He'll offer more than Sidwell.
Aslong as he dont show the young lads how to take a penaltyWe'll leave that to Carew.
If signing him means a young player misses out, then we shouldn't sign him.
Nobody else has signed him for a reason.
I hope Houllier would be thinking of signing Pires for the same reasons that he signed McAllister for Liverpool: he'd be an older, wiser head for the youngsters to learn from. If so, I reckon it would be a shrewd move.
Plus he scored one of the best goals I've ever seen at Villa Park.Pure class. I remember standing and applauding.
If signing him means a young player misses out, then we shouldn't sign him.
Nobody else has signed him for a reason.
You're missing the point, which is:I hope Houllier would be thinking of signing Pires for the same reasons that he signed McAllister for Liverpool: he'd be an older, wiser head for the youngsters to learn from. If so, I reckon it would be a shrewd move.
.. and also the fact that with the way our injuries are going, we desperately need bodies, and quickly.
Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe anyone?
You're missing my point though. Nobody has come in for him. There must be a reason for this.
Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe anyone?
Just because they were once good, doesn't mean they're still going to be.
Gary MacAllister would probably have signed for someone else if not Liverpool.
More players yes, but not for the sake of it.
If he's still good enough, then fine.
At 37 I wouldn't be expecting too much from him as a player, but the idea of him joining the coaching staff does sound a good one to me!
I thought Sutton was relatively useful in that short spell with us.Scored the winner at Everton and caused defences a few problems.
I thought Sutton was relatively useful in that short spell with us.Scored the winner at Everton and caused defences a few problems.
I thought Sutton was relatively useful in that short spell with us.Scored the winner at Everton and caused defences a few problems.
Great goal. Set up by a peach of pass by our new upcoming star midfielder
If signing him means a young player misses out, then we shouldn't sign him.
Nobody else has signed him for a reason.
You're missing the point, which is:I hope Houllier would be thinking of signing Pires for the same reasons that he signed McAllister for Liverpool: he'd be an older, wiser head for the youngsters to learn from. If so, I reckon it would be a shrewd move.
.. and also the fact that with the way our injuries are going, we desperately need bodies, and quickly.
You're missing my point though. Nobody has come in for him. There must be a reason for this.
Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe anyone?
Just because they were once good, doesn't mean they're still going to be.
Gary MacAllister would probably have signed for someone else if not Liverpool.
More players yes, but not for the sake of it.
If he's still good enough, then fine.
If signing him means a young player misses out, then we shouldn't sign him.
Nobody else has signed him for a reason.
You're missing the point, which is:I hope Houllier would be thinking of signing Pires for the same reasons that he signed McAllister for Liverpool: he'd be an older, wiser head for the youngsters to learn from. If so, I reckon it would be a shrewd move.
.. and also the fact that with the way our injuries are going, we desperately need bodies, and quickly.
You're missing my point though. Nobody has come in for him. There must be a reason for this.
Chris Sutton and Didier Agathe anyone?
Just because they were once good, doesn't mean they're still going to be.
Gary MacAllister would probably have signed for someone else if not Liverpool.
More players yes, but not for the sake of it.
If he's still good enough, then fine.
Your point doesn't add up. Everbody wanted to sign downing before his injury, we then bought him injured. Nobody wanted Adam Johnson then for half the money, that doesn't mean he is rubbish does it?
If he's not on big wages I can't see it being a problem. With all due respect I imagine a 37 year old Robert Pires is a considerably better option to have on the bench than a 22 year old Isiah Osbourne.
Another Berger the way I see it, no sense in this, unless Hou sees him in acoaching role for Albrighton, Young etc...So then there is some sense in it?
If he's not on big wages I can't see it being a problem. With all due respect I imagine a 37 year old Robert Pires is a considerably better option to have on the bench than a 22 year old Isiah Osbourne.
This. With other players on stupid amounts of money for what they do (Sidwell/Davies etc.), it would be silly to sign him on a similar sum of money a week. If he's cheap as chips, then maybe.
As long as he's cheap, and as long as no-one expects the Pires of 5 or 6 years ago then fine. As others have said, we need the bodies and he'd be a better bet off the bench than some of our dross.
But I hope he has cut out the diving - he was one of the worst, if not the worst offenders, when he was in England before. He's probably not quick enough to do it convincingly though now.
As long as he's cheap, and as long as no-one expects the Pires of 5 or 6 years ago then fine. As others have said, we need the bodies and he'd be a better bet off the bench than some of our dross.
But I hope he has cut out the diving - he was one of the worst, if not the worst offenders, when he was in England before. He's probably not quick enough to do it convincingly though now.
Don't worry, Ashley Young will be diving for two.
Pires to sign this afternoon on 6 month deal- nothing to lose and we are gaining a quality experienced player at a time when we need him- I wish him well and he will be a great asset to us.
Oh dear. Lets get Zidane aswell.
Oh dear. Lets get Zidane aswell.
Oh dear. Lets get Zidane aswell.
The OS is now reporting his imminent arrival. Will be a good addition. Welcome Robert.
Does this mean he can't play until February anyway due to the 25 man registration rules?
Does this mean he can't play until February anyway due to the 25 man registration rules?
Didn't we only manage to register 23 players anyway?
Does this mean he can't play until February anyway due to the 25 man registration rules?
That's what i though too, so can have Pires and A N Other
Didn't we only manage to register 23 players anyway?
I think we can register free agents if we didn't fill all 25 places.
I think we can register free agents if we didn't fill all 25 places.
That's my understanding also.
Can he play on Saturday ? Apparently he has been training with Arsenal, he should be fairly fit.
