Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: kippaxvilla2 on September 01, 2023, 08:06:28 PM
-
First of all all I was worse for the Pairc Festival wear last weekend.
A better and more focused window primarily concentrated on improving the first team.
Ridding ourselves of promising youngsters is clever and risky in equal measure.
Having looked at the squad overall it’s good but I still think we are a proven back up striker and keeper away from a top four challenge. That’s assuming all the injured players are back. That said the replacements at first team level all seem a cut above.
-
The window's still open so I'm reserving judgement.
-
I'd have liked an actual striker. We have others like Diaby or Zaniolo who could maybe fill in but then that leaves us light in their usual positions. I just want someone whose primary job is playing up front. Maybe Duran could be that man but I'm not convinced he's up to it yet.
That's my only concern. Other than that it's been a great window.
-
I'd have liked an actual striker. We have others like Diaby or Zaniolo who could maybe fill in but then that leaves us light in their usual positions. I just want someone whose primary job is playing up front. Maybe Duran could be that man but I'm not convinced he's up to it yet.
That's my only concern. Other than that it's been a great window.
That's my view as well. It feels like we're risking a lot on Watkins, again.
-
B for me. Happy with all the additions, would have like another forward. But good overall.
-
The window's still open so I'm reserving judgement.
If we sign Salah before 11 lock the thread.
-
Watkins will go on a goal drought at some point, we've just got to hope we can add goals from other areas if/when he does. I can't see Duran chipping in with too many.
I still think we're too thin up top to try and be competitive in all competitions. Injuries, suspensions and fatigue will catch up with us. Hopefully Martinez stays fit and plays every game as the less said about Olsen the better.
Overall, a tad disappointed. If we'd signed Johnson for example I'd have been much happier. Or Zaha.
Striker and goalkeeper short. I'd have kept Young as well.
-
If you believe all the links then there were a few big names that turned us down, but all in all it feels like we signed players the manager wanted to sign.
There's a few clubs out there still seeming like they're reacting to other deals, signing positions rather than players, spending a lot of money on questionable deals.
I think we've done well, and a good measure of that is how many fans of other clubs I've seen say we've had the best transfer window.
Personally I'm a fan of being cautious with FFP and not flying so close to it that any kind of blip derails us massively down the line. I feel like we've done that, improved the squad but left ourselves in a good position for the next window too.
-
I think we have signed 4 excellent players and 1 good player for cover, making it a terrific window. We have regained and enhanced our reputation as being a really good club and one to watch out for in all competitions. No-one will really look forward to playing us and the biggest compliment is that there is a groan as teams are drawn against us in cups.
Diaby has already scored a couple, Tielemans is a really steady and classy player, Pau looks a classy player and Zaniolo is a bums off the seats type player. One more would be great, if and when Coutinho exits but we are running out of time. Very pleased with the window, ins and out with the decks cleared of several players who weren't quite going to make it, but actually hedging our bets by being safe with buy-back clauses too. All really sensible.
Good window. 8 out of 10. Another striker would have made it a 10 out of 10.
-
Happy. We've brought some real quality into the squad. A year ago there's plenty that would have driven Doug to Arsenal when they offered £25m, and we were signing Bednarek on loan and had a fraud in charge. Look at us now.
-
Very good
Would have been excellent if we had got a better backup goalkeeper in
-
So far at first glance all our singings look superb and we’ve improved massively the playing squad. It was never going to be perfect it never is, but overall it seems a terrific window with our incomings and financially clever with and outgoings.
-
Good additions, but so many forward players shipped out. I'm surprised that we haven't signed an out and out striker. Forward options are a concern especially with any injuries. 7/10.
-
With four hours left (more if you’re arsenal) my verdict is:
8.5/10
GOOD:
1. Diaby
2. None of the big guns left or threatened to leave. Good in itself but shows that the ‘project’ is not just PR fluff fed to the media.
3. Cleared out a path for the U18s by selling Archer etc
4. FFP sorted for a few years
5. Buy back options are great insurance
6. Coutinho sale frees up wages (assuming this happens). It feels like we are creating space for a gear change next year.
7. Opportunity and path created for Duran. Regardless of whether good or bad we have removed any ambiguity or confusion.
8. Increased versatility of players.
MEH
9. Not sure the Pau signing was necessary - but has turned out to be genius with Mings’ injury.
BAD
10. I appreciate this contradicts some of the above but I’d liked the club make the youth system their priority/identity by playing Archer et al ahead of other squad fillers.
11. No Olsen replacement. Possibly not as bad as folk make out but it feels like the jury have already made their verdict on him.
NEXT
12. Watkins signs a new contract
13. Bailey needs to find consistency or we must look to sell at the optimum price.
-
I'd describe it as decent.
Needed a striker though.
-
Very good window,
We have lost players to injury but still look strong, I
Dont get the clamour for a new striker when we have about 5 players who can play there now including Zaniolo, Diaby, Bailey, Duran, Traore, Watkins. If somehow Ollie gets injured between now and Jan we will manage I think. We have adequately replaced Mings, Carlos looks solid now, the LB/RB situation is fine with the new fluid formation and tactics.
With the exception of a back up keeper better than Olsen who more than proved he's not as bad as we all think on Thursday I think we are in a great position.
I wouldn't be against an extra body through the door but don't actually think we need one now.
-
It's a fucking brilliant window and one of the best we've had. I understand the concern about striker but we have a number of players that can play there now. And Watkins stays happy too.
-
With four hours left (more if you’re arsenal) my verdict is:
8.5/10
GOOD:
1. Diaby
2. None of the big guns left or threatened to leave. Good in itself but shows that the ‘project’ is not just PR fluff fed to the media.
3. Cleared out a path for the U18s by selling Archer etc
4. FFP sorted for a few years
5. Buy back options are great insurance
6. Coutinho sale frees up wages (assuming this happens). It feels like we are creating space for a gear change next year.
7. Opportunity and path created for Duran. Regardless of whether good or bad we have removed any ambiguity or confusion.
8. Increased versatility of players.
MEH
9. Not sure the Pau signing was necessary - but has turned out to be genius with Mings’ injury.
BAD
10. I appreciate this contradicts some of the above but I’d liked the club make the youth system their priority/identity by playing Archer et al ahead of other squad fillers.
11. No Olsen replacement. Possibly not as bad as folk make out but it feels like the jury have already made their verdict on him.
NEXT
12. Watkins signs a new contract
13. Bailey needs to find consistency or we must look to sell at the optimum price.
Meh about Torres is an odd view
-
…Ultimately it feels sustainable. Improved the team today without jeopardising tomorrow.
