although Dean 'Tiki-taka' Smith used precisely the same tactic with his right winger against Neil Taylor until the wide man went off with an injury before the break. In the eyes of some, one is a football Neanderthal while the other is the epitome of modern, enlightened football, yet in this instance they used the same approach.
-
He looks like Hutton with a decent cross. Though he will probably still start ahead of Albert Saturday.
-
I haven't seen much of him but I noticed he came in for a load of stick on the Norwich threads despite having a decent game. Is he officially the new whipping boy in the absence of Grealish, I'm struggling to keep up, we have so many candidates. I propose Lansbury.
-
I haven't seen much of him but I noticed he came in for a load of stick on the Norwich threads despite having a decent game. Is he officially the new whipping boy in the absence of Grealish, I'm struggling to keep up, we have so many candidates. I propose Lansbury.
He's been sound in the last two games, despite playing in about 14 positions across the two games. That isn't easy in itself, better players would struggle. I quite like him.
Lansbury however is fully deserved, the plodding shitehawk.
-
He looked half decent at full back. Far more involved.
-
I haven't seen much of him but I noticed he came in for a load of stick on the Norwich threads despite having a decent game. Is he officially the new whipping boy in the absence of Grealish, I'm struggling to keep up, we have so many candidates. I propose Lansbury.
He's been sound in the last two games, despite playing in about 14 positions across the two games. That isn't easy in itself, better players would struggle. I quite like him.
Lansbury however is fully deserved, the plodding shitehawk.
Elmohamady was OK at right back. I thought Lansbury was arguably our best player in the first half, he seemed to be the only player who wanted to pass it forwards.
-
Thought he was o.k last night. If he has to start it needs to be RB and not further forward.
-
Beautiful cross for the goal.
-
Made the second as well great pass forward to davies
-
No issue with him at RB.
-
No issue with him at RB.
Agreed. An right back with a decent cross and an instinct to get forward is fine with me.
He just shouldn't be one of our three most attacking players like he has been in previous matches.
-
No issue with him at RB.
Agreed. An right back with a decent cross and an instinct to get forward is fine with me.
He just shouldn't be one of our three most attacking players like he has been in previous matches.
He scares the shit out of me at right back. He's completely reckless in that he has no positional sense, leaves asteroid size holes down our right side when he decides he'd rather play on the wing. Watching him jog back numerous times today had me screaming. If it had been anybody else he'd have been hung. For me, he's the weak link in our back for and we'll be punished sooner rather than later for his lack of intelligence, as technically he's a more than decent player.
Great cross for the third goal today though.
-
No issue with him at RB.
Agreed. An right back with a decent cross and an instinct to get forward is fine with me.
He just shouldn't be one of our three most attacking players like he has been in previous matches.
He scares the shit out of me at right back. He's completely reckless in that he has no positional sense, leaves asteroid size holes down our right side when he decides he'd rather play on the wing. Watching him jog back numerous times today had me screaming. If it had been anybody else he'd have been hung. For me, he's the weak link in our back for and we'll be punished sooner rather than later for his lack of intelligence, as technically he's a more than decent player.
Great cross for the third goal today though.
I love Hutton's input but I can't remember ever saying
"Great cross for the third goal today though."
So fair play Elmo
-
No issue with him at RB.
Agreed. An right back with a decent cross and an instinct to get forward is fine with me.
He just shouldn't be one of our three most attacking players like he has been in previous matches.
He scares the shit out of me at right back. He's completely reckless in that he has no positional sense, leaves asteroid size holes down our right side when he decides he'd rather play on the wing. Watching him jog back numerous times today had me screaming. If it had been anybody else he'd have been hung. For me, he's the weak link in our back for and we'll be punished sooner rather than later for his lack of intelligence, as technically he's a more than decent player.
Great cross for the third goal today though.
A completely unnecessary signing.
-
No issue with him at RB.
Agreed. An right back with a decent cross and an instinct to get forward is fine with me.
He just shouldn't be one of our three most attacking players like he has been in previous matches.
He scares the shit out of me at right back. He's completely reckless in that he has no positional sense, leaves asteroid size holes down our right side when he decides he'd rather play on the wing. Watching him jog back numerous times today had me screaming. If it had been anybody else he'd have been hung. For me, he's the weak link in our back for and we'll be punished sooner rather than later for his lack of intelligence, as technically he's a more than decent player.
Great cross for the third goal today though.
A completely unnecessary signing.
Maybe, maybe not, let's see how the season evolves., he's quite versatile, inmho
-
Elmo or Bacuna?
Elmo for me.
-
Elmo or Bacuna?
Elmo for me.
No contest Elmo is light years ahead
-
No issue with him at RB.
Agreed. An right back with a decent cross and an instinct to get forward is fine with me.
He just shouldn't be one of our three most attacking players like he has been in previous matches.
He scares the shit out of me at right back. He's completely reckless in that he has no positional sense, leaves asteroid size holes down our right side when he decides he'd rather play on the wing. Watching him jog back numerous times today had me screaming. If it had been anybody else he'd have been hung. For me, he's the weak link in our back for and we'll be punished sooner rather than later for his lack of intelligence, as technically he's a more than decent player.
Great cross for the third goal today though.
A completely unnecessary signing.
If he's going to play RB then I agree, as it means we have three other RBs who are either sitting on the bench or in the stands. I don't think he's far enough ahead of those three in ability to suggest he is needed.
That said, I think Bruce signed him to play on the wing first and foremost.
-
He brought him in because he knows him well, he trusts him and knows he can do a job and while we probably didn't need him now Snodgrass is here, I can understand why he wanted him. He's been ok-ish so far.
-
He brought him in because he knows him well, he trusts him and knows he can do a job and while we probably didn't need him now Snodgrass is here, I can understand why he wanted him. He's been ok-ish so far.
On the last two displays he's probably the best right back we have, which doesn't say much for De Laet or Bree.
-
As a measure
Hutton - he is better in all areas than "Cafu"
Bree - mistake ridden and not convinced by him - although still very young
DeLaet - The most accomplished defender but has turned into the invisible man
Richards - Good God - I would rather play with 10 men
So unless we can dispel the myth that is RDL and he starts to play - there is no one better for that position
-
As a measure
Hutton - he is better in all areas than "Cafu"
Bree - mistake ridden and not convinced by him - although still very young
DeLaet - The most accomplished defender but has turned into the invisible man
Richards - Good God - I would rather play with 10 men
So unless we can dispel the myth that is RDL and he starts to play - there is no one better for that position
Which means we have potentially got three players in one position sitting in the stand. Considering the kind of money Richards, Hutton and De Laet are on, that is a ridiculous place for a second tier side to be in.
-
He brought him in because he knows him well, he trusts him and knows he can do a job and while we probably didn't need him now Snodgrass is here, I can understand why he wanted him. He's been ok-ish so far.
On the last two displays he's probably the best right back we have, which doesn't say much for De Laet or Bree.
The De Laet you have hardly seen play?
-
I thought Elmo was good against Boro when moved to centre midfield.
-
Is RDL fully fit yet? He hasn't played a full 90 minutes since coming back from his injury (as far as I'm aware), and I remember Bruce saying that it's best to make sure he takes his time to fully recover rather than rush him back into the team. The good news for us is that both Elmo and RDL are quite versatile and can play in several positions when called upon.
-
Elmo play is only ok and in some ways as a trustee Bruce soldier he seems to be shoe horned in and kept on due to versitility.
Pleased for him he scored but with RDL , Bree and Hutton I don't see totally why he always get a kind of preference.
He quite steady and know what you get so maybe answering own question but I do feel he's way more favoured than some due to Bruce and maybe now new owners Egyptian love affair will continue
-
Elmo or Bacuna?
Elmo for me.
Saturday could be a head to head.
I do like Elmo but feel he needs to be now a back up in the attacking sense what with the players coming in who are genuine wing players with skills and pace.
Bruce will likely keep him involved Saturday but by all means have him rested and give El ghazi the start.
I think Bruce will find a way to have Elmo in and bacuna should be playing in middle again for reading but I go with Elmo in the debate
-
Well done Elmo . 2 goals in league already !
He's playing the wide advanced forward role when he's scored these
I do wonder if Green was in that role as wide right then would we have been further ahead in matches and scored more goals. Even having Bjarnasson or Grealish in one of the
wide attacking roles.
With elmo his versatility and his familiariity to bruce makes him an assest that's dependable if not spectacular.
With Bruce as manager he likes these types along with the Huttons and Chesters.
Elmo has a cross on him but it's not considered consistent however he has also assisted goal this season
I think having brought in others Elmo should be given a role at right back and come forward to advance though I would like to see Bree or RDL in this RB role as I think both are pacey
Frustratingly it's neither getting in a look in league wise.
Back to Elmo I would have him not as a wide forward with the other players villa have .
-
I do wonder if Green was in that role as wide right then would we have been further ahead in matches and scored more goals. Even having Bjarnasson or Grealish in one of the
wide attacking roles.
To answer your points - Green no. The lad isn't ready. I'm not going to write him off but he's been very poor this season and needs to go on a season's loan somewhere down the league.
As for Bjarnason, Bruce tried him in an attacking position on the left last season, and to say it wasn't a huge success is a massive understatement. In any case, we now have Adomah, El Ghazi and Bolasie fighting for three spots, so not sure why you'd need to play the players you mention out of position.
-
I do wonder if Green was in that role as wide right then would we have been further ahead in matches and scored more goals. Even having Bjarnasson or Grealish in one of the
wide attacking roles.
To answer your points - Green no. The lad isn't ready. I'm not going to write him off but he's been very poor this season and needs to go on a season's loan somewhere down the league.
As for Bjarnason, Bruce tried him in an attacking position on the left last season, and to say it wasn't a huge success is a massive understatement. In any case, we now have Adomah, El Ghazi and Bolasie fighting for three spots, so not sure why you'd need to play the players you mention out of position.
Oh I sorry I mean I mention before this with ideas before thinking about new signings more of a comment of what's happened so far .
I actually set up a thread about tactics as was thinking about the effectiveness of our wide players and full backs.
Also if Bruce understand what it like to be a full back in 2018
That wingers aren't so common or simply they are wide forwards was a mention on motd or sky over weekend I think.
Because allot of full backs from Alonso to Monreal bellerin , trippier, Robertson , Alex Arnold are offering a major attacking threat with anount they get forward and assist.
Okay it's not Liverpool or Arsenal full backs we have but the idea is still good
Hutton and Tuanzebe ?? Aren't offering what we need from a modern day full back.
But Bruce has brought in two wise players to do the attacking so hopefully works out but likes of Elmo can be a support in the new players attacking forrays.
-
Elmo as a right back is perfectly fine, and given his ability to play forward, gives us a nice balance.
-
In Elmo and RDL we have 2 of the best right backs in the league, and neither of them are playing there.
-
total madness - Bruce's inability to play people in their rightful positions is going to fuck us us and ultimately him.
-
I'm convinced that the long term plan is for Elmo to play RB and Axel to move into the centre. Bruce is just trying to give Axel game time to bring him up to speed with the Championship. We are then going to see a settled back 4 of Elmo, Axel, Chester Hutton.
