Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Legion on July 14, 2010, 08:38:22 PM
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A fresh start post-World Cup 2010.
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Are you having a good summer General?
Do you feel as enthusiastic about the coming season as the previous four you've been around for?
Do you think you'll be fit and well to travel over more this season? Would you ever considering buying a holiday home in Lozells?
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Welcome back General. Will the reserve games played at Bodymoor Heath be open to fans?
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Hi GK hope you're havin a good summer?
If you could sign a Dutchman, an Irishman and an Englishman, which players would you sign?
Many thanks and see you up the bar at the Holte pub very soon! You owe mw a pint of nessaguin and a bag of scratchings by the way!
The W.
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General,
The Kit : Every year now for what seems like eternity, our kit is released for sale in Aug or Sept. This means that generally I can never get to take the current kit on holiday or get a full years worth out of it.
I understand blaming the switch to Nike 4 years ago, then the Acorns deal and now this years excuse, FXPro came to the table late.
But please for the sake of good customer service, get your commercial team to get their act together, so ours go on sale in May / June like the other top clubs do.
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Welcome back GK. Hope you are still well.
Watched a brief video on the AVFC site earlier showing the changes and building work going on at the corner of the North Stand....looks very good and in keeping with other schemes we have had recently but as we are spending that money is it because the whole re building of that end has been put on hold for longer or will it actually be encompassed in the new North End ?
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General hope you are well and fit for the new season, with all the talk of the new kit are there any plans to increase the selection of "retro kits" in the club shop ?
I personally would love to have a 1970/71 home kit which the club shop did used to stock, but trying find them is like gold dust.
UTV
The Doc
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General,
Will the club ever go back to changing the kit every two seasons?
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General,can we buy xavi and iniesta to bolster our hapless midfield?much love.bus.x
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As stated many times previously:
Please note that the General cannot and will not comment on team or managerial matters.
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General.
Would it be possible to reproduce the green and black panelled away shirt with Muller on the front i think it was the best kit ever and i'm struggling to find a good quality one to buy on Ebay. Quite frankly i think i'd have better luck trying to find Rocking Horse Shit.
Much Love XX
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General, do you think Randy could offer us a pre season speech, discussion document, company statement on how he sees his term has gone so far and his short, medium and long term objectives as they stand pre the latest season.
Please.
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as i have renewed my season card how do you aim to not let people in the holte suite this season who have not renewed theirs but have their season card from last season?
2 seasons ago the holte suite was full with non season ticket holders who just showed the previous card from the previous season, or does the club not really care who gets the benefit from one of the priviledges given to season ticket holders?
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rutski, really good question.
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General, it's been pointed out on the 'Kit Unveiling' thread that our new home top is a copy&paste job from Nike's RC Lens kit from a couple of seasons ago.
Is this something that was communicated to you and do you feel in any way disappointed that we've not been deemed worthy of something original or even up to date?
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Hi General.
First post!!!
Question re; the kit sponsor amount, I know the club won't reveal the exact amount, however the report in the Evening Mail the other day stated Nike was a £10ml deal over 3 years?
This is inaccurate surely, as I remember reading it was a £25ml deal (obviously over 5 years?)
So is FX Pro... in excess of £10ml per year???
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Evening General.
Birmingham Senior Cup?
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General.
Would it be possible to reproduce the green and black panelled away shirt with Muller on the front i think it was the best kit ever and i'm struggling to find a good quality one to buy on Ebay. Quite frankly i think i'd have better luck trying to find Rocking Horse Shit.
Much Love XX
I have this shirt in mint condition as well. Without the 'muller' on the front. Top class. Can't get a mint condiditon home one though.
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General,
can we ban vuvuzelas like Spurszz have?
Pretty please?
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(http://img826.imageshack.us/img826/9664/cktest.jpg)
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Welcome back GK. Hope you are still well.
Watched a brief video on the AVFC site earlier showing the changes and building work going on at the corner of the North Stand....looks very good and in keeping with other schemes we have had recently but as we are spending that money is it because the whole re building of that end has been put on hold for longer or will it actually be encompassed in the new North End ?
Can someone provide a link to this video? Been on the official site and can't find it.
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Welcome back GK. Hope you are still well.
Watched a brief video on the AVFC site earlier showing the changes and building work going on at the corner of the North Stand....looks very good and in keeping with other schemes we have had recently but as we are spending that money is it because the whole re building of that end has been put on hold for longer or will it actually be encompassed in the new North End ?
Can someone provide a link to this video? Been on the official site and can't find it.
"Real" Villa fans would go down to Villa Park to have a look in person :)
Regards
Greg
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Welcome back GK. Hope you are still well.
Watched a brief video on the AVFC site earlier showing the changes and building work going on at the corner of the North Stand....looks very good and in keeping with other schemes we have had recently but as we are spending that money is it because the whole re building of that end has been put on hold for longer or will it actually be encompassed in the new North End ?
Can someone provide a link to this video? Been on the official site and can't find it.
"Real" Villa fans would go down to Villa Park to have a look in person :)
Regards
Greg
Made me smile on a really crap working day.......
UTV
The Doc
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General,
can we ban vuvuzelas like Spurszz have?
Pretty please?
Seconded
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Welcome back GK. Hope you are still well.
Watched a brief video on the AVFC site earlier showing the changes and building work going on at the corner of the North Stand....looks very good and in keeping with other schemes we have had recently but as we are spending that money is it because the whole re building of that end has been put on hold for longer or will it actually be encompassed in the new North End ?
Can someone provide a link to this video? Been on the official site and can't find it.
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/sub/Interviews/0,,10265~2088701,00.html
Tried but unless i am logged on it doesnt play, unless any Techy can help me get around that to share it ?
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Welcome back GK. Hope you are still well.
Watched a brief video on the AVFC site earlier showing the changes and building work going on at the corner of the North Stand....looks very good and in keeping with other schemes we have had recently but as we are spending that money is it because the whole re building of that end has been put on hold for longer or will it actually be encompassed in the new North End ?
Can someone provide a link to this video? Been on the official site and can't find it.
http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/sub/Interviews/0,,10265~2088701,00.html
Tried but unless i am logged on it doesnt play, unless any Techy can help me get around that to share it ?
Thanks for trying Daz. Can't watch myself, probably because I haven't weighed in. Although technically I'm about as good as Our Emile.
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Does anybody know the correct rites to summon the General?
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Hi General
MON is quoted today as saying that we are operating on a sell to buy policy! If this is cut and dry then to say im very bemused is an understatement. Can you explain any further?
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Hi General
MON is quoted today as saying that we are operating on a sell to buy policy! If this is cut and dry then to say im very bemused is an understatement. Can you explain any further?
With reference to the above General may I point you back to your statement at the end of last season wherein you confirmed in answer to one of my small queries that we were not as Mon suggests a selling club ?
Is this one of those cases of engaging mouth before brain perhaps?
As an aside has anyone any idea when our illustrious fan and military star, is returning to do his well appreciated bit on the web sites.
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Hi General
MON is quoted today as saying that we are operating on a sell to buy policy! If this is cut and dry then to say im very bemused is an understatement. Can you explain any further?
With reference to the above General may I point you back to your statement at the end of last season wherein you confirmed in answer to one of my small queries that we were not as Mon suggests a selling club ?
Is this one of those cases of engaging mouth before brain perhaps?
As an aside has anyone any idea when our illustrious fan and military star, is returning to do his well appreciated bit on the web sites.
That is bang out of order, much more of that and you'll be the one taking a prolonged break.
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Hello General;
Please can we not ban the vuvuzuelas like small heath have done. Aston Villa could make some money if we have our own official claret and blue vuvuzuela with the club badge on which could be sold outside the ground and inside the club shop.
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If making money is all Aston Villa is interested in I think I'll give up football.
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Hi General
MON is quoted today as saying that we are operating on a sell to buy policy! If this is cut and dry then to say im very bemused is an understatement. Can you explain any further?
With reference to the above General may I point you back to your statement at the end of last season wherein you confirmed in answer to one of my small queries that we were not as Mon suggests a selling club ?
Is this one of those cases of engaging mouth before brain perhaps?
As an aside has anyone any idea when our illustrious fan and military star, is returning to do his well appreciated bit on the web sites.
That is bang out of order, much more of that and you'll be the one taking a prolonged break.
paulie, I read the first bit as aimed at MON, and the second bit to be an unsarcastic question, unless I've misjudged it.
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Hi General
MON is quoted today as saying that we are operating on a sell to buy policy! If this is cut and dry then to say im very bemused is an understatement. Can you explain any further?
With reference to the above General may I point you back to your statement at the end of last season wherein you confirmed in answer to one of my small queries that we were not as Mon suggests a selling club ?
Is this one of those cases of engaging mouth before brain perhaps?
As an aside has anyone any idea when our illustrious fan and military star, is returning to do his well appreciated bit on the web sites.
That is bang out of order, much more of that and you'll be the one taking a prolonged break.
paulie, I read the first bit as aimed at MON, and the second bit to be an unsarcastic question, unless I've misjudged it.
i think you misjudged it lenny!
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General Krulak here:
1. Sorry for being off the site...your "military star and illustrious fan" is back...and I didn't take the comment as sarcastic but, rather, as an indication that I am first and foremost a fan.
2. I know that I have mentioned on more than one occasion that we need to understand that all Premiership Clubs...yes, all football clubs...are a business. Revenue and expenditures need to make sense. One of the issues we face, and we have talked about it before and so has MON and others is the issue of the on-going wage bill. This issue needs to be kept in perspective and needs to be understood. It is not just the cost of the transfer...it is the on-going wages. If you don't get that right, you cannot adequately pay your good players much less go onto the market and get new ones. What we see right now is the Club getting a handle on the wage side of the house. This is no different than what we have done once before. This means we have to sell some players...no different than most Premiership Clubs...you see them doing it all the time. Randy has NOT lost his passion for the Club or has he lost his vision of the goal he has always set for the Villa. He has spent more time in the UK in the last 2 months than he has ever done before...he has been focused on the Club and has been working closely with MON. As always, I am NOT going to get into a discussion of transfers BUT I will say that everyone needs to cool down a bit and see what happens.
3. At some point we can discuss the World Cup...a pretty big disappointment for me.
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disappointing...
maybe if the manager didnt keep buying players and then not using them, as he must think they are too crap to utilise, maybe we wouldnt have a huge wage bill that had to be trimmed before we can start to rebuild again...
i mean, how much is that useless donkey heskey earning? or sidwell? or shorey, and the likes...
i am fast falling out of love with the whole game...
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General,
my comment wasn't about making money out of transfers, only vuvu-bloody-zelas.
Can we ban them please?
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General,
If it really is just an issue of controlling the spiralling wages bill, do you not agree there should be a much tighter control of this aspect and possibly the removal of the personel involved in agreeing these contracts from those responsibilities. It does seem that in the case of some transfers, we have been well and truly taken for a ride by the player's agents
I think we'd all like the club to be able to afford to pay wages to attract the best players but paying reserves like Harewood what he was reportedly on, was a major mistake by someone.
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Welcome back Sir. You've been missed.
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General, Welcome back!
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aye. welcome back
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Indeed General.
If the amounts that bit-part players like Sidwell, Shorey, Heskey and Beye alone are reported to be on it's no wonder the wage bill needs to be pegged back.
Will we be seeing a change in policy in future, namely those who arrive at the club uncertain of a starting place not having close to parity of pay with our best players?
Not leaving our business so close to the end of the window might help in that regard, as agents invariably play on the desperation as the Aug 31st deadline approaches.
Signing players of similar (or preferably better) ability from other leagues in Europe where the wages aren't quite as exorbitant might also be a way around it.
Finally: Are we in a position to complete new incoming deals even with these high earners on the books -on the proviso that they eventually do depart. Or do we have to wait until they actually leave first?
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General Krulak here:
A couple of points:
1. No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club. He is a good man who keeps his head down and works hard. I have a lot of respect for him.
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
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Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
Just shows, you can finish top four consistently without haemmorhaging money if you give your scouts passports.
Welcome back General.
Vuvuzelas?
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You wont find many doubting Randy's commitment Sir. I think most fans are wondering "what happens now?".
Are you saying that Randy will continue to fund new players, that we can spend more than we recieve in terms of transfer fees?
We know the salary situation has to be brought under control and rightly so.
I must add that I personally dont mind if the answer is no. We cant expect to be propped up forever and if we have to be frugal for a while, so be it.
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2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
General
Just to flag something up here, the vast, vasty majority of people aren't complaining that Randy hasn't put money into the club - a blind man on a galloping horse would spot the fact he's invested an awful lot of money on players, and the almost universal consensus on here is that he's been flawless in that respect, and your figures above illustrate this.
Most people on here understand the wages issue, too, and there has been quite a lot of debate on it whilst you have been away, but again, it isn't negativity aimed at the chairman.
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Aye Paulie.
It's the bloke spending RL's money that is cause for concern on occasion.
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Mon has wasted many millions of the money spent and is now moaning there's no money unless he sells, that's how I view it, randy has been a great boss so far and it's glad to hear he's still as keen as ever, I was beginning to worry about that, thanks for clearing things up general.
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No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club.
So, he's put in a transfer request then? Only to the unitiated he looks just like other modern day mercenaries who use agents and press to secure a pay rise and a 'loyalty' bonus on the way out.
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General Krulak here:
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
i dont think anyone is questioning randy lerner, however, i want the manager to stop whinging to the press about "sell to buy", because you now have to clean up the mess of his rubbish transfers... if he looked outside the british isles or stopped paying millions for garbage like heskey, sidwell, harewood, shorey, beye, knight, maloney, etc, then we might not have to be in the situation we are in...
he can whinge about small squads, tiredness, etc, etc, all he likes, however, the squad is his.. he has built it, spending a lot of money in the process... so if it is not good enough / big enough, then that is his own failing... and the more he whinges about it, the more he raises his own failure...
and if you say it often enough, sooner or later, people will listen...
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General Krulak here:
A couple of points:
1. No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club. He is a good man who keeps his head down and works hard. I have a lot of respect for him.
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
I think that Randy Lerner has done everything required of him and more since buying the club. Without having the oil cash of a Middle Eastern country to waste, he's supported the manager with money for the players he wants and has paid the wages too. I just think that he's been "repaid" by the manager wasting a fortune, (particularly on wages) on lots of average players who have contributed very little.
I don't know what Randy thinks when he sees that Marlon Harewood's time at the club has cost him the best part of £10m of his own money, or Habib Beye signed and then hardly used at all, but it can hardly make him happy. The question for me is how much longer is the manager going to be given to make uninspired, expensive signings.
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Will be looking to utilise some of our youth players more if the wage bill is to be cut? A few look like they could be make it in the Premiership if given the chance.
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Welcome back General, your honesty is appreciated.
What id like to ask though, is how are Aston Villa perceived in the behind closed doors world of things amongst players, other clubs and agents etc? The reason i ask is that all we ever seem to be is a stepping stone for players. This will be my 17th consecutive season as a season ticket holder now, and i attend all but one or two away games each season too. But now for the first time i'm asking myself why. I, like many of our great fans, earn in a year about 2 days wages for James Milner, yet choose to spend it supporting him and others through thick and thin. Yet as soon as a "better" club comes calling they are off like a shot. How are we ever going to seriously compete if nobody is willing to give Randy and Martin time? Joe Cole has just signed for a club with reportedly much more financial difficulties than ourselves and who finished LOWER in the table than we did. Will we ever be able to attract these names? Or just the better players from poor teams and journeymen like Robbie Keane for example?
I feel ive seen everything there is to see now and that 6th is as good as its ever going to get. Im sure others feel the same. Sorry about being negative. I'm normally the one fighting our corner. Up the Villa.
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General, given the current situation with Milner, the seeming lack of any real movement with regards to decent players coming in, the fairly dismal £55 home shirt and the probability of rain next month, shouldn't you have just answered my Birmingham Senior Cup question?
Welcome back by the way!
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General Krulak here:
A couple of points:
1. No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club. He is a good man who keeps his head down and works hard. I have a lot of respect for him.
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
Welcome back General.
Can I just check that Randy realised when he bought the club that in order to compete for the CL as you said we would, we needed to spend more on our 16th place squad than those other teams who were already in or around those CL places at the time?
The paucity of the squad at the time and the recognised need for investment in the squad was a big factor in getting Villa for only £64m wasn't it?
Can I also make a suggestion as regards Milner. If Man City come back with another offer, you tell them he isn't for sale because we have a strategy of growing promising young players into great Villa players and we don't sell them as soon as they make the breakthrough to becoming international players. Particularly not when they are less than half-way through their first contract with the club.
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General Krulak here:
A couple of points:
1. No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club. He is a good man who keeps his head down and works hard. I have a lot of respect for him.
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
I don't think anybody is blaming or questioning Randys commitment to Villa General. It's just a pity that the manager chose to waste a lot of it.
If I was Randy I'd also make sure that the manager got rid of some of the players he now doesn't rate after spending millions on them not so long ago.
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General, could you tell me does mon negotiate the wages for players he signs or is that taken care of by the chief exec?
Having seen the amount of money wasted on so called squad players nobody could really blame randy for having major doubts about trusting mon to spend the milner cash, do you think someone should oversee transfers and mon should just coach the team as many continental teams do?
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GK, welcome back...is your health still stable enough to be over for the start of the Prem v West Ham ?
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Thanks for producing those figures general, although as we have been the third highest spenders is it not to be questioned why we have still to finish higher than 6 th considering that outlay?
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General, given the current situation with Milner, the seeming lack of any real movement with regards to decent players coming in, the fairly dismal £55 home shirt and the probability of rain next month, shouldn't you have just answered my Birmingham Senior Cup question?
Welcome back by the way!
Bad news Dave, here's a response I received today to an e-mail I sent to the Birmingham FA...
"cdvillafan,
BCFA Senior Cup
All Clubs have the ability to enter including Aston Villa – Competition Rules allow those senior professional clubs to opt out through payment of an exemption fee
Aston Villa have again taken that option
Dave
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: stefan pennick On Behalf Of Info Birmingham
Sent: 20 July 2010 08:54
To: Dave Shelton
Subject: FW: Birmingham Senior Cup
Stefan Pennick
Birmingham County Football Association
County HQ, Ray Hall Lane , Birmingham B43 6JF
T: 0121 357 4278
F: 0121 358 1661
W: www.birminghamfa.com"
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Hi General;
Would Martin O'Neill like to get Stephen Ireland in a part exchange deal if we sell Milner? It's vital we would need to replace quality with quality and it's important to get Ireland in return if we sell Milner.
Also, Is O'Neill fully aware he needs to buy a striker this summer? We need to start acting swiftly in this transfer window because yet again we've missed out on players we were linked with and we need to sign genuine proven quality i.e. Ireland, Flamini, Keane, Huntlaar, Rodallaga etc... I hope O'Neill can see that.
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General Krulak here:
1. Dave Cooper: I did not ignore your question...just didn't see it. There have been a few large issues out there. I know you are a big fan of the Senior Cup but it obviously is not high on the Manager's mind.
2. I posted the numbers, not to praise Randy but, rather, to indicate that as an owner, he has continually invested to make YOUR Club and his a top Club. His goal has not changed. He is as charged up about Villa as they day he purchased it. Yes, we have laid out a good deal of money to move up in the tables...from the beginning of Randy's ownership. With us on the journey has been the Fans (God bless them), the Staff, the Manager and the Coaches and Players. We can and should question every step we take to make sure they are the right ones. When we screw it up, we need to admit it and learn from the mistakes. Right now, we need to look at the current wages paid and make sure that we are paying them to the right folks. As I indicated, Randy has been over almost all of June and July and he is on the way back to B'ham next week. His head is in the game and his passion is as high as it has ever been.
3. I am going to be off the site for just a short period of time...I am traveling to pick up my grandchildren (5 of them...ages 3-14) to watch over them whilst their parents move to new locations in the US. I am NOT ducking you all...I will be back very soon.
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General, good to see you back in action. I don't think you need to reiterate Randy's desire, committment or intent. It's there for all to see.
What I think we all need right now is some reassurance that we will still invest and challenge in every competition. It's the third summer in a row that one of our key players has been linked with a move away, and two in a row where it is going to happen. Just gets a little deflating at times.
I know things will be just fine, but it would good to hear MON emphasize that a little more. So far, it hasn't been very inspiring.
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Hi General;
Would Martin O'Neill like to get Stephen Ireland in a part exchange deal if we sell Milner? It's vital we would need to replace quality with quality and it's important to get Ireland in return if we sell Milner.
Also, Is O'Neill fully aware he needs to buy a striker this summer? We need to start acting swiftly in this transfer window because yet again we've missed out on players we were linked with and we need to sign genuine proven quality i.e. Ireland, Flamini, Keane, Huntlaar, Rodallaga etc... I hope O'Neill can see that.
As stated many times previously:
Please note that the General cannot and will not comment on team or managerial matters.
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General, when you're back on deck....
Given that Milner has said that he wants to go to Man City and that, as they've not yet met our valuation of the player, I'm assuming that they've made an illegal approach. I'm sure there's no way that MoN or Randy would have given Man City permission to talk to him.
So, will a call be made to the FA about this?
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General,
To date how many season-tickets have been sold to households withing a one0mile radius of Villa park?
Second, I've read that valencia are due to be oplaying at Man City - a game televised by ESPN - on Saturday 7th. One day after they are due to play us. Now i appreciate that they can, and will, play whoever they wish against us but before people go and get tickets would you be able to clear up if the club have any assurances from Valencia that they are not going to play a team full of reserves against us?
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General Krulak here:
3. I am going to be off the site for just a short period of time...I am traveling to pick up my grandchildren (5 of them...ages 3-14) to watch over them whilst their parents move to new locations in the US. I am NOT ducking you all...I will be back very soon.
Hi General, everyone has to do their bit of babysitting sometime........
I know you are busy answering quesations from other fans but if you could take a look at my question on page 2 about retro kits it would be much appreciated.
UTV
The Doc
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General Krulak here:
1. Dave Cooper: I did not ignore your question...just didn't see it. There have been a few large issues out there. I know you are a big fan of the Senior Cup but it obviously is not high on the Manager's mind.
Bigger than the Birmingham Senior Cup??!!
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General,
To date how many season-tickets have been sold to households withing a one0mile radius of Villa park?
Second, I've read that valencia are due to be oplaying at Man City - a game televised by ESPN - on Saturday 7th. One day after they are due to play us. Now i appreciate that they can, and will, play whoever they wish against us but before people go and get tickets would you be able to clear up if the club have any assurances from Valencia that they are not going to play a team full of reserves against us?
Seriously, do you think ESPN would pay them if they were going to field a weakened side against City? Without a doubt we will face a Valencia XI.
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Given that Milner has said that he wants to go to Man City
Is that fact now ???
I had thought there was some question as posed by the player, in the veracity of Mon's statement.
Great to have you back, even for a brief while and wonderful to see you confirming Randy's continued enthusiasm and backing remains. I might be reading your comments incorrectly but it seems at last, some common sense has been shown and RL has dealt well with the situation.
Whilst its given some fans a chance to gloat that they were right to affirm Villa had no money for transfers, despite your assurances, otherwise, at least the vacuum of recent weeks has been lifted, thanks.
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Given that Milner has said that he wants to go to Man City
Is that fact now ???
I had thought there was some question as posed by the player, in the veracity of Mon's statement.
If he doesn't want to go he can clear it up in 10 seconds.
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General Krulak here:
1. Dave Cooper: I did not ignore your question...just didn't see it. There have been a few large issues out there. I know you are a big fan of the Senior Cup but it obviously is not high on the Manager's mind.
Bigger than the Birmingham Senior Cup??!!
I admire the way you don't give up Dave :-D
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General Krulak here:
1. Dave Cooper: I did not ignore your question...just didn't see it. There have been a few large issues out there. I know you are a big fan of the Senior Cup but it obviously is not high on the Manager's mind.
Bigger than the Birmingham Senior Cup??!!
I admire the way you don't give up Dave :-D
It's a personal crusade.
First trophy Villa ever won you know.
1880, beat Saltley College 3-1 in the final.
Proud history and all that.
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Given that Milner has said that he wants to go to Man City
Is that fact now ???
I had thought there was some question as posed by the player, in the veracity of Mon's statement.
If he doesn't want to go he can clear it up in 10 seconds.
If he has any sense he should jump at the chance, but that doesn't mean he has said he wants to go. Too many people are jumping on to a bandwagon that may not exist. Playground mentality no doubt
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Hi General,
Thank you for everything, your patience and commitment to speaking directly to the fans is very much appreciated even though i am sure your limits are tested at times.
Archie
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General,
To date how many season-tickets have been sold to households withing a one0mile radius of Villa park?
Second, I've read that valencia are due to be oplaying at Man City - a game televised by ESPN - on Saturday 7th. One day after they are due to play us. Now i appreciate that they can, and will, play whoever they wish against us but before people go and get tickets would you be able to clear up if the club have any assurances from Valencia that they are not going to play a team full of reserves against us?
Ramadan is nearly upon us. It'll begin around 10th August. Are there any plans to have iftar special events - the breaking of the fast at dusk - to get the families in? Alternatively, how about having September the 4th put aside for an iftar event? That's the international weekend.
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Hi general , I bought a villa sekonda watch last year from the villa direct clubs official website and it was of course water resistant and expensive, today I took it to a jeweller to change the battery as it has stopped only to be told "sorry the watch is water damaged and will not work ".
I've only used it for showers and washing up, I am very unhappy that I have now lost all that money buying a product which clearly wasn't what it was advertised and sold as.
Even says water resistant on it , I still have the presentation box but not the reciept, is there anything I can do about this general as I am very angry- it was not cheap either!
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Peter W, sometimes you make some interesting points- sometimes I even agree with you. However, they always seem to be outweighed by the amount of times you have to come on here and be an annoying repetitive pest.
I click into this particular thread to read the Generals feedback on a broad amount of subjects involving Villa and football in general. But I am just pissed off now with you hijacking the place with your tedious posts about the same bloody thing over and over again.
I have no doubt that you are well intentioned and sincere in what seems to be your one-man quest to get every person living within a Marlon Harewood missed placed shot of Villa Park to be present on match days, and for the club to provide them with special events and areas etc. I have no problem with that at all, but what I do have a problem with is you keep going on about it. I am sure that the General has answered your questions about what the club have/are/trying to do for the locals on more than one occasion. When will you get the message?
Will you please just take your own little crusade (pardon the pun) somewhere more private and show a little more respect to the General and your fellow H+V’ers. Let the rest of us enjoy the thread again, so it is like a little piece of Utopia- just the way you want it!
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Hi general , I bought a villa sekonda watch last year from the villa direct clubs official website and it was of course water resistant and expensive, today I took it to a jeweller to change the battery as it has stopped only to be told "sorry the watch is water damaged and will not work ".
I've only used it for showers and washing up, I am very unhappy that I have now lost all that money buying a product which clearly wasn't what it was advertised and sold as.
Even says water resistant on it , I still have the presentation box but not the reciept, is there anything I can do about this general as I am very angry- it was not cheap either!
Water resistant doesn't mean waterproof. It means it can cope with the odd splash or survive being dropped in water. If you use it repeatedly whilst showering or immerse it in water whilst washing up, then yes it's probably going to get water damaged.
See also here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_Resistant_mark
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Watch states water resistant to 100 metres and believe me it's never been lower than 6 inches , I can't swim in any case , this watch was an official merchandise from the villa and even the jeweller said it's clearly advertised as being something it's not and was very expensive.
If we were talking a few quid I'd probably not be so angry about it , but as it was an official club product I may not be the only one to suffer this fate, I suppose to some this may seem trivial but these things don't come cheap.
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General Krulak here:
A couple of points:
1. No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club. He is a good man who keeps his head down and works hard. I have a lot of respect for him.
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
We have a net spend more than spurs, yet they have a better side and finished 4th and their manager is talking about winning the league next year, whilst we spend at least 30 million pounds of that investment on players that cant get near the team and if we believe what we read, are in fact up for sale. If i was Randy i wouldnt be giving the manager any cash either. It's disheartening to read that we have to sell players to purchase new ones, however, when you look at the facts, the manager has splashed out inflated for fees for very very average players (sidwell, harewood, shorey, davies, nrc) who no doubt are also on obscene wages. Randy is within his rights to say to O'neill that no more money available until these are off the wage bill. How long are the present board willing to accept 6th place spending less money than other teams (ie spurs) who we were ahead of 3 years ago.
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General Krulak here:
A couple of points:
1. No matter what happens with Milner, and NOTHING is decided there, I think it is important to know that he has acted in a thoroughly professional manner and has great respect for the fans and for the Club. He is a good man who keeps his head down and works hard. I have a lot of respect for him.
2. The following FACTS are presented...taken straight from the financial statements of the Clubs involved. It demonstrates that Randy has been more than willing to put money against players in this league.
Net spend over the past few years:
a. ManCity: 230M
b. Chelsea: 112M
c. Villa: 102M
d. L'pool: 95M
e. Spurs: 66M
f. Everton: 23M
g. Arsenal: Actually have made 14M thru selling
We have a net spend more than spurs, yet they have a better side and finished 4th and their manager is talking about winning the league next year, whilst we spend at least 30 million pounds of that investment on players that cant get near the team and if we believe what we read, are in fact up for sale. If i was Randy i wouldnt be giving the manager any cash either. It's disheartening to read that we have to sell players to purchase new ones, however, when you look at the facts, the manager has splashed out inflated for fees for very very average players (sidwell, harewood, shorey, davies, nrc) who no doubt are also on obscene wages. Randy is within his rights to say to O'neill that no more money available until these are off the wage bill. How long are the present board willing to accept 6th place spending less money than other teams (ie spurs) who we were ahead of 3 years ago.
I do not like doing this as it is supposed to be for questions to the General on non team/manager matters but it seems as though it has been hijacked for other means.