-
Meh about Torres is an odd view
Not doubting the player. More a question of whether it was a priority and the risk that it would unsettle the squad like collymore/yorke/savo/Johnson back in the day. Mings’ injury removes the above concerns.
-
Very good window,
We have lost players to injury but still look strong, I
Dont get the clamour for a new striker when we have about 5 players who can play there now including Zaniolo, Diaby, Bailey, Duran, Traore, Watkins. If somehow Ollie gets injured between now and Jan we will manage I think. We have adequately replaced Mings, Carlos looks solid now, the LB/RB situation is fine with the new fluid formation and tactics.
With the exception of a back up keeper better than Olsen who more than proved he's not as bad as we all think on Thursday I think we are in a great position.
I wouldn't be against an extra body through the door but don't actually think we need one now.
Can Bailey or Traore play as a striker though? You can stick them in the position but can't see either of them being much use. Duran is unproven, I don't know enough about Zaniolo to say if he can or not. If Watkins gets injured we shouldn't really have left ourselves in a position to just make do.
To me, Thursday proved than Olsen is a bombscare and an accident waiting to happen.
-
I'm reasonably happy with what we've done overall. I wouldnt grumble at another striker but I think we'll be ok.
-
Very good window,
We have lost players to injury but still look strong, I
Dont get the clamour for a new striker when we have about 5 players who can play there now including Zaniolo, Diaby, Bailey, Duran, Traore, Watkins. If somehow Ollie gets injured between now and Jan we will manage I think. We have adequately replaced Mings, Carlos looks solid now, the LB/RB situation is fine with the new fluid formation and tactics.
With the exception of a back up keeper better than Olsen who more than proved he's not as bad as we all think on Thursday I think we are in a great position.
I wouldn't be against an extra body through the door but don't actually think we need one now.
Can Bailey or Traore play as a striker though? You can stick them in the position but can't see either of them being much use. Duran is unproven, I don't know enough about Zaniolo to say if he can or not. If Watkins gets injured we shouldn't really have left ourselves in a position to just make do.
To me, Thursday proved than Olsen is a bombscare and an accident waiting to happen.
Bailey has played there a fair bit in his career for club and Country.
Traore I might be imagining it but I swear he was a 9 at tomes in France and also for the Chelsea youth team.
You wouldn't want to rely on them for a 38 game season but Duran could of had 5 on Wednesday if he was picked out with passes. Including finding 10 yards of space before Kellyman chose to pass to Baily instead.
I think we would be fine should we lose Ollie to an injury.
-
Bailey has mostly been disappointing in his preferred role, so expecting him to play as a number 9 is crazy talk.
-
I think we've made some very astute signings and also significantly reduced our net spend by moving on some kids, who were never going to get the chance really, for a total of not far off £40m. Add to that 18 or so for Coutinho and that is some excellent wheeling and dealing.
I also think we'll be way stronger when the injured players come back (obviously) and the window will probably look different then.
However, I think we have a too-long history of being "one signing short" and I worry that this window is no different, that signing being a striker.
Although TBH, I am only saying that because I have accepted that Emery has some sort of weakness when it comes to Olsen and the idea that he's good enough.
-
Bailey has mostly been disappointing in his preferred role, so expecting him to play as a number 9 is crazy talk.
Indeed, it is nuts, it's like "we can always play El Ghazi / Traore / whoever there".
-
Traore’s best form was as a striker at Ajax (based on the YouTube videos when we signed him). Don’t forget Duran too.
-
Had we signed a top drawer centre forward and a better back up goalkeeper it would've been maybe the best transfer window ever. It's still been good.
Unai Emery knows what he's doing, so I have zero concerns. But I do wonder if we will come up a bit short if Watkins, Diaby or Emi Martinez are out for an extended period.
-
I'm happy with what we have done this window.
-
It's a fucking brilliant window and one of the best we've had. I understand the concern about striker but we have a number of players that can play there now. And Watkins stays happy too.
This. My two main concerns are that we lost two key players in Mings and Buendia. Torres is good to cover Mings and Lenglet will do as back up. Other concern is Watkins wasting chances. I think Buendia missing and issue with Ollie could stop us doing what we need to do this season.
-
What’s been our net spend ?
I’m to lazy and also clueless to work out
-
Unai Emery knows what he's doing, so I have zero concerns.
I agree he knows what he's doing, but what if right now he's really disappointed because he couldn't get another striker over the line?
Sometimes this stuff happens for reasons out of our control.
-
Had we signed a top drawer centre forward and a better back up goalkeeper it would've been maybe the best transfer window ever. It's still been good.
Unai Emery knows what he's doing, so I have zero concerns. But I do wonder if we will come up a bit short if Watkins, Diaby or Emi Martinez are out for an extended period.
You are asking for the moon and the stars all in one basket.
-
What’s been our net spend ?
I’m to lazy and also clueless to work out
About £30-35m I think, but that's before any clauses.
-
The great spend con trick - net £30-£35m is crap when you think about it. We are supposed to be trying to compete with Chelsea. Oh and Rich, give my regards to the other Rich. (in joke).
-
I am not interested in net spend, that’s for accountants. What I liked is that we paid top money to get the players we wanted such as Diaby.
-
I am not interested in net spend, that’s for accountants. What I liked is that we paid top money to get the players we wanted such as Diaby.
And I think if you look at the wider context of the window and other clubs I reckon we’ve underpaid for him, probably quite significantly. He looks top class to me. It’s not just his ability on the ball, his awareness of space is incredible.
-
I don’t know where we are supposed to find this top level striker, there really is not many of them around.
-
I am not interested in net spend, that’s for accountants. What I liked is that we paid top money to get the players we wanted such as Diaby.
Exactly right, the fixation that some people have on net spend is really quite sad. The only thing that matters is the strength of the squad and if anyone can say that it's not much better now than it was in May then I want what they're smoking.
-
£33m, £50m with add ons plus a free is not really top dollar these days. I am not saying we haven't signed great players but someone has paid £47m for Johnson today with 8 goals to his name.
-
I don’t know where we are supposed to find this top level striker, there really is not many of them around.
I saw several comments on the BBC transfer coverage from fans of other teams complaining that they hadn't signed a top class striker. Someone eventually made the same point, there aren't that many of them around.
-
I don’t know where we are supposed to find this top level striker, there really is not many of them around.
I saw several comments on the BBC transfer coverage from fans of other teams complaining that they hadn't signed a top class striker. Someone eventually made the same point, there aren't that many of them around.
and most of those people would be over the moon with Watkins.
-
Divock Origi was supposed to be in England today speaking to clubs, he would not have been a bad shout.