-
I'm convinced that the long term plan is for Elmo to play RB and Axel to move into the centre. Bruce is just trying to give Axel game time to bring him up to speed with the Championship. We are then going to see a settled back 4 of Elmo, Axel, Chester Hutton.
I think you’re right, with Bolasie playing wide right.
-
Yep I agree
Although with axel playing in midfield the other night I did start to worry that we might be wrong. Why not give him more game time at CB if thats the plan
-
I'm convinced that the long term plan is for Elmo to play RB and Axel to move into the centre. Bruce is just trying to give Axel game time to bring him up to speed with the Championship. We are then going to see a settled back 4 of Elmo, Axel, Chester Hutton.
No way Hutton will start once we land a left back (fingers crossed)
-
I'm convinced that the long term plan is for Elmo to play RB and Axel to move into the centre. Bruce is just trying to give Axel game time to bring him up to speed with the Championship. We are then going to see a settled back 4 of Elmo, Axel, Chester Hutton.
I think you’re right, with Bolasie playing wide right.
Having wingers like Bolasie kind of negates the need for attacking full-backs really. With out and out wingers in the side, full-backs revert to a more traditional supporting role as opposed to the more modern onus on overlapping and getting forward. I agree that Elmohamady is fine for where we currently find ourselves, but have a nagging feeling that Bruce will continue playing Tuanzebe there.
-
I'm convinced that the long term plan is for Elmo to play RB and Axel to move into the centre. Bruce is just trying to give Axel game time to bring him up to speed with the Championship. We are then going to see a settled back 4 of Elmo, Axel, Chester Hutton.
I think you’re right, with Bolasie playing wide right.
Having wingers like Bolasie kind of negates the need for attacking full-backs really. With out and out wingers in the side, full-backs revert to a more traditional supporting role as opposed to the more modern onus on overlapping and getting forward. I agree that Elmohamady is fine for where we currently find ourselves, but have a nagging feeling that Bruce will continue playing Tuanzebe there.
Only if you're playing 2 up front. With 1 striker the wingers need to get into the box more so the fullbacks need to get forward to stop us getting too narrow.
-
I'm convinced that the long term plan is for Elmo to play RB and Axel to move into the centre. Bruce is just trying to give Axel game time to bring him up to speed with the Championship. We are then going to see a settled back 4 of Elmo, Axel, Chester Hutton.
I think you’re right, with Bolasie playing wide right.
Having wingers like Bolasie kind of negates the need for attacking full-backs really. With out and out wingers in the side, full-backs revert to a more traditional supporting role as opposed to the more modern onus on overlapping and getting forward. I agree that Elmohamady is fine for where we currently find ourselves, but have a nagging feeling that Bruce will continue playing Tuanzebe there.
Only if you're playing 2 up front. With 1 striker the wingers need to get into the box more so the fullbacks need to get forward to stop us getting too narrow.
If the wingers tuck in or are on their 'wrong' side (i.e. Snodgrass last season) then I agree that full-back would still be required to get forward and overlap. If Bolasie stays wide though, there won't be as much of a need for the right-back behind him to get forward as much. Therefore, I could see Bruce possibly sticking with Tuanzebe there (I wouldn't) to provide a bit of extra height and physicality.
-
Yeah this was how Fulham differed to us - well one way!
The wingers played high and narrow a lot more and the full backs pushed on. Leaves the striker with more support and gives more space to the attacking midfielders
-
Is elmo going to continue his goal from his attacking position
Reliable and dependable to Bruce I would like others given opportunity ahead of him
But against Sheffield United I imagine getting him on pitch from start will be a given
-
I feel he may have more been rested rather than dropped and be back v Preston
-
Fair play to Elmo on Saturday offering good crossing and delivering .
I think he has his limitations but has provided a decent assist and sometimes even a goal threat.
However moving forward feel there are others who should be in ahead of him but on his performance and what contribution so far I think he close to a first choice even under new manager
-
Love his new song, fair play to the lads in Dr Brown’s on Saturday for their persistence.
-
He's Egyptian!
He cost us less than a million!
We think he's fucking brilliant!
Elmohaaaaaamady
To the tune of She's Electric.
-
Has this player EVER let us down? I can't think of any game he's been less than a seven. We looked better after Taylor went off and he came on, that Leicester player was in Elmo's pocket.
-
I've always liked him and no, he's not really let us down. He's been a very decent signing for the money.
-
He's always solid and does a good job but only at fullback for me, I hate seeing him on the wing.
I never wanted him though but that was always a squad balance thing more than anything else, I've probably slagged him off at some point in this thread but that was always more to do with him coming in when we had 3 right backs in the squad and thinking he's not massively better than 2 of them (in Hutton and RDL) and was just about to turn 30.
-
I thought he did an even better job against Harvey Barnes than Hutton did. I'd be quite happy seeing those two as our full backs for the rest of the season, unless of course we bring in another left back.
-
Me too
He always overlaps so well. Crucial for the el ghazi goal
-
Poor today. Unforced error with the header that led to the penalty.
-
Yeah, not his best. Crossing was too flat aswell.
-
Bumping this as have to say Elmo has been a super asset to the system and the 8 wins achieved.
What I most like is how he's being more thoughtful with his delivery and that pull back midweek to Grealish was great footy awareness.
I hold my hands up on Elmo as thought he was way out of it and have to say never really rated him for a first choice role.
So I didn't see that.
What I think is he's been beneficial after his appearance when he messed up and gave naive penalty away. Tackling isn't his strength and even last week being exposed for the sheff wed goal but with Smith system as a right back Elmo is being effective.
He's able to get up and down and I always saw him as a decent wing back or winger but not a right back .
The beauty the way Smith plays his football makes Elmo a very effective player.
Especially away from home think he adds a lot .
Well played Elmo
-
Agreed. His best game ever for us today.
-
Superb performance by Elmo today.
-
Echo echo
-
Fair play to the Egyptian Cafu. Has been really good in recent weeks, so much more of a threat in the attacking third and has improved defensively after a dodgy spell earlier in the season.
-
The nutmeg of their sub Palmer near the end of the game was class!
-
To be fair Elmo and Taylor have come into their own in recent weeks and that is down to good management
-
He was an absolute liability over Christmas when he seemed to be making multiple mistakes every game but now he’s the absolute perfect balance of an attacking full back for this system. That nutmeg was just joyous.
-
He was an absolute liability over Christmas when he seemed to be making multiple mistakes every game but now he’s the absolute perfect balance of an attacking full back for this system. That nutmeg was just joyous.
In my mind, no nutmeg is complete without the phrase "megs you c**t" thrown at the already humilated opponent.
-
He and Taylor had excellent games for us yesterday
-
He's generally done well at RB for us aside from that 2-3 games over xmas when he really struggled v Stoke and then that Leeds kid took the mick out of him.
Good thing is DS has stopped played him at right midfield which the previous manager liked to do.
Would keep him around next season as think he still has year left on his deal.
-
Good solid pro, wasn't too happy when Bruce signed him given our surplus of right backs but hasn't let us down too often. Sets up a fair amount of goals and a decent defender. Showed good character to come back from that horrible spell of form.
-
I thought he'd been poor for us when played this season compared to last but recently he's really raised his game. Over Christmas he couldn't cross the road, nevermind cross a ball, which justified dropping him as not only is it his greatest strength, I'd say he's the best crosser in the squad and when on form really provides the attack with quality service. A joy to watch.
-
I thought he'd been poor for us when played this season compared to last but recently he's really raised his game. Over Christmas he couldn't cross the road, nevermind cross a ball, which justified dropping him as not only is it his greatest strength, I'd say he's the best crosser in the squad and when on form really provides the attack with quality service. A joy to watch.
Until he came back in to cover the Hutton injury I think he was a fair shout for our worst player of the season. To go from the nervy defending and toothless attack we were seeing at Christmas to his performances in the last week or so is a huge turnaround and he deserves a lot of credit for it.
-
I've always been a fan of Elmo's. He has almost always given steady performances of 7 out of 10.
He had that blip around December where he was a walking disaster and lost his place. However, with Hutton's injury, the door opened back up for him and he's taken his opportunity.
Currently, he is possibly playing the best football of his Villa career.
-
In his entire Villa career i think he's had a handful of less than 5/10 games for us. He's pretty much a constant 6/10 player with the odd 7-8/10
He always got more stick than was warranted (ditto Taylor) but there you go.
To think Hutton played RB ahead of him for so long ... AARRGGH
-
And how for much of his time here, his primary role has been that of flicker-onner of goal kicks.
-
And how for much of his time here, his primary role has been that of flicker-onner of goal kicks.
I remember reading about that 'tactic' on a Hull site and thinking they're taking the piss.
-
Despite having that good heading ability, he is normally the player left back for corners which I've always found very strange.
-
Captained and scored the winner for Egypt the other day. He could be celebrating again next month as Egypt are favourites at home to win the Cup of Nations. I think Kodjia is in the Ivory Coast squad.
-
Yep Kodj is in, they are our only two
https://www.africanews.com/2019/06/13/here-are-the-final-africa-cup-of-nations-squads/
-
Captained and scored the winner for Egypt the other day. He could be celebrating again next month as Egypt are favourites at home to win the Cup of Nations. I think Kodjia is in the Ivory Coast squad.
Good to see he's back in favour. I watched all three of Egypt's matches at WC and didn't even realise he was in their squad until someone mentioned it on here after the tournament!
Think Senegal will win ACON but Egypt have had a great record in last 15 years in the competition.
-
Egypt have a bizarrely great record in that competition considering they never do anything at World Cups, they usually don't even qualify.
-
Egypt have a bizarrely great record in that competition considering they never do anything at World Cups, they usually don't even qualify.
They've got a Pharaoh chace this time.
-
You’re talking out of your Sphinxter Lee
-
You’re talking out of your Sphinxter Lee
You're in de-Nile.
-
You’re talking out of your Sphinxter Lee
You're in de-Nile.
You have the Luxor-ry of hindsight though.
-
Tut tut to the punathon, but you have to admit that Egypt are quite low down on the football pyramid. Still, Elmo's a bit of a Giza, so good luck to him.
-
Yep Kodj is in, they are our only two
https://www.africanews.com/2019/06/13/here-are-the-final-africa-cup-of-nations-squads/
Need an Afcon thread really, but fairly remarkably my 2nd nation Uganda beat I Coast 1-0 with a pen in a warm up friendly, Kodj booked in stoppage time, they even brought on Zaha & Bony in 77th min and still lost.
-
The best team in Uganda are called Villa. Great bunch of lads.
-
The best team in Uganda are called Villa. Great bunch of lads.
I’ve been to see them play, have a couple of shirts. Took a villa penant to their Villa Park (training ground) basically a bit of land by a railway track in Kampala.
-
The best team in Uganda are called Villa. Great bunch of lads.
I’ve been to see them play, have a couple of shirts. Took a villa penant to their Villa Park (training ground) basically a bit of land by a railway track in Kampala.
Bit of land by a railway track? Sounds like The Sty.
-
"Take a bow, Elmo"
https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1143991480392060928
-
Great goal. We should not be worried about lack of forwards.
Anyway I presume due to still actively playing this late in the season he will not be ready to start the season with us?
-
Nice finish Elmo.