He's a class player. Technically would be a cut above the rest of our lads, but of course his legs aren't gonna be up to a lot.i would rather have him there than herd... dont know enough about johnson to comment, but herd isnt great and never will be in my humble opinion...
Saying that, given our injuries right now and derth of quality, it's a good signing. Lets be honest, GH has previous on this with McCallister, and that turned out to be a master stroke.
As things stand though, would you rather have Pires on the bench, or for arguments sake Johnson or Herd? Whether those lads make the grade long run, I don't know, but Pires could certainly offer something to the team. He's a class act.
Bring it on I say. No harm really. You don't lose ability. 20 mins here and there and he could win us games.
We are signing this guy after what he said about this club and fighting relegation?
We are signing this guy after what he said about this club and fighting relegation?Sorry, if you weren't born/ don't live in France, you can't comment.*
Anyone who saw him towards the end at Villareal would know he's not got the legs any more and that was in a much slower league.
Still, he's cost nowt so there's no harm in it I suppose. Bring him on for the last 10-15 minutes and let him take the free kicks around the box.
We're in a bit of a pickle old chap, 11 players out.Anyone who saw him towards the end at Villareal would know he's not got the legs any more and that was in a much slower league.
Still, he's cost nowt so there's no harm in it I suppose. Bring him on for the last 10-15 minutes and let him take the free kicks around the box.
Cost nowt? I thought we were supposed to be trimming the wage budget? I thought we were past the days of signing over the hill midfielders?
Cost nowt? I thought we were supposed to be trimming the wage budget? I thought we were past the days of signing over the hill midfielders?
Anyone who saw him towards the end at Villareal would know he's not got the legs any more and that was in a much slower league.
Still, he's cost nowt so there's no harm in it I suppose. Bring him on for the last 10-15 minutes and let him take the free kicks around the box.
Cost nowt? I thought we were supposed to be trimming the wage budget? I thought we were past the days of signing over the hill midfielders?
Who are MH and MB?
Who are MH and MB?
Mark Hughes and Mike Bassett?
I dont care how much hes on , as long as he brings his other half down..Did you mean to post that 'titty' link?
http://www.iceposter.com/thumbs/G22646_b.jpg
I'd have liked his experience on the bench against Fulham and Manu.
I dont care how much hes on , as long as he brings his other half down..Did you mean to post that 'titty' link?
http://www.iceposter.com/thumbs/G22646_b.jpg
I dont care how much hes on , as long as he brings his other half down..Did you mean to post that 'titty' link?
http://www.iceposter.com/thumbs/G22646_b.jpg
Has Pires wife got them out... naughty
http://www.allstarpics.net/0610797/010603647/jessica-lemarie-pic.html
I dont care how much hes on , as long as he brings his other half down..Did you mean to post that 'titty' link?
http://www.iceposter.com/thumbs/G22646_b.jpg
Has Pires wife got them out... naughty
http://www.allstarpics.net/0610797/010603647/jessica-lemarie-pic.html
you just would wouldn't you????
well i would
http://www.lucywho.com/ctn_10603224/jessica-lemarie/tpx_610384
I dont care how much hes on , as long as he brings his other half down..Did you mean to post that 'titty' link?
http://www.iceposter.com/thumbs/G22646_b.jpg
Has Pires wife got them out... naughty
http://www.allstarpics.net/0610797/010603647/jessica-lemarie-pic.html
you just would wouldn't you????
well i would
http://www.lucywho.com/ctn_10603224/jessica-lemarie/tpx_610384
loving the fact we want rid of our 31 year old top scoring striker, but welcome grandad pires. good times
loving the fact we want rid of our 31 year old top scoring striker, but welcome grandad pires. good times
You don't really understand the adult world do you?
Football is what you really know shag all about.
Id rather have a past his best Pires than a in his prime Sidwell...A prime Sidwell is something we've never seen, his last decent trot was years ago at Reading
Would I be right in thinking that he will be the first World Cup Winner ever to be on the books of Aston Villa ?Possibly, that would mean that the Blues had one before we did.
Would I be right in thinking that he will be the first World Cup Winner ever to be on the books of Aston Villa ?Possibly, that would mean that the Blues had one before we did.
I'm shocked we don't get that thrown in our face all the time.
The French "Equipe" sports channel's ticker tape was doing this just five minutes ago:Pires: "I ay signed nowhere for the moment. I ay had a medical; I ay been to Villa Park. Yes we'm talking 'em but I ay signed NOTHING. Villa are getting back to me on Friday and we'm'll see.
See here (http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/breves2010/20101117_102505_pires-n-a-signe-nulle-part.html) (if you can read a bit of French)
We seem to have developed a habit of announcing things before they've actually happened
SSN-Medical set for Thurs/friday.Hopes to be available for game on Sunday
30 year-old Mathieu Berson is currently out of contract, I believe.
and you can check the PFA Transfer Directory (http://www.givemefootball.com/pfa-transfer-list)
sorry if previously mentioned, but doesn't Pires have a problem against us? I seem to remember him being angry with us a some point or another.
sorry if previously mentioned, but doesn't Pires have a problem against us? I seem to remember him being angry with us a some point or another.
Wasn't he accusing us of racially abusing him at Villa Park one year?
I thought he'd passed his medical yesterday but no personal terms have been agreed.Having his medical this morning
I think that was when Henry scored that quick free kick and the song 'Stand up, if you hate the french' went around VP.Correct. I remember watching everyone standing up as I was sitting down.