Sutton_Villa23, try adding the value of the squads for each of the clubs when Mr Lerner bought the club to the amount spent by each and see what the current values are now.
Only Mr Lerner knows whether the club is progressing along the lines he thought when he took over the club or any subsequent view having gained experience of being a PL club owner. I would have thought the answer is yes as the manager is still with the club.
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Peter W, sometimes you make some interesting points- sometimes I even agree with you. However, they always seem to be outweighed by the amount of times you have to come on here and be an annoying repetitive pest.
I click into this particular thread to read the Generals feedback on a broad amount of subjects involving Villa and football in general. But I am just pissed off now with you hijacking the place with your tedious posts about the same bloody thing over and over again.
I have no doubt that you are well intentioned and sincere in what seems to be your one-man quest to get every person living within a Marlon Harewood missed placed shot of Villa Park to be present on match days, and for the club to provide them with special events and areas etc. I have no problem with that at all, but what I do have a problem with is you keep going on about it. I am sure that the General has answered your questions about what the club have/are/trying to do for the locals on more than one occasion. When will you get the message?
Will you please just take your own little crusade (pardon the pun) somewhere more private and show a little more respect to the General and your fellow H+V’ers. Let the rest of us enjoy the thread again, so it is like a little piece of Utopia- just the way you want it!
Erm, no. Now off you pop to make some flags for me to ask questions at games if you prefer.
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Welcome back General, your honesty is appreciated.
What id like to ask though, is how are Aston Villa perceived in the behind closed doors world of things amongst players, other clubs and agents etc? The reason i ask is that all we ever seem to be is a stepping stone for players. This will be my 17th consecutive season as a season ticket holder now, and i attend all but one or two away games each season too. But now for the first time i'm asking myself why. I, like many of our great fans, earn in a year about 2 days wages for James Milner, yet choose to spend it supporting him and others through thick and thin. Yet as soon as a "better" club comes calling they are off like a shot. How are we ever going to seriously compete if nobody is willing to give Randy and Martin time? Joe Cole has just signed for a club with reportedly much more financial difficulties than ourselves and who finished LOWER in the table than we did. Will we ever be able to attract these names? Or just the better players from poor teams and journeymen like Robbie Keane for example?
I feel ive seen everything there is to see now and that 6th is as good as its ever going to get. Im sure others feel the same. Sorry about being negative. I'm normally the one fighting our corner. Up the Villa.
Sorry to nag General but just a couple of reassuring lines may stop me worrying...Cheers
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General,
The current media lines are about the supposed dispute between Milner and MON, whether Milner asked for a transfer or not.
James Lawton in the Independent had a spot on point the other day when he suggested the likes of Joe Cole, James and just about every other pro player dealt in realities. Namely that money is what it is all about.
Kissing badges may impress the kids at the front of the stand but the majority of supporters appreciate that players are employees pursuing a career and earning a living.
Is it not about time that clubs and players alike stopped treating the fans like morons and everyone is just honest about the realities of football life? Its a business for the owners, a career for the managers and a job of work for the players. Everyone is trying to earn a crust, albeit in football more like the loaf, or rather the whole bloody bakery.
The PR spin is wearing out.
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General, ther eis a 'feeling' amongst certain section of fans, and also by certain sections of other teams football fans that we are back to being boring again. Not necessarily down to performances- although last season saw a departure from the exciting formations of 4-3-3/4-5-1 and a good balanced counter-attacking team - but also how we are perceived off the pitch.
How would you attempt to divert the feeling that we are just a mediocre, humdrum, there because we're there type of football team/club that we were before Randy came in?
Fans of other clubs thought of us as just boring and nobodies. Then we made people sit up and take notice. last season I started to get the old boring Villa jibes, and same 'yawn' effect when anyone was talking about Villa.
Why do you think that is, and what can the club do to alter that? We have had a decent season last year so is it just a matter of perception? Playing style? media coverage? The fact that when Randy first came in the 'revolution' was exciting? Is this what happens when lust turns to love to just all being too used to each other?
Serious question by the way!
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General,
I've had a fairly disenchanting 2010 following my beloved team. No new blood in Jan again meaning players ran out of steam...again, the manager not using his squad that HE assembled, no new blood so far this summer only transfer activity is our star player wanting out...now i read our home kit not available for purchase until mid September!!! what on earth is going on? what other clubs have to wait a full 4 weeks after the start of the season to purchase a new shirt? I would have thought at least our commercial department could sort this out, nike sponsor Man U and theirs was out weeks ago!!!
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No new kit to buy for 2 months after unveiling
No new players
Manager has effectively given up on 4th place before a ball kicked
Our best player wants to go same as last year
Why exactly should i renew my season ticket ive had for 15 years mr krulak?
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No new kit to buy for 2 months after unveiling
No new players
Manager has effectively given up on 4th place before a ball kicked
Our best player wants to go same as last year
Why exactly should i renew my season ticket ive had for 15 years mr krulak?
General Krulak.
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A little respect, please?
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No new kit to buy for 2 months after unveiling
No new players
Manager has effectively given up on 4th place before a ball kicked
Our best player wants to go same as last year
Why exactly should i renew my season ticket ive had for 15 years mr krulak?
Because you're an Aston Villa supporter?
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This may have been covered but i dont think even if we get 28 million for jimmy we will be able to go and buy ireland and co
Iam reading it that the wage bill needs to be reduced with too many fringe players on 40 to 50 grand a week. if you look at what we are paying shorey, beye L young, davis , reo coke r sidwell heskey probably collectively over £300,000 per week thats 15 million a year and over 30 million with what what we they left on their contracts. So bang goes the milner money and we would have only have saved his wages which is probably only 2 million left on it . We have Man Citehs problem on a lot smaller scale nobody wants to buy our fringe boys because of
the huge wages we had to entice them with to build a squad well thats my thoughts for what its worth :-({|=
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General
Just a question with regards to the the seemingly sell to buy transfer policy but also has the decision been made that we need to reduce our wage bill, and until this is reduced significantly it does not matter how much money is raised in the transfer market there will be no new signings.
As it would seem that our current wage bill is unsustainable
Are the club concerned by last seasons falling gates and the number of people who have not renewed their season tickets and therefore Mr Lerner has decided to tighten the belt!!
if you could respond to this question it would be much appreciated
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hello general,
im not sure if anyone has already said it, but i was very impressed with the "viral" videos that were released to promote season tickets this year. Getting the players involved to have a bit of fun, but also promote the club was brilliant.
It was good fun showing my friends who are not Villa fans, and convincing them they are 100% genuine. The dingles are still in awe of John Carew's electrical skills.
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I agree, codyvillan. Even a Spuds fan found them funny! Very good indeed; I hope there are more to come.
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General. Now we have a sponsor, and in these difficult economic times - especially with the price of the shirt.
Will the shirt last for 2 seasons?
If not, what are the reasons it won't?
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General,
Have you read Karl Marlantes "Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War"? I thought it a magnificent achievement. To me it reads true and authentic in all its horror and is all the more powerful for it.
But I wasn't there. I'd be very interested to hear your thoughts on it.
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True authentic horror? Why, have the Vietcong, and normal Vietnamese people been able to put their side?
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Can we keep talk of the Vietnam war elsewhere, please, and leave this for questions to the General?
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True authentic horror? Why, have the Vietcong, and normal Vietnamese people been able to put their side?
You misunderstand; intentionally, I suspect. The horror that is war. Seeing as the General served in the Marines (as did the author) I was merely interested in hearing how he felt life in a Marine rifle company was depicted.
I shall heed Paulie's advice and make this my last post on the subject.
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Hope all's well with you General K.
Are you planning to get over to watch a number of games this coming season ??
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Not a question as such, General, but something i'd like to bring to your attention.
I recently purchased a 12 month JV Life membership for my newborn son. 2 months after I had paid for it, and after several phone calls, the ticket office finally realised they hadn't even sent it out to me.
It arrived in the post this morning. I opened the pack to find that part of my son's name hadn't printed properly on the membership card and the comic that comes with the pack was 12 months out of date. It was advertising the 'new' 2009 - 2010 kit and welcoming the new signings: Beye, Delph and Downing, all signed in July and August of last year. In addition to this it was advertising last year's soccer schools.
Obviously, all of the above wasn't really good enough so I phoned this morning to inform them of this. I have to say, as with every time i've phoned, I was dealt with professionally and politely (by Julie Richards this afternoon) and the situation has been resolved to my satisfaction.
Whilst the whole situation itself was poor, the way in which I have been dealt with is a credit to the club. Just thought i'd pass that on.
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General
Just a question with regards to the the seemingly sell to buy transfer policy but also has the decision been made that we need to reduce our wage bill, and until this is reduced significantly it does not matter how much money is raised in the transfer market there will be no new signings.
As it would seem that our current wage bill is unsustainable
Are the club concerned by last seasons falling gates and the number of people who have not renewed their season tickets and therefore Mr Lerner has decided to tighten the belt!!
if you could respond to this question it would be much appreciated
Isn't it more that we don't want to increase the wage bill further? New signings will obviously push it up if we don't get some existing players off the books.
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General,
Just a quick question with regards to the new shirts (and I ask this in the knowledge that Randy and his marketing and PR teams are well oiled and very advanced in their strategies): Why in gods name is it taking till the end of september for the shirts to actually hit the shops? the season will be 3-4 weeks old by then. Most other clubs shirts are on sale already. fans want the new shirt for the nice weather and holidays throughout august! or at least for the games at the start of the season. Maybe nike are too busy rubbing up to man united and barcelona that we have to wait till the production lines are free. It smacks of us being second rate and not what ive come to expect from Mr Lerners tenure. Surely they can see this will affect revenue? Shirt sales would surely be high now whilst excitement builds up to the big kick off?
I expect we will still pay full price as well. Now I love nike's gear, always have, always will but if their priorities lie elsewhere, can i suggest adidas next season maybe?
Cheers general, all the best
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General, Sir, you might be aware that Aston Villa has an official FaceBook page. What is the official line as to comment moderation on there?
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Positive - keep
Negative - delete (instantly).
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Hi General - any news on the Villa I-Pod Application. Even the 'neighbours' have one now....
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Hi General - any news on the Villa I-Pod Application. Even the 'neighbours' have one now....
It'll be released with the kit. September 2011.
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General,
I must say the shirt release date is an absolute farce, but I'm sure you've heard that many times already. Why release the shirt a month after the season has started surely it must be a month before the season starts?
[ii]Re: Milner. Are we going to draw a line under this saga and give a deadline to prospective buyers because it must be unsettling our plans for other transfers? Incidentally why doesn't the club just publically announce Milner is under contact and therefore not for sale, other clubs have done it previously.
Best wishes,
Namaste.
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Its not for me to answer for GK, but it seems to me that the clubs policy is if you want to play/manage/work for Villa and we want you then fine. The minute anyone expresses a desire to leave a price for compensation is set, if the other clubs meet it then goodbye and good luck. If they don't, then behave like a man and honour the contract you signed in good faith like Villa will honour it if you break your leg/lose form etc.
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General. I hope you're well.
With the release of Marlon King from prison yesterday there has been a lot of talk about whether he should be allowed back into football.
Do Aston Villa have a policy in place where players (and all employees for that matter) have to be CRB cleared?
Thanks for your time
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General. I hope you're well.
With the release of Marlon King from prison yesterday there has been a lot of talk about whether he should be allowed back into football.
Do Aston Villa have a policy in place where players (and all employees for that matter) have to be CRB cleared?
Thanks for your time
I don't think we can have such a policy, I doubt a Premier League Football Club qualifies for CRB checks do they?
Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act the only football related exemption is if the CRB check is by or on behalf of The Football Association, The Football League or Premier League to assess someone’s suitability to work as, or supervise or manage, a steward at football matches.
I doubt it would extend to players and the majority of back office staff.
Edit - Sorry for attempting to answer but haven't seen The General on for a while!
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Thanks for your reply. Surely Aston Villa has a responsibility to it's customers and employees that the safeguarding is adhered too though?
The players or anybody connected with the club comes into contact with Joe Public (and in particular kids) - I think it should be compulsary. I would be amazed if the academy/community side of the club aren't all CRB cleared. Why not everyone in the club?
Marlon King at his peak was never good enough for Aston Villa, and with the current regime I would imagine they wouldn't touch some like him with a barge pole. It would be nice if Aston Villa could lead the way in introducing a policy for all clubs to follow.
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General
I just talk a call (at my business) from a sales person who basically started off by telling a load of easyily spotted lies: "your company was recommended by someone you did some work for" (pushed as to who, "can't say, data protection act"), that he was "doing some due dilligence on us" to see if we'd make "good potential suppliers to go on their approved list", "they're a large football club, you might have heard of" etc etc etc
Basically, a load of blatant nonsense and lies.
Turned out he was selling advertising space in the "Aston Villa Desktop Diary".
I don't know if you know the company you've put the sales out to is adopting this kind of approach, but it is a bit of a shabby sales technique, and doesn't really reflect brilliantly on the club.
Not a big issue my end, but just thought I'd flag that up.
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Thanks for your reply. Surely Aston Villa has a responsibility to it's customers and employees that the safeguarding is adhered too though?
The players or anybody connected with the club comes into contact with Joe Public (and in particular kids) - I think it should be compulsary. I would be amazed if the academy/community side of the club aren't all CRB cleared. Why not everyone in the club?
Marlon King at his peak was never good enough for Aston Villa, and with the current regime I would imagine they wouldn't touch some like him with a barge pole. It would be nice if Aston Villa could lead the way in introducing a policy for all clubs to follow.
JMN8S, I agree with you it would be nice but at the same time I bet we're involved in some initatives which involve getting young offenders back on the straight and narrow through sport.
No doubt though yes those dealing direct with kids of vulnerable adults will be subject to checks on a case by case basis. Just don;t think a blanket policy of being CRB cleared would be possible.
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Hi General,
Any idea on when we are going to get some good, positive news on what's happening at Villa Park?
UTV
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Thanks for your reply. Surely Aston Villa has a responsibility to it's customers and employees that the safeguarding is adhered too though?
The players or anybody connected with the club comes into contact with Joe Public (and in particular kids) - I think it should be compulsary. I would be amazed if the academy/community side of the club aren't all CRB cleared. Why not everyone in the club?
Marlon King at his peak was never good enough for Aston Villa, and with the current regime I would imagine they wouldn't touch some like him with a barge pole. It would be nice if Aston Villa could lead the way in introducing a policy for all clubs to follow.
JMN8S, I agree with you it would be nice but at the same time I bet we're involved in some initatives which involve getting young offenders back on the straight and narrow through sport.
No doubt though yes those dealing direct with kids of vulnerable adults will be subject to checks on a case by case basis. Just don;t think a blanket policy of being CRB cleared would be possible.
Also, at the sake of answering on behalf of the General, I can't see how this would make Villa look good.
I think all staff dealing with under 18's would get cleared in this way - I think it's called a 'basic' CRB check, but surely, to extend that to players is a little OTT.
I think there is a tad too much searching into peoples' past in the world these days - and there is a balance.
OK, I'll get back to my Guardian.
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If someone who was a player had a criminal record surely it would be general knowledge. I mean there is not a club in the land who aren't aware of the travails of Joey Barton or Marlon King. Unless it was something daft when they were kids like smashing windows or graffiti it would be common knowledge?
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Agree, any wrong doing by players get reported with glee by the red tops particularly.
I know a guy who was more than a little wayward in his teens and in spite of that that he has managed at Conference level and coached at a Prem club., I get the impression that his record has held him back in the game, which is a shame as it was a long time ago, and he's changed considerably.
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Hi General
I hope you're well down the road to recovery and feeling good?
I have a little gripe about the merchandise department. I'd like to order some things and I sent an email on Tuesday, requesting availability. I received an email to say that somebody would contact me in due course. They've had the best part of 3 working days to respond but no joy? I even sent a reminder email, which received no reply. NB I'm not after the new kit, as I realise they're not out for a while.
Please can you advise how I may best proceed? Many thanks.
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Hi General
I hope you're well down the road to recovery and feeling good?
I have a little gripe about the merchandise department. I'd like to order some things and I sent an email on Tuesday, requesting availability. I received an email to say that somebody would contact me in due course. They've had the best part of 3 working days to respond but no joy? I even sent a reminder email, which received no reply. NB I'm not after the new kit, as I realise they're not out for a while.
Please can you advise how I may best proceed? Many thanks.
I know I'm not the General but in the meantime you could try and contact John Greenfield. He's the head of merchandising.
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HI General, Hope youre well mate, Firstly Id just like to say on behalf of Villa fans how much we apreciate you taking the time to talk to the fans like this, was wondering if you could tell me the boards plans for the future at VP.
Are they really commited to this club long term and how healthy is the clubs finances, in particular why dont we seem to have the money to bolster the squad with quality? I understand theres a fortune been spent on the ground and improvements to the club in general and believe me villa fans really apreciate it after the Ellis yrs, but whats the plan going forward because if we dont seriously spend well be lucky to do anything next season.
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General,
I've had a fairly disenchanting 2010 following my beloved team. No new blood in Jan again meaning players ran out of steam...again, the manager not using his squad that HE assembled, no new blood so far this summer only transfer activity is our star player wanting out...now i read our home kit not available for purchase until mid September!!! what on earth is going on? what other clubs have to wait a full 4 weeks after the start of the season to purchase a new shirt? I would have thought at least our commercial department could sort this out, nike sponsor Man U and theirs was out weeks ago!!!
Pretty much spot on .......
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Indeed...the bubble may have burst!
General, what are our aspirations this season? It looks to me as though finishing 'top six' would be about as successful as it gets wouldn't you say?
Far be it for us fans to moan merely for the sake of it but we have not had much positive news to hear for the last few months.
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General - how many tickets have been sold for the game against Valencia?
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General, do you think it would be fair to drop the price of the kits/tops seeing as we're unlikely to get a full seasons use out of them?
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We love you really General. Please come back. Don't take this to heart. I appreciate another season of you coming back to answer the same questions over and over again.
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General Krulak here:
1. I am sorry I have been off the net for such a protracted time...I won't bore any of you with my issues. Suffice it to say that I am pretty much on top of my game again. I really am sorry I have not been able to get on the site.
2. A quick comment about the kit...although I am sure all of you are wise enough to understand what has taken place. Simply put, we had been approached by a kit sponsor and went through some lengthy negotiations until the new partnership was formed. The timing was not exactly perfect (OBVIOUSLY) but for the long run, we felt that this new partnership was important to the Club. Nike needs a certain amount of time to produce the kit...and are responding in the timeframe we understood it would respond. We are not the only Club who is late...Spurs are also in a similar situation.
3. Randy is on the way over and will be in the UK and at the Club and training ground. As most of you know, he has been spending quite a bit of time at the Villa this summer. He has NOT lost his passion for the Club, the game or the fans! His goal has not diminished. He would not be over here almost the entire summer if he weren't totally behind the Club . Let's give MON and Randy a chance before we start jumping off the bridge.
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Welcome back General - good to hear from you.
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Same here General, nice to see you back .
UTV
The Doc
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Hello General, greetings from Beirut.
I was wondering if you ever spent any time out here, and what advice you'd give to a British bloke in the city should the Israelis send their rockets over.
Cheers,
Jimbo
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This is the fifth year general and we still can't attract a better kind of player than we could five years ago. Supporters are becoming disillusioned with the lack of intent seemingly being shown by Randy and Martin.
Let's face it, as I've mentioned, they've had four seasons of chances.
I hope myself and lots of others are proved wrong by August 31st.
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General Krulak here:
2. A quick comment about the kit...although I am sure all of you are wise enough to understand what has taken place. Simply put, we had been approached by a kit sponsor and went through some lengthy negotiations until the new partnership was formed. The timing was not exactly perfect (OBVIOUSLY) but for the long run, we felt that this new partnership was important to the Club. Nike needs a certain amount of time to produce the kit...and are responding in the timeframe we understood it would respond. We are not the only Club who is late...Spurs are also in a similar situation.
It's every year though, for one reason or another.
Maybe one year I can go on holiday in the summer in the kit that will be current.
OR heaven forbid.....A KIT THAT LASTS 2 YEARS ?!?!?!?!?!?
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general please could you answer the question i posted on page 6 about faulty merchandise bought from the club , as i am getting nowhere ringing the club!
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Hi general , I bought a villa sekonda watch last year from the villa direct clubs official website and it was of course water resistant and expensive, today I took it to a jeweller to change the battery as it has stopped only to be told "sorry the watch is water damaged and will not work ".
I've only used it for showers and washing up, I am very unhappy that I have now lost all that money buying a product which clearly wasn't what it was advertised and sold as.
Even says water resistant on it , I still have the presentation box but not the reciept, is there anything I can do about this general as I am very angry- it was not cheap either!
Olneythelonely here:
At what depth was it claimed to be resistant? If it was 30m or less then you shouldn't really be wearing it in the shower, it's just splash proof.
Water resistance does not mean 'won't be damaged by water'.
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100 metres states on it, wasnt cheap either.
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100 metres states on it, wasnt cheap either.
Last question, were you walking on the ocean floor?
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Question:
What is the on-going rate for a 10ATM watch these days?
And if I have one with 30ATM, how far down can i go?
(sorry - i couldn't 'water'-resist)
Back on topic.: I feel it is a real minus, that i can't take new Villa shirts for the kids in my wifes family in Brazil, as I promised them last time (leaving next week). I wanted to start some young supporters there - but now they have to go with last seasons 3rd kit (the blue one), as that was all i could get now.
Hope all parties will learn from it, as I don't believe its only Villa or only Nike who is at "fault" here.
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It's every year though, for one reason or another.
It was out in mid-June last year? The year before we'd just moved to Acorns, the year before that, we'd just signed a deal with Nike. We should still be with Nike+FxPro next year, so we'll have no excuses.
Edit: Just the away kit out in June (20th), the home kit wasn't out until August, I can't remember what excuse they had for that.
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Hello General
I am a subscriber to the match programme, Aston Villa News & Record. Last year the subscribtions were handled by the company Programmemaster. I have tried to renew my subscribtion, but they claim it is not possible yet, because they have not been informed of prices by Aston Villa. Are you / the club aware of that ? It is only 10 days to the first home game and it will probably not be possible to place a subscribtion in time.
All the best for the new season.
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General
Can we have an update how season tickets are progressing
also the expected attendance for tomorrow night (considering it is live on free tv)
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General Krulak here:
1. TRO. The kit. I am not sure I can agree with your comment that this has been an ongoing problem that somehow the Club should have/could have solved. The history of the kit is pretty obvious to all...first year was spent trying to negotiate the Nike deal and for reasons beyond OUR control, we were not able to nail it down earlier...the contract with the previous sponsor (which we did not sign) held us captive to a certain date. Next kits were again held up over sponsor issues...acorns or no acorns...and this year is as I stated. Don't for a minute think that the Club is happy about this...we aren't. But to discount the reality of what has transpired is not good either.
2. East 19. I am very sorry to hear about the watch. I think others have already indicated but the term "water resistant" is far different than "water proof." I would never take a water resistant watch into a shower, ocean or pool...as it is only resistant to water. I am not sure what can be done at this date...although I might recommend that you go to the Villa store and speak to John Greenfield about the issue and see if he has some suggestions.
3. mcgrath_85: As you already know, I do not get involved in players and transfers. I understand what you have said but I am not quite sure I agree. Without causing any angst, I would say that we have picked up some quality players and you just need to look at our roster to see some of them. One is "quality" enough to have a big offer on the table right now...so he can't be that bad. Bottom Line: No, we haven't attracted a Ronaldo...that is accurate. To say that we have not attracted nor purchased a "quality" player is something that is debatable. Again, I am not going to get into players...that is not my remit.
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Dear General
This is only my opinion, and may well be miles from the actual truth, but as we enter the 5th year of Randy's ownership, things don't feel quite "right" somehow. You've said that Randy is as passionate as ever, and I don't doubt your word for a second, and I also would not question his brilliant support of the manager, which is obviously matched in our club's history.
But there seems like there's an air of resignation around the club that we're not that sure we can compete any more. I know that Man City with their money have caused a seismic shift in English football, but even so, there just doesn't seem to be the excitement and certainty that we WILL get there that there was 4 years ago.
I know we have to reduce the wage bill, and can appreciate the reasons why, but there just seems to be a lack of good news surrounding the club this summer.
Plenty of people will disagree and just say that I'm being my usual grumpy self, but I suppose I just want a sign that we're still pulling our guts out trying to be the best that we can. I just don't get that feeling at the moment.
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Morten
You may have had your programme subscription renewal now - its being handled by Programme Master. £57 for the season, which is ok, but only includes league matches.
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Dear General
But there seems like there's an air of resignation around the club that we're not that sure we can compete any more. I know that Man City with their money have caused a seismic shift in English football, but even so, there just doesn't seem to be the excitement and certainty that we WILL get there that there was 4 years ago.
Any more? When was the last time we competed? Fifteen years ago, maybe more. I resigned myself to that before last season started and was amazed we finished sixth; we will fare no better this season as we stand at the moment. And this is why we won't fill the ground on opening day against W. Ham.
We are not going to compete unless you spend big money like Chelsea have done previously and Man. City are doing now. Waiting for the PL and other teams to implode is not really the answer either as we'll be waiting a long, long time.
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Morten
You may have had your programme subscription renewal now - its being handled by Programme Master. £57 for the season, which is ok, but only includes league matches.
Hi Neil
Thanks. I actually got the renewal form by post today. I live in Denmark, but there should be time for the renewal to go through before the first home game.
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General,
I know you can't say who MON's transfer targets are publicly, but you could pm me the transfer budget so I could work out what cunning plan we have on the go at AVFC.
Thanks in advance.
UTV
TTV
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What is the expected attendance against Valencia General?
Will you be there?
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hello General
love you work sir. with regards the new north stand i had heard Mr Lerner was looking at having a kind o wembley way walk up to it any truth
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General Krulak here:Let's give MON and Randy a chance before we start jumping off the bridge.
Who is jumping off the bridge then ? Some of us were still there when we looked likely to go below the third division. Check with the Villa historian that was, he'll tell you about fans jumping off the bridge.
5 seasons soon, General, 5 seasons. 6th has been achieved along with the Peace Cup. For a mediocre club with an average spend like Blues have done 6th, 7th is a great achievement.
Can I apologise for my view that 6th and a few mediocre cup runs, on the back of the spend Randy provided has not impressed me. Sorry and all that, you won't catch me jumping off any bridge, and there's plenty on my doorstep, but I am not impressed.
We can't in 5 seasons after the spend you recently illustrated at least hold on to our better players, without fear each transfer window.
I've seen more dynamism from the slugs eating my lettuce plants than anything coming out of or into VP of late.
Jam tomorrow has always been a poor meal for the hungry.
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What a load of self important shite.
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What a load of self important shite.
And best ignored.
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What a load of self important shite.
And best ignored.
The poor fella is either very drunk or partaking in peculiar substances !!
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What a load of self important shite.
And best ignored.
The poor fella is either very drunk or partaking in peculiar substances !!
You might be on to something... trying to make jam out of lettuce that's been eaten by dynamic slugs, how odd.
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You might be on to something... trying to make jam out of lettuce that's been eaten by dynamic slugs, how odd.
That's a Heston Blumenthal starter that is.
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What a load of self important shite.
And best ignored.
Can't that post be deleted? Stuff like that must make the General wonder why he bothers.
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What a load of self important shite.
And best ignored.
Can't that post be deleted? Stuff like that must make the General wonder why he bothers.
Hear hear - but i am sure the general has to know what he is up against - i am sure he gets the same muppet comments from Browns fans as well
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you won't catch me jumping off any bridge,
Ahhhh, go on!
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you won't catch me jumping off any bridge,
Ahhhh, go on!
He does have a point though.
You wouldn't try to catch him, would you?
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And its only what a lot of us are saying on other threads. I'm not jumping off bridges, or preparing for jam (that was bizarre), but a lot of us are quite underwhelmed thus far and not expecting much from this season.
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General Krulak here:
1. Risso: Your comment that things don't seem "right" at this point are understood. I think what you are feeling is the combination of the huge spend that is taking place with just one or two Clubs in the Premiership, the continuation of the Barry saga...now with James, the lateness of the kit, etc. etc. Although none of these are really under the control of the Club, they still go to make many fans very nervous. All I can say is that Randy is, in fact, totally dedicated to the Villa...more than ever before. He knows this is like to War on Terror...it cannot be won without a well thought out plan and never in a year. Battles can be won in a short period of time but the war takes longer. I remain hugely confident that we are on the right track and will reach our goals. I have been around "combat" long enough to know that there are always bumps in the road.
2. Namaste: Believing that the only way to the top is through a huge wage bill and heavy debt is not the answer for our Club. Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
3. We expect around 19,000 at the Valencia game.
4. sfx412: I am sorry you are disappointed. I am not sure what I can do to change that for you.
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Hi General,
I hope you are well. I think the free numbering and lettering is a great ideal. Is it just with players names or can we have it with our own surnames on the shirt?
Kind regards,
Adam Van Popodopolousharilambouskishinishvili.
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Hi General,
I hope you are well. I think the free numbering and lettering is a great ideal. Is it just with players names or can we have it with our own surnames on the shirt?
Kind regards,
Adam Van Popodopolousharilambouskishinishvili.
Ha ha!
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100 metres states on it, wasnt cheap either.
This might help - shows standard for various ATM's
http://www.chealwatch.com/water.htm
looking at that looks like you have been done!!
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Thanks Malcolm p- as it states 100m from your link it sure does look like I've been conned as the jeweller who looked at it said the same thing to me.I will however take up the issue with john greenfield- thanks for your help!
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Hi General,
I'm pleased to see that we are starting to get some decent commercial deals that we will need to get the financial foundations in place in order for the club to become self-sufficient. Most of us can see that clubs outside of the top 4/5 are at risk of catching a financial cold. We do need to get the Milner issue resolved as it has hung over us all Summer and obviously restricted what MoN can do on the transfer front.