-
Divock Origi was supposed to be in England today speaking to clubs, he would not have been a bad shout.
Forest got him too, did they not?
-
£33m, £50m with add ons plus a free is not really top dollar these days. I am not saying we haven't signed great players but someone has paid £47m for Johnson today with 8 goals to his name.
More fool them (compared to us, obviously. He might turn out to be a great signing, but his fee has fuck all to do with that either way).
-
I am not interested in net spend, that’s for accountants. What I liked is that we paid top money to get the players we wanted such as Diaby.
Exactly right, the fixation that some people have on net spend is really quite sad. The only thing that matters is the strength of the squad and if anyone can say that it's not much better now than it was in May then I want what they're smoking.
+1
-
So aggressive. I am going to get under the covers.
-
Divock Origi was supposed to be in England today speaking to clubs, he would not have been a bad shout.
Forest got him too, did they not?
Not exactly a top striker though. I think I’d prefer to gamble on Jhon and keep the money.
-
Still got 20 minutes or so left.
-
It's a fucking brilliant window and one of the best we've had. I understand the concern about striker but we have a number of players that can play there now. And Watkins stays happy too.
yeh I agree. Every player Emery has bought is solid. That goes back to Moreno in January. I want proper quality over numbers. And I would expect come January 2024 we will invest again to make that push to hopefully winning something and qualifying for a higher competition the following year. The kids we have coming through are really talented. And it also appears we won't have sold Philogene so hopefully he will continue to develop and contribute.
-
Philogene staying would be great. He’d be ideal for most European games and an option off the bench every week. I reckon he’d get enough games to ensure his career progresses.
-
Best window since Little era I reckon…
-
Decent window but still leaves plenty of questions.
Diaby has hit the ground running in a big way which currently justifies the outlay we made on him as our record signing. Tielemans is a classy, premier league ready midfielder who on a free transfer could end up being a real bargain with his quality.
Torres, it’s unclear yet. His distribution is undoubted and will be a real asset but he’s going to be thrown into the deep end straight away defensively. We don’t know how ready both he and Carlos are for the premier league as we’ve not played anyone of note thus far with them as a partnership but with Ming’s injury we’re going to find out very quickly. We might not be as strong as think in this area. However, we’ve come a long way when we can say Lenglet is a back up for us.
Zaniolo - interesting to see what he does but apparently that deal was being lined up before Bunedia got injured. If that’s the case, then we haven’t replaced him even if the intention was that Zaniolo was to replace Coutinho.
Having Olsen as our second keeper is going to come back to haunt us. There is absolutely no way that we couldn’t have found and signed a better alternative.
Not having a back up or alternative to Ollie is baffling. I realize the striker market is a bit compressed at the moment but we could have found someone. Once we sold Ings in January there was need.
He’s only been here a few months but Monchi’s contacts book has so far extended to signing a player from a club he use to be at and who was playing in Turkey and trying to sign a 31 year left back from his old club who ultimately we didn’t land. Perhaps better on the sales front of the kids.
-
On a side note I'm glad we didn't sign anyone that will be off to the African Cup of Nations in Jan/Feb. Bar the usual international windows we should be uninterrupted all season.
-
Divock Origi was supposed to be in England today speaking to clubs, he would not have been a bad shout.
Forest got him too, did they not?
Not exactly a top striker though. I think I’d prefer to gamble on Jhon and keep the money.
Yeah I’d agree with that.
-
Pleased overall
Diaby looks top quality - empties the bars type player.
Pau is a very Emery type of player - sure he lacks some physicality but he looks like a good footballer.
Zanilo and Lenlget - very good loan options.
Tielmans still has a big question mark. Got that Dele Alli / Ross Barkley look about him at the minute.
Still would have liked to have seen a RB to replace Ashley Young who was excellent last season.
-
Divock Origi was supposed to be in England today speaking to clubs, he would not have been a bad shout.
Forest got him too, did they not?
Not exactly a top striker though. I think I’d prefer to gamble on Jhon and keep the money.
Yeah I’d agree with that.
Definitely.
-
£33m, £50m with add ons plus a free is not really top dollar these days. I am not saying we haven't signed great players but someone has paid £47m for Johnson today with 8 goals to his name.
More fool them (compared to us, obviously. He might turn out to be a great signing, but his fee has fuck all to do with that either way).
There is something really odd about this. So folk are complaining that we’ve made good money (with insurance of buy back clauses, finally acting like a big club), brought in very good players on a free (Tielemans), got a quite possibly great player (Diaby) at what looks like market-relative very good value;
What I’m seeing here is us doing very very very smart business, keeping net down means there is more in the kitty for timely/future opportunities.
We’ve seen this even before Emery with big Emi, strengthening not the most urgent area but when the great business is there to be done. It’s utterly weird after the O’Neil and Bruce dynasties of over paying for older players and underselling, to be so well run.
So if we have the squad we have with a relatively low net spend (look at the cost of our midfield it’s mindblowingly low) then this is to be celebrated not moaned at!
-
Origi has managed to score a few important goals in the past but overall is pretty shite. Forest are welcome to him.
-
£33m, £50m with add ons plus a free is not really top dollar these days. I am not saying we haven't signed great players but someone has paid £47m for Johnson today with 8 goals to his name.
More fool them (compared to us, obviously. He might turn out to be a great signing, but his fee has fuck all to do with that either way).
There is something really odd about this. So folk are complaining that we’ve made good money (with insurance of buy back clauses, finally acting like a big club), brought in very good players on a free (Tielemans), got a quite possibly great player (Diaby) at what looks like market-relative very good value;
What I’m seeing here is us doing very very very smart business, keeping net down means there is more in the kitty for timely/future opportunities.
We’ve seen this even before Emery with big Emi, strengthening not the most urgent area but when the great business is there to be done. It’s utterly weird after the O’Neil and Bruce dynasties of over paying for older players and underselling, to be so well run.
So if we have the squad we have with a relatively low net spend (look at the cost of our midfield it’s mindblowingly low) then this is to be celebrated not moaned at!
Absolutely right.
-
It's all about the quality you bring in, not just how much you spend in fees. McGinn, Kamara and Tielemans combined cost a quarter of the fee we paid for McCormack. As a random example. Shopping smart isn't a bad thing.
-
Philogene has gone.
-
And it leaves us in a position to pounce when we do need to break our record again. I do get the 'jam tomorrow' criticism but if it doesn't all align then it just doesn't align, our end might not have been the problem. I think some just assume players would come to us if we're interested because we love the club but Fati don't give a fuck.