I think that was when Henry scored that quick free kick and the song 'Stand up, if you hate the french' went around VP.
I think that was when Henry scored that quick free kick and the song 'Stand up, if you hate the french' went around VP.
I seem to recall being the Holte and Seaman turning around to us with a big grin on his face when that was sung.
I think that was when Henry scored that quick free kick and the song 'Stand up, if you hate the french' went around VP.
I seem to recall being the Holte and Seaman turning around to us with a big grin on his face when that was sung.
Good old spunky.
Has he signed yet?
Has he signed yet?
Having his medical as we speak
I'm almost excited about Pires joining. Maybe he'll have the same effect that Dugarry had down the road.
*tin hat on & runs*
At least we should be able to fill the bench with our full compliment of subs on Sunday!
Well, if he is half as good as 'Bagic' Berson then he'll be well worth his transfer fee.(http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af104/alanclare/Robert_Pires1.jpg)
I do hope he's shaved that guinea pig's fanny off his chin though
I think he'll do well, like Berger did for a spell for us from the bench, added a bit of spark when he came on.Yes, and he could stroll around the training ground telling Ashley to go for it with the Arse.
This year's Didier Agathe, can't see what all the fuss is about.
This year's Didier Agathe, can't see what all the fuss is about.
This year's Didier Agathe, can't see what all the fuss is about.
How about giving him a chance?
I've Know Pires today,him was training today with us..
His look is good...I'll be fit probably after Arsenal game..;-)
This year's Didier Agathe, can't see what all the fuss is about.
This year's Didier Agathe, can't see what all the fuss is about.
Welcome Robert, you've been at Villarreal, now welcome to the real Villa.
Welcome to Villa Park Robert ( Robear).....
Welcome to Villa Park Robert ( Robear).....
Do you think he looks like a certain chip shop owner?
ive just got it! loads of fans are happy we've signed somebody!! i was getting genuinely worried we thought this was a great signing!
ive just got it! loads of fans are happy we've signed somebody!! i was getting genuinely worried we thought this was a great signing!
You haven't got it at all!
It's not a 'great' signing, just a decent player, on a free, on a short contract, who can do a decent job while we have half our squad on the sick. No risk, if it doesn't work he's gone in the summer, if it does work we might get a few points out of it.
You do realise we can only sign non-contract players outside of the transfer window don't you?
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
I'm pretty sure he can't see as far as the end of his nose.glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
We have signed him because it suits our situation. We played United last week with 2 kids in midfield, when they were knackered we had no one to come on for 10 minutes to see the game out.
Surely you can see that.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
You've come out with some idiocy in your brief time with us but this is the best. What would you do if you were manager now? And what the fuck has this got to do with Doug Ellis?
Do you think I'll win if I bet my Everton mate that Pires will score more goals than Beckford?
I wouldn't usually post a picture of a celebrating Arsenal team but this is what his teammates thought of him when they won the FA Cup...
(http://www.arsenalpics.com/image/robert-pires-with-the-fa_97826.jpg)le
I wouldn't usually post a picture of a celebrating Arsenal team but this is what his teammates thought of him when they won the FA Cup...
(http://www.arsenalpics.com/image/robert-pires-with-the-fa_97826.jpg)le
Why not post a picture of Stanley Matthews with the FA Cup - it's just as relevant.
Hopefully Pires will be a good influence on Ireland.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
I wouldn't usually post a picture of a celebrating Arsenal team but this is what his teammates thought of him when they won the FA Cup...
(http://www.arsenalpics.com/image/robert-pires-with-the-fa_97826.jpg)le
Why not post a picture of Stanley Matthews with the FA Cup - it's just as relevant.
No, he might be talking squarely out of his fundement but if that were a bannable offence then I think we all would have been banned at one point or another.glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.You've come out with some idiocy in your brief time with us but this is the best. What would you do if you were manager now? And what the fuck has this got to do with Doug Ellis?
Ban him.
He does, he's been based over there for years and is a bit of an authority on Spanish football. If you want to know the inside track on La Liga from a journalistic point of view, you go to Guillem Balague, Sid Lowe, or Graham Hunter.
Look, let's be truthful: there's no way Houllier would have moved for Pires if the guy was puffing and wheezing after 20 minutes - his fitness will have been assessed to very high and stringent standards. He's probably more than capable of playing 90 minutes, although I doubt very much we'll use him in anything other than cameo roles. But, as others have said: 20 mins to go, would you rather see Sidwell running on to hack someone down, or Pires, to add a bit of craft?
If this was August 2011, and Pires was our only incoming signing, I'd be furious. But it isn't, it's a short term deal for a once world-class footballer at a time when the squad needs bolstering.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
You've come out with some idiocy in your brief time with us but this is the best. What would you do if you were manager now? And what the fuck has this got to do with Doug Ellis?
Ban him.
On the OS it states he will wear the No 8 shirt, I thought there was a ruling that it could only be worn by one player during a season hence Ireland getting the No 9 shirt, surely our worst ever player to wear our No 9 shirt, yes i know he is not a centre forward but I have seen little to be impressed about so far.
No, he might be talking squarely out of his fundement but if that were a bannable offence then I think we all would have been banned at one point or another.glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.You've come out with some idiocy in your brief time with us but this is the best. What would you do if you were manager now? And what the fuck has this got to do with Doug Ellis?
Ban him.
****Correction****
I like zis.
Does this mean that we have to learn how to use the French graves accent as in Robert Pirès as well as the acute one as in Gérard?
Ladies, are you happy with the signing?
Best looking Villa player since Ginola?