Onwards and Upwards,
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Hi General,
I hope you are well. I think the free numbering and lettering is a great ideal. Is it just with players names or can we have it with our own surnames on the shirt?
Kind regards,
Adam Van Popodopolousharilambouskishinishvili.
*clappy thing*
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Hi General,
I hope you are well. I think the free numbering and lettering is a great ideal. Is it just with players names or can we have it with our own surnames on the shirt?
Kind regards,
Adam Van Popodopolousharilambouskishinishvili.
Very good.
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General Krulak here:
4. sfx412: I am sorry you are disappointed. I am not sure what I can do to change that for you.
Thanks for that General, I can't see that you can do anything either, but I'm sure Randy, in whom I have complete faith can, in fact I'd surmise he has already started to influence matters.
It depends I suppose on what criteria are set down to analyse success by the clubs owner and I know you aren't going to make that public knowledge :)
5 seasons is a decent campaign General, timewise, sometimes the needle needs a push to move it when stuck in the groove. That or replacing with a bright new shiny, fresh example.
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2. Namaste: Believing that the only way to the top is through a huge wage bill and heavy debt is not the answer for our Club. Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
Doug Ellis was always telling us to watch out for when the "bubble would burst". I don't think that either Roman Abramovitch or Sheikh Mansour is going bust any time soon. Even Liverpool look like getting out of their sticky patch. Is waiting for bigger clubs to go bust part of our plan for the bright future now?
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General
This is a serious question, and about PL football more than it is Villa, but, I am 42 now.
If you were a betting man, would you bet on Villa winning the league again before I die?
Assuming average life expectancy.
I cant help thinking to flight football is a bit wrong.
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General Krulak here:
3. We expect around 19,000 at the Valencia game.
Nice one General - only 99 out!!!
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2. Namaste: Believing that the only way to the top is through a huge wage bill and heavy debt is not the answer for our Club. Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
Doug Ellis was always telling us to watch out for when the "bubble would burst". I don't think that either Roman Abramovitch or Sheikh Mansour is going bust any time soon. Even Liverpool look like getting out of their sticky patch. Is waiting for bigger clubs to go bust part of our plan for the bright future now?
Frustratingly Chelsea,Man City and now it seems Liverpool were all in serious trouble and have ended up better off than before.
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General Krulak here:
Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
Only trouble with that General, the big clubs always seem to attract other rich owners and the whole charade begins again.
There will be plenty of other tycoons out there who want to play in the headlights that is the premier league.
I think the hope of waiting for things to fall apart for our rivals is a fallacy. Sure they may suffer briefly, but someone will soon step in again (ala Liverpool?). And i'm sure there will be other clubs who will hit the jackpot like Chelsea and Manchester City in terms of a mega rich owner.
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2. Namaste: Believing that the only way to the top is through a huge wage bill and heavy debt is not the answer for our Club. Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
Doug Ellis was always telling us to watch out for when the "bubble would burst". I don't think that either Roman Abramovitch or Sheikh Mansour is going bust any time soon. Even Liverpool look like getting out of their sticky patch. Is waiting for bigger clubs to go bust part of our plan for the bright future now?
That's a bit cheeky. You're putting words in his mouth. The General didn't say that it's part of our plan at all. Just that, as a pure business model, doing what Chelsea and Man City are doing is a nonsense. As a rich-mans play-thing it's fine. But rich men get bored and then what?
Now as for us, General, I think the way forward is on three fronts:
1. The occassional purchase of a high quality player.
2. The development of youth players.
3. A successful scouting model (a la Arsenal).
We've seen that Randy has not been shy in coming forward when it comes to putting his hand in his pocket. So we can put a tick next to number 1.
Sid, Tony McAndrew et al have proved to be more than self-sufficient when it's come to providing quality players for the first team and making funds from the sale of those players not at PL level. Check number 2.
Number 3 is the concern.
Are you able to shed any light at all on what our scouting model comprises of? And who is in charge? I'm assuming it's MoN and, given his penchant for players with English experience, are we serverely limiting our vision in this (all important) regard?
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2. Namaste: Believing that the only way to the top is through a huge wage bill and heavy debt is not the answer for our Club. Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
Doug Ellis was always telling us to watch out for when the "bubble would burst". I don't think that either Roman Abramovitch or Sheikh Mansour is going bust any time soon. Even Liverpool look like getting out of their sticky patch. Is waiting for bigger clubs to go bust part of our plan for the bright future now?
That's a bit cheeky. You're putting words in his mouth. The General didn't say that it's part of our plan at all. Just that, as a pure business model, doing what Chelsea and Man City are doing is a nonsense. As a rich-mans play-thing it's fine. But rich men get bored and then what?
I didn't say that he did, I asked him if that formed part of our plan. Asking him a question isn't putting words in his mouth at all.
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This rich men's play thing and getting bored. When's it going to hit Abramovich?
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Hi General
A couple of posters raised the issue of vuvuzelas at Villa Park but I can't see an answer (apologies if I've overlooked it). Can you confirm whether vuvuzelas will be confiscated if people try to take these into the ground?
Suffice to say if anyone blasts one near me they'll end up blowing it from a different orifice.
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Vuvuzelas are not allowed into Villa Park
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This rich men's play thing and getting bored. When's it going to hit Abramovich?
And how is it a nonsense in relation to Chelsea, who have established themselves as one of the major clubs in the country / Europe?
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General Krulak here:
1. Obviously I did NOT indicate that waiting for certain "big spenders" to go bust...or the Clubs to go under in red ink...is part of the plan. Nonsense. My point is a simple one of economics...there comes a time when even the richest begin to understand that the amount of money they are throwing at a Club does not make economic sense. Chelsea's bill is not what it was several years ago...same with some of the other "big names." The debt of some of the Clubs is simply going to choke them at some point in time. These Clubs are owned by businessmen and at some time, there business sense will kick in. Randy is also a business man and is well aware of the dangers of debt...and the dangers of a wage bill that is too large a percentage of the revenue.
2. I think that Troy Eccles made a few very good points. 1) Randy has certainly opened his wallet to get quality players...players that the Club wanted to get. 2) We have invested heavily in our youth program. One needs only to see what is happening at Bodymoor Heath with our youth system to see that it is VERY solid and IS producing!! We have players who are ready to join the squad and be very productive...and we have them now! 3) Scouting...critical to success. Our model, in many ways, mirrors the model of other Clubs. There is no "secret formula"...we have our own folks out looking and we also have others doing scouting.
3. These are always difficult days for our Club. Randy is in the UK specifically to be with the Villa at this time.
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Hi General
I know you won't comment on transfers and rightly so. But if the reports are to believed and Stephen Ireland is part of the Milner deal, then that will be a brilliant bit of business by O'Neill and Mr Lerner.
This message will self destruct in 5 seconds.
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A year ago many would have been delighted to swap milner for ireland- now it looks as though we will get £16m on top it's a great deal,will all the money be invested in players general?
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Hi General
I know you won't comment on transfers and rightly so. But if the reports are to believed and Stephen Ireland is part of the Milner deal, then that will be a brilliant bit of business by O'Neill and Mr Lerner.
This message will self destruct in 5 seconds.
Riss, have you bet £1m on Ireland joining or something? This sudden Ireland-related change of mood is almost suspicious.
General, just to say that I approve of the club's move towards self-sustainability. Under the new UEFA regulations the two principle areas benefactors like Randy would be able to invest in are youth and stadium development. Seeing as Randy was planning for this before Platini even mentioned the phrase "Financial Fair Play", this seems like a typically good bit of foresight from him and the club.
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HI General,
Can you assure me that the screen between the North Stand & Witton Lane will be back up by next Saturday?
I sit in Lower Trinity & really missed the screen during the frindly last night.
Thanks.
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Hi General
I know you won't comment on transfers and rightly so. But if the reports are to believed and Stephen Ireland is part of the Milner deal, then that will be a brilliant bit of business by O'Neill and Mr Lerner.
This message will self destruct in 5 seconds.
Riss, have you bet £1m on Ireland joining or something? This sudden Ireland-related change of mood is almost suspicious.
I said at the start of the summer that he'd be my number one transfer target, so the mere fact that we look to have a chance of signing him has got me all excited. But fear not, when the Milner transfer turns out to be £15m and Onuoha, normal service will be resumed!
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General Krulak here:
I had a comment about the fact that you can't count on Youth and I am not sure I agree with that sort of remark. Villa has been successful over the years in producing some fine football players and the below players can and will add a great deal to our Squad. We have talent...and they are young and spirited. You need a combination of experience and youth...and this list shows some of that youth.
Delfouneso: Striker...player for England U 19's and 21's. Solid prospect.
Albrighton: Winger...can play on right or left. Great preseason. England U 21's.
Ciaran Clark: Center back. Former England U-19 Captain. Played for 1st team in 2-0 win against Fulham last year. Calm, composed, a leader. Left footed. Captain of reserve team for 2 years.
Weimann: striker...18 year old Austrian. Scored twice in preseason against Walsal. Fine prospect. Behind Delfouneso in pecking order but a helluva prospect.
Lichaj: full back...can play right or left side. Strong and tough...great long throw in. A fine up and coming player.
Lowry: Australian left or centre back. Has played on the Australian Squad. Has potential to be effective for the Villa.
Parrish: Keeper from our Academy. Needs experience but will be good in future.
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General Krulak here:
Oh, and don't forget Bannan. Great skill...he may be a bit small but he is talented and has a HUGE heart!!
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General Krulak here:
Oh, and don't forget Bannan. Great skill...he may be a bit small but he is talented and has a HUGE heart!!
and Baker england under 19 ,
General will the North Stand have a Wembley way style entrance
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Vuvuzelas are not allowed into Villa Park
That's a shame - I missed them last night...
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General, not wishing to put a damp squib on this whole youth thing, but by law of averages and bitter experience, of the eight players you named we'll be lucky if more than one of them ever becomes a Villa regular. If we get two stars from this lot we'll have done brilliantly.
We could rely on youth, but it means mid-table finishes without some real class alongside them.
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Oh Heavens above, now I really am beginning to worry.
General, when club officials, managers, chairman, spokesmen et al, start promoting the youth as the future of the club, experienced fans know immediately that all is not as it should be.
Whilst I appreciate we have a decent youth setup few clubs with top 4 aspirations, or even top 10 aspirations ever achieved anything based on its youth setup, especially with a manager prone to selling the likes of Cahill and buying Knight and Davies. The few that did, had an exceptional group of players and found it hard to repeat again.
Talk of youth as saviours is just pandering to the masses, its been tried too often before, by the likes of Ellis, Taylor and many before them. It never worked then and its not going to work now.
If we are lucky, 3 maybe 4 will offer the club some useful service, with more luck 1 maybe 2 will prove to be very useful in the mix, as Gabby has been for the last few seasons, but generally most fall by the wayside, and leave for next to nothing.
The other problem is of course if we get the odd real quality coming through a Rooney or similar, and I don't see one, surely club policy will be to sell him to Man City to balance the wage bill.
No General, for the first time since you started on these sites you have sown seeds of doubt, very worrying
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Out of those you mention there, General, it's probably the first four - Fonz, Albrighton, Clark and Weimann - who will be involved truly with the first team this year, and maybe Lichaj due to our shortage of full backs (and I do think he's a good player). It would be unwise to expect too much of the others, but no matter - I'm compliment we have the talent and will get more to make up the core of the team.
Every team will be doing this in a couple of years - Randy is, as ever, two years ahead of the curve.
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Hi General
I know you won't comment on transfers and rightly so. But if the reports are to believed and Stephen Ireland is part of the Milner deal, then that will be a brilliant bit of business by O'Neill and Mr Lerner.
This message will self destruct in 5 seconds.
Riss, have you bet £1m on Ireland joining or something? This sudden Ireland-related change of mood is almost suspicious.
I said at the start of the summer that he'd be my number one transfer target, so the mere fact that we look to have a chance of signing him has got me all excited. But fear not, when the Milner transfer turns out to be £15m and Onuoha, normal service will be resumed!
I seriously hope this isn't the case. Ireland part of the deal or money only. If we sign Onhuha afterwards then fair enough. This deal should be on our terms, although if Ireland has better options which are rumored then obviously he has to look after himself.
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General, not wishing to put a damp squib on this whole youth thing, but by law of averages and bitter experience, of the eight players you named we'll be lucky if more than one of them ever becomes a Villa regular. If we get two stars from this lot we'll have done brilliantly.
We could rely on youth, but it means mid-table finishes without some real class alongside them.
I understand what you are saying Dave, and agree to a certain extent. However, it's also not impossible that the majority of them players come good. For example, look at the kids that Alan Hansen said Man Utd would win nothing with - G. Neville, P. Neville, Butt, Beckham, Scholes, O'Kane, Davies. 5 out of them 7 didn't have too bad careers.
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sfx.....
can i really say what i feel? I have not been a supporter for the same time yuo have. But what you just said is b******
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General Krulak here:
1. Obviously I did NOT indicate that waiting for certain "big spenders" to go bust...or the Clubs to go under in red ink...is part of the plan. Nonsense. My point is a simple one of economics...there comes a time when even the richest begin to understand that the amount of money they are throwing at a Club does not make economic sense. Chelsea's bill is not what it was several years ago...same with some of the other "big names." The debt of some of the Clubs is simply going to choke them at some point in time. These Clubs are owned by businessmen and at some time, there business sense will kick in. Randy is also a business man and is well aware of the dangers of debt...and the dangers of a wage bill that is too large a percentage of the revenue.
2. I think that Troy Eccles made a few very good points. 1) Randy has certainly opened his wallet to get quality players...players that the Club wanted to get. 2) We have invested heavily in our youth program. One needs only to see what is happening at Bodymoor Heath with our youth system to see that it is VERY solid and IS producing!! We have players who are ready to join the squad and be very productive...and we have them now! 3) Scouting...critical to success. Our model, in many ways, mirrors the model of other Clubs. There is no "secret formula"...we have our own folks out looking and we also have others doing scouting.
3. These are always difficult days for our Club. Randy is in the UK specifically to be with the Villa at this time.
Fantastic answer ....
Brilliant Gerneral...Would love you as a boss anyday :)
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General, not wishing to put a damp squib on this whole youth thing, but by law of averages and bitter experience, of the eight players you named we'll be lucky if more than one of them ever becomes a Villa regular. If we get two stars from this lot we'll have done brilliantly.
We could rely on youth, but it means mid-table finishes without some real class alongside them.
I understand what you are saying Dave, and agree to a certain extent. However, it's also not impossible that the majority of them players come good. For example, look at the kids that Alan Hansen said Man Utd would win nothing with - G. Neville, P. Neville, Butt, Beckham, Scholes, O'Kane, Davies. 5 out of them 7 didn't have too bad careers.
That's one exceptional crop of youngsters in the last 15 years.
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General Krulak here:
1. sfx412: Once again, someone putting words in my mouth. Read what I said...NOT what you think I said. I said that someone on a site told me to not mention our youth...and I said that was foolish. If you totally disregard our youth, then why have a youth program...why an Academy? Simply put, I mentioned 8 lads who have the talent to be first team or solid squad players....and I didn't mention everyone. My point is that we DO have a solid youth program and to be told to not even consider or mention them is total hogwash. I was NOT saying that you only build with youth...but I AM saying that to discount them is foolish. Even YOU agree that we have potential first team players in the group. EVERY player has to start somewhere. Even the very best were "youth" at one time or another.
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General Krulak here:
1. sfx412: Once again, someone putting words in my mouth. Read what I said...NOT what you think I said. I said that someone on a site told me to not mention our youth...and I said that was foolish. If you totally disregard our youth, then why have a youth program...why an Academy? Simply put, I mentioned 8 lads who have the talent to be first team or solid squad players....and I didn't mention everyone. My point is that we DO have a solid youth program and to be told to not even consider or mention them is total hogwash. I was NOT saying that you only build with youth...but I AM saying that to discount them is foolish. Even YOU agree that we have potential first team players in the group. EVERY player has to start somewhere. Even the very best were "youth" at one time or another.
Yes General I agree with those sentiments, completely, and as I said I have great faith in the youth coaching setup and its ability to bring on the kids.
My point was more to do with the management thinking it necessary to highlight the quality and potential in the youth squad at a time when there is an obvious restriction on transfers of new blood and we are about, perhaps, to lose several squad members.
I'm sure you see my concern and that of other contributors of a similar mind, especially when in the past before RL, it was an oft used tactic to placate fans, the last time being when we had the Moore brothers, Cahill, Ridgewell, Gabby, and others like Osborne coming through or in the pipeline.
Thank you again for taking the time to explain, most appreciated.
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sfx.....
can i really say what i feel? I have not been a supporter for the same time yuo have. But what you just said is b******
Why thanks for such a charming comment Edvard.
Thankfully the General, being a real gentleman felt otherwise and gave a very interesting and erudite reply, far more interesting and informative than your little gem.
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sfx412 (what does that mean by the way?)
I'd hope (and as the General has intimated), having 5-6 youth players in the squad means that we don't have to buy 5-6 squad players. As we all know squad player are expensive these days (I'd say about £3m and £25k in wages - that's probably a conservative guess too). Whilst the youth and academy are not free, I'm sure having these players in the squad means there is more cash and wages available for the big signings.
I personally think its the only way we can both compete and be sustainable.
Obviously improved scouting will also help. In fact this begs a question for the General...
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General, not wishing to put a damp squib on this whole youth thing, but by law of averages and bitter experience, of the eight players you named we'll be lucky if more than one of them ever becomes a Villa regular. If we get two stars from this lot we'll have done brilliantly.
We could rely on youth, but it means mid-table finishes without some real class alongside them.
I understand what you are saying Dave, and agree to a certain extent. However, it's also not impossible that the majority of them players come good. For example, look at the kids that Alan Hansen said Man Utd would win nothing with - G. Neville, P. Neville, Butt, Beckham, Scholes, O'Kane, Davies. 5 out of them 7 didn't have too bad careers.
Oh don't get me wrong VS, I would love to see half a dozen of this lot making up the core of our team as we beat Barcelona in the 2015 Champions League Final! Realistically though? Maybe Albrighton and Ciaran Clark as we finish seventh? The rest don't look Premier League standard to me.
I really, really want to be badly wrong on this by the way.
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Fonz, Albrighton, Clark and Weimann are all definitely up to scratch, and for this year as well (Weimann less so - I think he'll be doing what the Fonz did last season). Clark I'm particularly impressed with - to have the calm and positional awareness he does at that age is really quite remarkable.
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HI General,
Can you assure me that the screen between the North Stand & Witton Lane will be back up by next Saturday?
I sit in Lower Trinity & really missed the screen during the frindly last night.
Thanks.
I've just read on the OS that the screen will not being going back up.
I have to say I'm very disappointed as I'm sure other people will be. Having said that I like the new scoreboard on The Corner Flag.
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Hi General,
I hope you are well.
Just a quick one when will our squad numbers get announced for the league this year? (just to avoid confusion, I mean which numbers each player will have, not who will be in our 25 man squad)
Many thanks
Adam
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Oh Heavens above, now I really am beginning to worry.
General, when club officials, managers, chairman, spokesmen et al, start promoting the youth as the future of the club, experienced fans know immediately that all is not as it should be.
Whilst I appreciate we have a decent youth setup few clubs with top 4 aspirations, or even top 10 aspirations ever achieved anything based on its youth setup, especially with a manager prone to selling the likes of Cahill and buying Knight and Davies. The few that did, had an exceptional group of players and found it hard to repeat again.
Talk of youth as saviours is just pandering to the masses, its been tried too often before, by the likes of Ellis, Taylor and many before them. It never worked then and its not going to work now.
If we are lucky, 3 maybe 4 will offer the club some useful service, with more luck 1 maybe 2 will prove to be very useful in the mix, as Gabby has been for the last few seasons, but generally most fall by the wayside, and leave for next to nothing.
The other problem is of course if we get the odd real quality coming through a Rooney or similar, and I don't see one, surely club policy will be to sell him to Man City to balance the wage bill.
No General, for the first time since you started on these sites you have sown seeds of doubt, very worrying
the seeds of doubt for some is a flourshing garden for you Mrs Overall. You've taken a commendation of our youth development and turned it into complete negative and an imminent sign of doom. Why can't it be that we are actively promoting our academy while adding quality players from elsewhere.
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Why can't it be that we are actively promoting our academy while adding quality players from elsewhere.
Loving the first bit, not seeing much sign of the second bit.
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General, not wishing to put a damp squib on this whole youth thing, but by law of averages and bitter experience, of the eight players you named we'll be lucky if more than one of them ever becomes a Villa regular. If we get two stars from this lot we'll have done brilliantly.
We could rely on youth, but it means mid-table finishes without some real class alongside them.
I understand what you are saying Dave, and agree to a certain extent. However, it's also not impossible that the majority of them players come good. For example, look at the kids that Alan Hansen said Man Utd would win nothing with - G. Neville, P. Neville, Butt, Beckham, Scholes, O'Kane, Davies. 5 out of them 7 didn't have too bad careers.
That's one exceptional crop of youngsters in the last 15 years.
You're right it is, and Man Utd were fortunate that they all came through at around the same time.
Like Dave rightly said, the odds that the more than a couple of the players mentioned by the General will make it are slim. However, I think they will be brought into the side over a longer period of time than the Man Utd players were, and have seen enough bits from some of them (not all) to think they could have a positive influence on the Villa squad in the future.
Interestingly, the player I've got the highest "hopes" for from our youth set up hasn't been mentioned - Gary Gardner.
Sorry for hijacking the thread General/Mods.
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GK, you mentioned earlier that RL was over here dealing with transfers but another site has shown a picture of him leaving at an airport. He was on the tarmac next to his car with Paul Faulkner...does that mean that the business has all been sanctioned, both in and out of the club already and just needs finalising a few deals via Chief Exec or has he gone away on other business to return prior to the start of season this weekend ?
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With youth player's you have to factor in not just who makes the grade but who we sell on.A player might not make the grade at Villa but that doesn't mean that the time and effort both club and player have put in will go to waste.We have done pretty well IMO at selling on player's we have brought through the ranks which has helped us to invest in new players for instance the sales of Steve Davis and Luke Moore covered the purchase of Dunn.
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of the players mentioned by the general, i think that 3 of those will make it as first teamers or squad players (could be argued that all 3 are currently squad players)...
delfouneso, albrighton and clark... the rest, will be shipped out in the next few years.... 3 players from the academy at such a stage though, would be phenominal...
below them, i can only see gardner and possibly siegrist coming into first team contention...
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With youth player's you have to factor in not just who makes the grade but who we sell on.A player might not make the grade at Villa but that doesn't mean that the time and effort both club and player have put in will go to waste.We have done pretty well IMO at selling on player's we have brought through the ranks which has helped us to invest in new players for instance the sales of Steve Davis and Luke Moore covered the purchase of Dunn.
Good point. One player like Davis, or Cahill, sold at 5m must fund the acadamy for a decent spell of time.
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Whether it's seen as a money making device or for the development of our own 1st team players, the Villa youth set up is very good and simply HAS to be taken as a positive. Viewing it as anything other than that is just daft, IMO.
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Of course it is. And as I keep saying, its the best and most prudent avenue to success. If we have to rely on buying players its not only a bad business plan but we're not likely to get anywhere with clubs with lavish finances and more so called "prestige" trumping us for the players we'd need.
Dont try and beat them at their game, beat them at yours.
Its always better to produce your own and buy if you need to.
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
Depends what you consider as regular Dave.
Off the top of my head I can only think of Brown and O'Shea. Does the 14 years also count Beckham, Scholes, Neville, Neville, and Butt though?
I see the point you are making though, they do seem to be considered as having an excellent youth set up, and promoters of youth, but it only really applied during that golden period 1995-1999.
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
Well I was speaking about their old golden generation and now this one coming through, but the point is taken.
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
Depends what you consider as regular Dave.
Off the top of my head I can only think of Brown and O'Shea. Does the 14 years also count Beckham, Scholes, Neville, Neville, and Butt though?
I see the point you are making though, they do seem to be considered as having an excellent youth set up, and promoters of youth, but it only really applied during that golden period 1995-1999.
Gerard Pique ;)
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Fletcher, O'Shea and Brown. All decent enough PL players, but not of the quality where they'd go out and buy them in the market.
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Hi General,
I have a family of Chavs that live next door to me and make my life a misery wih their loud music, parties and drugs flowing..
when my 5 year old son proudly wears his villa shirt kicking a ball in the garden, they shout over the fence to him Villa wanker.
any chance of you nuking the house..
kind regards
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Isn't that a bit excessive?
Simply have the general drop a kinetic energy munition (A bomb like a big piece of concrete dropped from high altitude) through their roof. It will localise the damage and allow you to keep your property intact.
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Sorry tpo be off topic here but woith regards to that Man U youth glut of players in the mid - 90s, they were very lucky to have so many top players all together at the same time who mostly went on to play aqt international level, and were at the very top of their profession. The success or otherwise of that time cannot be used as a parallel as it was a one-off, and its got Man U to where they are today. If we have even one of the players the General mentioned coming through to be a regular it will have vindicated our youth set-up.
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
Well I was speaking about their old golden generation and now this one coming through, but the point is taken.
One of the great myths of football is that Manchester United have this conveyor belt of talent coming through their youth policy. In reality, since the 1995 lot (which was probably the best crop of kids any club has ever produced) they aren't up to much.
If you can bring through two who play for your first team or get sold to a club at that level every two years you've done well. In the past decade Villa have produced Gabby, Cahill, Steven Davis, Gardner, Ridgwell and arguably Luke Moore. Have I missed any out?
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
Well I was speaking about their old golden generation and now this one coming through, but the point is taken.
One of the great myths of football is that Manchester United have this conveyor belt of talent coming through their youth policy. In reality, since the 1995 lot (which was probably the best crop of kids any club has ever produced) they aren't up to much.
If you can bring through two who play for your first team or get sold to a club at that level every two years you've done well. In the past decade Villa have produced Gabby, Cahill, Steven Davis, Gardner, Ridgwell and arguably Luke Moore. Have I missed any out?
I'd say along with us, Everton, Boro and man City must be right up there also. Much better than Man U in playing their own. A lot of Man U kids leave the club and have modest to good careers at other clubs which may give the impression their system is more productive than the other teams I've mentioned.
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It is no coincidence that the two most consistently good teams in Europe over the past few years, Man Utd and Barcelona, are also two teams with two of the best youth systems in the world (Barca's is literally the best).
How many regular first teamers have Manchester United brought through over the past 14 years?
Well I was speaking about their old golden generation and now this one coming through, but the point is taken.
One of the great myths of football is that Manchester United have this conveyor belt of talent coming through their youth policy. In reality, since the 1995 lot (which was probably the best crop of kids any club has ever produced) they aren't up to much.
If you can bring through two who play for your first team or get sold to a club at that level every two years you've done well. In the past decade Villa have produced Gabby, Cahill, Steven Davis, Gardner, Ridgwell and arguably Luke Moore. Have I missed any out?
And you can add to that other products of the academy within the past decade who have gone on to forge good careers without us cashing in on helping to 'raise them' with Hitzlesperg, Myhill, Whittingham.
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If you can bring through two who play for your first team or get sold to a club at that level every two years you've done well. In the past decade Villa have produced Gabby, Cahill, Steven Davis, Gardner, Ridgwell and arguably Luke Moore. Have I missed any out?
Whittingham is getting plenty of notice across this way after a good season last time, so perhaps
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While Barca's is probably the best around, I would argue that Ajax are probably second best to them, with what must be at least half of the Dutch team coming through their ranks, but because they no longer play together, don't get much recognition.
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West Ham had a spell when good quality kids like Lampard, Ferdinand, Defoe and Cole all came through their youth set up at a similar time.
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I'll be the first.
General, how quickly is Mr Lerner looking to appoint a successor and thus try and ensure we can have a stable start to the season?
Has O'Neill gone because of Mr Lerner's transfer policy?
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Going to be a busy couple of weeks General.
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General with all due respect to your previous posts on this board ....
What the hell is going on at our club ??
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General - can you please explain to all villa fans exactly why MON has resigned?
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Seconded howesy
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It's not the best timing is it General. 3 weeks before the window shuts and 5 days before the season starts. Why he went and why at this particular point in time would be interesting to know?
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rumours flying about general that martin jumped before he was pushed! Any truth in that??
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General, will you let the fans know if the club is now going to become a selling club? At the moment, the bright future slogan doesn't look so good
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Best player going, manager now resigned - any chance of me getting my season ticket money back?
Unless of course the club appoint a better manager, buy better players etc.
What exactly does our bright future constitute right now?
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I hope the management stop all sales of players until the new manager is appointed or is this a fire sale?
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I think its tin hat time for you sir and Mr Lerner for the next few days, good luck.
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General, the only way that you will be able to prevent speculation as to why MON has gone is to explain as much as you are able.
Has he jumped because he was told he can't buy any new players ?
Has he quit because we are selling the crown jewells - Milner and possibly Ashley Young ?
If he has been forced out, why did Randy not just sack him at the start of the summer rather than let us get into this very precarious situation, 5 days before the start of the season.
Who at the club is qualified to bring in the very best to replace MON ?
Your answers are eagerly anticipated General..thanks.
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GK, you mentioned earlier that RL was over here dealing with transfers but another site has shown a picture of him leaving at an airport. He was on the tarmac next to his car with Paul Faulkner...does that mean that the business has all been sanctioned, both in and out of the club already and just needs finalising a few deals via Chief Exec or has he gone away on other business to return prior to the start of season this weekend ?
GK, ironic i posted this yesterday....did RL know that MON was leaving when he jumped on that plane on Sunday ?
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General
I imagine that this is the most difficult time you've had since being at the club.