-
Some touch from one foot to another in a crowded box and a corker of a finish
-
Bolasie looks exactly the player he was for us. Flashes of brilliance, outstanding crosses, and then long periods of forgetting he’s a footballer.
-
GO ELMO! Another goal for Egypt against Uganda tonight. 2-0 win.
-
I like Elmo, and think he will do OK this season. Certainly deserves a go anyway.
-
I like Elmo, and think he will do OK this season. Certainly deserves a go anyway.
Agree and good thing is it’s not Elmo or Hutton, as Freddie can come in for those games where you know he’s going to struggle
-
He could yet be the Golden Boot winner at the AFCON so we could cash-in and sell him as an auxiliary striker to ManUre or some other dumb cnuts with more money than nous.
-
https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1164484995421020160
"We are delighted to announce that @Elmo_27 has signed a one-year contract extension with the club. ✍️
Details 👉 http://bit.ly/2MvptSI
#PL #AVFC https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1164484995421020160/photo/1"
-
This has to be good news. He's been a decent servant to us and if DS rates him highly enough to tie him down then that's fine by me.
-
So was he at the very end of his existing contract? Strange they've left it so late if so.
-
Solid if extremely unspectacular player. No issues with an extension, though I'd be worried if he started many games for us this season (and following, obviously).
-
Great News!
Deserves the deal. After the rumours of Bruce wanting him which I believe an approach was made, DS and the club obviously feel the deal is necessary!
-
He impressed me with his performances in the African Nations Cup in the summer. He worked hard defensively and also attacked well.
-
Fair play - good team man who rarely lets us down
Although whether he should remain as 1st choice is debatable
-
Ahmed ElMohammedy is a credit to this club so a very deserved extension to his contract.
-
I know a few people called out the signing at the time but he's been a decent solid player for what we paid. Happy to still have him around.
-
I broke off to read War and Peace.
-
I broke off to read War and Peace.
:D
-
@ Vill I An / footyskillz - I want to read your posts but they are too long. Please condense or make your posts shorter as some of us don’t have the attention span, time or simply can’t be arsed to read such long posts.
-
I must admit I wasn't exactly excited by his arrival last night, but fk me, what a ball! He's been an instrumental part in getting us to Wembley for three years on the trot. Take a bow, our very own Mr. Dependable.
-
I must admit I wasn't exactly excited by his arrival last night, but fk me, what a ball! He's been an instrumental part in getting us to Wembley for three years on the trot. Take a bow, our very own Mr. Dependable.
I'm glad you've brought this up because I was going to. The reaction to his arrival was mixed but he's been a good signing for what we paid for him and sometimes deserves a bit more credit than he gets.
-
I must admit I wasn't exactly excited by his arrival last night, but fk me, what a ball! He's been an instrumental part in getting us to Wembley for three years on the trot. Take a bow, our very own Mr. Dependable.
I'm glad you've brought this up because I was going to. The reaction to his arrival was mixed but he's been a good signing for what we paid for him and sometimes deserves a bit more credit than he gets.
Always had a good cross on him. Usually better than the wingers we’ve signed.
-
Interesting stats Vil I An - cheers!
-
If Kevin de Bruyne had played that pass Sky would have been pleasuring themselves still over it but as it was just little Aston Villa it was just a good cross
-
Is he out of contract in the summer ?If so,it would be worth offering him a 2 year extension.He's 32.
-
He may have his limitations but for what we paid for him and what he's done in his time with us he's been a very good player. Always gives his best which is as much as you can ask.
-
Is he out of contract in the summer ?If so,it would be worth offering him a 2 year extension.He's 32.
Signed a one year extension in the summer that takes him through to 2021.
-
I think he's another player whose game is suited having the three central defenders. His defending in a flat back 4 is the weakest part of his game, so the extra defender lets him do what's he's better at. He's not as good as Guilbert, but a perfectly decent replacement for where we are at the moment.
-
He's like all of our other full backs, better as wing backs and that's why this formation works well.
-
I think Guillebert is better as a defender....
-
@ Vill I An / footyskillz - I want to read your posts but they are too long. Please condense or make your posts shorter as some of us don’t have the attention span, time or simply can’t be arsed to read such long posts.
yeah definitely good stats mate, but I agree with KRS, can you make them a bit shorter please?
-
That ball for Trez's goal was simply world class if Messi or Ronaldo played a pass like that the Sky people would be creaming there pants.
-
It’s better as well because it’s no fluke, he’s just delivered a perfect cross in a crucial moment of a massive game for us, like in the play off final.
-
"My best times have been with Villa" Elmohamady reflects on ten years in England
What makes Aston Villa special?
Aston Villa is one of the greatest clubs here in England and worldwide. The fans and atmosphere in Villa Park is awesome. I am pleased to be here and I’ve spent the best times of my ten years in England with Villa.
https://www.avfc.co.uk/News/2020/03/26/ahmed-elmohamady-ten-years
For the full interview.
Well played Elmo
-
Thanks, Elmo - but he's hardly going to say otherwise to the official site.
-
During the Cup final I didn't like the way he kept swearing at the ref and trying to win free kicks by overreacting to challenges and fouling quite a bit, himself. It was a bit Blose...
-
Well played Elmo always performs when Bruce is by touchline !
Guilbert wouldn't have had that gumption and he's excelling far more than Trezeguet as the best Egyptian at the club!
-
In the Kingdom of the Blind.....
-
Another quality Championship player. We have way too many of them.
-
Another quality Championship player. We have way too many of them.
A great pro though. An unpopular signing at the time (we already had a car full of right backs) but one of Bruce's better ones.
-
Another quality Championship player. We have way too many of them.
A great pro though. An unpopular signing at the time (we already had a car full of right backs) but one of Bruce's better ones.
Yep. I didn't want him at the time but he's more than proved his worth here. Seems a no brainer to me to give him another 12 months if we go down as he seems settled here.
-
I’d be starting him. At this stage I think he has that bit of Premier League experience/nous we need.
-
I’d be starting him. At this stage I think he has that bit of Premier League experience/nous we need.
And he can cross.
-
Absolutely MUST play on Thursday.
Our shape looks so much better when he’s in and, for me, he offers much more quality going forward than Konsa. It’s far more natural for him playing in his standard position.
-
Rarely lets us down when he plays. Don't really understand why he hasn't been in since restart tbh.
-
Rarely lets us down when he plays. Don't really understand why he hasn't been in since restart tbh.
Agreed. Guilbert I get. He was injured. But from Newcastle on after he scored he should have been starting. It’s not hard to see we have so much more balance with a proper RB/RWB than a CB playing out of position.
-
We looked much better with him in the side , a right back at right back
-
I’m a bit like Steve Bruce on Elmo, he’d get in most games.
-
Love Elmo, as said above never lets us down when he’s called upon. Things flow properly on that side when he plays and he guarantees a few great crosses a game.
-
For how little he cost us he's been a great signing.
-
I'd give him another 12 months regardless of what happens. We'll certainly need him in the championship with the extra games anyway.
-
A warrior for us.
-
I'd give him another 12 months regardless of what happens. We'll certainly need him in the championship with the extra games anyway.
I agree, he knows that league and will be useful to us.
-
Has to stay in the team. Likewise Hourihane.
-
Agree with everything that has been said about Elmo, top bloke rarely lets us down, true professional never hear him moaning, when he's not in the side. Just looked him up on Wiki, didn't know he's got 91 caps for Egypt, that is very impressive, has to start on Thursday.
-
Becoming my favourite player. No fuss, just does the business. How old is he anyway?
-
Becoming my favourite player. No fuss, just does the business. How old is he anyway?
33 in a couple of months
-
Must start for me at Everton, the bloke has been a brilliant signing for us and deserves more than he gets in terms of starts. Quite how Smith sees Hause as a better option at RB baffles me.
-
He’s ace and if it ain’t Freddy in that role it should be him.
-
Seems like a no brainier doesn’t it, full back for a full back, rather than shuffling people out of position.
Thanks PWS, I thought he was a bit older, about 33 when we came up. Should definitely have played more games
-
I'd happily have him about for another season, regardless of division. Think he's quite an underrated player, was a bit of a fan even back when he was at Sunderland.
-
Does tend to fade though so I'd have Konsa/Guilbert ready to come on for the last "quarter" after the drinks break/word from our sponsors.
-
Does tend to fade though so I'd have Konsa/Guilbert ready to come on for the last "quarter" after the drinks break/word from our sponsors.
Yep, like Hutton he struggles to get back into position after a break up field in the 2nd half, McGinn, Trez and AEG covered in behind him a few times. I'm also not convinced he can last even 70mins in back-to-back games with less than 6-7 days between them. He's a good crosser and definitely offers us something but he looks, on this season, like a guy who's a year or so from retiring.
-
Elmo or Guilbert absolutely have to play right back.
-
I honestly can't think of too many times where he has struggled defensively.
-
Leeds at home when that kid ripped him to pieces.
-
Leeds at home when that kid ripped him to pieces.
Yeah absolute nightmare that night, but fair play, when he got back into the team he was back to his reliable self
-
Id have him in the team though. Reliable, can cross and a bit of experience.
-
It Hause is fit what are the odds he puts Konsa back at RB?
-
Usually a reliable 6 /7 out Of 10 performances.
When you consider that we have so many 3 to 8 and the below 5 being more frequent, a good shout to play out the season. Konsa was good against Palace at CB.
-
It Hause is fit what are the odds he puts Konsa back at RB?
That would be insanity, so very likely then
Hause, in fairness to him, has been our best defender by a long way since the restart. But playing a guy that can't kick a ball with his right foot at RCB doesn't help our ball retention stats.
-
Elmo or Guilbert absolutely have to play right back.
I like Guilbert but he hasn't played a game for 4 months and chucking him in now would be a massive gamble.
-
Elmo was fantastic tonight and deserves a new Deal, excellent Team member
-
I thought his crossing was the poorest it’s been in a long time.
-
I like all our right backs...the left backs however
-
A professional job by Elmo vs dirty leeds. I think he was only done for pace once throughout the whole game. He certainly played his part in yet another clean sheet. Loved the way Trez (whilst warming up as a sub) and Elmo were constantly chatting 2nd half. It was almost as though we were playing with 2 rbs.
-
I had £10 on him to be booked at 11/2, I didn't expect it to be for time wasting though.
-
Pound for pound one of the best signings the club have made this century. He’s limited and getting on now, but he rarely lets us down when called upon and he’s very ‘professional’ on the pitch, he knows exactly when to waste time or pull a shirt or two.
I love him.
-
Pound for pound one of the best signings the club have made this century. He’s limited and getting on now, but he rarely lets us down when called upon and he’s very ‘professional’ on the pitch, he knows exactly when to waste time or pull a shirt or two.
Agree with this, a solid 'pro' for us.
-
It appears Elmo is extremely popular within the squad / staff also, massive in morale.
-
He's a bit of a shithouse but he's ours so...
-
Yeah you can file Elmo alongside Conor as a good guy who does a job and will always be welcome back to Villa Park after he leaves
-
Without knowing him I have the impression Elmo loves the Villa and what it stands for. A solid pro.
-
He never lets us down very professional.
-
He never lets us down very professional.
Exactly !
-
On the pre-match thread, there were a few comments about how Raphinha would destroy him. I thought that was a bit harsh. Often seasoned pro's like him understand the game so well that they're hard to get the best of.