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
He managed to be involved in 37 games for Villarreal last season which is encouraging on the fitness front - definitely worth a 6 month contract.
I wouldn't usually post a picture of a celebrating Arsenal team but this is what his teammates thought of him when they won the FA Cup...
(http://www.arsenalpics.com/image/robert-pires-with-the-fa_97826.jpg)le
Why not post a picture of Stanley Matthews with the FA Cup - it's just as relevant.
In what way would a Stanley Matthews picture be just as relevant as a Robert Pires picture in a Robert Pires thread?
Does this mean that we have to learn how to use the French graves accent as in Robert Pirès as well as the acute one as in Gérard?
I am a pedant (there's an opening for a comment if anyone wants one).
Henry the only smug w**ker who wouldnt kneel down!Indeed. The clue is in 1) The Trophy 2) the letters "Ba**aycard" and "Barc*****rd Cha*****s"
Isnt that the PL trophy?
Muscle ton jeu, muscle ton jeu Robert , si tu muscles pas ton jeu, fais attention, je t'assure, tu vas voir, tu vas avoir des déconvenues parce que t'es trop gentil.
Beef up your game Robert, [wags finger] Beef up your game... if you don't beef up your game, watch out, I'm telling you, you'll see, you are in for a few disappointments because you're too nice
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
glad everyone knows someone who hasnt got a contract till november is a decent signing at 37. no wonder we had ellis for so many years.
All things considered, who do you think would be a good signing at this time?
I bet he'll be shit now.
I bet he'll be shit now.
Positive thinking
Albrighton tweeted
It's not often you get to see a former footballer of the year training. Great to have Robert Pires here.
This is a link to some vintage Pires. The vision he shows is simply sublime at times and we can only hope that even if the legs aren't what they once were the brain is working just as fast. Off course, a common theme in these clips is that it always helps if you have Henry and Bergkamp playing alongside you.Henry & Bergkamp in front of you, Vieira & Gilberto Silva behind you would surely help.
Well, if he is half as good as 'Bagic' Berson then he'll be well worth his transfer fee.
I do hope he's shaved that guinea pig's fanny off his chin though
(http://i998.photobucket.com/albums/af104/alanclare/Robert_Pires1.jpg)
Do you mean this one?
Arsenal were a joy to watch back then. The Prem was a lot better back then too, much better calibre of show stopping players to be honest. Especially between 00-05.
Nowadays the Goons might play nice football still, but they don't have the cutting edge they did with Henry, Pires, Bergkamp and Ljungberg.
That vid not only reminds me about how brilliant Pires can be, even without having to run much, but also makes me miss Bergkamp. The guy was a genius.
God this league aint a patch on what it was. Far less watchable now. :(
Can't remember the last time I saw a real 'wow' game, one to remember for years to come...
Can't remember the last time I saw a real 'wow' game, one to remember for years to come...
Not Villa-related, but I think the last 'vow' game in PL was between Arsenal and Liverpool a couple of years ago. I think it ended 4-4. For some reason I thought at the time that they were better teams than Manure and Chelsea, but the latter would end up with the trophies anyway.
One of the best games of recent years was our Boxing Day 4-4 down at Chelsea. The game had the lot in spades.If I were a neutral watching Everton 2-3 Villa from two years ago I would remember it as a bit of a classic as well.
That Arsenal side was fantastic but you can't have it both ways. When the Premiership had more world class players in it, they were solely distributed amongst the top three or four sides and the gulf was huge. We might not have that "wow factor" to watch these days but it's making for a much more even playing field and a much more competitive league to boot. I think this season has been much more interesting than most of the Sky Sports seasons to date.
That Arsenal side was fantastic but you can't have it both ways. When the Premiership had more world class players in it, they were solely distributed amongst the top three or four sides and the gulf was huge. We might not have that "wow factor" to watch these days but it's making for a much more even playing field and a much more competitive league to boot. I think this season has been much more interesting than most of the Sky Sports seasons to date.
That Arsenal side was fantastic but you can't have it both ways. When the Premiership had more world class players in it, they were solely distributed amongst the top three or four sides and the gulf was huge. We might not have that "wow factor" to watch these days but it's making for a much more even playing field and a much more competitive league to boot. I think this season has been much more interesting than most of the Sky Sports seasons to date.
what he said
One of the best games of recent years was our Boxing Day 4-4 down at Chelsea. The game had the lot in spades.If I were a neutral watching Everton 2-3 Villa from two years ago I would remember it as a bit of a classic as well.
Well if that's the criteria, I don't think I can really remember any random Premier League game for it's fantastic football and and superb goals.One of the best games of recent years was our Boxing Day 4-4 down at Chelsea. The game had the lot in spades.If I were a neutral watching Everton 2-3 Villa from two years ago I would remember it as a bit of a classic as well.
Very exciting granted and memorable for Villa fans, but not 'wow' games in terms of fantastic quality football played throughout with superb goals....and remembered by all and sundry
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2010/nov/22/premier-league-chalkboard-analysis
The Guardian points out the Pires v Ireland passing.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2010/nov/22/premier-league-chalkboard-analysis
The Guardian points out the Pires v Ireland passing.
Kind of sums it up really, how little Ireland actually puts in in a claret and blue shirt
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2010/nov/22/premier-league-chalkboard-analysis
The Guardian points out the Pires v Ireland passing.
Kind of sums it up really, how little Ireland actually puts in in a claret and blue shirt
Although Pires needs to get rid of the ball a lot quicker than Ireland does - with his advanced years and lack of pace, he has to make the ball do the work.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2010/nov/22/premier-league-chalkboard-analysis
The Guardian points out the Pires v Ireland passing.