Whilst I'm not sad that we now have a chance to take the club onto the next level, the timing really leaves a lot to be desired.
I trust though, that Mr Lerner has somebody lined up who is capable of taking us to the next level. A certain Dutchman at Ajax would do me.
Onwards and upwards! All the best.
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General
We now need a comment from you Sir more than ever before! AS LOT needs to be cleared up and fast!! Can i just add that get Martin Jol is asap!!
thanks
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can me and my dad be manager , pm me for contact details :D , being serious he was a good manager now we need some one to take us to the next step (4th?)say thank you to Martin for me
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Hello General,
Never asked you a question before, but this is as good a time as any. Whilst I respect Randy's right to stay in the background, he needs to tell us what the hell is going on. Quickly.
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General,
please can the club guarantee that we won't go for a 'cheap' option when appointing a new manager? Ie not bloody Curbishley. Ta.
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General,
please can the club guarantee that we won't go for a 'cheap' option when appointing a new manager? Ie not bloody Curbishley. Ta.
Ditto
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General tough time obviously but as you can understand this is a worrying time for us.
Will Randy make a statement ? Has this been on the cards for a while?Is money a problem ?
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General,
please can the club guarantee that we won't go for a 'cheap' option when appointing a new manager? Ie not bloody Curbishley. Ta.
Ditto
Double Ditto
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This is not bad news...I always got the feeling O'Neill thought of himself as more important than Aston Villa which is why I think he got so much criticism.
Anyhow Martin Jol please General.
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General, will the pies be warm on Saturday?
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General,
please can the club guarantee that we won't go for a 'cheap' option when appointing a new manager? Ie not bloody Curbishley. Ta.
Ditto
Double Ditto
Triple ditto
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if him leaving is due to ashley young being sold, then there will be a lot of very unhappy villa fans...
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Not the best timing is this General?
And do you think we could take David Moyes from Everton?
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There are worse than Curbs about (not that I want him at all). SGE anyone?!?!
General, do you think anyone internally has the skills to take us forward (we don't have an excellent youth set up for no reason - their coaching and man management skills must be ok)?
I'd agree with Jol though if we get the chance.
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General,
please can the club guarantee that we won't go for a 'cheap' option when appointing a new manager? Ie not bloody Curbishley. Ta.
Ditto
Double Ditto
Triple ditto
Quadruple ditto
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General. It is urgent that Mr Lerner makes as full a statement as possible regarding the position on a new manager, our transfer strategy for the remaining 22 days of the transfer window, and his future involvement with the club.
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General - good luck with everything that is about to unfold. I trust that you, along with the board will make the right choice to move this club forward. We've come a long way since Randy arrived, and MON was a major part of that. I will never dismiss his role in getting us to this point. But this will be Randy's first proper appointment and I hope the new manager and philosophy pushes us on again.
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Can we enter the Birmingham Senior Cup now?
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General,
Over the past few years,you have preached to us on here & on other boards how we must trust MON & back his judgement.
This will all come out in the wash but for now,you have a lot of anxious,worried Villa fans-Our transfer window is as good as ruined - Its like the Ellis era all over again.
People have the right to know-what is going on at our club?
How many more stars are we likely to loose this transfer window?
Will transfers be put on hold untill the new manager is in place or does Randy intend to do an Ellis special & make the decisions on who can go?
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David Moyes or Martin Jol please General
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General, will the pies be warm on Saturday?
General, Dave is obviously slipping. Any chance of having a word to Kevin McDonald about the Birmingham Senior Cup? That O'Neill character seemed to enjoy us missing out.
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My choice is Martin Jol then Joachim Low for Aston Villa hot seat. Make sure we appoint someone who can make us play attractive passing football.
Wouldn't like to be Randy's shoes today.
How is he at the moment ?
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General
What is going on? I won't claim to be his biggest fan but the timing is terrible. Is this to do with money and him being told he has none?
I sincerely hope not. I thought we were making strides forward. I will try and not to jump to any conclusions however I think we need a real statement soon
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General
What is going on? I won't claim to be his biggest fan but the timing is terrible. Is this to do with money and him being told he has none?
Phil....change your status to 5 out now !!
I sincerely hope not. I thought we were making strides forward. I will try and not to jump to any conclusions however I think we need a real statement soon
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I'm disappointed, as we all are, primarily because the timing is lousy. I supported Martin and am shocked and gutted by this. But what is more galling is that four years ago, the optimism at the club suggested that the days of hiring and firing managers, having them walk out and being told the kitty is empty were over. And now it appears, despite Randy's wealth, that nothing at all has changed. I don't see how the club can have no money - surely when buying the club Randy knew what it would take to make Villa Champions League material and that it wouldn't happen overnight? I find it difficult to believe the money has run out already, so what the hell's going on? One side of the dispute isn't telling the whole truth and it's wrecked our club's summer and probably the new season too.
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General, how close is randy's reported frienship with klinsmann?let's go for a big name - klinsmann or Eriksson!
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Sven, you are joking I hope!
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Season is most probably a write off now. Three weeks left in the transfer window, no money, Milner (and probably Young) going, no manager (or assistant). General, you know what this club means to the fans, the board have done well so far but this is the first real challenge they've face, don't let us down!
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General, you posted this only 5days ago!!
3. Randy is on the way over and will be in the UK and at the Club and training ground. As most of you know, he has been spending quite a bit of time at the Villa this summer. He has NOT lost his passion for the Club, the game or the fans! His goal has not diminished. He would not be over here almost the entire summer if he weren't totally behind the Club . Let's give MON and Randy a chance before we start jumping off the bridge.[/quote
How times change in a week hey!? Please can someone at the club (Yourself or Randy) make a statement asap as this is a complete mess and once again making the mighty Villa a laughing stock/joke like the good old Ellis days
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I am not sure the General will be in any position to comment, but I would like to note on here General that the club needs to clear up the growing rumours that Martin has walked due to being given very little funds in the transfer market this summer.
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I am not sure the General will be in any position to comment, but I would like to note on here General that the club needs to clear up the growing rumours that Martin has walked due to being given very little funds in the transfer market this summer.
Indeed, he should have at least been told he can use the Milner money.
Come on General. We need the truth
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General
I don't work in marketing or PR but I'm thinking having a statement on the official site about MON leaving 5 days before the season starts, with a picture of the club badge ('prepared'!!!!), is a touch ironic? Perhaps an image of Hercules with his head in his hands might be better?
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General, I've heard a rumour that O'Neill walked because the players wanted to enter the Birmingham Senior Cup, is this true?
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IF MON resigned because he was told the Milner money wasn't to be spent, then MON was forced out I'd say.
This is a money game - risk / reward scenarios are VERY different to any other business.
I'm sorry to see MON go in this way but more upset that Villa are starting the season in such a mess:
>No Manager
>2 KEY players leaving ??
Give us some positive news General please bud.
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I am not sure the General will be in any position to comment, but I would like to note on here General that the club needs to clear up the growing rumours that Martin has walked due to being given very little funds in the transfer market this summer.
Indeed, he should have at least been told he can use the Milner money.
Come on General. We need the truth
I'm sure that when the General is next online then he will answer the questions. I don't think the same question needs asking again and again though.
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Whatever Randy's next trick is, it had better be a bloody good one.
Explain!!
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Whatever Randy's next trick is, it had better be a bloody good one.
Explain!!
That's just disrespectful.
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General,
the club's owners will need to make some sort of statement to steady the ship within the next 24 hours. We need to see something concrete and re-assuring. MON will probably get his story out and it will be important that villa have there version spot on.
No top manager will want to join a club that seems to be in turmoil.
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WTF?!
I'm not pissed at O'Neill walking away (well, I am a bit) but what is he thinking resigning a few days before our first game of the season?! I have no idea what has happened (although we'll find out soon) but what needs to be done to rectify this is make sure the Milner transfer goes through with Ireland coming to us, refuse any bids for Ashley Young and hire either Martin Jol or Slaven Billic ASAP.
I'm kind of in shock now because I was feeling chirpy knowing we'd be selling Milner for a lot of money and getting Ireland in return and possibly signing a striker going into the new season... now it looks like none of that is going to happen. FUUUU.
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Gutted now we can see what randy is made of,now we will need to sort club from top to bottom,the new manager will want his own players
I am really worried and this could be a disaster,if randy doesn't have the funds is he the right man,has he considered selling villa if he can't take us forward
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General.
I don't want to come across as all doom and gloom, but I really do believe the next few days are make and break for many supporters in seeing how ambitious Randy and the board are in what they want for Aston Villa.
If finances are an issue, at least tell us so we don't have unrealistic expectations. If we are still striving for the European Greed League then the likes of Curbishley or Southgate (with all due respect) aren't going to do it for me or many others I'm sure.
Good luck, I trust in Randy and the board to do the right thing.
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General Krulak here:
4. sfx412: I am sorry you are disappointed. I am not sure what I can do to change that for you.
Well apart from the timing today's news was a start and as I'm sure you and RL will appreciate it can only be mediated by the correct decision in O'Neill's successor.
I'm not concerned overly much with short term questions, like who gets sold, just apprehensive the disgraceful last minute decision by Mon, makes choosing a replacement more difficult than normal because of the time pressure.
I have faith RL will make the right decision, and will take his time over making it, and I'm sure use all the advice available.
May I take this chance to wish him well
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General,
I think the Holte steps could do with a clean :)
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That's just disrespectful.
I disagree, or I wouldn't have written it. All the time it's trust Randy, trust M'ON etc etc; well now it's gone tits up with 5 days to the season opener and there isn't a peep coming out of the club. IMO *that's* disrespectful. The best manager we're like to have for a long time jumps ship out of the blue and we're left here to speculate; probably wrongly. It would be better off all round for everyone if what has occurred is made public asap.
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Personally i'm a bit disappointed he's decided to go, for the first time in years we have been regularly billed as challengers for things. Last season we went to Wembley twice and finished in a decent enough position again. Whoever comes into the job is receiving a poisoned chalice, our fans want success, and want it now. If we were to finish bottom half next season in transition the managers head would be called for. It's how we are....FI*KLE!
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Sky Sports News suggesting that MON has gone because Randy won't let him spend any of the money we're getting from Milner on new players. If that's true then I'm very upset with Randy Lerner.
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Sky never said randy wouldn't give mon any of the milner money- sky and BBC both said randy wasn't prepared to let martin spend it ALL , and wanted to use some it it for building work at villa park.
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Hold it right there. One more words about the (former) manager on this thread and it'll be locked until things die down, with potential bannings to boot.
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Sky never said randy wouldn't give mon any of the milner money- sky and BBC both said randy wasn't prepared to let martin spend it ALL , and wanted to use some it it for building work at villa park.
'The James Milner Stand' does have a nice ring to it.
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Sky never said randy wouldn't give mon any of the milner money- sky and BBC both said randy wasn't prepared to let martin spend it ALL , and wanted to use some it it for building work at villa park.
'The James Milner Stand' does have a nice ring to it.
Who gives a monkeys about a new stand?We can't fill the ones we have already for most games.
Lets get it right on the pitch first-Or is it that important to some people to have Tom Cruise & Paris Hilton photographed in the ground at the 2018 WC?
What happened to the "5 year plan"?
These people are quick enough to tell us when a ceiling tile gets damaged in the Holte Suite-Is it unreasonable to want to know why our club looks like it's in the same old mess and the forthcoming season looking like it could be in tatters before a ball is kicked?
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Come on General, I think we deserve an explanation...
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Personally I would prefer it greatly if the General and Randy Faulkener et al got on with their jobs and secured us a new manager....
This day was always going to come sooner or later... The King is Dead...Long Live the King
Life goes on !!
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Sky never said randy wouldn't give mon any of the milner money- sky and BBC both said randy wasn't prepared to let martin spend it ALL , and wanted to use some it it for building work at villa park.
'The James Milner Stand' does have a nice ring to it.
Who gives a monkeys about a new stand?We can't fill the ones we have already for most games.
Lets get it right on the pitch first-Or is it that important to some people to have Tom Cruise & Paris Hilton photographed in the ground at the 2018 WC?
What happened to the "5 year plan"?
These people are quick enough to tell us when a ceiling tile gets damaged in the Holte Suite-Is it unreasonable to want to know why our club looks like it's in the same old mess and the forthcoming season looking like it could be in tatters before a ball is kicked?
He was joking.
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General,
I don't believe you've ever claimed that running the club won't have it's ups and downs.. This will be a difficult obstacle to steer around but I do not see a need to panic. This is football. As somebody once said it's a funny old game
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Sky never said randy wouldn't give mon any of the milner money- sky and BBC both said randy wasn't prepared to let martin spend it ALL , and wanted to use some it it for building work at villa park.
'The James Milner Stand' does have a nice ring to it.
Who gives a monkeys about a new stand?We can't fill the ones we have already for most games.
Lets get it right on the pitch first-Or is it that important to some people to have Tom Cruise & Paris Hilton photographed in the ground at the 2018 WC?
What happened to the "5 year plan"?
These people are quick enough to tell us when a ceiling tile gets damaged in the Holte Suite-Is it unreasonable to want to know why our club looks like it's in the same old mess and the forthcoming season looking like it could be in tatters before a ball is kicked?
He was joking.
Sky never said randy wouldn't give mon any of the milner money- sky and BBC both said randy wasn't prepared to let martin spend it ALL , and wanted to use some it it for building work at villa park.
'The James Milner Stand' does have a nice ring to it.
Who gives a monkeys about a new stand?We can't fill the ones we have already for most games.
Lets get it right on the pitch first-Or is it that important to some people to have Tom Cruise & Paris Hilton photographed in the ground at the 2018 WC?
What happened to the "5 year plan"?
These people are quick enough to tell us when a ceiling tile gets damaged in the Holte Suite-Is it unreasonable to want to know why our club looks like it's in the same old mess and the forthcoming season looking like it could be in tatters before a ball is kicked?
He was joking.
No shit Sherlock?
We have the same old children with the same old pathetic attempts at humour on this thread don't we?The "will the pies be hot"/"can we enter the Birmingham Cup" brigade.
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No shit Sherlock?
We have the same old children with the same old pathetic attempts at humour on this thread don't we?The "will the pies be hot"/"can we enter the Birmingham Cup" brigade.
Well, if you knew he was joking, why get so het up about it?
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Hold it right there. One more words about the (former) manager on this thread and it'll be locked until things die down, with potential bannings to boot.
You might as well lock it,as the only other questions use to be about transfer dealings. I think we all need to take a step back and a deep breathe,maybe a walk to the nearest boozer!
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General,
No disrespect to your countryman but; will you please tell Randy that if he appoints Bob Bradley, the USA coach at the World Cup, who is currently the bookies favorite and the Sun's prediction, that the stands at Villa will become deserted and we will be relegated.
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General Krulak here:
3. These are always difficult days for our Club. Randy is in the UK specifically to be with the Villa at this time.
I take it the news today wasn't all that shocking
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Sky Sports News suggesting that MON has gone because Randy won't let him spend any of the money we're getting from Milner on new players. If that's true then I'm very upset with Randy Lerner.
I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
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No shit Sherlock?
We have the same old children with the same old pathetic attempts at humour on this thread don't we?The "will the pies be hot"/"can we enter the Birmingham Cup" brigade.
Well, if you knew he was joking, why get so het up about it?
Not sure why you are so interested in what I get het up about but here goes:
If we are at such a crisis point with funds for players,a new stand should not enter the equasion-it's hardly going to help balance the books is it?
You can't plead poverty on one hand & then sell your best players to finance a new stand on the other-This was not mentioned in the "5 year plan"
This scenario has been brewing all Summer-I don't feel any other emotion other than anger that the people running our club have allowed this to drift untill 5 days before the season kicks off-unless something drastic is done,our attendances will drop at a rapid rate so any talk of a new stand would just be silly.
As I said-I don't feel like playing along with the childishness that the Dave Coopers of this world seem to think passes as humour.
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Sky Sports News suggesting that MON has gone because Randy won't let him spend any of the money we're getting from Milner on new players. If that's true then I'm very upset with Randy Lerner.
I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
oh dear......let the dust settle first mate....that might be a tad harsh
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I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
Shut up you moron.
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Sky Sports News suggesting that MON has gone because Randy won't let him spend any of the money we're getting from Milner on new players. If that's true then I'm very upset with Randy Lerner.
I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
There has been so weird quotes knocking around this evening, and the above is probably the worst I've seen. What's good old Doug doing with his £25M these days?
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I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
Shut up you moron.
It wasn't a sacking MON resigned. If he is upset because of a change in policy on transfers, he should have left at the end of last season, not the beginning of this. He has rsigned now to cause the maximum damage to the club and to us the fans.
Who will the next manager be?
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Sky Sports News suggesting that MON has gone because Randy won't let him spend any of the money we're getting from Milner on new players. If that's true then I'm very upset with Randy Lerner.
I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
Completely unacceptable. Shocking. General I hope you realise that this individual does not represent many Villa fans.
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General, who will be advising Randy on the appointment of a new manager?
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Hi General,
Has the need for Villa to become more self sufficient become more urgent due to the fact it is an uncapped year for the Browns in the NFL and the CBA has not been sorted?
Many Thanks
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Can I just say that I'm sad that he's gone.
I understand why some people think that it's a bad bit of timing.
I understand that some people think that he had no plan B.
I understand why some people think he should have gone 12 months ago.
However, thanks Martin.
For 1-0 at Mould Trafford,
For 5-1 against the Blose (and several other wins),
For 3-2 at Everton,
For 2-0 at Arsenal,
For 3-1 at Anfield,
For two trips to Wembley,
For that moment when you walked into Villa Park and the first home game against Reading....
And thanks for getting us THIS far.........I hope that your successor can take the next step....
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The silence is deafening.
I think the US military term is SNAFU.
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Can I just say that I'm sad that he's gone.
I understand why some people think that it's a bad bit of timing.
I understand that some people think that he had no plan B.
I understand why some people think he should have gone 12 months ago.
However, thanks Martin.
For 1-0 at Mould Trafford,
For 5-1 against the Blose (and several other wins),
For 3-2 at Everton,
For 2-0 at Arsenal,
For 3-1 at Anfield,
For two trips to Wembley,
For that moment when you walked into Villa Park and the first home game against Reading....
And thanks for getting us THIS far.........I hope that your successor can take the next step....
Ya, thanks for all those results Martin. And now for the next step.
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I'm upset with Lerner for not backing his Manager. People on here scoffed when I said Lerner will sell up sooner or later. He won't put any more money in, that's crystal clear.....Bright Future? What a joke - clear off back to the USA!
Outrageous and unacceptable. We're all concerned about whats happened - and what will happen next - but there's no need for that.
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Next step?!
I hope people realise how difficult it will be to stand still, particularly if the funds have dried up and we can't shift our dead wood for better than half price. If we're not even able to use proceeds from the sale of our better players then the business model does seem in trouble. We'd better hope those kids are as good as some hope they are. Personally, I have my doubts.
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I think that Bob Bradley would be a big mistake General along with Sven.
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I repeat - there's a manager's thread. In fact there's more than one manager's thread. Any more on here and it's locked.
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It works both ways though. People can bitch and moan saying "yeah, why isn't Randy investing... MON needs the money to spend" whilst someone else says "well, Randy has given sufficient funds to MON to spend etc..." Randy has been generous over the last 4 years regarding transfer money, but MON hasn't spent it as well as he could of. At the same time I'm pissed because O'Neill has walked because he hasn't been given money to sign a striker we need... it's not as if MON wanted £30 million to sign Luis Fabiano.
If I were allowed to spend the money I would of got us into the Champions League by now.
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The silence is deafening.
I think the US military term is SNAFU.
I think FUBAR is more appropriate
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Debating the pros and cons of Randy is being done enough in other threads too, can we keep it to questions for the general as much as possible please.
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General Krulak here:
1. I have been trying to post all night...have sent 3 into the ether already on the MON's gone thread on the forum. I guess the gremlins are out in force today!! Let me try to outline what I have tried to send on the other 3 occasions. I am sure I am not going to answer everyone's specific question or comment but I hope I can shed some light on where we are.
2. Martin's decision to leave was just that...Martin's decision. He quit 5 days before the beginning of the season. He was not pushed out. Rumors that there was a row between Randy and Martin over the sale of some players (Young and Friedl) are just that...rumors!!! There is absolutely no substance to the rumors that either player are up for sale!! Martin's decision was a surprise to the Club. Randy had spoken to Martin last week and on the weekend and then flown back to the US. This morning, Randy was informed that Martin had quit and so Randy is now on a plane flying back to the UK. Martin was fully involved in the Milner deal...every step of the way...from the very beginning. It is a good move when look at in totality. We have not suddenly become a "selling Club"...we have a good offer that makes sense. That does not make us a selling club. There is no question that if ANY Club has players that are on the payroll but not playing on the pitch...it is prudent to sell them if possible. As I know I have mentioned MANY times before, a Premiership Club must balance wages against revenue...cutting wages must include the sale of players. I have also written many times that we are trying to run the Club in a sustainable and sensible manner BUT the amount of money we have spent over the past 4 years should tell everyone that we marry this approach with aggressive ambition!! Some of the comments I have read are truly amazing! Randy is NOT broke! Randy is NOT selling the Villa! Randy has NOT lost interest! I have even seen comments about Randy's divorce! All of this is utter nonsense. Like all of you, I am not privvy to Martin's thinking when he made his decision to quit. I am sure we will read enough about it in the media. My only hope is that whatever comes out, it comes out on both sides. What I do know is that Randy cares deeply about the Villa!!! He cares deeply about the Fans!!! I have not posted thousands of comments on 3 sites without caring about the Club and the Fans!!! We will all get through this together...we will get the right man and we will continue to move forward. As I get more info, I will pass it on.
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Thanks, General. Speaking personally, I have faith in Randy that he'll be able to pick the right man for the job. If I may ask, did you have any indication at any point that O'Neill would walk away? No problem if that's unanswerable.
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Thank you, General.
I think everybody (well mostly everybody) understands that the club simply can't sustain the payment of non-playing players any more than any other company could afford to pay top whack for non-working employees. It's a no brainer.
I've seen very little reason thus far not to trust Randy to get the right man for the job. I'm sure he knows what's at stake from both a footballing perspective and a business perspective.
I'm sure most of us, like yourself, would thank MoN for the excellent work he did in stabilising Aston Villa from the Ellis/DoL era but this is the time to move on.
Now, I suppose I should ask a question......a bit early in the piece to be bouncing this off you but, when you've had a chance, could you tell us the mood around Villa in regard to this news? Both playing and non-playing staff?
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General,
Many thanks for posting your comments so quickly. It will certainly calm down some of the 'less experienced' supporters and us 'old timers' as well.
Randy is an experienced businessman and also sports club owner and has no doubt been through this type of situation before. I am not too sure whether he has been through the 'media storm' that's going to hit over the next few days but just hope it does not put him off English football.
Hope Randy's on airmiles!
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inevitably General, rumours spread faster than the truth ever will. Tomorrow is going to be a very frantic day. I trust that the club is able to find the right person and manager to move us on from this. I dislike the notion put forward by some that the last 4 years have been a waste because they haven't. I want to thank Martin for stabilizing the football side of the club and getting us to this point. All things good or bad come to an end, and if his departure leads to the next stage of our bright future then he'll have played a large part in the proud history.
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General, it would come as a disappointment to lose the manager so close to the start of the season, we will get through this and move on. The one question i have is what transfer funds will be made availeable to an incoming manager?
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General, thanks for posting and not giving up when you could not get on, at a time like this your link to the fans is invaluable.
Thankfully I think it is a minority, and you will be able to see that, who are questioning Randy and his motives right now, the vast majority are in support and hoping he continues to back our club in the way he has for the last few years, under a different manager.
Finally good luck with the search.
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General, Thanks for replying.
Here's how I feel, gutted, absolutely gutted, but nothing lasts forever. Thanks to MON for his time served and the way he's pushed the club forward. As a fan I'd like to see the right appointment but please let's get it right, if the next candidate can't be gotten, then I'm fully prepared to wait it out for a couple of seasons of mediocrity just for this to happen. I'm sure not everyone will feel that way but I know Randy and co. are going to do what's best and you have my support.
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Thank you General.
I think the club should release their own statement so we don't have to endure shit stories from the media.
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General, are you ale to tell us how the club will go about selecting a new manager and whether anyone with a football background will be involved in that process? For all of his qualities and the good job he has done at the club to date it is clear that Mr Lerner does not have great experience in that side of the game and it is therefore inevitable that supporters will be concerned that the right replacement is found.
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Martin Jol please general or David Moyes. Shortlist done for the board now so have a coffee this am instead :-)
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General ,I understand randy spoke with klinsmann before buying villa-will jurgen be consulted about who the the club should appoint?
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General ,I understand randy spoke with klinsmann before buying villa-will jurgen be consulted about who the the club should appoint?
Yep, his massive experience of managing a league club would be invaluable.
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General
My thoughts are with you and Randy at this time - it must be very difficult for everyone. I thought a lot of MOn and i especially liked what i thought was his integrity - but as much as he could not change his footballing style it is obvious that he could not change his determination to do everything his own way - a simple fact (written elsewhere on this forum) is that 5 managerial roles and 5 resignations (althought the Celtic one was for very important reasons and no one would have blamed him namley his wifes illness) but i am disgusted that he has used the club to make his own petulant point.
Tell Randy to hold firm, i am sure that Kevin / Sid will be able to steady the ship (you never know the successors maybe under our own noses) we will all be behind the club to get the next appointment right.
I know Randy likes to keep his distance from the media but these are exceptional times and for once he should let the fans know the truth from the horses mouth.
Managers / Owners / players - they will all come and go - being a fan is for life - all of us keep the faith
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As usual Hookey speaks sense General in my humble opinion. As do you on your post which I have just read for a second time.
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Hi General, thanks for coming on and posting. I had a feeling that maybe you wouldnt and i respect you even more for doing so.
As Hookey pointed out, this has to be one of the few times that the board need to directly speak out. I know that it is not in Randy's "style" to be front of camera, but this may be a good time for him to reassure the fans who are mad enough to be doubting him.
In Randy I trust! he's made Villa park feel special again.
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General,
Thankyou very much for posting.
Over the past three summers Randy has backed Martin to spend alot of money on players in the region of 80-90m. I fully agree with your line where you state it is prudent to sell players who are not playing on the pitch.
I feel this is the key point. The likes of Reo-Coker 8.5m Luke Young 6m Steve Sidwell 5m Nicky Shorey 4m [now left] Curtis Davies 8m Habib Beye 3m have cost this club an absolute fortune and Randy is quite within his rights to ask the manager to explain why these players have not been playing and if their not playing they should be sold before other players are bought in.
These players knew they would not be playing or they would get 5mins here or there or a carling cup match. What does that do to their confidence and hunger for the fight?
Martin O'neill did alot of good for this football club but if you were Randy Lerner would you keep writing the cheques for millions of pounds to then watch the same players averaging less than 7 starts a season.
The timing of this decision is all wrong but it sounds like this was not the Chairman's decision. However we have the nucleus of a very very good squad and if we can get a manager in who can keep the likes of Young, Dunne, Collins and Gabby happy then we can still go places.
Plus we may get a new manager who is prepared to use Randy's money to buy more effectively from Europe and not pay over the odds on August 31st on premiership players.
I am still convinced we have a Bright Future and please convey this message General to Randy and his management team.
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General:
Thanks for putting your side of the story across - hopefully the reasons for Martin's exit will be revealed soon.
Based on what you said about the Ash Young/Friedel stuff being purely rumours, can you confirm that Ashley will not be sold to Spurs (or anyone else) this summer?
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General,
Firstly, thanks for coming on here and posting in what must be a delicate time concerning what you can and can't say.
I'll be upfront and say that for the first time I am doubting Randy. Up until this point he's been magnificient for the club, but when a manager as good as Martin walks out over what appears to be transfer dealings, it does raise concerns over the direction of the club. Although I take your assurances as genuine, I think this is a time when actions will speak louder than words. Should our better players continue to be sold and limited funds are given to the new manager, then can we say the club is still moving forward and that the vision of 2006 has not changed?
And can I point out that I'm not trying to paint Randy as the villain of the piece and Martin as the hard done by manager, just that if the reasons for him leaving are as reported, then how can we be sure of Randy's continued support and commitment if the boundaries in which the manager was previously working have changed to the extent where he has resigned.
Although this is not an question per se, I do hope you can address some of my concerns.
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General
My thoughts are with you and Randy at this time - it must be very difficult for everyone. I thought a lot of MOn and i especially liked what i thought was his integrity - but as much as he could not change his footballing style it is obvious that he could not change his determination to do everything his own way - a simple fact (written elsewhere on this forum) is that 5 managerial roles and 5 resignations (althought the Celtic one was for very important reasons and no one would have blamed him namley his wifes illness) but i am disgusted that he has used the club to make his own petulant point.
Tell Randy to hold firm, i am sure that Kevin / Sid will be able to steady the ship (you never know the successors maybe under our own noses) we will all be behind the club to get the next appointment right.
I know Randy likes to keep his distance from the media but these are exceptional times and for once he should let the fans know the truth from the horses mouth.
Managers / Owners / players - they will all come and go - being a fan is for life - all of us keep the faith
Your thoughts? No-one's died.
General, I'm sure you're aware that there was a growing minority who won't be too distressed by this appointment. however, it may be worthwhile for Randy to issue something to allay the worries of many fans that we aren't going to be rudderless.
The details will come out in time but if a statement is released that we are still have the foundations in the background to keep the club moving forward then any potential unrest in the dressing-room, and any future signings having second thoughts will be quelled.
There is a the media reaction more than anything that will have us prtrayed as a club in turmoil and just like adverse press reports can mnake the stock exchange shaky it may have the same effect on us.