-
On the pre-match thread, there were a few comments about how Raphinha would destroy him. I thought that was a bit harsh. Often seasoned pro's like him understand the game so well that they're hard to get the best of.
He did well, but then he was really poor against Barnes last week, so I think the comments weren't unreasonable to be honest.
-
On the pre-match thread, there were a few comments about how Raphinha would destroy him. I thought that was a bit harsh. Often seasoned pro's like him understand the game so well that they're hard to get the best of.
Early on it certainly appeared like Elmo was in for a long night. Went asleep in the first minute and nearly cost us. The longer the half went on he settled (credit also to McGinn in particular who helped him out). Second half he was very solid, good in the air too. Cleared a couple of set pieces.
-
Fantastic attitude,lovely solid player. A true Role model to the youth unlike BERKLey
-
I thought you'd resigned.
-
I thought you'd resigned.
It was a open-ended resignation
I'd ask you to refer to my Statement but it was removed.
-
Righto.
-
On the pre-match thread, there were a few comments about how Raphinha would destroy him. I thought that was a bit harsh. Often seasoned pro's like him understand the game so well that they're hard to get the best of.
He did well, but then he was really poor against Barnes last week, so I think the comments weren't unreasonable to be honest.
The whole side was poor last week, especially in the first half.
-
Fantastic attitude,lovely solid player. A true Role model to the youth unlike BERKLey
Ha. BERKley! You've taken his name but subtly changed the spelling so as to imply that he is a berk. Tremendous.
BERKley!
Will be chuckling at that for a good while.
-
Berkley is a bit Primary school playground humour isn't it??
-
It's up there with sickbeggar's "Keith" zinger.
-
We are truly in the presence of some of the great comic minds of our generation.
-
Berkley is a bit Primary school playground humour isn't it??
yeh, all the big kids call him Dross, :)
-
I have a lot of time for Elmo, but he had absolutely no idea where McGoldrick was to concede that goal last night.
-
What a bargain for a million quid he's been though. He's finished now but pound for pound a great signing.
-
What a bargain for a million quid he's been though. He's finished now but pound for pound a great signing.
He's been great and provided superb value for money, but he shouldn't be in our squad, let alone the first team now. The fact he is shows mistakes have been made and we've still got a lot of work to do.
-
Berkley is a bit Primary school playground humour isn't it??
I think the Primary school kids would be too grown up for his “humour”.
-
Should have been finished and pensioned off when we got back into the premiership. A good servant though
-
Gilbert was bought to replace him, but clearly that didnt work out.
-
Well he'll be playing on Saturday again up against Wolves best player lately, Neto.
-
Should have been finished and pensioned off when we got back into the premiership. A good servant though
Dave to the thread, please.
-
Gilbert was bought to replace him, but clearly that didnt work out.
Oh why, oh why, oh why?
-
Gilbert was bought to replace him, but clearly that didnt work out.
Oh why, oh why, oh why?
Guilbert this week.
-
Gilbert was bought to replace him, but clearly that didnt work out.
Oh why, oh why, oh why?
Guilbert this week.
Things we don't need to see!!
-
It would have helped Elmo to have a shout from someone on Wednesday. And it also would have helped if McGinn had tracked McGoldrick's run.
-
On Elmo/Guilbert, Cash is clearly an upgrade on both and once you are then looking at moving one one, I’d imagine that there was much more of a market for Guilbert than Elmo. It won’t purely have come down to that obviously, but it may well have been a factor.
Guilbert does seem to have started well at Strasbourg (two clean sheets, two assists and a goal in five games) so I guess it’s possible that we keep him next season.
-
On Elmo/Guilbert, Cash is clearly an upgrade on both and once you are then looking at moving one one, I’d imagine that there was much more of a market for Guilbert than Elmo. It won’t purely have come down to that obviously, but it may well have been a factor.
Guilbert does seem to have started well at Strasbourg (two clean sheets, two assists and a goal in five games) so I guess it’s possible that we keep him next season.
That doesn't strike me as the best way to improve a club and strive for the top 6. Sell a promising young player and leave yourself with only a 33 year old journeyman as cover.
Whatever the reason, it's proved to be a very bad decision.
-
Some decisions are unfathomable from the outside so presumably there’s a reason inside that we will never be made aware that makes sense because as you say it looks on the face of it like a baffling one that has cost us in two out of the three games Elmo has played in.
-
Maybe Kesler should get his baptism of fire on Saturday. But he won't.
-
Gilbert was bought to replace him, but clearly that didnt work out.
Oh why, oh why, oh why?
Guilbert this week.
Oh Claire.....
-
Maybe Kesler should get his baptism of fire on Saturday. But he won't.
Fingers crossed, the mistakes from Elmo, particularly the most recent just aren't good enough. People have moaned about Mings making too many mistakes but he's done nothing on a par with that. For me it's the worst goal we've conceded all season because it should've been easy to deal with.
-
Mings has cut the mistakes out pretty much completely lately.
-
Mings has cut the mistakes out pretty much completely lately.
Shhh!
-
Been a fantastic servant for us. Pound for pound with Hourihane comfortably one of our best signings in last decade (especially when you look at what else we signed in 2017).
Right time to let him go in the summer though and think we'll sell Gulibert back to French team for 3-4m.
Would assume we'll sign another RB, I like the look of Connor Roberts at Swansea. Mid 20s, regular Welsh international and everytime I see their highlights he's setting up or scoring for them so has similar profile to Matty Cash last summer.
If they don't go up I reckon 10m + Conor and there's a deal there.
Kesler is interesting prospect but he's played very little for us and still very young so think loan move next season is best option for him.
-
Elmo is out of contract in the summer, that'll be why we kept him on. He's a pretty good reserve RB and Guilbert wanted game time, nobody would have expected Cash to get injured and therefore be out as long as he has been so a loan deal was good. I expect Guilbert to be back in the summer and he and Cash can fight it out.
-
On Elmo/Guilbert, Cash is clearly an upgrade on both and once you are then looking at moving one one, I’d imagine that there was much more of a market for Guilbert than Elmo. It won’t purely have come down to that obviously, but it may well have been a factor.
Guilbert does seem to have started well at Strasbourg (two clean sheets, two assists and a goal in five games) so I guess it’s possible that we keep him next season.
That doesn't strike me as the best way to improve a club and strive for the top 6. Sell a promising young player and leave yourself with only a 33 year old journeyman as cover.
Whatever the reason, it's proved to be a very bad decision.
But it's a bit of sods law too. What were the odds that a player in that specific position who has been the emodiment of fitness would get hurt immediately after the best true replacement (Elmo is just more versatile) would get hurt. What if we let Taylor go instead and Targett got hurt? Or Engels and Konsa went down. It's shit that it happened but there is no suggestion that Guilbert is getting sold. In fact I expect him next season to compete with Cash for that spot with Elmo being released,
-
why release a young RB and hold onto an old one? surely it should be the other way round.
-
why release a young RB and hold onto an old one? surely it should be the other way round.
Because they were 2nd and 3rd choice so not likely to be picked, the younger one needed more game time that he was unlikely to get much of, and the older one probably wasn't likely to get many suitors. So I'd guess the plan was to save some salary in the meantime, get the younger player more experience and thus be in a better position when he comes back.
-
why release a young RB and hold onto an old one? surely it should be the other way round.
Because they were 2nd and 3rd choice so not likely to be picked, the younger one needed more game time that he was unlikely to get much of, and the older one probably wasn't likely to get many suitors. So I'd guess the plan was to save some salary in the meantime, get the younger player more experience and thus be in a better position when he comes back.
Which is the correct answer, IMO
-
why release a young RB and hold onto an old one? surely it should be the other way round.
Because they were 2nd and 3rd choice so not likely to be picked, the younger one needed more game time that he was unlikely to get much of, and the older one probably wasn't likely to get many suitors. So I'd guess the plan was to save some salary in the meantime, get the younger player more experience and thus be in a better position when he comes back.
Also Elmo can fill in at CB or RM whereas Freddie was probably seen as more one dimensional. But he needs more playing time is as good a reason as any as to why he was loaned out and not sold vs Elmo.
-
why release a young RB and hold onto an old one? surely it should be the other way round.
Because they were 2nd and 3rd choice so not likely to be picked, the younger one needed more game time that he was unlikely to get much of, and the older one probably wasn't likely to get many suitors. So I'd guess the plan was to save some salary in the meantime, get the younger player more experience and thus be in a better position when he comes back.
The younger one was only likely to not get much game time as Smith stuck rigidly to the same starting 11, with his subs usually consisting of bringing on Traore/Trez/El Ghazi depending on who wasn't playing. He's going to have to get much better at squad building and management. It was always likely that one of our really weak areas (right back, left back or main striker) would come back to bite us on the arse, and so far we're lucky it's just one of them. Elmo has cost us two defeats in three games though, so it's already an expensive mistake.
-
A mistake in hindsight. Nobody really thought this was a huge issue at the time.
Two things will always be undefeated: Hindsight and Father Time
-
A mistake in hindsight. Nobody really thought this was a huge issue at the time.
Shit loads of people on here called it out as a mistake.
-
A mistake in hindsight. Nobody really thought this was a huge issue at the time.
Two things will always be undefeated: Hindsight and Father Time
Lots of people said so at the time, no hindsight required. It was obviously a terrible piece of business, just as many people said signing Danny Drinkwater would be.
-
Terrible business is stretching it a bit, Elmo has hardly been a disaster and it's debatable that Guilbert would have done any better coming in from the cold.
-
A mistake in hindsight. Nobody really thought this was a huge issue at the time.
Shit loads of people on here called it out as a mistake.
Were they? I don’t recall it being shitloads at all. I accept that it might have been questioned. It don’t recall people thinking it was some colossal mistake that a player who hadn’t featured at all throughout the season was loaned out given we had a very fit first choice player and an adequate back up.
Edit: and looking back at the Guilbert thread literally nobody said it was a huge mistake. Most people just wished him luck, hoped that he had played more but would come back to compete. It’s just shit luck that Cash missed a couple of games right after.
-
Cash didn't need rotating, he's done a good job and it's right he kept his place. It's a freak injury and bad timing.
Letting Guilbert go made sense.
-
Cash didn't need rotating, he's done a good job and it's right he kept his place. It's a freak injury and bad timing.
Letting Guilbert go made sense.
It really didn't. We can't have a first eleven and then replacements like Elmo, Davis and Taylor if we want to be serious top 6 contenders. If we hadn't signed Guilbert and we were linked with him now, we'd all be pleased we were getting a good upgrade on Elmo.
In any case, I don't think his transfer had anything to do with good business, it was clearly something personal between him and Smith.
-
Cash didn't need rotating, he's done a good job and it's right he kept his place. It's a freak injury and bad timing.
Letting Guilbert go made sense.
It really didn't. We can't have a first eleven and then replacements like Elmo, Davis and Taylor if we want to be serious top 6 contenders. If we hadn't signed Guilbert and we were linked with him now, we'd all be pleased we were getting a good upgrade on Elmo.
In any case, I don't think his transfer had anything to do with good business, it was clearly something personal between him and Smith.