-
According to Greg ‘All the Gs’ Evans, the thought this season was to sell one player we didn’t really want to, to stay clear off FFP drama. Selling the kids negated that need.
Something to consider when judging the success or otherwise of the window.
-
Happy with the window.
I think Emery must have seen enough from Duran to challenge Watkins as the main striker.
Right back worries me but Konsa looks so much better on the ball and we have plenty of options at CB
We’ve kept our best players. Which hasn’t always happened in previous windows. Barry, Milner, Benteke & Grealish for example.
We’re on the up.
Up the fooking Villa.
-
Pros
- kept Martinez and Luiz without issue
- Diaby looks quality
- in the circumstances holding onto Digne has worked out well
- Carlos back fit and Torres in before Mings injury, we would have been rinsed on that price after the injury
- moving expensive filler on like Coutinho and Sandon is a plus
- Tielemans at his best could be quality, early signs worrying though
Cons
- all summer to replace Young and didn't...strange
- injuries to Watkins or Martinez would be a disaster, Duran is miles off it and Olsen isn't championship standard...that's reckless (8 Euro games pre Xmas?)
- don't agree with moving on A Ramsey or Archer on given lack of cover in those positions and extra games
- some business was strange, lots of CMs (5 into 2) but little competition for McGinn and Ramsey in our preferred formation, 3 x LCB options replacing Mings have no recovery pace
- new contract talk for Watkins has died down, bit strange hopefully get that sorted
-
Good window but not good enough for where we want to be
B- must try harder
-
According to Greg ‘All the Gs’ Evans, the thought this season was to sell one player we didn’t really want to, to stay clear off FFP drama. Selling the kids negated that need.
Something to consider when judging the success or otherwise of the window.
I don't have an issue with the strategy but would we really have been anywhere close to drama if we didn't sell them? I'm not sure I'm buying what Gregggg's selling. "Luiz or the kids, CHOOSE MUHFUGGA!"
-
According to Greg ‘All the Gs’ Evans, the thought this season was to sell one player we didn’t really want to, to stay clear off FFP drama. Selling the kids negated that need.
Something to consider when judging the success or otherwise of the window.
I don't have an issue with the strategy but would we really have been anywhere close to drama if we didn't sell them? I'm not sure I'm buying what Gregggg's selling. "Luiz or the kids, CHOOSE MUHFUGGA!"
I’d say he’s been told it by somebody. Who knows?
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
-
According to Greg ‘All the Gs’ Evans, the thought this season was to sell one player we didn’t really want to, to stay clear off FFP drama. Selling the kids negated that need.
Something to consider when judging the success or otherwise of the window.
I don't have an issue with the strategy but would we really have been anywhere close to drama if we didn't sell them? I'm not sure I'm buying what Gregggg's selling. "Luiz or the kids, CHOOSE MUHFUGGA!"
I’d say he’s been told it by somebody. Who knows?
Oh yeah, he'll know more than me, I just didn't realise we would have been that close to drama.
-
we've sold our kids on the cheap when you see Cole Palmer going for £43M
-
Pros
- kept Martinez and Luiz without issue
- Diaby looks quality
- in the circumstances holding onto Digne has worked out well
- Carlos back fit and Torres in before Mings injury, we would have been rinsed on that price after the injury
- moving expensive filler on like Coutinho and Sandon is a plus
- Tielemans at his best could be quality, early signs worrying though
Cons
- all summer to replace Young and didn't...strange
- injuries to Watkins or Martinez would be a disaster, Duran is miles off it and Olsen isn't championship standard...that's reckless (8 Euro games pre Xmas?)
- don't agree with moving on A Ramsey or Archer on given lack of cover in those positions and extra games
- some business was strange, lots of CMs (5 into 2) but little competition for McGinn and Ramsey in our preferred formation, 3 x LCB options replacing Mings have no recovery pace
- new contract talk for Watkins has died down, bit strange hopefully get that sorted
The pros massively outweigh the cons and some of your concerns are nothing like as big a deal as you, and others, are insisting. I suspect a contract for Watkins will be announced within the month for example.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
FFP and I wouldn’t say we’ve sold all of them. The one’s we retain an interest in we can buy back if they progress.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
FFP and I wouldn’t say we’ve sold all of them. The one’s we retain an interest in we can buy back if they progress.
Some won't be as good as we think, some we might rue the day we sold them but it happens at every club.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
FFP and I wouldn’t say we’ve sold all of them. The one’s we retain an interest in we can buy back if they progress.
A relatively small squad to cope with the rigours of the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and Europe.
-
we've sold our kids on the cheap when you see Cole Palmer going for £43M
Ours went to the likes of Hull, Burnley and Sheff Utd, he went to overpaying basket case Chelsea.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
Hard truth is that Emery doesn't rate them evidently but we have gaping holes in our squad and lots of games this season to keep these guys interested and make a more informed judgement next summer.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
Hard truth is that Emery doesn't rate them evidently but we have gaping holes in our squad and lots of games this season to keep these guys interested and make a more informed judgement next summer.
Or maybe he does, but is persuaded that the added bonus of flogging homegrown for FFP as has been suggested has negated the need to flog someone you’d not want to even more.
I’m gutted to have less youth making it here, but they are not insignificant sums, and so I’ve been persuaded to give the benefit of the doubt to the idea that this is good business sense. Value of buybacks (we’ll likely never know) of course determine the wisdom of this approach. .
-
we've sold our kids on the cheap when you see Cole Palmer going for £43M
Sadly, Chelsea didn’t want them.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
I struggle to too. My list of random justifications:
1. FFP
2. to create space for the next graduation
3. Emery doesn’t rate them
4. They wanted guarantees which we couldn’t provide
5. Perception that one heavily involved Zaniolo is better than sporadic/shared appearances between Archer/Ramsey/Bidace
6. They will improve more playing each week than the odd europa/cup game.
7. Smaller squad equals more one-to-one time with Emery’s coaching masterclass.
Dunno. Not a bad list but none have the romance of one of our own coming through.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
I struggle to too. My list of random justifications:
1. FFP
2. to create space for the next graduation
3. Emery doesn’t rate them
4. They wanted guarantees which we couldn’t provide
5. Perception that one heavily involved Zaniolo is better than sporadic/shared appearances between Archer/Ramsey/Bidace
6. They will improve more playing each week than the odd europa/cup game. At which point we utilise the buy back options.
7. Smaller squad equals more one-to-one time with Emery’s coaching masterclass.
Dunno. Not a bad list but none have the romance of one of our own coming through.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
Hard truth is that Emery doesn't rate them evidently but we have gaping holes in our squad and lots of games this season to keep these guys interested and make a more informed judgement next summer.