But, overall, I think most trust Randy to do the right thing. Its probably his first serious decision to make though and one we are all watching with a mixture of excitement, fear, worry, and anticipation.
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General Krulak here:
2. Martin's decision to leave was just that...Martin's decision. He quit 5 days before the beginning of the season. He was not pushed out. Rumors that there was a row between Randy and Martin over the sale of some players (Young and Friedl) are just that...rumors!!! There is absolutely no substance to the rumors that either player are up for sale!! Martin's decision was a surprise to the Club. Randy had spoken to Martin last week and on the weekend and then flown back to the US. This morning, Randy was informed that Martin had quit and so Randy is now on a plane flying back to the UK. Martin was fully involved in the Milner deal...every step of the way...from the very beginning. It is a good move when look at in totality. We have not suddenly become a "selling Club"...we have a good offer that makes sense. That does not make us a selling club. There is no question that if ANY Club has players that are on the payroll but not playing on the pitch...it is prudent to sell them if possible. As I know I have mentioned MANY times before, a Premiership Club must balance wages against revenue...cutting wages must include the sale of players. I have also written many times that we are trying to run the Club in a sustainable and sensible manner BUT the amount of money we have spent over the past 4 years should tell everyone that we marry this approach with aggressive ambition!! Some of the comments I have read are truly amazing! Randy is NOT broke! Randy is NOT selling the Villa! Randy has NOT lost interest! I have even seen comments about Randy's divorce! All of this is utter nonsense. Like all of you, I am not privvy to Martin's thinking when he made his decision to quit. I am sure we will read enough about it in the media. My only hope is that whatever comes out, it comes out on both sides. What I do know is that Randy cares deeply about the Villa!!! He cares deeply about the Fans!!! I have not posted thousands of comments on 3 sites without caring about the Club and the Fans!!! We will all get through this together...we will get the right man and we will continue to move forward. As I get more info, I will pass it on.
Well From all the interviews MON did he always said he did not know what was going on with milner and it was out of his hands ! so what this points out is that MON was just erm bending the truth *caugh*
Im just going to Chuck this out there Would be a risk but ! Who els would like to see Martin Laursen as the Manager back at the Villa ! Of course it would be a massive risk but he knows how the club runs the players who are there and how they play because he played along side them !
who better then to have somone who already has a great knowledge of the club and player ???
anyone els agree with me ?
I dont think we would sink with him in place i think most the fans would love to see him back ! and i think he will have all the support around him :-)
????
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My eyes are bleeding from the underlined bit with the red drop-shadow.
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General,
The official Villa facebook page has come out with info for season ticket holders. I would hazard a guess that, like a few folks on here, there are some horrible and unnecessary knee-jerk reactions going on at the moment. Probably not the best PR effort to highlight it on a social networking page. Why feed negaitivity?
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What coaching badges does Martin Laursen have?
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Hi General, can you clear up the situation regarding transfers whilst we are managerless.
Will there be anyone sold before the new manager has been able to look at what is at his disposal?
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Could we confine thoughts about various possible replacements to the correct threads please.
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Hi General, can you clear up the situation regarding transfers whilst we are managerless.
Will there be anyone sold before the new manager has been able to look at what is at his disposal?
Or indeed bought. If the speculation regarding a part exchange was correct.
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General,
Thanks for the reply on here so soon after MoN resigned.
I'm sure you can appreciate this Summer seems to have been hardly anything but negativity coming from news reports around Villa Park. From the probable sale of Milner to the possible sale of Ashley, added to this the lack of signings. If ever there was a time for Randy to release a statement now would be it.
Another point that I have seen raised by a number of people is the lack of "footballing" people on the board, a point I happen to agree with. Is this something the club would be looking into addressing when it comes to the appointment of a new manager? For example someone like Sir Graham Taylor who could offer words of advice to Randy.
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Thank you General for posting. We need to move on from this as a club as we are bigger than one man.
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Hello General
Dont know if this has been asked but can you confirm the number of season tickets that we have sold to date, only a national newspaper is reporting that Season Ticket sales are down 40%
Thanks
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I'm very impressed that you have come on the fans sites to give a bit of background to the resignation.
I'd just like to say I'm appalled at the nonsense being spouted in the media and by so-called pundits that not enough backing was given to O'Neill, conveniently ignoring the unprecedented sums that O'Neill was given to spend.
However, do you think, with hindsight, in giving the manager full control over football matters, it was perhaps a mistake to include the financial side in his remit?
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MON has the Media wrapped around his little finger. He can do no wrong it seems. Its quite comical how little the Media and wider footballing world know about his dealings / failings over the past 4 years.
To leave us in the shite so soon before a new season is unforgiveable. I'm fully behind Randy on this. Keep up the good work General and take your time in finding someone a better replacement.
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These latest comments from the General on Villa Talk sum it all up for me:
"As an aside, no one person is bigger than our Club...not me, not Randy, not Paul, not Martin. What is interesting is that, apparently, only three of those named understand that fact."
I always thought O'Neill was an arrogant fool to be honest and leaving only a few days before the season starts justifies that further.
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General, not since the tenure of Randy and yourself has the club been on such a positive upwards curve.
We are privilidged for the following reasons , i believe, based on your continued comments on here ;
1. An owner who supports and believes in the club....on and off the field.If he wasn't we would never have had the Holte pub, Holte end mosaic etc to the detail and quality they are
2. So fortunate to have such a high profile person attached to the club, like yourself, to continually talk to fans and keep us informed...which other club can boast that ?
3. We did have one of the best managers around, but he has repeatedly walked away from other clubs before ours.What could he have really thought of the club and fans leaving us at a time like this ?
The majority were shocked at yesterdays news and some may have made rash statements or asked questions it is not right for you to publicly answer at the moment....in the main that is down to us being passionate fans who want the best but get frustrated at never being able to quite get where we want, knowing how close we have been recently makes that harder to take.
It seems that MON and RL have had a fall out probably over finances (through Paul Faulkner) and MON feels he does not have more backing that he desires, even after spending £120 million of his cash so steps aside for someone else to have a go.........NOW MY QUESTION...
I understand you never have or never will speculate on potential player transfers and would therefore be in the same predicament re the new manager appointment, but please promise us this.....RANDY will seek the right advice from those available with football knowhow in making the appointment.
Those with Villa in their heart such as Graham Taylor, Kev MacDonald and Sid Cowans might be good starting points. With other clubs attracting and spending on players pre Aug 31st, it now worries us on here that we are going into a season with a much lighter squad than anticipated and not in a position to enhance our current squad. The more sensible footballing brains amongst us may have to accept that we will appoint correctly with a vision of just getting by until January where we can then add if need be.
I feel a little better having got all that off my chest to know that you listen and care just as Randy cares....a massive couple of weeks now in Villa's history.
Keep the faith and Up the Villa
Regards
Darren
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General. The next time a manager resigns can Randy please ensure he is in the UK. The carbon footprint of this whole process has been horrendous. Thank You.
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General. The next time a manager resigns can Randy please ensure he is in the UK. The carbon footprint of this whole process has been horrendous. Thank You.
And thanks adam for making me smile.
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Dear General.
Thank you for posting on here, it is most appreciated.
But if you can pass anything on to Mr. Lerner, I feel most supporters would welcome some sort of statement from him to keep us informed, we all know he likes to keep a low profile but now is the time to reassure and clarify the situation from the man who matters.
From a season ticket holder of thirty years.
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These latest comments from the General on Villa Talk sum it all up for me:
"As an aside, no one person is bigger than our Club...not me, not Randy, not Paul, not Martin. What is interesting is that, apparently, only three of those named understand that fact."
I always thought O'Neill was an arrogant fool to be honest and leaving only a few days before the season starts justifies that further.
MON really does think he is Brian Clough ! Smacks of Cloughie when he left Derby. Perhaps he`s being watching "Damned United" on his BBC I - player?
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Hi General,
You have probably seen this but a vote from villa fans
Our next permanent manager?
Jol 90 (42.9%)
ask mr lerner to GO GET HIM !!!
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General. The next time a manager resigns can Randy please ensure he is in the UK. The carbon footprint of this whole process has been horrendous. Thank You.
And thanks adam for making me smile.
Ditto.
Excellent stuff.
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These latest comments from the General on Villa Talk sum it all up for me:
"As an aside, no one person is bigger than our Club...not me, not Randy, not Paul, not Martin. What is interesting is that, apparently, only three of those named understand that fact."
I always thought O'Neill was an arrogant fool to be honest and leaving only a few days before the season starts justifies that further.
MON really does think he is Brian Clough ! Smacks of Cloughie when he left Derby. Perhaps he`s being watching "Damned United" on his BBC I - player?
It's just a shame that he lacked his mentor's ability to play nice football and win things.
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O'Neill has walked out on every club he has managed...ok I know one was due to his wife's illness but even so for the others he was just full of his own self-importance!
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General Krulak here:
1. Risso: Your comment that things don't seem "right" at this point are understood. I think what you are feeling is the combination of the huge spend that is taking place with just one or two Clubs in the Premiership, the continuation of the Barry saga...now with James, the lateness of the kit, etc. etc. Although none of these are really under the control of the Club, they still go to make many fans very nervous. All I can say is that Randy is, in fact, totally dedicated to the Villa...more than ever before. He knows this is like to War on Terror...it cannot be won without a well thought out plan and never in a year. Battles can be won in a short period of time but the war takes longer. I remain hugely confident that we are on the right track and will reach our goals. I have been around "combat" long enough to know that there are always bumps in the road.
2. Namaste: Believing that the only way to the top is through a huge wage bill and heavy debt is not the answer for our Club. Just watch the Clubs who spend like there is no tomorrow and amass a huge debt...it is not long before things start to fall apart.
3. We expect around 19,000 at the Valencia game.
4. sfx412: I am sorry you are disappointed. I am not sure what I can do to change that for you.
Hello General Krulak... I think its ok that you post the club’s PR on forums such as this. It makes for interesting reading sometimes. And I’m sure that you sometimes take on board the points that are made by folk here if you agree with them..... Also it is understandable that you make analogies with being a soldier and war and combat in your posts all the time.... but please don’t compare running a football club with the war on terror (or War on Terror as you may prefer). I think thats over-egging things a little bit.
Good luck with finding a new manager
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The silence is deafening.
I think the US military term is SNAFU.
I was going to say FUBAR
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I dont see that he is 'over-egging' things, But simply breaking it down in a way he knows best....
Doesnt seem to be bother many people either when the General does this...
Unless he really offends someone, (which would no doubt be picked up by the mods...) I dont reallly think the man needs
telling how to put his opinions accross.
Griffy
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I dont see that he is 'over-egging' things, But simply breaking it down in a way he knows best....
Doesnt seem to be bother many people either when the General does this...
Unless he really offends someone, (which would no doubt be picked up by the mods...) I dont reallly think the man needs
telling how to put his opinions accross.
Griffy
Fair enough... But I wasn't claiming to represent anyone elses opinion but my own... thats the point of the thread aint it?
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The General is having problems posting at the moment, he has asked me to post this for him:
General Krulak here:
1. Again, rather than try to answer everyone's specific questions, let me try to continue to feed info as it becomes available.
2. Obviously I am not in a position to name "targets" for the new Manager...that would not be a smart thing to do. What I will say is that we recognize this is an important decision and one that needs to be done rather quickly but, equally important, in a manner that gets the right man. We DO know how important this will be...no one is thinking it will be easy. Reality is that we have 4 days before our first game and rushing out to get a Manager is not the smart thing to do...just to have someone on the sidelines. One of the sad things about this whole affair is that Martin left when he did. I agree that the Club needs to come out with a statement...and they will. Likewise, Randy will have something to say. Speaking as a Fan, I have read every article about Martin's departure and must say that they are pretty one-sided. There is absolutely no question that Martin did a good deal for Villa and I have said, over and over, that I felt he did a fine job. At the same time, I can promise everyone that he knew and understood the long range plans for the Club and bought into them. He knew full well about the need to bring wages in line with revenue...the same as every Premiership Club. He was absolutely supported by the owner during his time with the Club...all one needs to do is look at the money spent. The reality is that the wage to revenue issue was not addressed and Martin apparently was unwilling to help address it. He quit. Do I think we have some rough times ahead? Probably...but nothing that we can't handle. I have been in some tough scrapes before...and I never got out of them by "wishing it away". I just put my head down and continued to grind it out. At the end of the day, is the aim to get into the Champions League? Absolutely! Is this realistic? Absolutely! Do we still have a way to go? Absolutely! As an aside, no one person is bigger than our Club...not me, not Randy, not Paul, not Martin. What is interesting is that, apparently, only three of those named understand that fact. We will continue to try to do what is right by the Vlla...with the very best of intentions. Will we always get it right...probably not. But we will work damn hard to do the right things.
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Have always thought the point of the thread was to put questions to the General regarding all things Villa actually...
Fail to see how you picking at the way he expresses himself falls into that category....
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Well said General.
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Have always thought the point of the thread was to put questions to the General regarding all things Villa actually...
Fail to see how you picking at the way he expresses himself falls into that category....
I think the General has more on his plate right now than answering our questions. He's trying to give an overview of the position, which would answer most people's queries, and I appreciate that.
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Totally agree John M,
Just trying to outline what the thread is about during 'normal' times...
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the reality is that the wage to revenue issue was not addressed and Martin apparently was unwilling to help address it.
General, I believe that this requires a little more explanation. In what way was he "apparently unwilling"? I suspect it means that he wanted to sign players but the board would not support him. That is their prerogative, of course, but I think we are within our rights as the paying public to expect some clarification.
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"The reality is that the wage to revenue issue was not addressed and Martin apparently was unwilling to help address it. He quit."
Well there you go-it's all about the money.
Question to the General:is there a specific financial formula that the board/Randy has in mind?
Is the club aiming to buy younger,less well paid players and then sell them on to replace them with younger/less well paid players ad infinitum/relegation?
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More than likely it means
"we supported you to buy and pay donkeys such as Heskey, Harewood,Sidders etc loads of money - no problem if you intend to use them - but if not then can you please ship out the shower of shit before you spunk anymore of my money"
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Hi General,
Please, please, please can you provide me with some assurances that the 'Balti pies' will be served at the correct temperature this Saturday? nothing worse than a luke warm balti pie.
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Hi General,
Please, please, please can you provide me with some assurances that the 'Balti pies' will be served at the correct temperature this Saturday? nothing worse than a luke warm balti pie.
or has floating lava as a filling.........
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Hey General;
You don't have to answer this question if you wish, but do you think Randy knows and understands who the Villa fans want as our next manager i.e. Jol, Moyes, Hiddink, Billic etc...? Do you think his decision will have some degree of input from what the Villa fans want as manager and who we think should be our next manager? To rectify everything that's gone wrong we need an ambitious manager who's going to put things right and make us progress that's why I think it's vital we need to go all out to get someone like Jol's, Hiddenk's or Moyes calibre who is proven at a top level and not someone like Curbishley, Bob Bradley, Southgate etc...
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General
The recipe for Champions league football CANNOT be to sell your best players over and over again.
especially to prem league rivals.
this makes us a top 4 feeder club ,not acceptable from a BILLIONARE
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Hey General;
You don't have to answer this question if you wish, but do you think Randy knows and understands who the Villa fans want as our next manager i.e. Jol, Moyes, Hiddink, Billic etc...? Do you think his decision will have some degree of input from what the Villa fans want as manager and who we think should be our next manager? To rectify everything that's gone wrong we need an ambitious manager who's going to put things right and make us progress that's why I think it's vital we need to go all out to get someone like Jol's, Hiddenk's or Moyes calibre who is proven at a top level and not someone like Curbishley, Bob Bradley, Southgate etc...
Everything this board has done has been for the good of Aston Villa. Do you honestly think they won't try and do the same now? I'm sure they don't need telling, and I'm sure they are fully aware of who wants to come and manage Aston Villa.
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General Krulak here:
1. I am sorry we are having trouble getting my posts on the site...not sure what is the problem because I sure have spent a good deal of time trying. Thanks to some of the MODs, we are trying again.
2. I am not sure what needs to be clarified in my statement. We have supported Martin for the past 4 years...and are willing to support again. At the same time, that support has to make sense. It isn't "all about money" but to think that we can just throw money around...keep players on the wage bill that aren't going to get on the Pitch...and have a successful Club is not reasonable or good business. Adding players without respect to the total outlay of the Club is the quickest way to get into danger...and this was reiterated many times over the past weeks. It was NOT a case of spending money...it WAS a case of the weekly wage bill. This was not a shock to Martin or anyone else...it is just smart business and something that even the wealthest Clubs must watch.
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General
The recipe for Champions league football CANNOT be to sell your best players over and over again.
Might want to ask Lyon, Arsenal and Man Utd about that one.
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Thanks for taking the time to come on here and keep us posted, General. Sure it must be bedlam at the moment.
Good luck with the search!
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to be honest, i dont blame you for not giving him more money to waste on dross like heskey, sidwell, cuellar, harewood, knight, etc...
to buy players like shorey, l young, beye, reo-coker, etc, and then waste them on the sidelines because he didnt trust his own judgement, while our first teamers got knackered, and then have the audacity to whinge about small tired squads, is criminal...
after this, i am glad he has gone... hopefully, we can now start to play players in their correct positions, drop the favourites when they are playing crap, and not resort to hoofing the ball from back to front to a "defensive striker" who simply doesnt score when the opposition invariably work out our only plan of attack and stifle us... not to mention the dilly dallying in the transfer market to waste millions in tranfer fees, agent fees and wages to come up with such gems (sarcasm) like the ginga invisible man but a great ballboy steve sidwell or a striker with triangular rubber shins who doesnt score or do anything in emule ivanhoe heskey, and dross of a similar ilk...
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General
The recipe for Champions league football CANNOT be to sell your best players over and over again.
Might want to ask Lyon, Arsenal and Man Utd about that one.
are they selling Rooney and Van Persie then?
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General,
Thank you once more for taking the time to post here, we all appreciate it.
We have to move on now and forget about O'Neill and his petulance!
Can we have Martin Jol as manager please?
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General
The recipe for Champions league football CANNOT be to sell your best players over and over again.
Might want to ask Lyon, Arsenal and Man Utd about that one.
And Spurs who funded thier team building on the back of making big profits on Carrick and Berbatov.
The General and Randy are spot on in my opinion ,MON never used the squad yet had them all on big wages.Beye and L.Youngs Annual salary is a 5th of our Annual Matchday income that's madness when both players are kept out of a CB playing in thier position !!
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General Krulak here:
1. I am sorry we are having trouble getting my posts on the site...not sure what is the problem because I sure have spent a good deal of time trying. Thanks to some of the MODs, we are trying again.
2. I am not sure what needs to be clarified in my statement. We have supported Martin for the past 4 years...and are willing to support again. At the same time, that support has to make sense. It isn't "all about money" but to think that we can just throw money around...keep players on the wage bill that aren't going to get on the Pitch...and have a successful Club is not reasonable or good business. Adding players without respect to the total outlay of the Club is the quickest way to get into danger...and this was reiterated many times over the past weeks. It was NOT a case of spending money...it WAS a case of the weekly wage bill. This was not a shock to Martin or anyone else...it is just smart business and something that even the wealthest Clubs must watch.
General, thanks for taking the trouble to reply. I'm a simple soul and I like to get things straight and the words "apparently" and "unwilling" had caused me some confusion.
My reading of it then is that the club needed to get players off the wage bill before we signed any additions, that's perfectly understandable. Presumably the new manager, when appointed, will be operating under the same conditions and he's not going to have long to make an assessment of who he wants and who he might sell or is that somebody elses remit?
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General, I'd like to apply for the vacancy at Villa Park
Shall I send my CV to Nicky Keye?
I need to come in a bit late on Tuesdays
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^^^^
Very funny Chico. That's you and Chris Jameson made me laugh in the last minute. Much needed laughs I must say.
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We are an extremely fortunate bunch of supporters to have people like General Krulak at the club who are so willing to communicate with us. It is really appreciated.
The General is spot on in what he says and in many ways echoes what disgruntled supporters have been saying for the past 18 months or so. There'd be a lot more people on the dole ques if people quit work everytime their boss asked them to do something they didn't quite like.
MON was backed to the hilt by the club and was given free reign in a way most modern managers are denied. What we got in return was deteriorating football the last couple of seasons, a huge wage bill, a squad that wasn't being rotated even though players were suffering fatigue and inflexible tactics. Don't get me wrong, he did a lot for the club, but there has been stagnation the last while and a sense we had gone as far as we could with him.
With the right man at the helm, a breath of fresh air will blow through villa park and we may even get a right back playing at right back! We have a very strong squad and the new manager might be able to gel an even better team out of the tools at his disposal by bringing in certain players who have been out on the fringes.
Thanks again General for your updates..
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General, I'd like to apply for the vacancy at Villa Park
Shall I send my CV to Nicky Keye?
I need to come in a bit late on Tuesdays
I'm willing to do the job short term on a casual basis, cash in hand.
You'll have to do without me Thursday mornings though, I sign on at 10.
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General,
3 days ago, you commented elsewhere that, year on year, we've sold more season tickets than last year. In the press, it's been widely reported that we're 40% down.
Did we really sell more than 40% of last season's season tickets this close to the start of the season, or are the newspapers all making it up? Would you be able to provide a rough number that we've sold this year, compared to this time last year?
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General Krulak here:
2. I am not sure what needs to be clarified in my statement. We have supported Martin for the past 4 years...and are willing to support again. At the same time, that support has to make sense. It isn't "all about money" but to think that we can just throw money around...keep players on the wage bill that aren't going to get on the Pitch...and have a successful Club is not reasonable or good business. Adding players without respect to the total outlay of the Club is the quickest way to get into danger...and this was reiterated many times over the past weeks. It was NOT a case of spending money...it WAS a case of the weekly wage bill. This was not a shock to Martin or anyone else...it is just smart business and something that even the wealthest Clubs must watch.
I didn't either General your message came over very clear to the majority of us, many of whom have been suggesting something similar for several seasons. The ones who may still not see are probably those who do not want to see it, probably because they are finding it hard to let go, something Mon had no problem with when it suited him.
I'm assuming our media guys will be providing the right information to counter those biased views being expressed in most media sites this morning. no doubt because they expect to hear more from Mon and little or nothing from RL in the future.
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Well at least we got front page on The Sun.
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General
The recipe for Champions league football CANNOT be to sell your best players over and over again.
Might want to ask Lyon, Arsenal and Man Utd about that one.
are they selling Rooney and Van Persie then?
General
The recipe for Champions league football CANNOT be to sell your best players over and over again.
Might want to ask Lyon, Arsenal and Man Utd about that one.
are they selling Rooney and Van Persie then?
Doubt it - They sold Ronaldo and Adebayor though didn't they? (Amongst many others)
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Edited.
General, do I take it transfers in, will be on hold until we have a new manager?
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Its appreciated General that you take the time out to communicate with us here on H&V.
I cant really add much to what's already been said, but one thing is for sure..I believe Randy will do what's best for Aston Villa.
..for a lot of reasons I feel confident in saying that..honestly, I dont feel one tiny bit worried.
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General, as has been stated so many times on here THANKYOU for everything yourself and Mr Lerner have done for our club.
Supporters like myself who have have spent he bulk of their livesd watching the villans, can see the efforts youve made.
In my opinion mon was a good mngr, but wasted a lot of money, mr lerner deserved better players for his money (not all but most) and I hope the next mngr has a better sense of responsibility and to the board and the fans and wont quit as soon as we have to tighten the coffers temporarily.
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General, I'd like to apply for the vacancy at Villa Park
Shall I send my CV to Nicky Keye?
I need to come in a bit late on Tuesdays
I'm willing to do the job short term on a casual basis, cash in hand.
You'll have to do without me Thursday mornings though, I sign on at 10.
I can cover your Thursday mornings Mark and might be able to do Tuesdays until 3 Chico if that helps.
I need to be able to pick the kids up from school at 3.30pm though.
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i think we should give kevin mac and sid a chance with this squad, see where we are at christmas
players know and seem to respect them, they might get albrighton and fonz playing (as well has luke young and curtis davies and reo coker) and they are not sven or curbishley or bob effin bradley
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General, I'd like to apply for the vacancy at Villa Park
Shall I send my CV to Nicky Keye?
I need to come in a bit late on Tuesdays
I'm willing to do the job short term on a casual basis, cash in hand.
You'll have to do without me Thursday mornings though, I sign on at 10.
I can cover your Thursday mornings Mark and might be able to do Tuesdays until 3 Chico if that helps.
I need to be able to pick the kids up from school at 3.30pm though.
With your back?
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General, when will randy be releasing his much awaited statement to put the boards side of the story, as most of the press seem to sympathise with mon?
It is only fair randy puts his point across to the fans and maybe the media may take a different view.
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General, I'd like to apply for the vacancy at Villa Park
Shall I send my CV to Nicky Keye?
I need to come in a bit late on Tuesdays
I'm willing to do the job short term on a casual basis, cash in hand.
You'll have to do without me Thursday mornings though, I sign on at 10.
You'll be able to share a lift to the job centre with O'Neill.
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With your back?
Thanks a lot Chris, remind me not ask you for a reference. You've just blown any chance you had of selecting the music for the dressing room.
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It isn't "all about money" but to think that we can just throw money around...keep players on the wage bill that aren't going to get on the Pitch
So it wasn't just us that saw that!
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I think everyone saw that apart from a certain ex-manger of Aston Villa and Chris Smith.
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General Krulak here:
It isn't "all about money" but to think that we can just throw money around...keep players on the wage bill that aren't going to get on the Pitch...and have a successful Club is not reasonable or good business. Adding players without respect to the total outlay of the Club is the quickest way to get into danger...and this was reiterated many times over the past weeks. It was NOT a case of spending money...it WAS a case of the weekly wage bill. This was not a shock to Martin or anyone else...it is just smart business and something that even the wealthest Clubs must watch.
General
Those words make a great deal of sense. They will be good news to those fans who spend hundreds / thousands of pounds a year watching football and seeing it, effectively, get pissed up the wall, also to those who can't afford to go. I am glad to see that you all saw what we saw and had the same views as many of us.
That is a good starting block for the future.
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I think everyone saw that apart from a certain ex-manger of Aston Villa and Chris Smith.
Bollocks, why the need for sly digs?
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Says the master of digs.
Joke, obviously wasted.
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I think everyone saw that apart from a certain ex-manger of Aston Villa and Chris Smith.
Bollocks, why the need for sly digs?
Says the man who may well have cost me the chance of my dream part time job at Villa Park teaming up with Fletch and Chico in a managerial triumvirate jobshare.
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That's a bit unfair on Chris.
At least on this thread. Fair game everywhere else, mind.
*wink*
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Says the master of digs.
Joke, obviously wasted.
You must be one of those alternative comedians because I completely missed the part of your joke where the funny bit was. Sorry, Alexi.
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General
I don't expect you to answer this on here. (A PM will be quite acceptable).
How long were the Board prepared to allow their discontent with the way the Club's money was seemingly being squandered by the Manager without taking action?
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i would imagine that a lot of the players who have been bought and not played are so frustrated that they would have gone to see the top man,lerner,faulkner or whoever, at the club and say look your manager has signed me but won't play me or plays me out of position, whats the point in me being here ,and when your paying them 30-40 grand a week, you have to think,well why i am i paying for you to be here .From what curtis davies said today that sounds possible.
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Evening General - like many others on H&V & VT can I thankyou for taking time to respond -
Over the last four years I have seen improvements too numerous to mention which have been
brought about by Randy Lerner and his staff -
Unfortuneately as in all walks of life there will be those who will want to criticise and can be
more vociferous than those giving praise -
Having witnessed Randy taking time to speak with supporters in the main stand following
our friendly with Bohemians in Dublin I know how much he cares for our club -
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General, this board has been united in a new found Esprit de Corps recently. Can we expect a new manager to be appointed shortly who will once again cause us to tear strips off each other?
And as we're offering our suggestions, may I suggest Guss Hiddink as the best possible manager we could feasibly imagine getting. He's currently managing Turkey for christ's sake!
Its like Sir Ian McKellan being in Coronation Street.
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General - thank you so much for explaining the departure of MON. This transparent relationship with fans can only help build stronger relationships between ourselves and the board.
Best of luck in your search for a new manager - personally I think David Moyes would be a great choice!!
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General I know you don't discuss transfrers but in light of recent comments are we to believe there will be NO new signings unles the deadwood goes?
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Evening General - like many others on H&V & VT can I thankyou for taking time to respond -
Over the last four years I have seen improvements too numerous to mention which have been
brought about by Randy Lerner and his staff -
Unfortuneately as in all walks of life there will be those who will want to criticise and can be
more vociferous than those giving praise -
Having witnessed Randy taking time to speak with supporters in the main stand following
our friendly with Bohemians in Dublin I know how much he cares for our club -
Any excuse to mention your jollys away eh Mozza!!!! ;)
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I think everyone saw that apart from a certain ex-manger of Aston Villa and Chris Smith.
Bollocks, why the need for sly digs?
Says the man who may well have cost me the chance of my dream part time job at Villa Park teaming up with Fletch and Chico in a managerial triumvirate jobshare.
This is truly not a good idea. Stella Chico has plenty of motivational ability but his tactical acumen is more along the lines of “let’s get out there and batter ‘em”. Also, the cakes that accompany his half-time team talks do lend themselves to a languid second half performance, with the ongoing threat of severe lapses in concentration. We would probably win the Fair Play league though.
I would appoint him fitness coach.
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General Krulak here:
1. I am sorry we are having trouble getting my posts on the site...not sure what is the problem because I sure have spent a good deal of time trying. Thanks to some of the MODs, we are trying again.