Elmo made a mistake, probably because he hadn’t played very often, Freddy, if he had played, could of done the same. Elmo has been an excellent servant to our club, just like all the other players, he isn’t perfect but he never hides. It’s probably his last season so he should be first sub because he’s unlikely to come on, whereas Freddy needed game time. I think it’s out of order blaming Elmo for “losing” points.
-
I think you have to be realistic about what you can expect from a back up player. It’s someone who is, with the exception of teams in Europe, likely to only play 5-8 game a season at the most and be happy to do so. And they’ve got to be able to just drop into the team with a good performance as and when required which isn’t easy.
Throw in the fact that we have only had four transfer windows in the Premier League and came up basically without a squad, it don’t think it’s horrendous that Elmo is currently our back up right back.
To be honest, I’m not sure there are many great back up full backs in the league, other than at a few of the clubs in Europe.
I personally prefer Guilbert to Elmo, but I don’t really think there is a huge different between them. I also expect that it’s fairly likely neither will be here next season anyway.
-
Elmo has been the main factor in two losses in the three games he's started since Cash has been out. How much worse could it be?
-
Elmo has been the main factor in two losses in the three games he's started since Cash has been out. How much worse could it be?
A factor, but not the only reason. Surely, as it’s a team game, the midfield and forwards could have created / scored opportunities/goals which would of altered the results in our favour. Realistically, one player cannot be responsible for us not getting the result we wanted.
-
Elmo has been the main factor in two losses in the three games he's started since Cash has been out. How much worse could it be?
I'm not a fan of laying blame at an individual's feet, but I can't help feeling that if Cash played, we don't concede three goals that we did.
But I don't disagree with the club's thinking on Guilbert. Yeah, ideally we'd have two fairly equally talented players on the payroll competing for every shirt and still be able to develop our youths, but we're only now emerging from a full decade of shit and we're not yet able to offer enough football for that to be desirable to players and club. I really do think it's just Sod's Law that a player that looked like he could run forever then picks up an injury whilst trying to step over a not particularly high blade of grass the minute his perennial understudy walks out the door.
-
Elmo has been the main factor in two losses in the three games he's started since Cash has been out. How much worse could it be?
I'm not a fan of laying blame at an individual's feet, but I can't help feeling that if Cash played, we don't concede three goals that we did.
But I don't disagree with the club's thinking on Guilbert. Yeah, ideally we'd have two fairly equally talented players on the payroll competing for every shirt and still be able to develop our youths, but we're only now emerging from a full decade of shit and we're not yet able to offer enough football for that to be desirable to players and club. I really do think it's just Sod's Law that a player that looked like he could run forever then picks up an injury whilst trying to step over a not particularly high blade of grass the minute his perennial understudy walks out the door.
Surely you've got to start somewhere though, and having a decent young player as back up is what we should aspire to in every position. Should we not try to get an upgrade on Taylor for instance this summer?
-
I think you have to be realistic about what you can expect from a back up player. It’s someone who is, with the exception of teams in Europe, likely to only play 5-8 game a season at the most and be happy to do so. And they’ve got to be able to just drop into the team with a good performance as and when required which isn’t easy.
Throw in the fact that we have only had four transfer windows in the Premier League and came up basically without a squad, it don’t think it’s horrendous that Elmo is currently our back up right back.
To be honest, I’m not sure there are many great back up full backs in the league, other than at a few of the clubs in Europe.
I personally prefer Guilbert to Elmo, but I don’t really think there is a huge different between them. I also expect that it’s fairly likely neither will be here next season anyway.
This is exactly my thoughts. The only thing I'd add is that we'll get more money for Freddie now, given his form in the French league, than we would with him sitting about on out bench (which looked like the alternative at the time). Elmo's off on a free regardless. From a purely financial point of view we've done the right thing in my book. We need to start moving on our backup players so we can replace them with higher calibre players.
-
I think you have to be realistic about what you can expect from a back up player. It’s someone who is, with the exception of teams in Europe, likely to only play 5-8 game a season at the most and be happy to do so. And they’ve got to be able to just drop into the team with a good performance as and when required which isn’t easy.
Throw in the fact that we have only had four transfer windows in the Premier League and came up basically without a squad, it don’t think it’s horrendous that Elmo is currently our back up right back.
To be honest, I’m not sure there are many great back up full backs in the league, other than at a few of the clubs in Europe.
I personally prefer Guilbert to Elmo, but I don’t really think there is a huge different between them. I also expect that it’s fairly likely neither will be here next season anyway.
This is exactly my thoughts. The only thing I'd add is that we'll get more money for Freddie now, given his form in the French league, than we would with him sitting about on out bench (which looked like the alternative at the time). Elmo's off on a free regardless. From a purely financial point of view we've done the right thing in my book. We need to start moving on our backup players so we can replace them with higher calibre players.
So sell a back up player to buy another back up player?
-
I would say this is probably the hardest part of the step up from a mid-table to top six team. Having a happy balance of players in a squad, rotating them at times, but keeping them all on their toes and fighting for a place.
-
I would say this is probably the hardest part of the step up from a mid-table to top six team. Having a happy balance of players in a squad, rotating them at times, but keeping them all on their toes and fighting for a place.
Smith didn't even try though. More worrying he publicly scoffed at the idea of players suffering from fatigue only a few weeks back. If he had kept giving the likes of Hourihane and Guilbert minutes earlier in the season, we would be better served now. It might be a surprise poor result or two along the way but over a 38 game season it would balance out. A number of us were fearful of a MON style collapse around March from early in the season when Deano was refusing to even bring subs on.
Anyway, let's see how today goes but Elmo will certainly be targeted again.
-
A mistake in hindsight. Nobody really thought this was a huge issue at the time.
Two things will always be undefeated: Hindsight and Father Time
The Taxman probably deserves a shout-out here too, the bastid.
-
I would say this is probably the hardest part of the step up from a mid-table to top six team. Having a happy balance of players in a squad, rotating them at times, but keeping them all on their toes and fighting for a place.
Smith didn't even try though. More worrying he publicly scoffed at the idea of players suffering from fatigue only a few weeks back. If he had kept giving the likes of Hourihane and Guilbert minutes earlier in the season, we would be better served now. It might be a surprise poor result or two along the way but over a 38 game season it would balance out. A number of us were fearful of a MON style collapse around March from early in the season when Deano was refusing to even bring subs on.
Anyway, let's see how today goes but Elmo will certainly be targeted again.
There is no way of telling if that would be the case though. It could have benefitted us or we could have lost more games playing players that, even though I like them, showed on numerous occasions last season that they probably aren’t good enough.
I’m not really sure exactly what people expected at this stage. We came up with barely half a squad, so the first season was spent rebuilding that. Now we have recruited to the stage the we have a pretty strong first 11/12. The next step is obviously to improve the rest of the squad - so replacing Elmo, Taylor, Davis etc.
-
A mistake in hindsight. Nobody really thought this was a huge issue at the time.
Two things will always be undefeated: Hindsight and Father Time
I thought it was a huge mistake at the time, and said so. Guilbert I am sure will prosper at a new club and will come to be seen as another player who we shouldn't have let go, notwithstanding how good Cash might prove to be.
-
I would say this is probably the hardest part of the step up from a mid-table to top six team. Having a happy balance of players in a squad, rotating them at times, but keeping them all on their toes and fighting for a place.
Smith didn't even try though. More worrying he publicly scoffed at the idea of players suffering from fatigue only a few weeks back. If he had kept giving the likes of Hourihane and Guilbert minutes earlier in the season, we would be better served now. It might be a surprise poor result or two along the way but over a 38 game season it would balance out. A number of us were fearful of a MON style collapse around March from early in the season when Deano was refusing to even bring subs on.
Anyway, let's see how today goes but Elmo will certainly be targeted again.
There is no way of telling if that would be the case though. It could have benefitted us or we could have lost more games playing players that, even though I like them, showed on numerous occasions last season that they probably aren’t good enough.
I’m not really sure exactly what people expected at this stage. We came up with barely half a squad, so the first season was spent rebuilding that. Now we have recruited to the stage the we have a pretty strong first 11/12. The next step is obviously to improve the rest of the squad - so replacing Elmo, Taylor, Davis etc.
I agree Luke, we’re on the right road. The next step is maybe improving a couple or few first team places and adding a bit more quality in depth. It’s a massive improvement to last season. I’m still hoping for another upturn on form though, I’m sure it will happen. All the sides seem to be going though a similar season when it comes to form and consistency.
-
To draw an analogy we as fans are so connected to every movement that it’s literally like watching the hands of a clock move or watching your kids grow. It all seems so much slower than it actually is. However those not as connected, neutrals are rightly applauding us for the incredible progress we have made in such a short amount of time. And while it feels like taking a long time to get to this level and then to the next in reality, taking a step back we have done it very quickly. It’s quite amazing really.
-
I’m not really sure exactly what people expected at this stage. We came up with barely half a squad, so the first season was spent rebuilding that. Now we have recruited to the stage the we have a pretty strong first 11/12. The next step is obviously to improve the rest of the squad - so replacing Elmo, Taylor, Davis etc.
Replacing Elmo with a good young player who possibly isn't quite as good as Cash, perhaps?
-
I'd prefer he was replaced by someone better than Cash.
-
I'd prefer he was replaced by someone better than Cash.
Then going on the above, we'd have to get rid of Cash.
-
Depending on how much playing time he wants, I can Elmo being given another year and the prospect of a coaching role.
There is risk with any option taken, though the prospect of further progress from Cash, a youngster being considered nearly ready and Elmo as a 'decent' back-up might not be the worst outcome.
Much as I like Guilbert attitude and demeanour, I don't see him overtaking Cash in the pecking order so - particularly if FFP is an issue - we could/should sell Guilbert, make a profit and look for upgrades elsewhere in the team. UTV
-
I'd prefer he was replaced by someone better than Cash.
Then going on the above, we'd have to get rid of Cash.
That would depend on if Cash was up for the challenge, or if we had interest from other teams, or a number of factors.
Maybe Guilbert was pushing for the move himself, and wasn't happy to wait for his chance?
-
I'd prefer he was replaced by someone better than Cash.
Then going on the above, we'd have to get rid of Cash.
I'd keep Cash. I don't think Cash is a bit better than Guilbert, I think he's miles better. Loads of them. If I was a doghead, I'd perhaps describe him as next #level, and the sort of player you need to be able to call on if you're hoping to be playing 60-70 first team games a season in pursuit of a quadruple. A Milner, if you will. I think the days of keeping a 'jobbing' backup in an outfield position hanging around for season after season are long gone with the demise of competitive reserve football.
-
I think you have to be realistic about what you can expect from a back up player. It’s someone who is, with the exception of teams in Europe, likely to only play 5-8 game a season at the most and be happy to do so. And they’ve got to be able to just drop into the team with a good performance as and when required which isn’t easy.
Throw in the fact that we have only had four transfer windows in the Premier League and came up basically without a squad, it don’t think it’s horrendous that Elmo is currently our back up right back.
To be honest, I’m not sure there are many great back up full backs in the league, other than at a few of the clubs in Europe.
I personally prefer Guilbert to Elmo, but I don’t really think there is a huge different between them. I also expect that it’s fairly likely neither will be here next season anyway.