I think gaping holes in the squad is a bot of an exaggeration
-
We can recall the players on loan, can't we? If we got very desperate and needed another defender Reven could just be brought back in.
-
We can recall the players on loan, can't we? If we got very desperate and needed another defender Reven could just be brought back in.
I doubt it.
-
We can recall the players on loan, can't we? If we got very desperate and needed another defender Reven could just be brought back in.
No.
-
As I said it’s risky and clever in equal measure. But one of them will probably turn out to be a Cahill and hopefully this time we can get them back for what we sold them for.
-
Here’s a comparison to help with your verdict:
https://x.com/marshallavfc/status/1697740592434782272?s=46&t=GdM6cpVxe5IloByNCRheWA
-
We can recall the players on loan, can't we? If we got very desperate and needed another defender Reven could just be brought back in.
No.
He could be recalled in January if we put that clause in the loan agreement. But I suppose if we were suddenly desperate for a defender in January we could probably buy one.
-
we've sold our kids on the cheap when you see Cole Palmer going for £43M
Sadly, Chelsea didn’t want them.
Maybe they’re wiser to us after we made them cough up £20m for that chuck chap.
-
8/10 for me. I still think we are a couple of players light, especially when you consider volume of games and the injury record of some of those we are now quite reliant on. We can speculate over and over on why we've left ourselves a bit short, I suspect it will be a combination of things. It will either look clever or silly come January, hopefully the former.
I do think the narrative at the start of the summer coming from the club in whatever format was that we had significant sums to spend have been tempered along the way. With the sale of Coutinho I reckon we will have bought back in £55 ish million, with a net spend around £30-40m. Either we're keeping our finances in check for a big go at something down the road, or we've had to cut our cloth a bit more carefully.
As ever, time will tell and as ever on deadline day to me we feel a player or too light. Losing both of our natural 10s in Coutinho and Buendia and our natural leader in Mings is a hole in the squad. I think the sale of Philogene after pre season has surprised me the most as he could have been a versatile option in Europe and to get some minutes out of legs in the league in the last 20 mins or so, especially with the added on time. Over 6-7 games some players will be playing a full extra 90 minutes this season in the zones where injuries occur, so having quality alternatives is going to massively favour squads like Man City and Chelsea as the season goes on.
Positives are Pau, who looks incredible on the ball but needs to keep switched on defensively behind him, Diaby is clearly top drawer and we've kept Kamara and Luiz. Duran looks much more ready despite having no pre season which is odd, and Konsa has come on leaps and bounds with the ball. Hopefully Traore, Ramsey and Moreno are all fit soon.
Some great additions, would have loved to see 1-2 more.
-
I just don't understand the rationale behind selling all the decent products of our Academy.
Hard truth is that Emery doesn't rate them evidently but we have gaping holes in our squad and lots of games this season to keep these guys interested and make a more informed judgement next summer.
I think gaping holes in the squad is a bot of an exaggeration
For starters, Olsen started a PL game last weekend!
-
Think it has to be viewed from where we were at the end of last season. Key areas for me at that time:
2nd choice keeper - was an obvious one, but they have persisted with Olsen. I've got to admit I'm stumped with this one as he yet again had a couple of errors last night that probably would have been punished against better opposition.
RB - though we needed another option there after Ashley Young went. It is now clear that Konsa is viewed as an option there and Chambers could cover in an emergency.
CB - Torres the big addition in that area. Mings getting injured was a blow, but Torres has come in as a direct replacement. If Konsa does start at RB, Carlos will likely play. Chambers and Lenglet are back up options.
LB - Digne has started well and Lenglet can cover that area. Hopefully Moreno will be back soon and that area looks covered.
CM - Kamara and Luiz are the first choice partnership. Tielemans has been added as back up along with Dendoncker. Again, an area that looks covered.
AM - Need J Ramsey back as soon as possible as him and McGinn are so suited to those positions. Thought we might add another option to play in that position, but haven't. Tielemans didn't look comfortable there last night.
RW - I thought this was an area we needed to strengthen as Bailey and Teaore are too inconsistent. Diaby and Zaniolo can both play there, so it will be interesting to see if both of them start. Cash did well playing there against Burnley.
No. 10 - A key area that needed to be improved as although I like Buendia, he was too inconsistent last season. Diaby and Zaniolo can both play there, so I think that is an upgrade.
ST - the contentious one! Watkins did really well under Enery last season, so the reality was that we were probably looking at competition for him at best (ie, we probably wouldn't be able to attract the next level of striker). They obviously rate Duran, but from what I've seen of him so far, I think it's a big ask for him to lead the line if Watkins is out for an extended period of time.
So on the whole, I think it's been a good window really. We've strengthened the options in a few areas and improved the starting XI in a couple of others. Not replacing Olsen and bringing in another striker maybe very costly decisions and we just need to keep everything crossed that Emi Martinez and Ollie Watkins avoid injury.
-
Rightly or wrongly I do think and believe we were in for big money type players like Ferran Torres and João Félix but Villa aren’t where they want to be at the moment
And I think that’s the key,
we’ve only just entered the top seven European positions for the first time in 13 years, so we won’t be a recognised force for young players coming through and growing up in Europe
It’s just a fact of life, although money talks better players will always have more options and right at the moment we aren’t seen as a perennial European contender
When that changes and I think it will, we will be in a lot better place to bring home or first choices
-
I happen to think Duran will be fine.
Yes, he’s young, and raw, but he doesn’t seem fazed.
The two goals he’s scored have both been really well taken, especially the Hibs goal, which was top drawer.
He’s no lightweight, either, and, although we haven’t seen it, I think he might very well have a bit of an edge to his game, so can’t see him being pushed around.
-
Good window. Stronger than before. The reality is that not being moneybags or in CL - we will have gaps. I think we tried for Torres and Felix. Not sure Johnson was the answer. Not sure who else available we could have got.
With some of the kids, I think UE is fair in opening up a chance for them to play regularly rather than bench warming.
With all the frustrations of missing a lot, Ollie remains or best striker. He seems to thrive on confidence of being seen like that. He struggled when Ings was in the frame.
A lot of goals will come from elsewhere this season, I think.
-
One of the main areas for improvement was that ‘number 10’ creative player. We sorted that brilliantly with the Diaby signing. Another fresh face was required in the creative area as well, that was with the expectation of Buendia being around and only likely having one left from Bailey, Coutinho and Traore with a couple likely sold. We took a bit of a chance with the loan of Zaniolo, and that was good enough. So that area is covered. I wanted a good centre back to put pressure on the ones we had, job done with Torres. Mings gets injured but we still have 4, not really a priority to get someone but can’t hurt, Longlet comes in to cover so fair enough. I’d have preferred a tough nut central midfielder but we sign Tielemans, but for free it’s a very good addition also. Happy enough there. All very good so far.