Kind of sums it up really, how little Ireland actually puts in in a claret and blue shirt
Although Pires needs to get rid of the ball a lot quicker than Ireland does - with his advanced years and lack of pace, he has to make the ball do the work.
Disagree, Pires is the kind of player that can keep the ball for that few extra seconds when he needs to, you don't need to be young and fast to retain possession, you need technique and composure, which he has in abundance. There were a few times i noticed that he took the ball under pressure, yet made time for himself to control and turn and pick out a good pass.
The good thing about Pires is that he has the nous to know when to get rid of the ball quickly and when to hold on to it. I won't be expecting him to be running at players all the time, we have Young, Albrighton and Downing for that. But no doubt we will also see some nice pass and move from him. The good thing about the stats from Sunday is that the 4 unsuccessful passes he made were all attempts to thread the ball into the box, other than that he retained possession with all of his passes.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2010/nov/22/premier-league-chalkboard-analysis
The Guardian points out the Pires v Ireland passing.
Kind of sums it up really, how little Ireland actually puts in in a claret and blue shirt
Although Pires needs to get rid of the ball a lot quicker than Ireland does - with his advanced years and lack of pace, he has to make the ball do the work.
Disagree, Pires is the kind of player that can keep the ball for that few extra seconds when he needs to, you don't need to be young and fast to retain possession, you need technique and composure, which he has in abundance. There were a few times i noticed that he took the ball under pressure, yet made time for himself to control and turn and pick out a good pass.
The good thing about Pires is that he has the nous to know when to get rid of the ball quickly and when to hold on to it. I won't be expecting him to be running at players all the time, we have Young, Albrighton and Downing for that. But no doubt we will also see some nice pass and move from him. The good thing about the stats from Sunday is that the 4 unsuccessful passes he made were all attempts to thread the ball into the box, other than that he retained possession with all of his passes.
That's what I mean.
He's not going to run at players and try and take them on, he's going to pass the ball.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2010/nov/22/premier-league-chalkboard-analysis
The Guardian points out the Pires v Ireland passing.
Kind of sums it up really, how little Ireland actually puts in in a claret and blue shirt
Although Pires needs to get rid of the ball a lot quicker than Ireland does - with his advanced years and lack of pace, he has to make the ball do the work.
Disagree, Pires is the kind of player that can keep the ball for that few extra seconds when he needs to, you don't need to be young and fast to retain possession, you need technique and composure, which he has in abundance. There were a few times i noticed that he took the ball under pressure, yet made time for himself to control and turn and pick out a good pass.
The good thing about Pires is that he has the nous to know when to get rid of the ball quickly and when to hold on to it. I won't be expecting him to be running at players all the time, we have Young, Albrighton and Downing for that. But no doubt we will also see some nice pass and move from him. The good thing about the stats from Sunday is that the 4 unsuccessful passes he made were all attempts to thread the ball into the box, other than that he retained possession with all of his passes.
That's what I mean.
He's not going to run at players and try and take them on, he's going to pass the ball.
New Aston Villa signing Robert Pires has revealed that he is being driven the 250 miles to and from training every day, rather than move from his luxury London apartment (which is situated on the old Highbury site).
Pires is quoted in today’s Sun as saying:
“There are players who do the journey by helicopter – I’m lucky enough to do it by car with a chauffeur but it doesn’t bother anyone here.
“This proves there is a really open mentality here and it doesn’t inconvenience me, either. Every morning I leave at 8am and by 9.30, or 9.45, I’m at the training ground and have time to get ready, to train and I have the best conditions possible.”
Villa face Pires’ former employers Arsenal next Saturday, but the 37-year-old believes that, although it will be ‘strange’ to line up against his old side, there will be no time for reminiscence:
“It will be strange as I recently trained for two months with them and played for several years there, but I’m wearing new colours and I’m ready.”
Which, all in all, begs the question: Which Villa players turn up for training in a bloody helicopter?
An even better question is how you can get from Highbury to Bodymoor Heath in 90 minutes.
An even better question is how you can get from Highbury to Bodymoor Heath in 90 minutes.
M25, M11, A14, M6north, M6 toll road, get off at Dunton Island and head for Kingsbury then right at first roundabout for BH. If the traffic is okay an hour and 45 would be possible.
I think he's referring to Michael Owen when he was at Newcastle.Robbie Fowler used to get a chopper to Cardiff IIRC.
Robbie Fowler is a chopper.I think he's referring to Michael Owen when he was at Newcastle.Robbie Fowler used to get a chopper to Cardiff IIRC.
If I earned millions a year I think I'd have a chopper too.
If I earned millions a year I think I'd have a chopper too.
An even better question is how you can get from Highbury to Bodymoor Heath in 90 minutes.Good point Dave. I live 15 minutes drive north of Highbury (that's with a clear road), very near the North Circular. North Circular - M1 - M6 to Villa Park gets me there in around two hours on a good day (there's a long 50mph limit north of Luton to cope with too). When the road is clear I don't exactly hang around, so I don't know what speed his chauffeur is doing - maybe they should review the Pires insurance policy.
An even better question is how you can get from Highbury to Bodymoor Heath in 90 minutes.Good point Dave. I live 15 minutes drive north of Highbury (that's with a clear road), very near the North Circular. North Circular - M1 - M6 to Villa Park gets me there in around two hours on a good day (there's a long 50mph limit north of Luton to cope with too). When the road is clear I don't exactly hang around, so I don't know what speed his chauffeur is doing - maybe they should review the Pires insurance policy.