This is exactly my thoughts. The only thing I'd add is that we'll get more money for Freddie now, given his form in the French league, than we would with him sitting about on out bench (which looked like the alternative at the time). Elmo's off on a free regardless. From a purely financial point of view we've done the right thing in my book. We need to start moving on our backup players so we can replace them with higher calibre players.
So sell a back up player to buy another back up player?
Sell a backup player to buy either a first team player, or a younger player who we expect to be first choice in a couple of season's time. For me, those are the only types of signing worth making.
-
So poor its untrue. Completely unbalanced the aide as he offers nothing going forwards, gives the ball away and also gives goals away cheaply.
The good news is Cashy was hoping over the seats so fingers crossed he's back next week.
-
Thought he was fine although his crossing regressed.
-
So poor its untrue. Completely unbalanced the aide as he offers nothing going forwards, gives the ball away and also gives goals away cheaply.
The good news is Cashy was hoping over the seats so fingers crossed he's back next week.
Everyone was doom and gloom for his battle against Traore pre match, and kept him quiet. As he did against Leeds, so maybe deserves some credit
-
He did a decent job defensively, but offers nothing going forward. He and Traore have zero understanding down that side and it badly shows
-
I thought he was good. Kept Traore very quiet.
-
Not for me, he's woeful and the lack of quality from Cash being absent is telling.
Our width comes from the full backs with the wide men coming inside. Not good enough and he's been dire.
-
The mental gymnastics involved to suggest that getting rid of Guilbert was a still a good idea.
-
Adama Traore keeps himself quiet as he absolutely rubbish.
-
Much better performance tonight.
-
He did a decent job defensively, but offers nothing going forward. He and Traore have zero understanding down that side and it badly shows
To be fair, I think it is virtually impossible to get an understanding with Traore as he is a law unto himself, Traore doesn't even pass to Cash when he plays!
-
Not for me, he's woeful and the lack of quality from Cash being absent is telling.
Our width comes from the full backs with the wide men coming inside. Not good enough and he's been dire.
Cash been excellent but not like we've been amazing with him in the team in recent times, we didn't offer v West Ham with him in the team and also poor going forward v Brighton before he went off.
AEM has his faults as you'd expect of 34 year old guy who hasn't played much in last six months but he's come in and been part of two clean sheets in 4 so we haven't regressed defensively with him in the team as feared at least.
-
Adama Traore keeps himself quiet as he absolutely rubbish.
The pre match thread suggested he was the second coming such was the prediction of how Elmore.would perform.
-
Not for me, he's woeful and the lack of quality from Cash being absent is telling.
Our width comes from the full backs with the wide men coming inside. Not good enough and he's been dire.
Cash been excellent but not like we've been amazing with him in the team in recent times, we didn't offer v West Ham with him in the team and also poor going forward v Brighton before he went off.
AEM has his faults as you'd expect of 34 year old guy who hasn't played much in last six months but he's come in and been part of two clean sheets in 4 so we haven't regressed defensively with him in the team as feared at least.
He's been at fault for all 3 goals we've conceded. He's been a great servant, but we ought to have kept Freddie in hindsight.
-
Adama Traore keeps himself quiet as he absolutely rubbish.
Every time he has a poor half, he has to do 100 bicep curls on each arm.
-
Adama Traore keeps himself quiet as he absolutely rubbish.
Every time he has a poor half, he has to do 100 bicep curls on each arm.
Ha! Absolutely.
Proper Instagram gym rat where everyday is arms and chest day. Whopper.
-
I’m going to cut Elmo some slack, as I think he’s been brilliant for us.
Yes, he’s, probably, struggled a bit since coming back in. I guess at 34 the pace of the prem has caught him up.
He has been involved in two clean sheets, though, and will always give his all
-
Thought Elmo played well tonight. Not sure why Adama felt the need to grease his guns at half time though. Think he’s found his level at Wolves.
-
Thought Elmo played well tonight. Not sure why Adama felt the need to grease his guns at half time though. Think he’s found his level at Wolves.
Traore is Tony Daley on steroids.
-
I like Elmo, and my own two personal highlights from this game were entirely of his making. In first place was Elmo's foul throw, in the second half. Very close behind, in second place, was the look of astonishment on Elmo's face when he was flagged for the said foul throw. I may be wrong but I suspect, sadly, that this will not make it onto MOTD tonight.
-
I’m going to cut Elmo some slack, as I think he’s been brilliant for us.
Yes, he’s, probably, struggled a bit since coming back in. I guess at 34 the pace of the prem has caught him up.
He has been involved in two clean sheets, though, and will always give his all
I agree. He has been a decent pro for us in the Championship and in the Premier League when he’s had to step in.
Just because Dean Smith doesn’t rate Guilbert doesn’t mean Elmo should get stick. He’s not as good as Cash and is there as cover. Also, we’ve had worse players in the past providing cover than Elmo.
-
Thought Elmo played well tonight. Not sure why Adama felt the need to grease his guns at half time though. Think he’s found his level at Wolves.
Traore is Tony Daley on steroids.
Tony Daley was a much better footballer. Far more range to his game, both in providing chances and scoring them. Traore has just become a body builder playing football.
-
Thought Elmo played well tonight. Not sure why Adama felt the need to grease his guns at half time though. Think he’s found his level at Wolves.
Traore is Tony Daley on steroids.
I think that’s actually harsh on Tony Daley.
-
Thought Elmo played well tonight. Not sure why Adama felt the need to grease his guns at half time though. Think he’s found his level at Wolves.
Traore is Tony Daley on steroids.
A very poor mans Tony Daley on some not very good steroids.
-
I’d have personally stuck with Guilbert but he did had some shockers last season too, to be fair. Smith knows much better than me though and he hasn’t got much wrong, so I’d happy to give him the benefit of the doubt with the decision. Plus, as I said before, it’s not always just as simply as who is the better player anyway.
Elmo was fine today. Not great, not awful. He’ll move on in the summer and we will improve that area but, again, I’m not sure exactly what people were expecting our back up right back to be like at this stage of our development.
-
I’m not sure I think there’s a good player in Adama he showed that last year. He’s just struggled this year.
-
I’m not sure I think there’s a good player in Adama he showed that last year. He’s just struggled this year.
He didn’t work at his game. He has a lot of raw talent but he never developed it. In a way he’s a much shitter version of Gabby, who really had it all (could score left and right foot, great in the air and blistering pace) but never took the big step to the next level. Another who focused way too much on bulking himself up instead of working on being a better all round striker. It too away his speed and athleticism and made him predictable.
-
Defensively thought immense Vs Wolves.
And in all his showing these last matches he's been clever with his experience in how to deal with opposition
Game tonight saw him get forward more in first half especially. Well played. Give him to season end and then can look to release a player who will always be someone to count on.
Hoping he gets a repeat goal of last season v Newcastle where he reins neat post and heads in . Has had that chance twice last few matches just needs to get right contact.
Distribution tailed off second half but though very impressive and eases concerns of those who may have them on evenings showing especially.
Cash back in for Spurs but I even have Elmo considered at centre half if Mings is out injured and cash is back for Newcastle. No need to rush anything as Newcastle match next Elmo capable for this match.
-
I’m not sure I think there’s a good player in Adama he showed that last year. He’s just struggled this year.
He didn’t work at his game. He has a lot of raw talent but he never developed it. In a way he’s a much shitter version of Gabby, who really had it all (could score left and right foot, great in the air and blistering pace) but never took the big step to the next level. Another who focused way too much on bulking himself up instead of working on being a better all round striker. It too away his speed and athleticism and made him predictable.
I’m not convinced on that. His game showed growth last year, but for whatever reason he’s slipped back this year.
-
I’m not sure I think there’s a good player in Adama he showed that last year. He’s just struggled this year.
He didn’t work at his game. He has a lot of raw talent but he never developed it. In a way he’s a much shitter version of Gabby, who really had it all (could score left and right foot, great in the air and blistering pace) but never took the big step to the next level. Another who focused way too much on bulking himself up instead of working on being a better all round striker. It too away his speed and athleticism and made him predictable.
I’m not convinced on that. His game showed growth last year, but for whatever reason he’s slipped back this year.
That’s right. Last season he was being celebrated any time Wolves were on TV. That should have been his platform to advance and he hasn’t. I might be wrong but along with just the physical observations he doesn’t seem to have that desire to progress and is much more easily marked out of games now.
-
I’m not sure I think there’s a good player in Adama he showed that last year. He’s just struggled this year.
Me too. Thinks he’s a flawed “Top-4” player.
-
Traore (the Wolves one) is back to looking like he's not actually a footballer. Every time I've seen Wolves he's done bugger all, and thankfully he kept that up against us.
-
It's like it's written for Elmo.
Ramadan ends and he's got perhaps a final few matches to play.
Hoping he does well today as was assured Vs Everton was a decent headed threat as ever on the corners and mainly composed putting a couple of nice crosses in
His age is against him but can't fault his effort not sure he'll last 3 games in a week but it's fitting he'll get some game time before the season end. Be also good (outside of youth cup finals- go on villa!!) to give Kesler some minutes too.
Interesting to see what position he and club take in summer with him.
Concern is the pace and positioning being caught out but hope experience shines through today
-
I don't mind Elmo playing the last few games, especially if he's leaving come the summer. Been a great servant to the club, and also one of our best crossers of the ball in my opinion.
Going to be pretty tough to get anything out of Spurs/Chelsea (though I'd love to smash both of em!), so let him have a little run in the team as a swansong I say.
-
It would have been great to give him a send off like we did with Hutton.
-
I’ve total respect for Elmo.
His attitude is bang on. A true professional
-
me too a very good buy for the money and he won't have any shortage of offers .
-
Could do a job for a decent side in the Championship. Been a good player for us.
A good egg.
-
I wish him well wherever he ends up.
-
Useless for second goal.
Been a good servant but time to let him leave, no sentiment.
-
Slightly harsh blaming Elmo for the 2nd goal. Don’t think he knew too much about it.
-
Slightly harsh blaming Elmo for the 2nd goal. Don’t think he knew too much about it.
I think it was the lethargic trudge back into the box rather than a sprint to help out Konsa that I'd be moaning about.
-
Fair enough
-
Slightly harsh blaming Elmo for the 2nd goal. Don’t think he knew too much about it.
Turned away from the shot though, deflections tend to happen as a result. Konsa was beaten far too easily by Zaha for me in the first instance.
-
Slightly harsh blaming Elmo for the 2nd goal. Don’t think he knew too much about it.
He should've helped Konsa out rather than just staying central. In that type of situation Zaha dosen't tend to just chip it to backpost, he drives into the box and gets the shot in.
AEM alongside Konsa makes it very difficult for Zaha to score from where he was.
-
Indeed HQ, I acknowledged my oversight a while ago.
-
You never turn your back if he had stayed front on there would have been no deflection, very poor.
-
A Fantastic servant to the Football Club and always there to slot in when needed.
Obviously not First Choice in that Position but think he deserves a contract extension for 1 year
-
A Fantastic servant to the Football Club and always there to slot in when needed.
Obviously not First Choice in that Position but think he deserves a contract extension for 1 year
I agree with the first sentence and a half but there's no way he should be getting another contract. Guilbert will come back and then we're sorted, alternatively, we'll sell him and bring in another. I'm not convinced Kessler is ready yet to be the back-up.