We release Young which seems daft to say the least considering his experience and leadership going into a European campaign. He also been playing well, but the assumption is we’ve got someone younger and better coming in. Nothing happens !
I know there has been some debate about Olsen but for me he’s the worst I’ve seen, nothing against the guy he’s just doing his best but to not improve that area is absolutely beyond baffling. I was there watching him again the other night and it might have been the worst yet. We really have to pray that Martinez doesn’t get injured and plays every game.
If Watkins gets injured we’re relying on a rookie (who I do think looks promising but is going to struggle to cut it against the better PL defenders at the moment I think) or players playing out of position. If we weren’t going to replace Archer we should have just kept him and got Unai working on his all round game so that he might do some of the things Ollie does in his absence. So again, an odd one.
7/10, although as long as we don’t get any significant injuries we should still be in for a cracking season with a tactic genius and man management expert of a manager. Diaby and Zaniolo hopefully will give us that extra bit of spark and magic in the final third.
-
According to The Times it looks like we’ve acquired 4/5 good players and stayed well within our FFP limits.
(https://i.ibb.co/PQK7QTp/IMG-5912.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PQK7QTp)
-
Not sure how accurate that is, I thought it was over £90m for Diaby and Torres. Plus any loan fees, and the incoming looks off, maybe £40m for the kids we’ve sold? Can’t think of anything else.
Saying that we’ve still done well in that regard, considering the current climate.
-
Not sure how accurate that is, I thought it was over £90m for Diaby and Torres.
They've also got Bournemouth receiving over £100m from players they've sold. I reckon it's actually around 1% of that figure.
-
Here’s a comparison to help with your verdict:
https://x.com/marshallavfc/status/1697740592434782272?s=46&t=GdM6cpVxe5IloByNCRheWA
This is good and shows that we have improved every part of the squad significantly.
Don’t think we can expect everything to be achieved in 2 windows, particularly as Emery had only been in place a short time before January window.
Surely the most important thing is continual progress.
-
I think it’s been a good window - will be watching Sheffield United and Burnley closely this season as we will get a good idea whether Cam & young Ramsey are good enough as they will get those PL minutes that neither we’re gonna get here…particularly Cam as a striker isn’t gonna get into any groove playing 5/10 minutes here and there.
Back up keeper is still a concern, he showed on Thursday that there is a shot stopper in there but his feet are literally allergic to the ball :-)
-
I am not interested in net spend, that’s for accountants. What I liked is that we paid top money to get the players we wanted such as Diaby.
Exactly right, the fixation that some people have on net spend is really quite sad. The only thing that matters is the strength of the squad and if anyone can say that it's not much better now than it was in May then I want what they're smoking.
Hmm. I think not being overly concerned about what happens in 2/3/5 years time was exactly the problem we had under MON that ultimately led to the 2nd longest period outside the top division in the club's entire history.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not too concerned with the exact accounting for it all, but it's pretty clear to me that it's we don't have some transfer income and don't get players on big wages off the payroll unless they're bringing at least as much value back in to the club ... I mean, that's how you end up like Everton are now and we were a few years before them.
All in all, though, I think the squad has been significantly strengthened this summer. Bit sad to see a few youngsters go, Ramsey & Archer in particular.
-
But as olaftab says, that's for the accountants. Maybe Lerner should've employed one.
And we're a world away from doing what MON did. We've bought a Frenchman from Germany, a Spaniard from Spain, an Italian from Turkey, a Belgian from Leicester, and loaned another Frenchman from Spain. That's a well cast net.
-
I think re FFP and net spend we also need to consider signing on fees, and wages which will be way more expensive in the new players than the ones we've let go.
-
But as olaftab says, that's for the accountants. Maybe Lerner should've employed one.
And we're a world away from doing what MON did. We've bought a Frenchman from Germany, a Spaniard from Spain, an Italian from Turkey, a Belgian from Leicester, and loaned another Frenchman from Spain. That's a well cast net.
We have handed over a lot of control to Emery though, not to near the same extent as under MON, but the worry would be there.
-
I think the incomings have been great.
Nearly all improve the first team match day squad, & the one that could be argued against is a backup to our injured player who can also give us a defensive option at LB.
The business that has been done has been fantastic. Getting Torres for around £30m, Diaby for around £40m, Tielemans for fuck all, is just wonderful work by the transfers team. As is the loan deal for Zaniolo. We have protected ourselves, while making a compromise to keep Galatasaray sweet. Brilliant work.
The outgoings have not been so great. I don't agree with the youth player policy this summer & think that by letting A. Ramsey, Philogene-Bidace & Archer go leaves us light for the long season ahead with cups, europe & 5 subs.
I don't buy the "sell to keep a main player" PR guff given to Gregg Evans anymore than I buy the "anniversary crest" bullshit retroactively fed by the club to shut down some fans raising questions. But if that was the case, sell Digne. Or Bailey. Or Coutinho. Those are fringe players on high wages. Save money there...
Those three young players departing could have given our squad some depth. This part of our summer dealings has bothered me a lot.
But I have said all I need to say on that matter elsewhere, unless someone raises a point that I see honest discussion in.
That being said, the incomings have been great quality & great business.
-
This has been most exciting transfer window in as long as I can remember. Every one of the new recruits is a player of genuine quality.
So overall, delighted, although a medium or long term injury to either Martinez or Watkins will probably fuck our chances of finishing in the top six.
-
9/10
We have kept Martinez, Kamara, Luiz, Ramsey, McGinn and Watkins and have added genuine quality in Diaby, Tielemens, Torres and Zaniolo.
We have also cleared out some deadwood like Davis, Nakamba, and Wesley. Possibly Coutinho will also leave.
We have a manager with a fluid tactical style. Right backs and left backs aren't necessarily left backs and right backs. They can be almost wingers or they can be tucked in as an extra centre back and the system still works. In that context we have tonnes of options.
As for selling youth players and inserting buy-back clauses - this is smart business. It saves us from selling an established player and it also means we have first refusal on bringing the player back if they prove they can cut it at this level. A club happy with mid-table can gamble on blooding youth players with no premier-league experience. A club aiming for the top 5-6 can't really guarantee young players that they can give them a run of 8-9 games to test themselves. Do you bench Watkins and heap all that responsibility of top 5 level finishing on an untested Archer? No is the simple answer. It is simply better for the development of those players that they go somewhere where they can get a run of games at this level.