2. I am not sure what needs to be clarified in my statement. We have supported Martin for the past 4 years...and are willing to support again. At the same time, that support has to make sense. It isn't "all about money" but to think that we can just throw money around...keep players on the wage bill that aren't going to get on the Pitch...and have a successful Club is not reasonable or good business. Adding players without respect to the total outlay of the Club is the quickest way to get into danger...and this was reiterated many times over the past weeks. It was NOT a case of spending money...it WAS a case of the weekly wage bill. This was not a shock to Martin or anyone else...it is just smart business and something that even the wealthest Clubs must watch.
Firstly, can I just add my thanks to other peoples for taking the time to communicate with us during this difficult period.
I think we can all understand the economics of what you are saying above and agree that the wages needed to be reduced, most likely with the youth being promoted to take their place. What I do not agree with, if it is what you are saying, is that we should operate with big wages only being paid to those who play more often than not. Any club needs to work with a squad, and I know that Martin did not use his as well as he should have, but in that squad system some will play more than others, yet you still need to have it in place. I guess my question is what was the bigger problem - the actual total wage bill or the chunk being spent on 'non-playing' players? So if we had rotated more last season would Randy have been OK with the money being paid to these players and the overall ratio of wages to turnover?
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Hi General,
I was wondering if you provide some insight into the criteria for selecting the next manager. To what extent will 'style of football' be a consideration in that selection?
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Again thanks to you General for taking the time to post on here. I see the press have got hold of some of your comments and I hope this doesn't cause you too much hassle.
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General, I hope you continue posting on here and talking to us, as now the press have abused this relationship and used your forum quotes.
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Not for the first time TRO..... ''Pig in mud'' comment anyone???
Am surprised how much the local Filth...(sorry media!!) keeps tabs on this forum to be honest.....
Griffy
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Pat Murphy was talking about The General posting on message boards last night
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General, this board has been united in a new found Esprit de Corps recently. Can we expect a new manager to be appointed shortly who will once again cause us to tear strips off each other?
And as we're offering our suggestions, may I suggest Guss Hiddink as the best possible manager we could feasibly imagine getting. He's currently managing Turkey for christ's sake!
Its like Sir Ian McKellan being in Coronation Street.
Stole my thunder Maz - time to start a 'Get Guus' campaign methinks
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With Guusto.
There needs to be a Guus, loose... aboot this hoose!
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Again thanks to you General for taking the time to post on here. I see the press have got hold of some of your comments and I hope this doesn't cause you too much hassle.
I might be being naive here, but I doubt the General did not take the possibility into account when he posted :)
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I'd be highly surprised if the General didn't after the beautifuly apt 'pigs in mud' incident with Tumnus. That was all posted on the site and ended up in the press.
The General knows exactly what he's doing.
I have nothing to add but our best wishes to the General and RAL in finding a replacement to insprie us to the next level - despite what the Cockney/Manc press would like to believe, the Villa fans are extremely patient if we can see things are moving forward and we have belief in the management team.
I have total faith in RAL and his team.
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Second that OZ..
Got to the stage long ago where i was past caring how the media portray us..
Time to close ranks now & do what we do best & help the boys get the result againt West Ham on Saturday,
Up The Villa!
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i also hope you carry on posting general its not on the media using your quotes of messages boards
thanks for being there for all us villa fans
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As stated many times, do not ask the General questions about transfer targets.
General - good to see mr Lerner commenting on the situation. Time to forget about our ex-manager now, and look to the future I think. Good luck to you and the rest of the board in appointing a new manager, do us proud, we need some good news!
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Hi General
Would it be fair to say that the club are willing to put the wage issues on the back burner for 12 months to allow the new manager to get a few targets of his own as well as having some time to work with the existing squad and make his own decisions on who is surplus, rather than having to get rid before he can bring people in? I think the big worry remaining now is that the new manager will not have time to get people out in time to make his own purchases if he still has the wage bill to worry about, so something to dismiss this (if possible) would calm down a lot of the panic.
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General just a quick note to say thank you for taking the time to communicate with us in what are both difficult and no doubt busy times.
I have always believed that there was something special about being a Villa fan and your efforts in these troubled times have proved that to be the case. I do not believe other clubs would have gone to the efforts you have in the last few days to keep us in the picture.
It may not be easy in the next few weeks/months but I have every faith that you and Randy will do everything possible to get us through these tough times and we will be stronger for it.
In summary, despite the fact that there is a lot of negativity flying around at the moment, I just wanted to make the point (as a few others have) that there are a lot of people who still believe in you and Randy.
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General
I realise that there are some more important things happening at the club, but I thought you might appreciate a breather and have something a bit more mundane to answer!
I like the new website, but they insist on continuing with the stupid idea of not letting news stories be cut and paste in Internet Explorer. You can get round by this using Firefox, but it's just inconvenient when you want to reproduce (and fully credit, naturally!) a story from the official site. And of course, Firefox is for lentil-eating hippies and commies, so I wouldn't ordinarily be seen dead using it.
All the best!
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General,
Risso beat me to it, but I too was going to say I like the new website. It's good to see that the OS is following H&V's lead and updating to something better!
Oh, and would you agree that Risso is clearly stuck in the ice age with his use of IE and that Chrome is the way forward?
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I will not pay to use avtv as it got lot of interviews video and I can't watch it due to my deafness. Are there anything to give better support for deaf football fans on avtv.
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Are you going to the game on Saturday General?
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General, I hope you continue posting on here and talking to us, as now the press have abused this relationship and used your forum quotes.
I think the General knew full well what would happen once he posted what he did here. Persoanlly, General, I'm more included to side with the board on this one but I would like to see martin O'Neill's stance and hear his side of the story.
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GK, new website is superb.
Please could you just nudge someone to include the 2 fixtures against Rapid though, as both are missing at the moment
Are you over for Sat ?
Will Randy stay now till new Mgr appointed or will Paul Faulkner oversee the final short list ?
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General. First of all thank you for the statement you issued on here as regards nobody being bigger than the club. Its something we often hear, but sums up a lot of fans feelings about this weeks events.
I hope you are able to give a response to three questions I have.
1) In the statement from Randy Lerner, he says "To deal in greater detail would do little..". Can we expect any more statements on Martin O`Neills resignation once a new manager is found and the Milner situation is resolved or is it a case now of least said soonest mended ?
2) Are there any confidentiality clauses in place on Martin O`Neill regarding his resignation ?
3) What role if any does our club President Doug Ellis play during this time ? I would suggest that he at the very least represents continuity during an unforeseen time of upheaval. Bearing in mind he probably has more experience than anybody else in British football as to appointing a new manager. Would he be consulted as to the process to seek out candidates ?
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A seperate topic has been started if you want to discuss Doug Ellis's possible role etc. quoted above.
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General,
Thank you again for taking the time to answer our queries.
I was wondering whether there is any chance of transfers going through either way before a new manager is appointed.
I am not asking for specifics but is it possible that their were deals near completion before MON's resignation that may go through before a new manager is appointed?
Many thanks
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General Krulak here:
1. I do not see Doug Ellis playing an active role in the Club at this time. As I have indicated before, we do have a good deal of "football expertise" in and around the Villa and the Board. We have many "advisors" who will be providing input as we move forward.
2. I know that there are a few fans who are upset with me for some of my comments. I regret if what I said has embarrassed anyone...fans or the Club. At the same time, I did not say anything that hasn't been said before...or thought about. The media enjoys picking out one or two sentences without putting everything into context. Some folks complain that I sometimes use a military analogy when I discuss something...I am sorry but I spent 39 years in uniform and it is tough to shake. My simple comment stems from the fact that I was disappointed over the manager's departure 5 days before our first game...I could have put it in the context of the military...but I didn't.
3. Everyone is working 110% at the Club right now...Randy is over and deeply involved. We WILL move forward and continue to set our sights high. We will not rush out and get the first manager available...we will seek the righ man for the job.
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General Krulak here:
1. I do not see Doug Ellis playing an active role in the Club at this time. As I have indicated before, we do have a good deal of "football expertise" in and around the Villa and the Board. We have many "advisors" who will be providing input as we move forward.
2. I know that there are a few fans who are upset with me for some of my comments. I regret if what I said has embarrassed anyone...fans or the Club. At the same time, I did not say anything that hasn't been said before...or thought about. The media enjoys picking out one or two sentences without putting everything into context. Some folks complain that I sometimes use a military analogy when I discuss something...I am sorry but I spent 39 years in uniform and it is tough to shake. My simple comment stems from the fact that I was disappointed over the manager's departure 5 days before our first game...I could have put it in the context of the military...but I didn't.
3. Everyone is working 110% at the Club right now...Randy is over and deeply involved. We WILL move forward and continue to set our sights high. We will not rush out and get the first manager available...we will seek the righ man for the job.
Hi General,
did you intend to post this under the other login?
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General Krulak here:
1. I do not see Doug Ellis playing an active role in the Club at this time. As I have indicated before, we do have a good deal of "football expertise" in and around the Villa and the Board. We have many "advisors" who will be providing input as we move forward.
2. I know that there are a few fans who are upset with me for some of my comments. I regret if what I said has embarrassed anyone...fans or the Club. At the same time, I did not say anything that hasn't been said before...or thought about. The media enjoys picking out one or two sentences without putting everything into context. Some folks complain that I sometimes use a military analogy when I discuss something...I am sorry but I spent 39 years in uniform and it is tough to shake. My simple comment stems from the fact that I was disappointed over the manager's departure 5 days before our first game...I could have put it in the context of the military...but I didn't.
3. Everyone is working 110% at the Club right now...Randy is over and deeply involved. We WILL move forward and continue to set our sights high. We will not rush out and get the first manager available...we will seek the righ man for the job.
Hi General,
did you intend to post this under the other login?
Other login, what is going on?
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Pelty here. As most, but not all, know, I am the General's son. He was at my house and did not realize that my PC was logged in under my name so he posted without logging me out. The post is from the General not from me... Sorry for the confusion. He has since caught a plane out of here so I would expect all to be back to normal next time he posts...
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Thanks pelty - is he on the way back to the UK for the game at the weekend?
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General
I realise that there are some more important things happening at the club, but I thought you might appreciate a breather and have something a bit more mundane to answer!
I like the new website, but they insist on continuing with the stupid idea of not letting news stories be cut and paste in Internet Explorer. You can get round by this using Firefox, but it's just inconvenient when you want to reproduce (and fully credit, naturally!) a story from the official site. And of course, Firefox is for lentil-eating hippies and commies, so I wouldn't ordinarily be seen dead using it.
All the best!
Little trick for you, Risso - click the refresh button then quickly right click and highlight the story you want to copy and paste. Works every time.
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Unfortunately (from his perspective), no. Much more mundane tasks ahead, but it is on TV here, so it should not be a problem for him to see it!
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General I hope we're looking at some big names for the Villa job. The story that's just broke about Bob Bradley quitting the USA job has sent a shiver down my spine.
He's not the man for Villa!
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General I just hope the Club can get an inspired choice of Manager as there are a lot of depressed Villa fans atm, Can the club at least rule out some of the names being banded about?
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General I hope we're looking at some big names for the Villa job. The story that's just broke about Bob Bradley quitting the USA job has sent a shiver down my spine.
He's not the man for Villa!
I concur with Saunders. Please God, not Bradley.
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Pelty here. As most, but not all, know, I am the General's son. He was at my house and did not realize that my PC was logged in under my name so he posted without logging me out. The post is from the General not from me... Sorry for the confusion. He has since caught a plane out of here so I would expect all to be back to normal next time he posts...
Parents eh? My four year old daughter is more computer literate tham my mum.
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General I hope we're looking at some big names for the Villa job. The story that's just broke about Bob Bradley quitting the USA job has sent a shiver down my spine.
He's not the man for Villa!
I concur with Saunders. Please God, not Bradley.
ditto
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I know that there are a few fans who are upset with me for some of my comments. I regret if what I said has embarrassed anyone...fans or the Club.
Not at all Sir. You feel free to shoot from the hip.
I dont speak for everybody but I much prefer the candour. It's refreshing.
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Hi General,
Please take note of this, and PM me if required.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
I have been a season ticket holder for 13 years now and i heard this morning that there has been some strong betting on steve "wally with the brolly" mclaren.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
IF THAT BLOKE EVER BECOMES ASTON VILLA MANAGER I WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN VILLA PARK AGAIN !!!!
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General,
Will we be signing players without a manager? If so who chooses them, Randy, caretaker coach or Martin's old targets?
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Hi General,
Please take note of this, and PM me if required.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
I have been a season ticket holder for 13 years now and i heard this morning that there has been some strong betting on steve "wally with the brolly" mclaren.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
IF THAT BLOKE EVER BECOMES ASTON VILLA MANAGER I WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN VILLA PARK AGAIN !!!!
McClaren wouldnt exactly be my first choice, but I can think of less competent, less accomplished, less qualified managers who have filled the post before. They also succeeded in taking us places that admittedly we havent been during the last 13 years that you have had a season ticket .
I fully intend stepping inside Villa Park whoever the manager is.
PS. Why would the general reply to someone threatening to do an `O`Neill`, let alone send a PM ?
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I would rather Mclaren than some of the dross mentioned General
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General,
With all the press coverage we're getting it's sometimes difficult to decode what is fact and what is a journalists reading of the situation. We originally heard that the board wanted a manager in place by the Newcastle game, but later press stories suggested it may be longer with Kevin Mac having an slightly extended run. Can you confirm what timetable the process of finding a new manager is working to? I appreciate that this may be a bland "we won't rush finding the right man" sort of answer, but is their a target date in mind?
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General, in amongst all the manager discussion, you may have missed a couple of people asking what level the Season Ticket sales are at ?
Couple od newspaper reports suggested that we were 40% down on last year....that would be catastrophic surely....can you give us an update please ?
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Hi General,
Please take note of this, and PM me if required.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
You don't.
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GK, new club website has some excellent bits on it, but could you point out to the web gurus thay have made a typing error re the home leg v Rapid on the fixture list....it states a 24:00 kick off !!
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Hi General,
Please take note of this, and PM me if required.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
I have been a season ticket holder for 13 years now and i heard this morning that there has been some strong betting on steve "wally with the brolly" mclaren.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
IF THAT BLOKE EVER BECOMES ASTON VILLA MANAGER I WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN VILLA PARK AGAIN !!!!
That would be McClaren who won the Dutch league ahead of current fan favourite for the job Martin Jol ...
A few years I would agree but he has certainly proved himself since his England days.
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Many very good club managers have failed with international sides, does Graham Taylor mean anything to you?
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Hi General,
Please take note of this, and PM me if required.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
I have been a season ticket holder for 13 years now and i heard this morning that there has been some strong betting on steve "wally with the brolly" mclaren.
I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
IF THAT BLOKE EVER BECOMES ASTON VILLA MANAGER I WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN VILLA PARK AGAIN !!!!
You certainly don't speak for me.
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I hope i speak for all us villa fans.
IF THAT BLOKE EVER BECOMES ASTON VILLA MANAGER I WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN VILLA PARK AGAIN !!!!
No you must certainly don't speak for all of us.
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McLaren's only just started work with his new club so I really can't see it happening. I believe we'll appoint somebody who's currently unemployed or someone who resigns his current job to make himself available. I sincerely hope that doesn't mean Steve Coppell is lining himself up.
Or maybe someone who's contract is up for renegotiation. Big Eck anyone?!
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Dennis Wise & Gus Poyet dream team? ;o)
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General,
definitely not Bradley please. Guus Hiddink would be nice if you could arrange it please
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McLaren's only just started work with his new club so I really can't see it happening. I believe we'll appoint somebody who's currently unemployed or someone who resigns his current job to make himself available. I sincerely hope that doesn't mean Steve Coppell is lining himself up.
Or maybe someone who's contract is up for renegotiation. Big Eck anyone?!
stranger things have happened BDE and you could not blame him for wanting to better himself.....
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McLaren's only just started work with his new club so I really can't see it happening. I believe we'll appoint somebody who's currently unemployed or someone who resigns his current job to make himself available. I sincerely hope that doesn't mean Steve Coppell is lining himself up.
Or maybe someone who's contract is up for renegotiation. Big Eck anyone?!
stranger things have happened BDE and you could not blame him for wanting to better himself.....
Though he could join a Conference side and he would have bettered himself...
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Mclarens not ideal but he's like mourinho compared to Bradley.Have the board compiled their short list to interview yet general?
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Back on topic please.
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Hi General
Others have made positive comments about the new AV website. Unfortunately my experience with it so far has been pretty poor.
As a ST holder and Cup Scheme member I received a marketing type/welcome letter from Villa giving details about ST benefits et al. It highlighted "Important Cup Scheme Information" and a new system for ticket priority placing greater emphasis on cup tie attendance and ST renewal. Details to be found in the ticketing section of the OS under "Important Information". So off I went in search of said important information.
The ticketing section only had details of match day/special events tickets. I went to the "Help" link at the top of the page and got linked to a page of Latin. A search for "Cup Scheme" offered tickets for the game against Charlton in 2003, or (scarily) tickets for the 3rd Round FA Cup game against Man Utd. A search for "Cup Scheme 2010" revealed the link to the desired "Important Information", but the link just returned an Error page.
I've tried calling the ticket office but after 15 minutes of ring tone/no reply I gave up. Understandably they'll be inundated with calls for match tickets right now but I'm still none the wiser about what this important information is!
My point is more about being pointed to a section of the OS which doesn't exist and in the process finding bits of rubbish.
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General Krulak here:
1. I confess that I don't have any idea whether or not what I post ever gets to the site...I am having HUGE problems with this "new" format/site. I now know how frustrated some of you must have been with the old OS...because I am about to go bonkers with this one.
2. Anyhow, I would imagine you all are talking about managers. Let me assure everyone of one thing...we will not rush out and sign a manager just to have someone on the sidelines. We will NOT do that. We will take our time and find the "right" man for the job. We also understand that whoever we pick will not please everyone...unless we could "kluge" several together. At the end of the day, with advice from several key places, we will finish our list of prospects and see what happens. Randy wants what is best for the Club!! He is not going to go out and get someone who we don't feel can get us where we want to be.
3. If this message got thru...a miracle!!
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I can assure General, it made it through! and it was very encouraging, thank you.
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General,
is 'bonkers' a commonly used term in America?
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Dear General,
After 4 years of marriage my wife (MONA), has just left me. I gave her everything she ever asked for. When we first married she complained her friends cars were all bigger than hers and they each had more than one car. I let her buy a new car every year, she was overjoyed every time she got a new car and told everybody our marriage was great. Just recently a neighbour offered me double the price for one of her favorite cars (she has two favorite cars, the others she got mad at and keeps locked in the garage and won't look at them). The neighbour, not only has offered me more money than the original value of the car, but is part exchanging his car in the deal, which in actual fact is probably better suited to our needs than the car we're selling.
My wife wanted to use the money to pay over the odds, for an average car that I seriously suspected would have been left in the garage unused, while I would be paying taxes and insurance for along with the other unused cars. I told her that she could buy a new car but would have to agree to sell one or two of the unused cars first. Well she didn't say anything to my face but walked out while I was gone, leaving a message that I was being selfish and we didn't communicate anymore.
I'm moving on and looking around for a new relationship, but the only person I have much interest in is living in Holland and is in a rocky relationship and could break up at any time. My question is have you ever come across anything like this before ?
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Who do Randy talk to for football related advice. ie ex villa player or what. No name is needed.
We must make sure the new manager is hungry and upcoming. What we need is to find a next generation version of Arsene Wenger joining Arsenal and transform the club for Aston Villa.
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Who do Randy talk to for football related advice.
Greg Nash. ;)
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Dear General,
After 4 years of marriage my wife (MONA), has just left me. I gave her everything she ever asked for. When we first married she complained her friends cars were all bigger than hers and they each had more than one car. I let her buy a new car every year, she was overjoyed every time she got a new car and told everybody our marriage was great. Just recently a neighbour offered me double the price for one of her favorite cars (she has two favorite cars, the others she got mad at and keeps locked in the garage and won't look at them). The neighbour, not only has offered me more money than the original value of the car, but is part exchanging his car in the deal, which in actual fact is probably better suited to our needs than the car we're selling.
My wife wanted to use the money to pay over the odds, for an average car that I seriously suspected would have been left in the garage unused, while I would be paying taxes and insurance for along with the other unused cars. I told her that she could buy a new car but would have to agree to sell one or two of the unused cars first. Well she didn't say anything to my face but walked out while I was gone, leaving a message that I was being selfish and we didn't communicate anymore.
I'm moving on and looking around for a new relationship, but the only person I have much interest in is living in Holland and is in a rocky relationship and could break up at any time. My question is have you ever come across anything like this before ?
I think I saw this on Jerry Springer once....or twice.
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General,
When you and Randy make your mind up over the manager, can you announce it to me by private message first so I can lump lots of money on it with the bookies. I could do with the cash. I will also buy a few season tickets. :)
And since you asked, my recommendation goes to Ottmar Hitzfield for the job. A tasty 25/1 right now.
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great news General, but can't think why any Villa fan would be talking about new managers.
Seriously it is important to get the right man one with experience of PL or top European sides, ideally a modern tactical thinker the players can respect, one with winning experience and no fear of overseas players, but a diverse knowledge of the same.
I'm sure Jose or Sir A would please the majority of the fans General and whilst I appreciate that's just a dream I'm sure RL can find the right man from within the mass of Europe.
Out of interest when Mon quit did his team of coaches quit en masse to, little even nothing has been mentioned.
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Hello General,
Great performance by all concerned today; I have not seen Villa play with such skill and attacking intent in a long time. Whatever the outcome regarding Milner there is still much to be positive especially due to the outstounding performance of a future star in Marc Albrighton. Also Ciaran Clark looked very assured too.
It poses the question of whether Kevin MacDonald should be given the manager's job full-time considering his great start. Villa have often played it safe in hiring managers previously with characters such as O'Neill, O'Leary etc and where has that got us, maybe it is time to take a chance? We might find it prudent to bring in some kind of Director of Football or 'old head' to help Mac Donald with tactics and signings etc but MacDonald would if given the job remain as boss overall.
Maybe I'm getting too positive after just one performance but look what happened this time last season against Wigan.
All the best General,
Namaste.
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The players want to play for him, that much is for sure.
And his pre-match write-up got very close to Ron Saunders quality, too.
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General,
I sit in the Trinity end and whilst I applaud improvements to Villa Park generally (although the tannoy job seem to be taking an age) are there any plans to put the big screen back in above where the 'superbox' was between the North and Witton Lane stands? I enjoyed seeing the highlights, the team sheets and the match statistics over the past few years and really missed them today.
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General,
In what has been a turbulent week for the club, I would like to reiterate what others have said in that it is very helpful to supporters to receive your words on what is happening within the club.
Changes of manager do not usually affect players too much as they are concentrating on their own game. It is the club management that take the brunt of the change, whether it be looking for a new manager, team managers stepping up to cover for the departing manager or PR staff satisfying the media constant demand for information.
Todays result is a fitting reward for Randy, yourself and all the staff at the club in these difficult times. I am sure that in time we will be back on an even keel and moving on. Keep up the good work (and give it to them when necessary!).
OMVF
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General Krulak here:
1. Randy takes "football advice" from many people and locations...but he is his own man (as it should be) and in the end, the decision re. next manager will be his. He will take input, take time, evaluate and then decide. I don't think any of us want to rush such an important decision unless time is crucial which, in my opinion, it is not.
2. I thought today's game was about as consistent and well played as I have seen the Villa play in some time now. The lads obviously went out with a purpose in mind...and they did what they needed to do. I thought our Manager put out a strong team...I think they played in their proper positions and I think they all contributed. Albrighton, Downing, Young...as well as the entire team played extremely well. I was very impressed with the crosses...and I thought our passing was crisp and sure. One game does not make a season but I thought we really showed a spark.
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2. I thought today's game was about as consistent and well played as I have seen the Villa play in some time now. The lads obviously went out with a purpose in mind...and they did what they needed to do. I thought our Manager put out a strong team...I think they played in their proper positions and I think they all contributed. Albrighton, Downing, Young...as well as the entire team played extremely well. I was very impressed with the crosses...and I thought our passing was crisp and sure. One game does not make a season but I thought we really showed a spark.
Spot on analysis general, the passing and crossing today was miles above what it has been in more than fits and starts for the last year or 2.
I think I can speak for everyone on here by asking you to give our congratulations to Kevin Mac, the coaches and the players. Excellent performance when a lot of the media expected us to lie down and give up. Also a big credit to the academy staff, the 2 youngsters who started both looked comfortable on the ball and mentally prepared for the big stage, anyone who didn't know would never have picked them out as players making their first and second league starts.
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General
Can you ring Man City and tell them the price just went up 5m, please?
Ta
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GK, were you there today ?
Someone parked a lovely new blue Rolls Royce next to Doug's in players car park and i was told it was you that had got out of it ?
If not, do you know who that belongs to ?
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big mac certainly took the pressure off finding a manager so quicky, with his gutsy and brave decisions today... means we can find the right man to take us forward..
very impressed with todays performance and our attacking attitude.. a stark contrast to trying to "protect" a slender lead of recent seasons...
seemed like there was a freedom and a smile in our play today...
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Team played brilliant today General, I think we should keep Kev Mac in his true role that he has done brilliantly for 15 years, that would be a very difficult postion to fill & KD is the best man for that job.
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as you said General, players were playing in their proper positions, i think that sums up half as to why we played so well today :D
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General K, today was a day that comes along about once every couple of years watching Villa. Hope you enjoyed it. If the board can somehow make this a more regular thing then the people involved will become legends.
Milner: it's a shame he feels like he's got to leave Villa to win things and earn more money. He's a cracking player and it was really cool to see the reception he received. It put to bed the bollocks I've read about us fans as being 'fickle'. Just like any other fans we see those who are deserving of respect and those who aren't. If we could keep him somehow then please do so. If not, so be it and good luck.
For the first time in ages, the Bright Future seems really exciting.
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I think they played in their proper positions and I think they all contributed.
We have a saying here General that goes along the lines of "it's not f**cking rocket science is it?"
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He might understand it a K.I.S.S
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General,
can we give Albrighton a twenty year contract please?
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General, I watched the match yesterday expecting my blood to boil seeing Milner in a Villa top knowing he was off to Money City. But I love the fella. He proved today what a professional he is.
Do what you can to keep him. The Ay-Rabs at Man City will be into horse-racing this time next year and they'll be onto yet another set of owners, so tell them to sod off (at ANY price), hold onto James (give him Salifou's wages on top of what you've offered him already) and let's win the league.....three times in a row!
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General
Having had time for the dust to settle,I would like to retract my scathing comments that were directed at the board.
I never dreamt that the previous manager could be so selfish without due cause-I now think otherwise.
This has nothing to do with yesterdays events although with the benefit of hindsight,it is clear that a whole dead weight has now been lifted from AVFC-Last weeks events could possibly be the best thing that could have happened for us this season.The team are clearly in safe hands with KM.
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General a great performance pleasing to all. that highlighted how much the team depends on Milner now to control matters. It also highlighted that even without him an experienced top manager has a great base on which to work.
As nice and as easy and no doubt as frugal as appointing McDonald would be, it is not the appointment of a club with the stated ambitions we once had. i'm sure all the Board appreciate this.
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General, an idiot who calls himself Oliver Holt, who also calls himself a journalist for The Mirror, which calls itself a newspaper, was very disrespectful to you this morning on Sky Sports Sunday Supplement, which calls itself a television programme.
Now, I'm not one to tell tales but if anything can be done to bring this gobshite to task I'd like to think I've done my bit. And if you need somebody to give him a sound thrashing, I'm your man. All I need is access to some fancy hot shot lawyers to get me off the hook.
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Hello General. I have a simple but controversial request....Please do not give the Managers job to Kev Mac. My reason for this is as follows;
This guy has some very obvious coaching abilities. The players, kids and fans love what he's done for our club. He has developed our reserves and kids into some of the very best in the country. We cannot afford to lose this kind of employee from our club. Get a proven top class manager that Kev can work alongside. A managers job in the premier league usually lasts no longer than 5 years before he is sacked or resigns! (Apart from ned nose, Arse and Venga and 2 or 3 others). Keep Kev at the club and promote him to first team assistant or demand he has a high profile role alongside the incoming 'proven' boss.
I hope you understand my point, I'm just nervous that talented guys like Kev are hard to find and giving him the managers role may mean his shelf life at Villa is shortened.
On another note, as mentioned before the sunday supplement show this morning was a joke. I agree with the other comments - demand an apology and contact lawyers4u. They may be able to get you a couple of quid for falling off your chair for laughing at the twats in the studio who know FA about you and our great club.
Finally have a great week and we'll catch up soon in the Holte pub for a ginger ale and a bag of scratchings.
TW
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General, a very pleasing start to the season. Don't book an open-top bus yet but I hope you and everyone at the club is very satisfied by the result the team achieved for all the work they've been putting in this week and over the summer in general. Thumbs up.
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it was disgraceful that those cretins were spouting such ill informed and agenda filled nonsense while actually getting paid to do so... i really do hope that randys legal team take a look at what was said, and bring the morons to task...
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Hello General. I have a simple but controversial request....Please do not give the Managers job to Kev Mac. My reason for this is as follows;
This guy has some very obvious coaching abilities. The players, kids and fans love what he's done for our club. He has developed our reserves and kids into some of the very best in the country. We cannot afford to lose this kind of employee from our club. Get a proven top class manager that Kev can work alongside. A managers job in the premier league usually lasts no longer than 5 years before he is sacked or resigns! (Apart from ned nose, Arse and Venga and 2 or 3 others). Keep Kev at the club and promote him to first team assistant or demand he has a high profile role alongside the incoming 'proven' boss.
I hope you understand my point, I'm just nervous that talented guys like Kev are hard to find and giving him the managers role may mean his shelf life at Villa is shortened.
On another note, as mentioned before the sunday supplement show this morning was a joke. I agree with the other comments - demand an apology and contact lawyers4u. They may be able to get you a couple of quid for falling off your chair for laughing at the twats in the studio who know FA about you and our great club.