-
You never turn your back if he had stayed front on there would have been no deflection, very poor.
While that's correct, it still doesn't excuse Konsa's effort at stopping Zaha which was very poor. Didn't get tight enough to him nor show him outside onto his left foot. Allowing a forward turn that close to goal was asking for trouble.
One thing I notice with Elmo is that he really doesn't want to push forward too much. He will cross from deep but never wants to push past AEG/Traore and get in behind. That's something Guilbert certainly would give us.
-
Everyone of his defensive headers away yesterday were poor - weak and merely didn't clear any danger whatsoever. He has been a great servant, but no longer up to it at this level and I've said it all along but favouring him as back up over Guilbert was just a bizarre decision.
-
You never turn your back if he had stayed front on there would have been no deflection, very poor.
While that's correct, it still doesn't excuse Konsa's effort at stopping Zaha which was very poor. Didn't get tight enough to him nor show him outside onto his left foot. Allowing a forward turn that close to goal was asking for trouble.
One thing I notice with Elmo is that he really doesn't want to push forward too much. He will cross from deep but never wants to push past AEG/Traore and get in behind. That's something Guilbert certainly would give us.
That caution might be why he gets favoured, Guilbert had a habit of getting caught upfield.
-
You never turn your back if he had stayed front on there would have been no deflection, very poor.
While that's correct, it still doesn't excuse Konsa's effort at stopping Zaha which was very poor. Didn't get tight enough to him nor show him outside onto his left foot. Allowing a forward turn that close to goal was asking for trouble.
One thing I notice with Elmo is that he really doesn't want to push forward too much. He will cross from deep but never wants to push past AEG/Traore and get in behind. That's something Guilbert certainly would give us.
That caution might be why he gets favoured, Guilbert had a habit of getting caught upfield.
See also Hutton. A, before him.
I also think our improved defence this season is as a result of defenders staying back. Particularly so on the right whilst Targett pushed further forward on the left.
-
Like to think Elmo gets some minutes today for a good send off if hes to be leaving
Nothing to lose either way if he starts or comes on but a last hurrah and applause for a good servant would be fitting
-
He has just posted a farewell message on Twitter. A great club player.
-
Always gave his all and popped up with some useful goals too. Yes, there were some mistakes too but overall a very good player for us. I wish him all the best.
-
Good man Elmo. An important player in a tough time for the club.
-
Great servant to the club, best wishes for the future. Another one who always gave his all for the club.
-
I'd keep him on as a Crossing Coach. We could do with the help and he's unquestionably the best at the club.
Thanks for everything, Elmo and best wishes for the future.
-
Good luck going forwards Elmo! Thanks for your service to Villa.
-
Enjoy Newcastle, Elmo!
-
A bargain for what we paid and just the kind of player and attitude we needed at the time who rarely let us down.
-
Good luck in the future Elmo, you'll always be welcome at Villa Park. Your contribution to our renaissance will not be forgotten. Thank you.
-
Inevitably Neil Taylor also gone. Same sentiments. Neither were the best players we ever had but they did a job, sometimes really well. Both are great pros and just good eggs who have had a positive influence at the club. I hope both have a future role with the club. Neil Taylor can certainly help in the community especially given his background.
-
A bargain for what we paid and just the kind of player and attitude we needed at the time who rarely let us down.
This! Thanks Elmo
-
Best wishes Elmo. Great servant to the club.
-
Yep, top bloke, pretty decent player and overall did well. Just not good enough for where we aspire to be.
-
Elmo has been invited back one day (not now) for a role in a coaching capacity. Happy with that.
-
Very good, reliable player bought at a relatively low fee. Very rarely let us down, thanks Elmo and good luck
-
Classy farewell statement to boot!
-
Top Bloke.
Real Pro.
-
Elmo has been invited back one day (not now) for a role in a coaching capacity. Happy with that.
Yeah, I noticed that ... nice touch & a sign of how well respected he is.
Best of luck, Elmo. We'll meet again ...
-
A great servant for us in two divisions. Brilliant professional and a key part in the recovery of the club. I know I was far from happy when Bruce added him to the collection of right backs we had but he outlasted them all.
-
Elmo has been invited back one day (not now) for a role in a coaching capacity. Happy with that.
I like this. Building a culture where we look after our own.
Relatively speaking, a trainee coach must be such a small investment that it makes absolute sense; hoovering up the hardest working/best ones once they’ve proven themselves.
-
He put some cracking crosses in did Elmo. All the best to him.
-
That’s the way to leave a club.
We'll meet again Elmo. Top professional, top man.
-
Thank you Elmo, you were a great club man and played your part in or Renaissance and we thank you for your hard work.
-
Great to know for every Micah Richards there an Ahmed Elmohammedy. Thank you Ahmed and good like for the rest of your life.
-
Thanks Elmo for your contribution, always appeared to be a top pro and I wouldn't be surprised if Bruce signs him for the Toon.
-
Good luck Elmo in whatever you do.
-
All the very best Elmo, top Villa man held in very high regard, hope your path once again crosses with the B6 turf so we can show our appreciation.
-
Nice one Elmo, loved the message aswell, really gives off the impression that he got the club and loved it here. Still seems a very fit chap aswell so hopefully a decent club can get a couple of years out of him.
-
Interesting that he said he had been offered a coaching role.
-
Great player for Villa. Never let us down. Wish him all the best.
-
One of Bruce's go-to players to get a team promoted from the Championship and did the job eventually. Can't have any complaints really and I hope he gets a good gig elsewhere.
-
Thanks Elmore best of luck. You made us a better team when you joined
-
I like Elmo - shame we haven't kept him, but he could play for a year or two more easily at the top end of the Chmpionship.
-
Best delivery of the ball from out wide, apart from Conor.
-
Enjoy Newcastle, Elmo!
Well, you know...wor lass said 'avin Elmo round the place puts me in a better mood so we'll make room for him. If it doesn't work out I suppose it'll be ''Off with me 'ead" but I'm big and ugly enough to cope wit that.
-
Good luck Elmo. Best wishes, thanks for being a decent and honest player.
-
My endearing memory of Elmo was giving it to the noses at Stans after the Grealish assault game.
-
Thanks for all your efforts! Hope he gets a nice retirement contract, somewhere warm!
-
When we signed him from Hull, I was a bit underwhelmed, thinking he was an aging winger.
However, he did a great job for us in the Championship at RB and was still useful in the top flight. Arguably the best crosser we had too and had surprisingly good energy.
Wish him all the best.
-
All the best Elmo!
-
Is someone taking the piss?
https://twitter.com/jxmesavfc2/status/1412779664054030342?s=21
-
Is someone taking the piss?
https://twitter.com/jxmesavfc2/status/1412779664054030342?s=21
That's brilliant, he deserves a pay as you play contract at Camp Nou.
-
Is someone taking the piss?
https://twitter.com/jxmesavfc2/status/1412779664054030342?s=21
I think the clue is that they can’t even spell the word Barcelona
-
Thank you Elmo and all the best.
You put a bloody good stint in for the club we love.
Happy days at AVFC!
-
I used to think if Barca could sign an average-Joe like Braithwaite, none of their signings would suprise me especially considering their financial situation?
Then, I saw Braithwaite play against England last night (and during the tournament, generally), and thought he was great. Selfless hold-up play and gave Maguire and Stones plenty to think about.
-
I used to think if Barca could sign an average-Joe like Braithwaite, none of their signings would suprise me especially considering their financial situation?
Then, I saw Braithwaite play against England last night (and during the tournament, generally), and thought he was great. Selfless hold-up play and gave Maguire and Stones plenty to think about.
I thought the same, the first time I'd ever noticed him he was coming off the bench for Middlesbrough when we were pasting them at the Riverside in the promotion season, and then the next time I noticed he was signing for Barcelona!
But he was very good last night, and has the whole tournament, I did think he might be a handy option if Barcelona are offloading, he could play across the front three effectively.
-
Just looked on the FC Barcalona website and there is no mention of it so it's bullshit.
-
Just looked on the FC Barcalona website and there is no mention of it so it's bullshit.
Really?!
-
Just looked on the FC Barcalona website and there is no mention of it so it's bullshit.
It's a joke tweet from a Villa fan who has just changed his display name - look at the @ handle and you can see it's @JxmesAVFC2. He has 43 followers.
-
Where do FC Barcalona play ? It would be very confusing if they were from Barcelona. ;)
-
I always liked Paris FC. Last time I looked they were in and around the playoff positions of Ligue 2.
-
Just looked on the FC Barcalona website and there is no mention of it so it's bullshit.
Really?!
*snigger*
-
Bunch of cnuts
-
Fun quiz: name the three former Barcelona players that signed for Villa.
-
Just looked on the FC Barcalona website and there is no mention of it so it's bullshit.
Probably trying to keep it quiet for now. They'll need a big signing announcement to cheer up the fans when Messi signs for Villa.
-
Fun quiz: name the three former Barcelona players that signed for Villa.
Adama Traore. Struggling after that...
-
Louis Barry?
-
Two down. The third one is a bit of a cheat answer...
-
Clue: more than one country has a team called Barcelona in it...
-
Oh I know this: Ulises de la Cruz!
-
UDLC?
-
Well done, both. Yes, that would be Barcelona of the Ecuadorian League.
-
See also : When did Arsenal last win the league?
In what year did Luis Suárez win the Ballon d'Or?
-
I think there is an Arsenal in Ukraine, maybe Argentina, too? Will guess 2015. For Suarez, assume you're on about the Spaniard? Think he may have played in the same Inter team as Hitchens or certainly around that time. I'll try 1963.
-
Thought you'd know for sure about the other Arsenal. Close on both but out by the same no. of years despite being very well worked out (I didn't know Suárez went to Inter).
-
There's an Eston Villa in Estonia.
-
No way!
-
No way!
Here y'are (https://ie.soccerway.com/teams/estonia/mtu-fc-eston-villa-/19489/)
-
There's an Eston Villa in Estonia.
I always thought they were poshos in Estonia.
-
There's an Eston Villa in Estonia.
I always thought they were poshos in Estonia.
Estonia is a great country, lovely people. Go in the Summer, have the craic in Parnu; go in the Autumn, pretend you're a student again in Tartu. Go in the Winter, stay in Otepää for the x-country skiing and too much drinking. Christmas in Tallinn is good too.
-
Jesus Mossie, it's far from the former Baltic States you were reared :o
-
No way!
Here y'are (https://ie.soccerway.com/teams/estonia/mtu-fc-eston-villa-/19489/)
Could we not donate them a clubhouse or even a lawnmower ?
-
There's an Eston Villa in Estonia.
Friend of mine, Villa fan ST holder, moved to Estonia last year. Excitedly called me to tell me of this club. They really do exist.
-
No way!
Here y'are (https://ie.soccerway.com/teams/estonia/mtu-fc-eston-villa-/19489/)
Could we not donate them a clubhouse or even a lawnmower ?
Or Neil Taylor.
-
Jesus Mossie, it's far from the former Baltic States you were reared :o
LEL
-
There's an Eston Villa in Estonia.
There's a Villa Aston in Mauritius.
-
No way!