We have craved success for 20-25 years. We now operate in a way that gives us a better chance of doing just that.
-
While I actually agree with the points made, all this unbridled positivity makes me feel odd. And worried.
-
With the exception of the mysterious failure to upgrade on Olsen, this has been a seriously good window. We have brought in players who not only improve the squad but but also the first team and have experience at a high level. I cannot recall when we have had so much quality coming in. We may not like all that is going on off the field but at last we feel like a club that means serious business.
-
Good window.
Would have liked an experienced back up striker and the same for the goalkeeping position, but shoganai
-
7 or 8 out of 10.
Signed some brilliant players - but I think we’re a little light in a couple of key positions
With archer, ramsey, jpb, coutihno gone or going and Emi injuried for most of the season - we’re again reliant on Watkins to be fit and in form, and no injuries to key players. Similar in goal and at right back. Tomorrow is a a key test - as we got hammered against the one decent team we played (but then I think that was a bit of a freak result)
Ultimately if Unai is happy then I’m fine with it, but I’m going to be nervous any time any of our forward players or emi go down
-
7 or 8 out of 10.
Signed some brilliant players - but I think we’re a little light in a couple of key positions
With archer, ramsey, jpb, coutihno gone or going and Emi injuried for most of the season - we’re again reliant on Watkins to be fit and in form, and no injuries to key players. Similar in goal and at right back. Tomorrow is a a key test - as we got hammered against the one decent team we played (but then I think that was a bit of a freak result)
Ultimately if Unai is happy then I’m fine with it, but I’m going to be nervous any time any of our forward players or emi go down
More or less exactly my thoughts as well. I think we've made up for the loss of Buendia and Mings, in terms of numbers anyway, but we're still short up front.
-
It was almost excellent but I do think we'll rue not getting a proper striker in. I get frustrated when people ask you to name a striker who we could have got in, because it feels like we're asking that question every window. I would say good strikers don't appear out of nowhere, but Archer has one (and a half) goals already today, and looks an excellent, instinctual finisher.
-
7 or 8 out of 10.
Signed some brilliant players - but I think we’re a little light in a couple of key positions
With archer, ramsey, jpb, coutihno gone or going and Emi injuried for most of the season - we’re again reliant on Watkins to be fit and in form, and no injuries to key players. Similar in goal and at right back. Tomorrow is a a key test - as we got hammered against the one decent team we played (but then I think that was a bit of a freak result)
Ultimately if Unai is happy then I’m fine with it, but I’m going to be nervous any time any of our forward players or emi go down
More or less exactly my thoughts as well. I think we've made up for the loss of Buendia and Mings, in terms of numbers anyway, but we're still short up front.
Mine too.
-
What other teams can cope with their main striker missing out of interest? Obviously other than Man City, who has two top class strikers, well one sat on the bench waiting for their turn?
-
I see AEG was released by PSV
-
What other teams can cope with their main striker missing out of interest? Obviously other than Man City, who has two top class strikers, well one sat on the bench waiting for their turn?
Brentford seem to be doing okay so far.
-
It was almost excellent but I do think we'll rue not getting a proper striker in. I get frustrated when people ask you to name a striker who we could have got in, because it feels like we're asking that question every window. I would say good strikers don't appear out of nowhere, but Archer has one (and a half) goals already today, and looks an excellent, instinctual finisher.
Jonathan David.
Right off the top of my head is a striker who has scored 15 goals + in multiple seasons.
That Balogun kid from Arsenal did it last year & was clearly available, as he was sold.
That Beto who moved to Everton is a 6'5" pace monster who scored double figures in multiple seasons & only cost £25. As cover & competition, he would have been more than fine.
Three names that popped into my head instantly.
So the question is easily answered.
Even more so with a little research...
-
That Beto who moved to Everton is a 6'5" pace monster who scored double figures in multiple seasons & only cost £25.
Good value in the current market…
-
We've signed some good players.
Tielemans felt like a bit of a compromise because he was free, but on his day very talented.
We've signed two good on the ball centre backs but lost our main defender and his power, pace and aerial ability. I remain to be convinced how we will cope defensively against better teams
Diaby seems like a great signing. Zaniolo is a gamble with a very high ceiling.
I'm not quite sure why we always seem to end every transfer window short in one or two positions. I'm pleased with how the squad is progressing and have faith in Emery. But it doesn't feel like a push the top 4 window to me.
-
What other teams can cope with their main striker missing out of interest? Obviously other than Man City, who has two top class strikers, well one sat on the bench waiting for their turn?
Brentford seem to be doing okay so far.
They had a summer to prepare knowing their first choice is out. What I mean is who has gone out and spent big on another striker knowing he may not play every match?
-
I'm not quite sure why we always seem to end every transfer window short in one or two positions. I'm pleased with how the squad is progressing and have faith in Emery. But it doesn't feel like a push the top 4 window to me.
It’s true and it’s always been the same. That said, if everyone now stays fit, in form and we see the best of Duran and Zaniolo we could very easily win something and may well finish a place or 2 higher than last season. But that’s an enormous if, and this time we’ve fell short by not taking out the insurance policy’s and it may well bite us in the ass. Still excited for the season though, the most for many years.
-
A pretty good window in my opinion. Not concerned about the kids we have sold as the buy-backs protect us . The only downside to the summer was the long term injuries to Mings and Buendia which probably impacted some of our business.
-
According to The Times it looks like we’ve acquired 4/5 good players and stayed well within our FFP limits.
(https://i.ibb.co/PQK7QTp/IMG-5912.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PQK7QTp)
That only looks about right with the Coutinho money.
-
According to The Times it looks like we’ve acquired 4/5 good players and stayed well within our FFP limits.
(https://i.ibb.co/PQK7QTp/IMG-5912.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PQK7QTp)
That only looks about right with the Coutinho money.
Every window the horrible Glazers spend a shit load but the team rarely improves. Often their signings make the previous window’s signings redundant which is a guaranteed way to end up as a basket case of a club.
Long may it continue.
-
According to The Times it looks like we’ve acquired 4/5 good players and stayed well within our FFP limits.
(https://i.ibb.co/PQK7QTp/IMG-5912.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PQK7QTp)
That only looks about right with the Coutinho money.
Every window the horrible Glazers spend a shit load but the team rarely improves. Often their signings make the previous window’s signings redundant which is a guaranteed way to end up as a basket case of a club.
Long may it continue.
Just off the top of my head, our recruitment has been really good - since it stopped being disastrous under Shitshoes.