Finally have a great week and we'll catch up soon in the Holte pub for a ginger ale and a bag of scratchings.
TW
Interesting comments re: K-Mac. And something I'd not considered. Food for thought.
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The previous post is spot on. Kevin Mac's work with the youngsters and reserves is priceless. If we move him "up" we will have a gaping hole to fill at youth/reserve level. I see Kevin's role more along the lines of helping blood our talented youngsters - a link between the first team and the Academy. It is a vital role that requires specialist expertise.
If we were to make Kevin manager, and he does not succeed, our club will then have two vital holes to fill: manager and reserve/academy guru.
In my considered opinion (!) we need a top, top drawer man to build on the investment and momentum of the Martin O'Neill years with Kevin Mac continuing in his current role - producing the next generation of claret and blue thoroughbreds.
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General, what's happened to the video wall that was removed from the North/Witton corner, is it going to be replaced? I really hope so because I sit in the Trinity block B and cannot see the Holte End wall. They'll be plenty of disappointed fans if we permanently lose one of the video walls. There's still plenty of space for it to fit back in it's old position.
Please have a re-think!!
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I found that weird, too. Kept looking for it.
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I thought this thread was for questions to the General-Not a platform for every up & comming "master tactition" to tell him who he should or shouldn't appoint as next manager?
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I agree on the Video Screen General. I sit in the Upper Holte and really missed it yesterday. Please can it be replaced? Keep up the good work General.
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The previous post is spot on. Kevin Mac's work with the youngsters and reserves is priceless. If we move him "up" we will have a gaping hole to fill at youth/reserve level. I see Kevin's role more along the lines of helping blood our talented youngsters - a link between the first team and the Academy. It is a vital role that requires specialist expertise.
If we were to make Kevin manager, and he does not succeed, our club will then have two vital holes to fill: manager and reserve/academy guru.
In my considered opinion (!) we need a top, top drawer man to build on the investment and momentum of the Martin O'Neill years with Kevin Mac continuing in his current role - producing the next generation of claret and blue thoroughbreds.
General, do you know much about Liverpool's boot room in the 70s and 80s? You may want to pay particular attention to Messrs Shankley, Paisley and Fagan. And then see how they could compare with MacDonald and Cowans.
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I thought this thread was for questions to the General-Not a platform for every up & comming "master tactition" to tell him who he should or shouldn't appoint as next manager?
It's a thread for discussions with the General......yours was not even addressed to the General so I win. Naw naw nee nawnah!
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General,
Firstly please pass my gratitude to the team and management for a very good performance yesterday.
On a different note I thought it was great to read Randy's comments in the Mail on Sunday today. It was nice to read him speak freely and not by a prepared club statement. I thought his determination and passion came through in buckets. He seems to be a real fighter and it is the first time I have seen a glimpse into his character. Actions speak louder than words and Randy has proved this to the hilt BUT actions and words are a blockbuster combo!
Many thanks
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General,
Just wanted to congratulate the club with respect to the launch of the 1874 lounge. Really nice facility respecting the tradition and heritage of the club, great service and the 442 offer made it great value for money.
Please keep the offers coming !
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I thought this thread was for questions to the General-Not a platform for every up & comming "master tactition" to tell him who he should or shouldn't appoint as next manager?
It's a thread for discussions with the General......yours was not even addressed to the General so I win. Naw naw nee nawnah!
Great-I'll just go & stand in the corner with a dunces cap on for an hour shall I?
Don't let me stop you in your role of advisor to Kruklak,Lerner & Faulkner
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General Krulak here:
1. Big screen. I hear you loud and clear...same comments from other sites. At the present time, there is no plan to bring the big screen back. We have one already but I do understand it is hard to see from certain parts of the stadium. I will pass on all your comments asap.
2. A word about the fans yesterday. They could have showed up totally deflated but, instead, they showed up and cheered the lads on. Both fans and team were totally fired up!! Thanks for your support...it meant a great deal. I just wish there were more folks there.
3. A word about James Milner. When told he was playing, he didn't "beg off"...worried about being injured or anything. He laced up his boots and went out and played his socks off!!!! He was a real pro...and I was very proud of him.
4. I won't be saying anything about the selection of the manager other than to say we will not rush it...we will spend the time necessary to get the right person for the Club. We will look near and far...and will get advice. At the end of the day, we will pick someone who will be good for the Club.
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It was great to see that performance yesterday.. Proud to be a Villain...
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General , If Kev Mac does not get the job , I would love to see him as somebody's right hand man... Jol, Kev Mac and Sid would be awesome....
and has Randy gone to Milan and is it for a new manager or a new signing?
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General,
My son, Corey, had the honour of being one of the mascots for yesterdays game-can I thank, through you, Angela and her team for making the day so memorable for both myself and especially my lad. Also please pass on my appreciation to Colin Gibson and Andy Blair for giving their time and making all the mascots feel part of the Villa family.
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General,
Consider me another one missing the big screen, sat in upper Holte and not having a long enough neck to bend around to see the one between Holte and Trinity.
Please consider putting it back, it feels something is badly missing by its omission.
Ta.
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I thought this thread was for questions to the General-Not a platform for every up & comming "master tactition" to tell him who he should or shouldn't appoint as next manager?
It's a thread for discussions with the General......yours was not even addressed to the General so I win. Naw naw nee nawnah!
Great-I'll just go & stand in the corner with a dunces cap on for an hour shall I?
Don't let me stop you in your role of advisor to Kruklak,Lerner & Faulkner
Pack it in the pair of you.
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General,
Do you think Man.City have purposefully tried to disrupt our plans both this season and last one?
Like has been said already we have a player under contract in Milner and yet they do not understand the word no!
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General Krulak here:
4. I won't be saying anything about the selection of the manager other than to say we will not rush it...we will spend the time necessary to get the right person for the Club. We will look near and far...and will get advice. At the end of the day, we will pick someone who will be good for the Club.
Thanks General
If I can offer my advice please dont go for Sven ;)
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General Krulak here:
4. I won't be saying anything about the selection of the manager other than to say we will not rush it...we will spend the time necessary to get the right person for the Club. We will look near and far...and will get advice. At the end of the day, we will pick someone who will be good for the Club.
Thanks General
If I can offer my advice please dont go for Sven ;)
General.
I'd like to offer my advice, pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeease don't go for Sven. I think that could be one of the worst appointments ever after Billy McNeill of course.
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Hi General
i think there are only two choices !
Martin Jol and Kev Mac
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General, can I offer some advice? Please don't take advice from any of us clowns, we don't know what we're talking about.
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General, can I offer some advice? Please don't take advice from any of us clowns, we don't know what we're talking about.
Speak for yourself ;)
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General take my advice,
Pick Me!
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General, can I be on your panel of expert advisors re the appointment of the new manager? I know bugger all but talk a good game in the fanzine!
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General, can we please just tell Man.City to leave us alone in regard to James Milner; he's under contract and we do not want to sell! End of story...hopefully.
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How are ST sales going versus last year General ?
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Hi General
I'm another who wants the big screen back. I sit in upper Trinity near the Holte end and cannot see the current big screen because of the angle.
My question though: as a season ticket holder who travels 200+ miles to each match (mostly on the M6), I can often only arrive just in time for kick off (having parked and got to the ground etc). More times than not the News and Record has sold out in the upper Trinity stand - a case in point was the West Ham game. Presumably Villa have a fair idea of expected attendance; could it be possible to ensure that the vendors have enough copies in stock to sell without selling out each time? If I could get to the ground earlier I could pick one up elsewhere, but often that is not possible (courtesy of the M6).
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Dave Woodhall will sell you one no problem. ;-)
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General,
Although I personally rate S.Ireland very highly, Who has decided that he would be a good signing?
He is obviously expensive in terms of wages and transfer value.
Have we got a new manager? Or is Randy choosing the team?
Apologies if that appears antagonistic, but I think its a genuine concern if an owner starts picking players.
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Hi General
I'm another who wants the big screen back. I sit in upper Trinity near the Holte end and cannot see the current big screen because of the angle.
My question though: as a season ticket holder who travels 200+ miles to each match (mostly on the M6), I can often only arrive just in time for kick off (having parked and got to the ground etc). More times than not the News and Record has sold out in the upper Trinity stand - a case in point was the West Ham game. Presumably Villa have a fair idea of expected attendance; could it be possible to ensure that the vendors have enough copies in stock to sell without selling out each time? If I could get to the ground earlier I could pick one up elsewhere, but often that is not possible (courtesy of the M6).
Have you thought about a subscription? (Assuming you can still do one)
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General,
Although I personally rate S.Ireland very highly, Who has decided that he would be a good signing?
He is obviously expensive in terms of wages and transfer value.
Have we got a new manager? Or is Randy choosing the team?
Apologies if that appears antagonistic, but I think its a genuine concern if an owner starts picking players.
I don't want to be seen to be answering for the General, but i am going to anyway!
Kevin McDonald picks the team and this deal was in place a long time ago when MON was here. We are just going through with it.
We haven't got a new full time manager.
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Hi General
I'm another who wants the big screen back. I sit in upper Trinity near the Holte end and cannot see the current big screen because of the angle.
My question though: as a season ticket holder who travels 200+ miles to each match (mostly on the M6), I can often only arrive just in time for kick off (having parked and got to the ground etc). More times than not the News and Record has sold out in the upper Trinity stand - a case in point was the West Ham game. Presumably Villa have a fair idea of expected attendance; could it be possible to ensure that the vendors have enough copies in stock to sell without selling out each time? If I could get to the ground earlier I could pick one up elsewhere, but often that is not possible (courtesy of the M6).
Have you thought about a subscription? (Assuming you can still do one)
I thought about a subscription, not sure if there are postage costs and if it arrives before the match? With the season ticket costs, travel and parking I don't really want postage costs too. It seems to me a problem of distribution and not production-they are obviously printing the numbers but just not getting them all in the right place.
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General,
Although I personally rate S.Ireland very highly, Who has decided that he would be a good signing?
He is obviously expensive in terms of wages and transfer value.
Have we got a new manager? Or is Randy choosing the team?
Apologies if that appears antagonistic, but I think its a genuine concern if an owner starts picking players.
I don't want to be seen to be answering for the General, but i am going to anyway!
Kevin McDonald picks the team and this deal was in place a long time ago when MON was here. We are just going through with it.
We haven't got a new full time manager.
I understand that. However. I don't understand if we are buying a player without a manager (Unless KM is the new manager)
If the club has a desire to balance books it makes little sense buying a player who perhaps a new guy doesn't want.
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What kind of manager or potential manager wouldn't want Ireland in the squad?
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What kind of manager or potential manager wouldn't want Ireland in the squad?
One like Roberto Mancini.
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I don't think Mancini will be coming to VP anytime soon Chris
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HELLO GENERAL
SKY WERE OUTSIDE OLD TRAFFORD AND I NOTICED THAT IT HAD LIKE A MONTAGE PICTURE OF WHAT THE GROUND HAS LOOKED LIKE OVER TIME , COULD WE DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT WITH THR NORTHSTAND, SORRY CAPS LOCK STUCK
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I don't think Mancini will be coming to VP anytime soon Chris
He has a date with us on January 22nd.
I'll get me coat.
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I don't think Mancini will be coming to VP anytime soon Chris
He has a date with us on January 22nd.
I'll get me coat.
I'd not be suprised if he doesn't hmake that appointment.
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What kind of manager or potential manager wouldn't want Ireland in the squad?
One like Roberto Mancini.
I think Mr Mancini hasn't noticed hes losing his most creative midfielder. They were crying out for him against Spurs
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General,
If we organise a whip round, can you give that smug prick Oliver Holt a good pasting?
I don't normally advocate violence, but in his case i'll make an exception.
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General
I have only seen rumours at the moment but the squad looks like we are taking the mickey out of our opposition and the fans who have spent good money on getting over to Vienna. Why don't we just tell UEFA we don't want to participate in the Europe League?
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^
Or perhaps the Europa League is not as high on our list of priorities as the PL and FA Cup etc?
I am for leaving players behind if it means some of the younger ones get some very valued experience. If those who have travelled play at their best then they can win no doubt about that; hopefully our tactics, formation and desire are not questioned.
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General,
Are there plans for the Video screen between the North Stand and Witton Road Stand to be replaced during this season? Having screens was one of the best bits about villa park and I don't like only having one as the other is at a really bad angle for where I sit.
I appreciate we might be redeveloping that corner at some stage, but we really should keep them or replace them with improved ones.
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Dear General,
I must say I am very upset at us not taking the Europa League serious once again. Yes, the squad travelling to Vienna should be able to get a good result, but it sends out a message that the competition is not important for the club. It is important to me, I love the European games. Is it the decision of Kevin McDonald or by the club? And why ? Why spend an entire season trying to qualify and going on about how important it is to qualify for Europe - and then when we are playing a very important match to reach the group stage, the stars are rested???? Rapid Wien is not a bad team, I think we learned that last season.
I would really appreciate if you give me/us an answer on this. Thanks in advance.
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General Krulak here:
1. I have heard all the comments re. the screen and have passed them up the line. My sense is that it will not be coming back at this time based upon renovations to be forthcoming in the future.
2. No, I do not think ManCity takes specific actions to disrupt our plans.
3. ST sales are basically the same as last year at this date...maybe a hundred or so behind. This is obviously not what we would like but we understand the economic climate and the unrest re. Manager. At the end of the day, ST sales are important to the Club and we hope they pick up soon.
4. Randy was in Italy for a two day holiday with his kids....not seeking players or Managers.
5. Randy is not picking players...that is the Manager's job.
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General
What do you think of Oliver Holt?
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General
I have only seen rumours at the moment but the squad looks like we are taking the mickey out of our opposition and the fans who have spent good money on getting over to Vienna. Why don't we just tell UEFA we don't want to participate in the Europe League?
I know he's gone Bob but MON also said he would play the kids, Its a shit competition anyway
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General
What do you think of Oliver Holt?
And don't you think it's a bit sad a 44 year old man thinks he's Noel Gallagher?
Edit: Apart from Percy of course who I think is great.
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General Krulak here:
5. Randy is not picking players...that is the Manager's job.
We don't have a manger, so someone had to make the decision to accept a cash plus Ireland deal for Milner. Was it MON before he left, or was it rubber-stamped by Kevin MacDonald? If it's the latter then fair enough, but somewhat strange given that he might not be the manager if a suitable candidate is found. If it's the former, then I'm not sure the club should be using the judgement of an ex-employee.
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General
What do you think of Oliver Holt?
And don't you think it's a bit sad a 44 year old man thinks he's Noel Gallagher?
Edit: Apart from Percy of course who I think is great.
And not 44.
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Isn't Noel Gallagher a sad 44 year old man?
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General
I have only seen rumours at the moment but the squad looks like we are taking the mickey out of our opposition and the fans who have spent good money on getting over to Vienna. Why don't we just tell UEFA we don't want to participate in the Europe League?
General, I agree with this post. We spend our hard earned money and have a right to see big european nights at Villa Park, particularly if we finish in the top six. We should be taking the thing seriously.
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General,are fans allowed to watch the reserve games at Bodymore Heath? Cheers.
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With so much crap posted on this thread and of course the recent upheaval it is clear that the General isn't answering all of the questions put to him.
Please could this not be more closely monitored by moderators?
Moderators - Feel free to delete this post for that very reason once noted.
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General Krulak here:
4. Randy was in Italy for a two day holiday with his kids....not seeking players or Managers.
Quite chilled about the managers situation then General ?
He stated that we would prob have 1 in place by Newcastle game...is he waiting to see how Kev Mac does away in Europe first ?
Have we got the Managers applicants down to a shortlist now ?
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Could we please keep team discussions to the match thread.
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General
I have only seen rumours at the moment but the squad looks like we are taking the mickey out of our opposition and the fans who have spent good money on getting over to Vienna. Why don't we just tell UEFA we don't want to participate in the Europe League?
General, I agree with this post. We spend our hard earned money and have a right to see big european nights at Villa Park, particularly if we finish in the top six. We should be taking the thing seriously.
Don't you trust the current manager? We all praised him on Saturday. Have you lost faith in him already?
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General, from a marketing perspective, what are now the plans to expand the Villa name (brand) globally. Was MON's insistence on buying predominantly in the UK a hinderance to the board's plans to broaden the Villa name into new foreign markets?
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General,
There have been various valuations of the Milner deal reported in the media. Is it possible to disclose what payment we actually received for James Milner.
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General,
Stolen from someone else on another thread but I think you'll like this. A good read....especially the conclusion...
Aston Villa - The Greatest Football Team The World Has Ever Seen (http://schmusing.wordpress.com/2010/08/14/greatest%C2%A0schmeatest/)
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The greatest team blog http://schmusing.wordpress.com/2010/08/14/greatest%c2%a0schmeatest/ (http://schmusing.wordpress.com/2010/08/14/greatest%c2%a0schmeatest/) is mine - thanks for passing it on - really appreciate it.
At some point, when I get my act together, I'll update the blog in response to the comment regarding allocating points. I'm not sure, but I'm guessing Villa might still come out on top.
Feel free to add comments to the blog too.
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General,
This is a question I posted not long after Martin left, which probably got swallowed up with all the others that you answered as a whole in that hectic time. Now that things have calmed down a bit, I wondered if we could re-visit it?
Basically, we all understand and accept the issue of wages, their ratio to turnover and the need to manage this. But although that's one argument, the other is that what we were spending was not being fully utilised due to some high wage earners rarely featuring for the first team. So, what was/is the greater issue - total wages or the use of those wages?
The reason for my question is that I feel in order to be sucessful we do need a reasonably sized squad, in which some players will feature more than others. While I accept we did not have this balance right under the last manager, this would mean that, for example, a squad of 16 or 17 senior professionals on high wages, further supplimented by our emerging youth players, is necessary to achieve our goals. So, would this be acceptable to the board, if more rotation was used, or would the wages/turnover ratio take precedence?
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Dear General Krulack,
I have recently been made aware of the vacant manager's position at Aston Villa and would be delighted to put myself forward for the position.
Although I have no actual managerial experience, I am a twice European Cup winner on the popular computer game Football Manager. One of these clubs was the Villa so I believe this would make me an ideal candidate. I also know what a substitution is.
Please contact any other poster on this board if you require a reference.
I'll look forward to hearing from you.
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General
I have only seen rumours at the moment but the squad looks like we are taking the mickey out of our opposition and the fans who have spent good money on getting over to Vienna. Why don't we just tell UEFA we don't want to participate in the Europe League?
General, I agree with this post. We spend our hard earned money and have a right to see big european nights at Villa Park, particularly if we finish in the top six. We should be taking the thing seriously.
Don't you trust the current manager? We all praised him on Saturday. Have you lost faith in him already?
Nothing to do with trusting the manager. It has to do with the fact that the confirmed team we are playing tonight shows a tgremendous amount of disrespect for our opponents and the competition. If we don't want to be in the Europa league then let one of the teams below us take our place......
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General,
please can we make sure we report their 'fans' to UEFA after their disgusting behaviour?
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General,
please can we make sure we report their 'fans' to UEFA after their disgusting behaviour?
I was just coming in to express that very sentiment. Utterly despicable behaviour, and I hope the club will make a strong complaint. Totally unacceptable.
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On second thoughts General, can you use your contacts and DESTROY THEM? Mwu-har-har.
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General
Can you pass on my congratulations to Kev & the lads for their excellent performace in Vienna. They are young lads and they did themselves and the club proud.
Thanks
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Have to go with other on here and ask that the club report the behaviour of the Rapid fans, they really were a disgrace to their club.
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General, not impressed. I see no reason to pussy foot around because some reserve team coach played a load of untried kids and got away with a draw against a poor side.
Has it always been club policy, even in Mons days to try and throw European matches ?
Very laudable result considering but that's not Aston Villa with ambitions of success, just as depending on the youth like those on show isn't.
I've always been 100% behind RL's decisions and policies, but I'm beginning to have doubts. Small ones true, but doubts never the less.
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General,if Randy picked that team today,give him a pat on the back from me.
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I know that there are arguments for and against selections tonight but his hand seemed to be more tied than when MON put a team out against them last year, due to injuries a plenty.
What i dont understand is why we seem to put out significantly weakend teams in the qualifying rounds. Lets get into groups stages first then blood a bit of youth and enjoy 6 games guaranteed revenue in the group.
GK, when the previous manager played his strongest 11 in virtually every Premiership game each year attempting to qualify for Europe, and then achieve that aim, why do we then not put out our strongest 11 to continue to progress in the European competition we have qualfied for....is it club policy or direction from RL ?
Or is it pure coincidence that the caretaker manager adopts the same policy as previous manager ?
Are we still on course to name the new boss pre newcastle game, as RL suggetsed in his statement last week or is the search taking a little longer ?
We may run out of time in signing additional recruits i think ?
Thanks for your ongoing honesty and open communication to us all
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General, not impressed. I see no reason to pussy foot... yadda yadda yadda blah blah blah etc etc etc
The mind boggles. It truley does.
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Dear General Krulack,
I have recently been made aware of the vacant manager's position at Aston Villa and would be delighted to put myself forward for the position.
You need to address your application to Mr. Randi Learner.
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General, not impressed. I see no reason to pussy foot around because some reserve team coach played a load of untried kids and got away with a draw against a poor side.
Has it always been club policy, even in Mons days to try and throw European matches ?
Very laudable result considering but that's not Aston Villa with ambitions of success, just as depending on the youth like those on show isn't.
I've always been 100% behind RL's decisions and policies, but I'm beginning to have doubts. Small ones true, but doubts never the less.
(http://www.maxforums.net/uploaded/66002/1220544472.jpg)
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General, not impressed. I see no reason to pussy foot around because some reserve team coach played a load of untried kids and got away with a draw against a poor side.
Has it always been club policy, even in Mons days to try and throw European matches ?
Very laudable result considering but that's not Aston Villa with ambitions of success, just as depending on the youth like those on show isn't.
I've always been 100% behind RL's decisions and policies, but I'm beginning to have doubts. Small ones true, but doubts never the less.
Blimey..........do you live on your own ?
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General, not impressed. I see no reason to pussy foot around because some reserve team coach played a load of untried kids and got away with a draw against a poor side.
Has it always been club policy, even in Mons days to try and throw European matches ?
Very laudable result considering but that's not Aston Villa with ambitions of success, just as depending on the youth like those on show isn't.
I've always been 100% behind RL's decisions and policies, but I'm beginning to have doubts. Small ones true, but doubts never the less.
Blimey..........do you live on your own ?
I think he might have a nurse with him at all times too. She must have slipped out for 5 minutes.
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Look at me, look at me!
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Look at me, look at me!
:D
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I do ponder sometimes that some people seem to think the board/club/manager's job is just to make them happy and as soon as they don't the policy should change.
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Hi General,
Just wanted to say I was proud of Villa last night, the team selection and Kevin MacDonald for his decisions. There is some optimism for the future in players like Albrighton, Bannan and Lichaj.
On a side issue are you aware of how badly Newcastle will want to beat Villa on Sunday in light of us relegating them previously? I'm sure the coaching staff are well aware but it will be another hostile reception at their ground for sure! The first twenty minutes will be crucial to the result of the game and if we can silence the crowd this will help us immensely.
All the best,
Namaste.
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General Krulak here:
1. Regarding the Manager: It is more important to get the "right" manager than to get "a" manager by a certain game...or time. Randy and the board will take the time necessary to get the right person.
2. Troy Eccles: I enjoyed the article. Sure did like the conclusion.
3. Not much value in going over the MON issue again. Everytime I write something in this thread it gets picked up by the media and either 1) taken out of context or 2) given an unintended "spin." I think most fans know exactly what I was saying.
4. sfx412: Simply put, KM chose the team that he felt could do the job...and be competitive. He was faced with niggling injuries to some of the lads...and wanted to make sure that he did not exacerbate problems when he could have solved them by a bit of rest. He knows the youth and he knows the squad...he took them to the continent and they did well. Now we just need to win at Villa Park. To even hint that we work hard to get to Europe only to gaff it off when we get there is nonsense.
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General, when was the last time that we put out a full strength team in a European tie?
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General, when was the last time that we put out a full strength team in a European tie?
Bloody hell Peter. How's any of us meant to know that, let alone the General? It's completely subjective for one, and you're just shit stirring. You may as well file that with another question about ground capacity.
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Besides, didn't Spurs put out a full-strength side against Young Boys?
Didn't work out too well for them, did it?
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General,
In my opinion, where football results are regarded, the end justifys the means, so please applaud KM for his gutsy squad selection that could have back-fired and damaged any ambitions he had of gaining the job full-time. It is this kind of key decision making that will be a key part of any managers job.
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General,
This is a question I posted not long after Martin left, which probably got swallowed up with all the others that you answered as a whole in that hectic time. Now that things have calmed down a bit, I wondered if we could re-visit it?
Basically, we all understand and accept the issue of wages, their ratio to turnover and the need to manage this. But although that's one argument, the other is that what we were spending was not being fully utilised due to some high wage earners rarely featuring for the first team. So, what was/is the greater issue - total wages or the use of those wages?
The reason for my question is that I feel in order to be sucessful we do need a reasonably sized squad, in which some players will feature more than others. While I accept we did not have this balance right under the last manager, this would mean that, for example, a squad of 16 or 17 senior professionals on high wages, further supplimented by our emerging youth players, is necessary to achieve our goals. So, would this be acceptable to the board, if more rotation was used, or would the wages/turnover ratio take precedence?
This is an excellent question. General if you are permitted to divulge such information then I, and I'm sure the rest on here, would love to hear your response.
Thank you again for your open and honest answers, it reflects well on you and the club as a whole.
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General, when was the last time that we put out a full strength team in a European tie?
When was the last time you asked the General a worthwhile question?
The kids who played were great, well done to them.
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Hi General,
Re. the screen removal.
I think you guys ought to look into putting it back up please - those around me in the Upper Trinity ( who probably don't come onto these forums, but are die hard Villa fans) were complaining last week about the lack of screen.
I must admit it looks a bit odd now to be able to see houses etc. outside the ground where previously there was an informative screen.
Maybe a second thought ?
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because some reserve team coach played a load of untried kids and got away with a draw against a poor side.
Some reserve team coach! The policy of playing the kids is one thing but the way in which you mention the manager is a disgrace.
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I'm sure he meant to italicise the word 'some'. Cuz, fact is, K-Mac certainly is some reserve coach.
I'd bet he couldn't name a more successful one.
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General, when was the last time that we put out a full strength team in a European tie?
At a guess I'd say the last one we played before Thursday.
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General Krulak here:
4. sfx412: Simply put, KM chose the team that he felt could do the job...and be competitive. He was faced with niggling injuries to some of the lads...and wanted to make sure that he did not exacerbate problems when he could have solved them by a bit of rest. He knows the youth and he knows the squad...he took them to the continent and they did well. Now we just need to win at Villa Park. To even hint that we work hard to get to Europe only to gaff it off when we get there is nonsense.
Thanks General, about right I'd say, but from here our recent past team selections in Europe do look a little 'weak', the press and media reported that most of the top players had been rested, Petrov, Young, Dunne, Friedel and so on.
I cannot see why we spend so much time and money qualifying for a top 6 finish to qualify for Europe to throw it up at the first chance either, that's why I questioned Mon's team selection against Moscow and again last season. No other side from the PL 'rests' so many players. Yes they rest some, yes they play the side according to the opposition, but we had players gaining their first selection and away in Europe.
It was a good performance, the lads did fine but our squad is not that poor that so many untried kids had to be used surely, unless in this instance it was an approved attempt to test the kids as I believe KM intimated in his BBC interview.
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the press and media reported that most of the top players had been rested, Petrov, Young, Dunne, Friedel and so on.
Then they're as misinformed as you. Dunne was suspended.
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sfx412/Overall - you're a bloody hypocrite. The tack you took the other day was to suggest that the club trys to throw matches, now you're saying it's "about right". Get a grip man.
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At the end of the day, the team he put out got a 1-1 draw at a difficult place to get anything.
That's easily a good enough result to seal the deal back at our place (when I presume we'll play a more experienced line-up).
I understand why some people don't like the line ups when we play in Europe (and I must admit, I was a bit apprehensive when i saw the line up before Thursday's match), but the fact is we got a perfectly good result over there, and players like Albrighton, Bannan, and Hogg have picked up that little bit more experience. Christ, even Habib Beye and Curtis Davies got to earn their money for a change.
Doesn't really seem the time to criticise it.
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sfx412/Overall - you're a bloody hypocrite. The tack you took the other day was to suggest that the club trys to throw matches, now you're saying it's "about right". Get a grip man.
The 'about right' comment was to do with the General's answer, fool.
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I'm guessing should we play a full-strength side game in, game out, you'd be the first one to complain that we're not making the best use of our 'squad'. The club, in some people's eyes, can simply never win.
What is it they say? "You can please some of the people all of the time but Malcolm will always find something that displeases him"
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I think its just a case of not really knowing whats going on and so just randomly saying something/anything to appear important and learned.
And failling miserably.
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General, is this question the most inane you've been asked?
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Can we have a seperate thread for Mrs Overall to rant on to himself? The latest questions to the General are ridiculous.
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Come on general- we need a manager and NOW! The board have had 2 weeks , have we interviewed anyone yet? Today has clearly shown keV mac is not that man!
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Come on general- we need a manager and NOW! The board have had 2 weeks , have we interviewed anyone yet? Today has clearly shown keV mac is not that man!
Have you ever posted anything positive at all?
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I'm sorry General but that is probably the worst performance I have seen since doncaster. I am not expecting villa to win every match they play. The worst aspect of the game was we were out fought and the opposition had more desire and more hunger. I am not saying this is MacDonald's fault but a decision needs to be made.