I still maintain that it will all end in tears with Houllier. The French are still pissing themselves laughing at how they got rid of him so painlessly after the South Africa/Domenech fiasco.
I still maintain that it will all end in tears with Houllier. The French are still pissing themselves laughing at how they got rid of him so painlessly after the South Africa/Domenech fiasco.
Sadly I'm leaning towards this. Even sadder is, I long for the O Neill days already. Say what you will about the guy, but he got results. We've gone quickly from a top 6 side not too far shy of being top 4, to being completely average, battling relegation. Granted injuries and O Neill's departure itself have played a huge part, but it's been a scary decline.
I still maintain that it will all end in tears with Houllier. The French are still pissing themselves laughing at how they got rid of him so painlessly after the South Africa/Domenech fiasco.
Sadly I'm leaning towards this. Even sadder is, I long for the O Neill days already. Say what you will about the guy, but he got results. We've gone quickly from a top 6 side not too far shy of being top 4, to being completely average, battling relegation. Granted injuries and O Neill's departure itself have played a huge part, but it's been a scary decline.
The most frightening thing is how certain O Neill stalwarts have not stepped up to the plate since his departure.
Lack of a genuine gameplan is a huge concern. For all O Neills limitations and only have plan A, at least there was actually plan A. We haven't actually improved much between K Mac and Houllier so far.
Benefit of doubt and all that, but it looks worrying.
I believe he's got a role to play for us, but not from the start. He's an injection of composure and class from the bench in the final third/quarter of matches, for me.
I still maintain that it will all end in tears with Houllier. The French are still pissing themselves laughing at how they got rid of him so painlessly after the South Africa/Domenech fiasco.
Sadly I'm leaning towards this. Even sadder is, I long for the O Neill days already. Say what you will about the guy, but he got results. We've gone quickly from a top 6 side not too far shy of being top 4, to being completely average, battling relegation. Granted injuries and O Neill's departure itself have played a huge part, but it's been a scary decline.
The most frightening thing is how certain O Neill stalwarts have not stepped up to the plate since his departure.
Lack of a genuine gameplan is a huge concern. For all O Neills limitations and only have plan A, at least there was actually plan A. We haven't actually improved much between K Mac and Houllier so far.
Benefit of doubt and all that, but it looks worrying.
Christ almighty.
The most overreacting post of the lot, Tom. Look at the injury list.
Reo-Coker, Petrov, Sidwell, Delph - all out.
Cuellar, Beye - out
Heskey, Agbonlahor, Albrighton - out.
Then throw in Carew who was also out, and it is the worst injury list the club has had in god knows how long. Throw on top of that the fact we changed manager at all, which brings uncertainty and means a wait for things to click, then the timing of MON going, and it is hardly surprising we are where we are.
.........or maybe remembering the 1st seasons of Jozef Venglos, Graham Turner, Tommys Doc and Cummings etc. :-\
.........or maybe remembering the 1st seasons of Jozef Venglos, Graham Turner, Tommys Doc and Cummings etc. :-\
"With some players, it's tense and electric", added the former French international. "Not with the whole group but with some. Yes. Houllier is a new culture, another way of working. When you're in a routine and that it changes everything for you overnight, you have trouble accepting it. In addition, we do not win. This is complicated for everyone. and I arrived in the middle of it."
i like uncle bob just for the comedy value and whats more i think Sky are missing a trick not selling another box to their fuckwit subscribers. If they're willing to pay for HD, just think how many would snap up a system that converts the picture to black and white, speeds up the action like a 20's newsreel, and plays silent movie piano music in the background everytime Pires gets the ball.. It may not get must actual match use but still..
i like uncle bob just for the comedy value and whats more i think Sky are missing a trick not selling another box to their fuckwit subscribers. If they're willing to pay for HD, just think how many would snap up a system that converts the picture to black and white, speeds up the action like a 20's newsreel, and plays silent movie piano music in the background everytime Pires gets the ball.. It may not get much actual match use but still..
Robert Pires today revealed to L'Equipe that he, like Houllier has struggled in the Premiership and should perhaps admit that he can no longer bring value to the team. In another brutally honest statement he revealed that the senior players should really be taking some of the blame for this seasons poor form. "Many have behaved like whiny little children" he claimed, "we should all be putting in more effort for the manager and the fans rather than running to our agents and the press".
I suppose at least if you look at his interview, he wants to play and try and help the team. Can't have a go at him for that.
Seldom seen scenesQuoteRobert Pires today revealed to L'Equipe that he, like Houllier has struggled in the Premiership and should perhaps admit that he can no longer bring value to the team. In another brutally honest statement he revealed that the senior players should really be taking some of the blame for this seasons poor form. "Many have behaved like whiny little children" he claimed, "we should all be putting in more effort for the manager and the fans rather than running to our agents and the press".
He may not be up to it, but that last quote is absolutely spot on.
Seldom seen scenesQuoteRobert Pires today revealed to L'Equipe that he, like Houllier has struggled in the Premiership and should perhaps admit that he can no longer bring value to the team. In another brutally honest statement he revealed that the senior players should really be taking some of the blame for this seasons poor form. "Many have behaved like whiny little children" he claimed, "we should all be putting in more effort for the manager and the fans rather than running to our agents and the press".
He may not be up to it, but that last quote is absolutely spot on.