We’ve still got good players from when we were ‘doing a Fulham’ (Mings, Konsa, Luiz), then we bought Big Emi, Cash & Watkins, even Slippy’s buys might turn out alright. Carlos & Digne seem okay at the moment, PC not so much but Kamara covers a multitude of sins. Awaiting proof on Unai and Monchi, but looking good. Wish we’d have been smarter with the Joe windfall, although I’m a big fan of Little Emi as an impact player/occasional starter.
-
According to The Times it looks like we’ve acquired 4/5 good players and stayed well within our FFP limits.
(https://i.ibb.co/PQK7QTp/IMG-5912.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PQK7QTp)
That only looks about right with the Coutinho money.
Every window the horrible Glazers spend a shit load but the team rarely improves. Often their signings make the previous window’s signings redundant which is a guaranteed way to end up as a basket case of a club.
Long may it continue.
Just off the top of my head, our recruitment has been really good - since it stopped being disastrous under Shitshoes.
We’ve still got good players from when we were ‘doing a Fulham’ (Mings, Konsa, Luiz), then we bought Big Emi, Cash & Watkins, even Slippy’s buys might turn out alright. Carlos & Digne seem okay at the moment, PC not so much but Kamara covers a multitude of sins. Awaiting proof on Unai and Monchi, but looking good. Wish we’d have been smarter with the Joe windfall.
You can count McGinn in as well.
Since we came up I think the only summer where we didn't take a big step forward was when we lost Grealish.
On topic I think this summer is our best window I can think of, 4 genuine first team starting options and a very good player as cover for an injury. Last season I thought we looked like a really good team but just didn't have enough goals in us, I wouldn't be surprised if the signings in this window end up with 25 between them, which will be a massive upgrade.
-
According to The Times it looks like we’ve acquired 4/5 good players and stayed well within our FFP limits.
(https://i.ibb.co/PQK7QTp/IMG-5912.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PQK7QTp)
Good stuff but NET spenders will be fuming on here soon. Same at Luton ...pffffft
-
I think it's been a brilliant window.
When you see the endless dashing around at 10.59pm to sign players still and fax off documents you have to say it was outstanding recruitment to get all of Pau, Tielemans and Diaby in for pre season.
These aren't just squad players but three real difference makers for us this season. Can't think of any other clubs who got three first choice players in that early this window.
Zaniolo is an intriguing signing and we haven't gambled on just going with three CBs up to Jan but got in very experienced backup in Lenglet.
Yes people will want another RB and CF but I think we have enough to get through to January given we've already suffered 3-4 serious injuries in last three months so eventually that stops, Moreno and Ramsey hopefully back in next month and then our left hand side will be very strong.
This is result of joined up thinking at long last between coach and recruitment team so long may it continue.
-
I really like that it appears we looked at Digne’s performances and changed course. Shows mature and sensible decision making.
-
I really like that it appears we looked at Digne’s performances and changed course. Shows mature and sensible decision making.
Yes absolutely. Digne earned his place with some superb performances.
-
I really like that it appears we looked at Digne’s performances and changed course. Shows mature and sensible decision making.
Yes absolutely. Digne earned his place with some superb performances.
I really thought we'd miss Moreno more than we have done. Him coming back into the mix feels like a luxury now. Same with Ramsey.
-
In the days before there were transfer windows, getting McGrath and Yorke in the space of 4 months was about as good as it gets. Atkinson, Teale, Ehiogu, Richardson and Staunton in July and August 1991 was some pretty good business as well.
-
Its been generally a really good window, Im really pleased.
Saying that if at 1pm Olsen is named in goals….
-
Wonderful signings of real quality but for me, we have left ourselves one short. A centre forward.
-
It was a really intelligent window, and of course - it hasn't finished yet with maybe Coutinho off to Saudi Pro League.
We're light on another proper striker, but what I've seen of Diaby then he could do a job up front if needed. Zaniolo and Lenglet were clever signings to replace Buendia and Mings.
-
I think it's been a brilliant window.
When you see the endless dashing around at 10.59pm to sign players still and fax off documents you have to say it was outstanding recruitment to get all of Pau, Tielemans and Diaby in for pre season.
These aren't just squad players but three real difference makers for us this season. Can't think of any other clubs who got three first choice players in that early this window.
Zaniolo is an intriguing signing and we haven't gambled on just going with three CBs up to Jan but got in very experienced backup in Lenglet.
Yes people will want another RB and CF but I think we have enough to get through to January given we've already suffered 3-4 serious injuries in last three months so eventually that stops, Moreno and Ramsey hopefully back in next month and then our left hand side will be very strong.
This is result of joined up thinking at long last between coach and recruitment team so long may it continue.
Yeah, agree with that. Like how the last few summers, we've but messed about - get all the major transfers through before preseason, but still leave a little bit of capacity left for bringing in the odd player to deal with the unexpected injuries (unexpected more in terms of who gets injured than if we start the season with half a dozen players out.... that's just a given!)
-
I don’t think we are short. When you write down the squad, you begin to realise that we’ve got players who can cover in several different positions. The other point I would make, other than Chelsea, because they’ve spent a lot of money and sprayed and prayed a little with their signings, they do have one or two that I would’ve liked, and Tottenham, who have signed a couple of very good players. Other than that, I don’t think I’ve casted envious glances at any other club in the Premier division. We have done really good business.
-
We can always get Lingard in if we need him.
-
It's been a great window. We really should have gone for Maddison though, even if it was instead of Tielemans. He's going to transform Spurs.
-
It's been a great window. We really should have gone for Maddison though, even if it was instead of Tielemans. He's going to transform Spurs.
He was always going to Spurs. He is Spurs incarnate.
-
Maddison and his darts celebration is exactly why he's a twat and perfectly suited for Spurs.
-
I was saying to somebody yesterday, Maddison is about as Spurs as it gets. Made for them and that infuriating slow song they sing. The ******.
-
64.
Didn't spend enough and big holes in the squad unfilled.
-
I was saying to somebody yesterday, Maddison is about as Spurs as it gets. Made for them and that infuriating slow song they sing. The ******.
I still like him. But yes the darts thing is almost as bad as JWP gold swing. (it's nowhere near as bad tbh, but still irritating)
-
It's been a great window. We really should have gone for Maddison though, even if it was instead of Tielemans. He's going to transform Spurs.
Spurs under AP so far remind me of us under Emery last season. Players there were nowhere near as bad as they were performing and sick of egomaniacs like Conte and Mourinho throwing them under the bus at any opportunity. No doubt sick of Kane too and the 'will he won't he' circus. Few smart signings like Maddison and Udogie, Son in as captain, Bissouma back to his best, Brennan will give them options across the front. Not surprised they hammered Burnley, who are dreadful so far.