Here y'are (https://ie.soccerway.com/teams/estonia/mtu-fc-eston-villa-/19489/)
Could we not donate them a clubhouse or even a lawnmower ?
Or Neil Taylor.
Looking at the picture of their home ground it looks suspiciously like Castle Vale of old 😳
-
There's an Eston Villa in Estonia.
There's a Villa Aston in Mauritius.
There used to be a restaurant in Shanghai called simply “The Villa”.
-
No way!
Here y'are (https://ie.soccerway.com/teams/estonia/mtu-fc-eston-villa-/19489/)
Nice to see they retained the natural order by beating (Small Heath) Alliance II 6-0 on September too.
-
Or Neil Taylor.
"Applause"
-
Nice article in The Athletic about Elmo. A really good guy by the sounds of it, would be happy to see him back in a coaching capacity at some point.
Ahmed Elmohamady is taking a well-earned breather. He’s just finished his morning run and little Malik is already pestering him for a kickabout in the garden.
So far this summer the 33-year-old has squeezed in a month working as a pundit during the European Championship, a family holiday in Spain, and more games of football with his seven-year-old son than ever before.
At his home on the outskirts of London, the married father-of-two is relaxed. This is a summer quite like no other. Unusually he’s training alone each morning as he’s currently without a club following his release from Aston Villa in May.
“It’s weird in some ways but good in others,” he tells The Athletic. “The family time has been great but not knowing where I am going next is strange. I’ve had offers in England and abroad but I’m waiting for the right move. Hopefully it will be sorted soon.”
Elmohamady has earned the right to be selective when picking his next move. He wants something exciting especially as Malik is already questioning him about it. “He knows more clubs and players than me because of FIFA,” the defender laughs.
Elmohamady must soon decide whether to accept an offer from nearby or head overseas for a new challenge. To see how he has matured over the last decade is warming. Eleven years have now passed since he joined Sunderland from Egyptian side ENPPI as a 22-year-old who couldn’t speak a word of English.
A striker as a kid, he grew up playing in the streets. “It was all natural back then, and to be honest I’m the same now,” he says. Elmohamady could run for Egypt, but stick him in a gym and he still feels out of place. He’s never lifted weights in his career and has rarely veered off from his tried and trusted training regime out on the grass.
Steve Bruce, the boss who signed him for Sunderland, Hull City and Villa, used to love that about him. He was Bruce’s Mr Reliable; always available and rarely injured.
“If the gym didn’t work for Thierry Henry or Jamie Vardy, then it didn’t have to work for Elmo, either,” he says laughing. “I like to be natural.”
Still, Elmohamady’s body is very much a temple. There are no secrets to his clean-living lifestyle. “I just look after myself like a professional footballer should,” he says. “I don’t go out partying or anything like that and to be honest, I don’t eat that much food, either. Sometimes one meal in a day is enough for me.”
Over the years he’s grown to enjoy English food, too. When he first arrived in the country he would visit the Egyptian restaurants in Sunderland four or five times a week because he missed his home comforts.
“The weather in Sunderland was much harder to deal with than the food, though,” he chuckles. “It must be the coldest place in England! It definitely feels warmer down here (London). But I really like living here. It’s why I’ve stayed here for so long. To be the first Egyptian to play in the country for this long is perfect for me.”
If England has a special place in his heart then so, too, does Aston Villa. His aim when he joined in 2017 was to help Villa back to the Premier League and kick on from there. What he didn’t realise was how much he would grow to love the club.
From setting up Anwar El Ghazi for a crucial goal in the 2-1 win over Derby County in the 2019 play-off final victory, to nurturing fellow countryman, Trezeguet, to sitting on the bench at West Ham United nervously checking on the other results during Survival Sunday in 2020, Elmohamady played a big part in Villa’s recent journey.
Dean Smith appreciated his loyal service to such an extent that he gave him extra notice when breaking the news that he would not be offered a contract extension when his deal expired this summer, and that’s not his usual way of addressing such a situation.
CEO Christian Purslow then told him he would be welcome back at Bodymoor Heath at any time in the future.
“Christian is a great man,” Elmohamady says. “He said if I wanted to do some coaching after my career then Villa would allow me to do that. I also have so much respect for the gaffer. He told me before he signed Cashy (Matty Cash), that he was going to be the new right-back and that he wanted me to compete with him.
“Then he explained to me in advance that he had three other right backs — Cashy, (Frederic) Guilbert and Kaine Kesler — all under contract, so I would not be staying any longer. It gave me time to prepare for what to do next. He’s always honest and tells his players the truth. Not all managers are like that.
“These people also love Aston Villa and are working their socks off to make the club better.”
Not every memory from his time at Villa is a good one, though. The heartbreaking 2018 play-off final defeat to Fulham in his first season still cuts deep. Ex-owner Tony Xia’s chaotic management style was also as peculiar around the training ground as it was on social media.
“I don’t like it when the owners get too much involved with the players,” he says. “That should be left to the coaching staff. I found it extremely weird. There were so many meetings with the players.
“Maybe it was because there was so much pressure from the fans to get the club back into the Premier League. He must have thought it was a good idea to pass on all of that information to the players, even though the coaching staff knew what they were doing.”
Like so many of his team-mates, Elmohamady only began to appreciate the true size of the club and its passionate, expecting, fanbase when he stepped inside.
“I have been promoted before but when Villa went up in 2019 it was certainly the biggest one for me,” he continues. “The pressure on us as players was massive. The gaffer changed a few things which really helped. We all became a really close unit because we were sleeping over the night before games even if we were at home. We had big belief going into the final, and we were able to help get Villa back up.”
The big turning point, of course, was when the current owners Nassef Sawiris — a man Elmohamady knows well — and his business partner Wes Edens took control of the club in the summer of 2018.
The pair saved Villa from administration, financial ruin, and inevitable years of struggle.
“Everything changed when they took over,” he says. “I know Nassef very well. He’s a fantastic man, a great leader and you can see from day one exactly what they wanted. They didn’t just want to get the club back into the Premier League, they want the club to be involved in European football and to chase trophies.”
The words from one poignant conversation still ring in Elmohamady’s ears to this day.
“I was on the pitch with Nassef after the play-off final at Wembley on the pitch,” he recalls. “You could see how happy he was. I remember he said to me, ‘Now we’re back into the Premier League, watch how this club will only go forward, not backwards.’ I could then see straight away how much it meant to him.”
Villa’s owners are the third richest in the Premier League and have already pumped in over £300 million in three seasons, debt-free.
“They are great owners and they do things the right way,” Elmohamady continues. “They come and watch the game, wish you best of luck before the game and if you win, they say congratulations after. This is the best way to do it.
“You will see again this season that the transfers they bring in are great players. The only way I can see it going for Villa this season is up.”
Elmohamady believes, however, that John Terry’s departure from his role as assistant manager will be felt. “Honestly, he was unbelievable for us, but I know why he’s done it; he wants to become a manager himself,” he says.
Losing Jack Grealish to Manchester City is also a massive blow, especially as Elmohamady believes he is the best English player in the division. “I was away in the summer in Qatar doing media work around the Euros and I was saying how Jack needed to be used more by England,” he says. “He’s a different level. People won’t realise until he plays four or five games in a row for England. He will be the main man, believe me!”
Punditry could be the way forward for the reliable right-back after football. Other than playing tennis, or watching his favourite player Rafael Nadal, the Egyptian’s life is pretty simple; family and football.
“If I’m not playing football, I’m watching it,” he says. “This summer was good working as a pundit. I enjoyed covering the England games for beIN Sports. It was a really great experience.”
For now, though, there’s a sharp focus on securing a new challenge as a player. Last season he made just 17 appearances for Villa but hopes to feature more often when he decides on his next destination.
In the meantime, it’s morning runs and more time with Malik. If the youngster who plays for his school team wants to follow in his father’s footsteps then he’s got the perfect role model to learn from in the times ahead.
-
Cheers, Ger. Seems like he's comfortable where he is. Get a club in the home counties, maybe somewhere in Surrey. Go down for training and then leave in a hurry.
-
Always thought he was among the best of eggs.
-
Sounds like a lovely fella. Perhaps a big payday awaits in Qatar like Kodjia.
-
Got a lot of time for Elmo. Bit of an unsung hero. He rarely let us down. Had more quality than some may have admitted. Just a reliable player and a top fella. Every squad needs an Elmo. I hope he carries on for a couple of years. He could excel overseas and boss it in the mid east or MLS etc. Or do a stint in the championship where once again, he'll rarely let a side down.
-
Class act. Hope he's wrong about how important Terry was though.
-
If I was starting a Football Manager game with a club in the Championship I'd sign him up snappish.
-
A thoroughly decent down-to earth bloke. Heartwarming in these times of greed and flashy haircuts. That 'made-in Egypt' last-minute goal vs Leicester still one of my standout moments of recent times. Great crosser of the ball. Lovely to hear him talking so fondly of Villa.
-
Luton, QPR or Reading wouldn't be a bad option. I guess there's Forest and Derby too.
He'd do a job for any of them.
-
A thoroughly decent down-to earth bloke. Heartwarming in these times of greed and flashy haircuts. That 'made-in Egypt' last-minute goal vs Leicester still one of my standout moments of recent times. Great crosser of the ball. Lovely to hear him talking so fondly of Villa.
It’s my go-to clip to cheer me up, the cross, the finish, the noise and Deano losing it as you would as a fan when your team scores a last minute winner in a semi-final
-
Great servant to the club, always reliable and had a great “cross” on him. Good luck to him wherever he goes
-
He's been really good for us.....reliable, great crosser of the ball, deceptively good in the air and a great team player.
The very best of luck to him in the future!
-
Good to see Elmo hasn't lost the Villa bug. https://twitter.com/Elmo_27/status/1440783296934264836
-
Has he retired? Neil Taylor doesn't seem to have got a club either.
-
I heard Elmo was at the match yesterday vs West Ham along with Gareth Southgate.
-
I heard Elmo was at the match yesterday vs West Ham along with Gareth Southgate.
Elmo is there every match now as a club ambassador, alongside Ian Taylor and Brian Little.
-
I heard Elmo was at the match yesterday vs West Ham along with Gareth Southgate.
Elmo is there every match now as a club ambassador, alongside Ian Taylor and Brian Little.
Oh that's brilliant news. Thanks.
It would have been nice if it had been announced here on his thread, but it's good to know as he's a class act and understands the club.
-
Risso just announced it.
-
To be fair, it wasn't exactly a secret on the official site either:
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2022/july/20/elmohamady-pr/
-
To be fair, it wasn't exactly a secret on the official site either:
https://www.avfc.co.uk/news/2022/july/20/elmohamady-pr/
"someone who is fondly thought of by Villa fans for his strong performances on the pitch during his spell in claret and blue"
Great pro. And Great idea by the club.
-
Southgate could have been an ambassador for the club had shit not happened.
-
To be honest even I knew Elmo was a club ambassador now and I I’m never in any loops of knowledge
-
Southgate could have been an ambassador for the club had shit not happened.
I can see Southgate being manager here one day.
-
Southgate could have been an ambassador for the club had shit not happened.
I can see Southgate being manager here one day.
That's your worst suggestion yet. >:( ;)
-
I saw Elmo sat next to Southgate on the Bulgarian coverage that I was watching in Greece.