I was incredibly disappointed with him today. The game has passed him by. It looked a decent addition at a time that the window was closed and our physio's room resembled a reenactment of war time England. Today proved that his head might be there (and I'd even argue that to be honest), but the body most certainly isn't.
you just keep hopeing that the penny eventually drops with Huoulier, play Albrighton on th right, play Gabby up front , play young on the left wing and forget PiresI was incredibly disappointed with him today. The game has passed him by. It looked a decent addition at a time that the window was closed and our physio's room resembled a reenactment of war time England. Today proved that his head might be there (and I'd even argue that to be honest), but the body most certainly isn't.
Just couldn't understand the reasoning behind starting him today. He's been dreadful every time he's come on, and he was woeful in the last match he started. Ireland couldn't contribute anything less, yet he's nowhere near the squad and Pires is starting. It's madness.
Houllier: More to come from playmaker Pires
(http://www.avfc.co.uk/javaImages/be/50/0,,10265~9326782,00.jpg)
I used to be good y'know
By Paul Brown
Gerard Houllier insists there's much more to come from Robert Pires as he gets used to a faster and more physical Barclays Premier League.
Pires joined Villa from Villareal after four-and-a-half years away from the top-flight.
Manager Houllier says the changes in that time have been marked but believes Pires is now finding his feet in claret and blue.
Pires started in his first game at Villa - against former club Arsenal - but has struggled to command a first XI spot since.
Houllier admits he rushed the 37-year-old into action too soon but insists Villa will "need" him as the season progresses.
The former Gunners ace looked the part in the FA Cup clash with Sheffield United and Houllier thinks there'll be more where that came from.
He said: "In fairness when Robert came and when I played him, probably I played him a bit too early.
"I admit that because it took him about three or four weeks to step up. Now he's getting better.
"He admitted as well that the pace and the physicality of the game has gone up. He's got to put up with that.
"He was better in training. We'll need him sometimes to keep the ball. We'll need him."
Houllier also admitted it was proper that the players went to salute the travelling claret and blue army at the end of the game.
The gaffer described the supporters as "fantastic" as they cheered their team from first minute to last in the gruelling encounter at Bramall Lane.
He added: "It was fantastic, particularly when we were defending. They were great for the players.
"What we want is the fans behind the players, that's what we want. Every manager wants that. I was also pleased that the players went to greet them."
Watch Pires try to unlock the door against high-flying Manchester City - click here.
Ireland couldn't contribute anything less, yet he's nowhere near the squad and Pires is starting. It's madness.
I was incredibly disappointed with him today. The game has passed him by. It looked a decent addition at a time that the window was closed and our physio's room resembled a reenactment of war time England. Today proved that his head might be there (and I'd even argue that to be honest), but the body most certainly isn't.
Just couldn't understand the reasoning behind starting him today. He's been dreadful every time he's come on, and he was woeful in the last match he started. Ireland couldn't contribute anything less, yet he's nowhere near the squad and Pires is starting. It's madness.
Houllier quote
"I admit that because it took him about three or four weeks to step up. Now he's getting better.''
Sorry Gerard, I just can't see it.
I haven't seen one hint of his old ability.
can Ireland be THAT bad to have dropped behind him in the pecking order?
can Ireland be THAT bad to have dropped behind him in the pecking order?
With Ireland I don't think it's a matter of ability that's keeping him out, but rather attitude?
Can his attitude be THAT bad that he's dropped behind Pires in the pecking order? I think the team on Saturday answered that!
I don't think Pires is doing any better or worse than Ireland would be, so it's not as if we'd be getting more from the player pissing the club around.
Houllier quote
"I admit that because it took him about three or four weeks to step up. Now he's getting better.''
Sorry Gerard, I just can't see it.
I haven't seen one hint of his old ability.
There was one quick exchange of passes with, I think, Young towards the end of the first half on Saturday where he looked very good. That's about it though.
How lucky we are to have such a seasoned football watcher to put us right.
I'll have to assume that I had (another) acid flash back whilst I was watching the stream, as I don't recall Robert Downey Jnr 'changing the direction of the attack.'How lucky we are to have such a seasoned football watcher to put us right.
Very kind of you to say so, next time I see him I'll pass on your compliment.
How's the knife sharpening going ?
What a stupid signing, he struggles to move his legs.I've seen better legwork from Douglas Bader and Tanni Grey Thompson.
And to think people thought he'd be a good signing.
And to think people thought he'd be a good signing.
i think the game has moved past the point where you can expect a 38 year old to effect a match, if you had the chice of bringing on Herd Bannan Clarke Gardener or Pires, who would you chose?
I would even prefer Sidwell so there is no point to having Pires even on the bench
And to think people thought he'd be a good signing.
Considering he was a free transfer, and presuming that he is on modest wages, it's relatively easy to think of worse signings.
Said...
Pires - No players' jealousy
Villa veteran insists players know about his special treatment
Aston Villa veteran Robert Pires insists his team-mates are not jealous of the special treatment he receives playing for the club.
The former Arsenal midfielder lives in London and Villa pay for travel to and from the club everyday to accommodate his arrival at Villa Park.
He is chauffeured to and from Villa's training ground in the luxury Mercedes that is fitted with all the latest mod-cons to ensure the most pleasurable trip possible.
The 37-year-old Frenchman has not been able to affect Villa's results following his arrival and it had been thought that his team-mates resented his special treatment.
However, Pires insists Villa's stars are not jealous of his situation and that they are fully aware of the benefits he earns for playing for the Premier League club.
Not jealous
"It is special treatment, but the players know about it," said Pires in the Daily Star. "What's good is that there's no jealousy with English people, a guy can do what he wants.
"There are 100 miles between London and Birmingham, to be precise. The idea came directly from Gerard Houllier to put a car at my disposal.
"Every morning I leave at 7.45 and travel for about one and three quarter or two hours.
"I do what I have to do at training, I eat lunch with the team and I go back. That's pretty much what I do every day.
"Seeing as I'd already moved from Spain to England, I didn't want to move again. Gerard understood that really well which is why he offered me this solution.
"The return journey is good. I love it because I can have a nap and when I get home I feel fresh. It's a great car, I can't complain, there are DVDs, an I-pad, a telephone."
"The return journey is good. I love it because I can have a nap and when I get home I feel fresh. It's a great car, I can't complain, there are DVDs, an I-pad, a telephone."
Oh good, wouldn't the poor old thing to suffer would we? I trust there's a tartan blanket to keep his legs warm as well.
"I do what I have to do at training, I eat lunch with the team and I go back. That's pretty much what I do every day.Lazy French sod.
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturdayI'm not sure any of us really care what your team gets up to on Saturday.
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
I tell you what, why don't just fuck off somewhere else.
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....You're a bit of an attention seeker, aren't you?
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....You're a bit of an attention seeker, aren't you?
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
I tell you what, why don't just fuck off somewhere else.
Nope. I want Villa to compete,By losing. Right.
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....You're a bit of an attention seeker, aren't you?
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
Nope. I want Villa to compete,
Yes, but you haven't got a clue about what it would take to achieve that, so you just snide and criticise like some know-it-all sixth form bore.
Thanks for generalising me without even knowing me.You've provided enough evidence on here to be able to form an opinion.
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered.
Yes, but you haven't got a clue about what it would take to achieve that, so you just snide and criticise like some know-it-all sixth form bore.
Thanks for generalising me without even knowing me. If i had the time i could write a fairly wordy thesis on how to compete. but i'll be a "sixth form bore" and just snigger at you thinking i havent got a clue...
And to think people thought he'd be a good signing.
Considering he was a free transfer, and presuming that he is on modest wages, it's relatively easy to think of worse signings.
Agathe, Bardsley, Salifou, Beye you mean
Thanks for generalising me without even knowing me.You've provided enough evidence on here to be able to form an opinion.
oops, messed up the day did i? oh well.
Thanks for generalising me without even knowing me.You've provided enough evidence on here to be able to form an opinion.
And on his previous forum of choice.....
oops, messed up the day did i? oh well.Nope, just made yourself look like an idiot. No skin of anyone else's nose I would imagine.
I typed out something then and just deleted it... not worth the hassle i'll just dip in for the news on here although i get most from twitter now.
enjoy the ride down everyone.
oops, messed up the day did i? oh well.Thanks for generalising me without even knowing me.You've provided enough evidence on here to be able to form an opinion.
And on his previous forum of choice.....
When you come across as the biggest eejit on there, that's when you're really in trouble.
Beginning of the french revolution...... bunch of surrender monkeys.....You're a bit of an attention seeker, aren't you?
i hope we lose 4 or 5 nil saturday so we can get rid and move on with somebody who's bothered. Break the bank for Holloway i'd say. He'd tell Mr Pires where to go...
Nope. I want Villa to compete,
I typed out something then and just deleted it... not worth the hassle i'll just dip in for the news on here although i get most from twitter now.
enjoy the ride down everyone.
I typed out something then and just deleted it... not worth the hassle i'll just dip in for the news on here although i get most from twitter now.
enjoy the ride down everyone.t=0m26s
Just curious as to how he's looked in the few appearances or so he's made (apart from 'typically gallic', of course). Is it simply a case of the likes of Albrighton and Downing being much better options at the moment?Not particularly well.
Should pay up Pires's contract. Contributed even less than Ginola.
I'd rather have Ireland on the bench!
Blimey, that's true.Should pay up Pires's contract. Contributed even less than Ginola.
I'd rather have Ireland on the bench!
We had him when he was fatter, greyer and even more useless than when he was with you. So don't mess ;)
Blimey, that's true.Should pay up Pires's contract. Contributed even less than Ginola.
I'd rather have Ireland on the bench!
We had him when he was fatter, greyer and even more useless than when he was with you. So don't mess ;)
You don't fancy taking Pires on as well do you? We'll throw in Habib Beye.
I think I could do it with a bit more time to express myself on the pitch.Houllier could start Pires against Wigan and then ask the ref if he can be allowed to keep on playing during the interval. That way, by about halfway through the second half he might just be far enough up the pitch to pass the ball to Bent. It could work you know.
Is he still here?Yah. And he's probably singing "Should I Stay Or Should I Go" in the dressing room now.
At least while he is here , the like of Bannon and co can learn off himThe only thing they're likely to learn off him is how to do an impersonation of a manacled chain gang member on the run, feebly trying to get away from a pack of bloodhounds.
At least while he is here , the like of Bannon and co can learn off him
At least while he is here , the like of Bannon and co can learn off him
Totally disagree
In Sid Cowans they have one of the greatest english midfielders I've seen
I did not see the game on Saturday. How did Robert Pires play? A goal is good news but is he now looking faster than say, a piece of cheese on a fridge?Better, faded in the 2nd half and tactically subbed.
As Houllier has said, he looked fitter on Saturday. He was never blessed with much pace but his awareness and willingness to accept the ball under pressure reflects his fantastic technical ability. Brought the best out of Bannan as well I thought.
Classy goal.
I looked fitter! His technical ability was clear for all to see however!
I thought he improved once he scored. He almost sprinted at one point.
Thank you. So, in terms of cheese, he is more of a slowly matured Comté, rather than a Boursin or young goat's milk variety?