We either need a new manager and coaching team ASAP or MacDonald needs to be given the tools to do the job. I blame this on the fact the coaching team is too thinly spread. If this goes on for the medium term, will we be bringing in extra coaches on a temporary basis?
I am sorry for the frustration but a 4-0 loss against a newly promoted team (who the wife supports) is not good enough.
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I'm sorry General but that is probably the worst performance I have seen since doncaster. I am not expecting villa to win every match they play. The worst aspect of the game was we were out fought and the opposition had more desire and more hunger. I am not saying this is MacDonald's fault but a decision needs to be made.
We either need a new manager and coaching team ASAP or MacDonald needs to be given the tools to do the job. I blame this on the fact the coaching team is too thinly spread. If this goes on for the medium term, will we be bringing in extra coaches on a temporary basis?
I am sorry for the frustration but a 4-0 loss against a newly promoted team (who the wife supports) is not good enough.
It actually finished 6-0 in the end!
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I'm sorry General but that is probably the worst performance I have seen since doncaster. I am not expecting villa to win every match they play. The worst aspect of the game was we were out fought and the opposition had more desire and more hunger. I am not saying this is MacDonald's fault but a decision needs to be made.
We either need a new manager and coaching team ASAP or MacDonald needs to be given the tools to do the job. I blame this on the fact the coaching team is too thinly spread. If this goes on for the medium term, will we be bringing in extra coaches on a temporary basis?
I am sorry for the frustration but a 4-0 loss against a newly promoted team (who the wife supports) is not good enough.
It actually finished 6-0 in the end!
So painful (gloating Geordie wife!). This is not the performance of a team with Champions League ambitions. Further investment is needed in the team and now the Management structure. It seems that we are ready to write off the season and blame it on the manager leaving. We are one of the top 15-20 teams in the world (on reputation and last seasons performance), lets get a manager to reflect that and invest. We cannot afford to slip back along the sides like Fulham, Birmingham and Sunderland.
BTW I don't blame you personally general. We could have done with you fight in the team.
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General
If there was any doubt before today, we need to appoint a very good manager and be active in the transfer market (in and out) as soon as possible.
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General,
Hope that game wasn't too bad for your health!
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General, I'm stating the obvious by saying that was murder. You'll be feeling it as much as we are. We need to get a top manager in a soon as possible.
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General,
Will the players be donating this weeks salary to ACORNS? They sure as hell don't deserve to the extortionate money they get*
*Stephen Ireland can keep a few quid to get himself a birthday cake.
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General,
Please please please get Martin Jol asap. Even if you have to kidnap him to get him here.
Thank you ;D
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vs whats positive to be happy about? we have just been thrashed 6-0 to a newly promoted team , we have no manager and the transfer window ends next week!surely general the time for action is now , or is randy holding back so he doesnt have to buy any players?
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General
If there was any doubt before today, we need to appoint a very good manager and be active in the transfer market (in and out) as soon as possible.
Is it not already too late to do that though ?
Whilst it was a dismal result, General, it shows that RL is right to take his time to decide who to take over as manager.
On last weeks results KM was many's immediate choice, now I doubt he's anyone's.
The decision has to be right as there is no sensible time left to bring in players, even if there is the money, before the deadline, so we need a man capable of managing what we have well and possibly, if today was an indicator, whilst under immediate pressure.
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General - New manager needed before Thursday please who is prepared to ship some of that shit out and get some proper players in. I'm not blaming Kevin Mac the players should hang their heads in shame after that 'performance'
I can (just about) accept a walloping from the likes of Chelsea last season, but not a against a very average team, who will not finish above the bottom 6.
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General,
Can the fans who went to the game today be refunded?
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This will test Randy's mettle. The time to act is now.
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general how can kmac just say on radio he will decide after everton whether or not he wants the job - the transfer window closes a day later!
this is not good enough , we need a manager in now , you have had 2 weeks to sort this , and a new man needs at least a week to deal in the market!
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general how can kmac just say on radio he will decide after everton whether or not he wants the job - the transfer window closes a day later!
this is not good enough , we need a manager in now , you have had 2 weeks to sort this , and a new man needs at least a week to deal in the market!
I think a decision needs to be made now. Maybe any new manager would be expensive (coaches and possible compensation). They would also want to bring in players. By waiting until after the Everton game this would avoid the need for excessive investment.
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This will test Randy's mettle. The time to act is now.
Yep. I don't see what good or difference it'll make if Randy goes for Bob Bradley... like Macdonald, Bradley has never managed a team in Europe with no experience managing at this level. It wouldn't make much sense gving Macdonald a go then laying him off and hiring Bradley for the job. I really want Jol or Hiddink...
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general how can kmac just say on radio he will decide after everton whether or not he wants the job - the transfer window closes a day later!
this is not good enough , we need a manager in now , you have had 2 weeks to sort this , and a new man needs at least a week to deal in the market!
I could be wrong, but I think he said he will decide if he want to apply for the job !!
This adds to the rumour that Randy has kept back the money from the Milner deal and will only replace
MON after 01/09/2010
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im starting to this this delay is because randy doesnt want to let a new manager have money to spend or pay compensation? the silence around the club is not good ! have we interviewed a shortlist yet general , and if not why not?
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im starting to this this delay is because randy doesnt want to let a new manager have money to spend or pay compensation? the silence around the club is not good ! have we interviewed a shortlist yet general , and if not why not?
Be upset, but don't make stuff up.
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general how can kmac just say on radio he will decide after everton whether or not he wants the job - the transfer window closes a day later!
this is not good enough , we need a manager in now , you have had 2 weeks to sort this , and a new man needs at least a week to deal in the market!
Maybe Kevin Mac has job until the window shuts, and then a new manager from Sept 1st would save the club a fortune in 'not being able to be in a position to buy players'
Of course I could be being synical.
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yep he didnt say hed be offered it , but will decide after everton if he wishes to be considered
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This is all getting a bit shambolic now. I know O'Neill walking out in the manner he did left us in the mire, but we need to get things sorted and quickly General.
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Good afternoon General,
I completely understand that Martin Oneill leaving his post so close to the start of the season could not have been worse in terms of planning. His decision left the club in a very difficult position.
However... After today's result the club needs to unite behind a common purpose with renewed vigour and leadership. I am all for promoting from within the ranks and Kevin McDonald's apprenticeship up until today had been a very good one. I do feel that the club needs to signal its intentions in the very near future as to the direction of the club. If Kevin is to be the man we need to make it so as soon as possible, if it is someone else then we need to act quickly. I can completely understand Randy and the clubs desire not to make rash decisions based on one result and but when we lose so convincingly against a newly promoted team you can understand the fans concerns.
I just hope the club act decisively this week to clarify what appears to be a very unstable situation at the club, brought about by the previous manager leaving us in the lurch I must add.
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general how can kmac just say on radio he will decide after everton whether or not he wants the job - the transfer window closes a day later!
this is not good enough , we need a manager in now , you have had 2 weeks to sort this , and a new man needs at least a week to deal in the market!
Everyone take a deep breath. Count to ten... Breathe.
If we make a knee-jerk appointment now then it'll have repercussions for years.
Lets take our time, get the right man and crucially plan for the long term. Put it this way what would you prefer, Curbishley now on a 3 year deal, or wait a month ot two and have Klinsmann, Hiddink, Jol on a 5 year deal?
Appointing someone tomorrow, so they can have a dabble in the transfer market this week will be very risky to say the least as the new manager will not even know who, or what players he already has.
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Why did Randy Lerner say we'd have a new manager in place for todays game if he knew he couldn't stick to what he said? Did us beating West Ham confuse Randy a bit after Macdonald did really well in first game as caretaker manager and did that leave appointing a new manager to be put on 'hold' whilst he wanted to see if Macdonald could carry on and do a good job?
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General,
Can the fans who went to the game today be refunded?
Why should they be ??
We lost , got well & trully hammered . it happens !
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General, Can the fans who went to the game today be refunded?
Why should they be ?? We lost , got well & trully hammered . it happens !
Why should the players be paid a penny after effectively bending over and taking one. Scumbags!
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General, Can the fans who went to the game today be refunded?
Why should they be ?? We lost , got well & trully hammered . it happens !
Why should the players be paid a penny after effectively bending over and taking one. Scumbags!
Thats the way football is & always has been , you win some, you lose some, you get tanked now & again & you give out a hiding now & again .
Asking about money back cus we lost is pretty pathetic IMO & taking the piss ,as is asking after we've put out a "weakend" side.
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I would want my money back had I gone, and would also like the players to donate a weeks wages to acorns. Losing, I can accept, getting a tanking from a better team, ala Chelsea is acceptable, just about. But that was totally unacceptable today. They offered nothing but surrender.
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Honestly, people need to stop with this bollocks about getting your money back. It's part of being a football fan. Do you think supporters of teams trapped in League 1 or 2 go the ticket office every Monday and ask for a refund. We lost today. Yes it was royally shit, but get a hold of yourselves.
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Honestly, people need to stop with this bollocks about getting your money back. It's part of being a football fan. Do you think supporters of teams trapped in League 1 or 2 go the ticket office every Monday and ask for a refund. We lost today. Yes it was royally shit, but get a hold of yourselves.
I agree.
That's the sort of nonsense you expect to hear from Wigan or Albion fans.
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You can't ask for a refund, pays your money takes a chance, today it was total shite.
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Nah you can’t ask for a refund, because being a football fan involves being a stupid twat and taking it up the arse off the industry.
You have to take it and lump it just because “its a gamble”. Never mind the fact that you’ve got fuck all money left after a week of following the Villa, never mind the fact you’ve paid for the privilege of being humiliated- you did it out of choice and you have no right to recompense because you're a fucking idiot who should have realised it was a load of shit 20 years ago, but instead of spending your money elsewhere you've pissed it up the wall following the Villa.
Fuck off and die football. It was better when we were kicking the shit out of each other in crumbling shit holes- at least it cost us near enough fuck all then.
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Nah you can’t ask for a refund, because being a football fan involves being a stupid twat and taking it up the arse off the industry.
You have to take it and lump it just because “its a gamble”. Never mind the fact that you’ve got fuck all money left after a week of following the Villa, never mind the fact you’ve paid for the privilege of being humiliated- you did it out of choice and you have no right to recompense because you're a fucking idiot who should have realised it was a load of shit 20 years ago, but instead of spending your money elsewhere you've pissed it up the wall following the Villa.
Fuck off and die football. It was better when we were kicking the shit out of each other in crumbling shit holes- at least it cost us near enough fuck all then.
Shut up !
If you've spunked all your money away on following the Villa more fool you .
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Nah you can’t ask for a refund, because being a football fan involves being a stupid twat and taking it up the arse off the industry.
You have to take it and lump it just because “its a gamble”. Never mind the fact that you’ve got fuck all money left after a week of following the Villa, never mind the fact you’ve paid for the privilege of being humiliated- you did it out of choice and you have no right to recompense because you're a fucking idiot who should have realised it was a load of shit 20 years ago, but instead of spending your money elsewhere you've pissed it up the wall following the Villa.
Fuck off and die football. It was better when we were kicking the shit out of each other in crumbling shit holes- at least it cost us near enough fuck all then.
Shut up !
If you've spunked all your money away on following the Villa more fool you .
I know I’m a fool, what do you think the fucking comment is about? Its a self reflection that I've just wasted over 20 years fucking around spending money and time following a shower of ******. Thanks for your input though.
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OK, I can see you're pissed off Ads, and rightly so, but calm it down a bit eh?
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Nah you can’t ask for a refund, because being a football fan involves being a stupid twat and taking it up the arse off the industry.
You have to take it and lump it just because “its a gamble”. Never mind the fact that you’ve got fuck all money left after a week of following the Villa, never mind the fact you’ve paid for the privilege of being humiliated- you did it out of choice and you have no right to recompense because you're a fucking idiot who should have realised it was a load of shit 20 years ago, but instead of spending your money elsewhere you've pissed it up the wall following the Villa.
Fuck off and die football. It was better when we were kicking the shit out of each other in crumbling shit holes- at least it cost us near enough fuck all then.
Shut up !
If you've spunked all your money away on following the Villa more fool you .
I know I’m a fool, what do you think the fucking comment is about? Its a self reflection that I've just wasted over 20 years fucking around spending money and time following a shower of c***s. Thanks for your input though.
So they've been a shower of c**ts the last 20 years then ??, there has been as many highs as there has been lows .
Get a grip. FFS
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General,
can you tell us exactly what Randy is doing right now about the dire mess we are in please? If this were previous regimes we would have fans with sack the board placards walking the streets around Villa Park
We were a complete and utter disgrace today and I feel that after 4 years and money invested, Randy may well be considering selling up - if he hasn't the money and/or desire to go forward then he should announce the club is for sale ASAP.
Otherwise can the club pull their fingers from out their backsides and sort this bloody mess out?
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OK, I can see you're pissed off Ads, and rightly so, but calm it down a bit eh?
Alright, but I take umbrage at being told to shut up by some 15 year old who hasn’t got the first fucking clue what he’s on about and he keeps putting spaces between his final letters and punctuation.
It’s all a sham. We'll never win the league again and we'll never win the cup. What's the fucking point of football? It’s just an exercise in shaking people down and preying on the fact that people are stupid.
I’m very stupid. Couple this realisation with the shame I feel after today, the weariness in my bones after all the travelling and I’m a little narked. You’re doing wonders for my mood luke95.
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General, I still fully support the work Randy has done for the club, he's done a terrific job. But I am a little concerned at the moment, it all seems a bit chaotic and obviously today's performance was abject. Did you manage to catch the game today? and can you please reassure us!
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I've not asked for my money back.
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No refund that is football sometimes you win and sometimes lose and sometimes you get spanked.
Just think about Wigan on there last to games 0-4 0-6 both at home should they get there money back?
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If anyone wants their money back then they'll also have to agree to pay double if in the future we win by a similar margin.
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If anyone wants their money back then they'll also have to agree to pay double if in the future we win by a similar margin.
yeh, I wonder how many people go back to the club after a big win, and throw in another fiver for the great display?
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Luke, Ads...last chance for both of you this evening.
Back to questions for the General please.
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I agree fuse - I also am doubting whether randy really feels the need to sell up - if not he needs to appoint a quality manager and give him
some money, we are stagnating without a manager and randy needs to sort this now.
What knowledge does Faulkner have? I am very concerned where this club is heading and it's time randy spoke publicly.
I wanted mon to go but I am beginning to see his reasons as we seem to be looking to do things on the cheap- Bradley would take this club into the abyss, and show we have no ambition.
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I'm with Ads fully on this one, I'm totally pissed off and i have this afternoon kicked the shit out of my garden fence whilst the Villa players sit in thier mansions counting their money, I have to suffer endless windup texts from twats who support Man Utd and have never been to Manchester in their lives. It means so much to me and it has for the last 45 years that was the biggest shambles i have ever seen. Can anyone tell me where is Mr. Lerner tonight ? Good on yer Ads.
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general
Today was totally unacceptable - this our worse experience since Randy took over and I include Moscow and Chelsea. All connected with the first team should hang their heads in shame.
Sort it out now or don't - it's up to you. If the latter, then sell the club to somebody who doesn't really care but has more money than sense. That's preferable to current situation.
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general
Today was totally unacceptable - this our worse experience since Randy took over and I include Moscow and Chelsea. All connected with the first team should hang their heads in shame.
Sort it out now or don't - it's up to you. If the latter, then sell the club to somebody who doesn't really care but has more money than sense. That's preferable to current situation.
Sorry but that is not true. I'd rather have someone who cares about the club and doesn't try and run us into the ground.
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General people on the forum are rightly angered and disappointed today. A lot of what is being posted is clearly "heat of the moment" stuff. I do think that not having a permanent manager is not helping the situation but I also think it needs to be the right decision not a quick decision. Are you able to let us know what sort of timeframe you are working to in finding Martin's replacement?
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Just got back home.
It was a very disappointing performance and result but I do not want my money back.
I'd like to think this was a one off (forget Chelsea away last season) and that the powers that be are in the process of sorting things out.
I'm sure we will not have to endure such a dire performance again.
Did we actually have a shot, on or off target?
Had a good weekend up in Newcastle despite the football. Now need to recover from that and the trip to Vienna.
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I see ambition, but not necessarily the experience within the club to fulfil it.
We need an experienced Manager and quickly General / board, as a good Coach is rarely going to succeed in the toughest ride in thr game over 38 gruelling games - all winnable - all losable.
UTV General.
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General
I stated on this site before the season began and with MON in charge that I was worried that we would struggle this season!!
And after today's deplorable result I see no reason to change my mind, we need positive action now from the owner of the club!! there is no point waiting until the middle of September before deciding who should be the Manager - unfortunately the choice of available managers is not too good,and it seems that Mr Lerner agrees with this because he would have appointed them already.
So it seems to me that we may have to go for a Manager who is currently employed and therefore we will have to pay compensation to get the right man for the job - if that is what is needed do it NOW, if the board thinks that 36000 was a poor attendance for the opening game, then just wait until we are playing Bolton, Fulham etc... and there are only 29000 people there!!
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ok so kevin has had a go, just like everyone wanted him to. now its the boards fault because we lose 6-0.
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Did we actually have a shot, on or off target?
I think Carew had one off target. ;)
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I think it is strange to have one wonderful performance in one week then next week a very poor performance.
Have the interview for manager job started yet ?
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All these seem appropriate to most of the comments above.
I do ponder sometimes that some people seem to think the board/club/manager's job is just to make them happy and as soon as they don't the policy should change.
(http://www.maxforums.net/uploaded/66002/1220544472.jpg)
Blimey..........do you live on your own ?
Where is the panic, its the same manager that was a hero last Saturday and in the week. Its the same squad that played in both.
Several important players were out injured, players from a squad that achieved the magnificent 6th place and went to Wembley twice. Admittedly without Milner.
Talk about fickle.
Yes it was a disgraceful performance, especially defensively, but many of you crying in your beer wanted KM as manager, want young kids to be played week in week out, so the wheels come off and all of a sudden Faulkner, RL, are to blame??
Seriously get a grip.
Sorry General, I know you and RL fully appreciate the disappointment and I'm sure you will come back with answers for calmer heads in time.
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General Krulak here:
1. Like everyone else, I was terribly disappointed in today's result. It was NOT what was expected and it certainly was a low point!! Rest assured, NO ONE is happy about the result...not the owner, not the manager, not the Board and not the players. Believe me, there is not a single player on the squad who wanted a result like that. They are professionals and want to do a professional job.
2. The idea that we must run out and get a manager just to say we have a manager does not make sense to me. To mention a specific name and expect that specific person to show up on monday does not make any sense. To hint that Randy will not name a manager until the window is closed because he wants to save money is pure nonsense! To claim that Randy won't spend money is pure nonsense. All one has to do is look at what he has spent...he is not cheap.
3. I wish I could answer all your comments and address all your concerns. I wish I could say we have the world's best manager and he will be at Bodymoor Heath on Monday. I wish I could say that Messi will be on the Pitch for us next week. I wish I could say alot of things but I can't. What I can say is that we are NOT as bad as we showed today....and that we have better days coming. One good game....one bad game....does NOT a season make.
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GK, you know that following todays game that most posts on here are going to be negative and a lot are written just out of frustration. Most wanted KMac as new boss after last Saturday.
It is going to feel that any players we sign from a new boss are going to be panic buys if we are not careful in giving him a few days.
Even if a new boss was appointed by Thursday, giving him 2 games to cast his eye over the squad before making decisions next weekend, it only leaves him Monday and some of Thursday (does window close at 5pm?), to sign anyone. Currently we have a weaker squad in numbers than the last couple of years which was widely acknowledged....the current squad is now wafer thin.
We also know that you dont comment on players or match strategies but PLASE could you do what you do best and inform us as best as possible on how the New Manager selection is going and by when it might be concluded.?
Cheers
Darren
PS, it seems i was typing at the same time as you.....we'll just keep hoping for the best..MOn has dropped us right in it with his timing...the new boss is going to have to be bloody good to challenge for anything this season now
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General Krulak here:
1. DazVillan: I feel exactly the same way you do. It was a bitter pill to swallow today...and I didn't have a good lager to wash it down with. NO ONE is happy!!! NO ONE!!! Without going into any details, we are working hard on the Manager issue...as you would expect. Randy is not afraid to get the right man...that has been demonstrated in the way he went after the current manager of the Browns. When we get there, it will be announced. At the same time, I think it might be a tad unfair to KM to have everyone turn on him as a result of one performance by the lads. Again, one game doesn't make a season...whether it is an exciting win or a dreadful loss.
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General , have we a shortlist in place and have we started interviews yet? We have had 2 weeks and heard nothing about how the process is going - the situation requires more haste because the transfer window closes in a week.
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General Krulak here:
1. DazVillan: I feel exactly the same way you do. It was a bitter pill to swallow today...and I didn't have a good lager to wash it down with. NO ONE is happy!!! NO ONE!!! Without going into any details, we are working hard on the Manager issue...as you would expect. Randy is not afraid to get the right man...that has been demonstrated in the way he went after the current manager of the Browns. When we get there, it will be announced. At the same time, I think it might be a tad unfair to KM to have everyone turn on him as a result of one performance by the lads. Again, one game doesn't make a season...whether it is an exciting win or a dreadful loss.
Ordinarily I would agree with your last sentence General, but the manner of the defeat and the performance which brought it about was so dreadful that it can have a serious impact on morale and confidence, particularly with a relatively young side such as ours. It wasn't just a defeat, it was a humiliation. So while you're right in that one defeat doesn't necessarily wreck your entire season, a really bad defeat can set the tone.
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General Krulak here:
1. Like everyone else, I was terribly disappointed in today's result. It was NOT what was expected and it certainly was a low point!! Rest assured, NO ONE is happy about the result...not the owner, not the manager, not the Board and not the players. Believe me, there is not a single player on the squad who wanted a result like that. They are professionals and want to do a professional job.
2. The idea that we must run out and get a manager just to say we have a manager does not make sense to me. To mention a specific name and expect that specific person to show up on monday does not make any sense. To hint that Randy will not name a manager until the window is closed because he wants to save money is pure nonsense! To claim that Randy won't spend money is pure nonsense. All one has to do is look at what he has spent...he is not cheap.
3. I wish I could answer all your comments and address all your concerns. I wish I could say we have the world's best manager and he will be at Bodymoor Heath on Monday. I wish I could say that Messi will be on the Pitch for us next week. I wish I could say alot of things but I can't. What I can say is that we are NOT as bad as we showed today....and that we have better days coming. One good game....one bad game....does NOT a season make.
Hi General, fair play to you for coming on tonight... I know I wouldn't if I was in your shoes haha.
Just to address question 1&2.
1. I think most Villa fans are bewildered at the team selection today... first of all, is it true Curtis Davies didn't play today because they're was some sort of 'clause' in his contract? I don't who decided that Clark should play instead of Davies, but whoever did made a joke decision. Clark looked lost and bewildered today, Davies is the more experienced and better player... just baffling. The decision to play such a lightweight midfield was bad also, Reo-Coker and Petrov should of played together in the holding midfield position with Ireland just playing off Carew with Young and Downing playing on the wings.
2. I'm pleased to hear you're saying Randy isn't going to zip up his wallet and not spend anymore money because it's plainly obvious we need a top midfielder who can play with Petrov. We're crying out for someone like Flamini, Scott Parker or Diarra who will keep the ball and give our central-midfield some 'steel' (Ireland is not a central midfielder, he is an attacking midfielder). Villa fans will be deeply disappointed if we don't sign one of the three players I've just noted... what's stopping us from getting a fantastic player like Flamini for only £5 million who is out of the Milan team and will make our midfield so much better. Randy now has the chance which will take our team to a new level... he must take this chance, it's vital.
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Fair play for answering today General.
To be fair, we appreciate you can't say a great deal, but we feel that the right appointment is essential for us to build on the foundations you have laid.
We are a big club, we should'nt be going for experimental managers, we should be appointing successful managers from smaller clubs, or big name managers, in between jobs.Anything else, in my eyes would severely effect the club.
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General, thanks for posting. I think thats a tough thing to do on a day that ended so disappointingly. Three games is no time at all to make any rash decisions, so I remain more concerned about you getting the right man in for the long term. We have a good squad. No one man makes so much of a difference (MON or Milner), and we still have virtually the same squad that made wembley twice, and sixth in the league, with arguably only City making big changes. I had a bad feeling about how much Newcastle would be up for it, and but for a poor penalty, a different decision on Ashley Youngs handball, things could have been very different. That it wasnt, just means we pick ourselves up, and go and take wins over Rapid and Everton. Id rather you (RL) be slow and right, than fast and wrong in your decision, and pleasingly thats what you seem to think to.
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General -
I don't think anyone will 'turn' on Kevin Mac, he will get the fans support win lose or draw. He is learning at this level and he's doing his best.
We just need more clarity of what is happening, and who will get the job. Aston Villa should NEVER lose 6-0 to Newcastle, irrespective of the manager. It is clear that the players have let us down today on the whole and a large number of them need replacing. The window for transfers shuts soon, is this going to be a season that is going to be written off (or transitional as seems a more favourable media friendly word) or are we actually going to have a go at sorting the issues out as a matter of urgency?
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Luke, Ads...last chance for both of you this evening.
Back to questions for the General please.
Fair enough.
Is there any particular reason why a some of my posts have been deleted ??
I wouldve PM'd you but am unable to for some reason.
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Really appreciated you posting, General, can't have been easy!
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General is Randy on a plane back to Villa Park after such a shambolic performance? Kneejerk maybe but IMO we need him at the helm and at Villa Park. These are worrying times and i for one cannot see better times ahead as you said earlier.
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Believe me, there is not a single player on the squad who wanted a result like that. They are professionals and want to do a professional job.
They just gave up today, and that simply is not acceptable. There wasn't a single "professional" out there today General, not one of them was fit to wear the shirt.
I said a few weeks ago on your thread that things just didn't feel right, and today just reinforces that view. This isn't how I thought we'd be starting our 5th year of Randy's tenure, not by a long way. Disappointing is all I'll say.
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Nah you can’t ask for a refund, because being a football fan involves being a stupid twat and taking it up the arse off the industry.
You have to take it and lump it just because “its a gamble”. Never mind the fact that you’ve got fuck all money left after a week of following the Villa, never mind the fact you’ve paid for the privilege of being humiliated- you did it out of choice and you have no right to recompense because you're a fucking idiot who should have realised it was a load of shit 20 years ago, but instead of spending your money elsewhere you've pissed it up the wall following the Villa.
Fuck off and die football. It was better when we were kicking the shit out of each other in crumbling shit holes- at least it cost us near enough fuck all then.
Shut up !
If you've spunked all your money away on following the Villa more fool you .
I know I’m a fool, what do you think the fucking comment is about? Its a self reflection that I've just wasted over 20 years fucking around spending money and time following a shower of c***s. Thanks for your input though.
So they've been a shower of c**ts the last 20 years then ??, there has been as many highs as there has been lows .
Get a grip. FFS
We lose 6-0 at aside that will struggle to finish in the top 15 and you're telling someone to get a grip?
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I think today puts a huge pressure on getting the right man - who from the way you are talking General appears to have been identified - in as soon as possible, regardless of cost. We need someone to organise and command the troops. I fear, and it is often the case with a great coach, that the players know KM is too nice a guy to be chucking a hot cup of tea, kicking over the physio table and bursting a vein or two in his neck at half time to rectify a poor display. I think players need an element of fear from a manager, to know who is boss. At the moment they don't. Today it showed.... and that is by no means a criticism of KM, who it is imperative has a role to play in the new regime.
It also must be tough for him when a great number of our coaches have also left - so it begs the question of how long we can function with a bare bones coaching staff for a top 6 premiership club.
One thing I would say is any suggestion that Randy is trying to save a few quid and not spend the money etc is scandalous, and has nothing to do with players putting in their all and not allowing the opposition to bully them the way our lads rolled over today. Randy has proved his worth, I hope from the comment re the Browns we have an exciting and strong leader in soon.
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General, you say that the idea that we must rush out and get a manager makes no sense and you're right. I may be mistaken but weren't we told that we'd have somebody in by the Everton game? The job is too big to see how it goes in terms of appointing Kevin McDonald. Make a decision and appoint the man because yes it does make a difference when there is calm at the top.
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General, can you say whether any further transfer activity, both in and out of the club, for the remainder of the window is dependent on a full-time manager being appointed within that time?
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I don't who decided that Clark should play instead of Davies, but whoever did made a joke decision. Clark looked lost and bewildered today, Davies is the more experienced and better player... just baffling.
Wrong.
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General, can you say whether any further transfer activity, both in and out of the club, for the remainder of the window is dependent on a full-time manager being appointed within that time?
Good question that
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Hi General
I agree with Eamonn's question. Moreover, can you give us any idea on expected timescales for a managerial appointment?
We can all handle a defeat but to give up like we did yesterday was unacceptable.
I have to say, I think that result has just cost you about £150,000 in gate receipts for Thursday night.
And if we get knocked out then you are going to get an awful lot of difficult questions. I think we just need some stability so this can all settle down.
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I wish I could say we have the world's best manager and he will be at Bodymoor Heath on Monday. I wish I could say that Messi will be on the Pitch for us next week. I wish I could say alot of things but I can't. What I can say is that we are NOT as bad as we showed today....and that we have better days coming. One good game....one bad game....does NOT a season make.
General, I posted this elsewhere but really this is the right place for it. Not having a go at you specifically you understand, just a view from the outside:
Yesterday was a blessing in disguise: at least we are now reasonably assured that the (perhaps understandable) wave of sympathy and support for the Board and KM will subside to reveal the situation as it really is, i.e., that the leadership has somehow managed to lose its key employee at a critical time.
If that had happened in my job under my watch, then my boss would be asking me why the hell I didn't have the risk covered. There is no hiding place for the Board I'm afraid, notwithstanding MoN's very poor judgement in terms of timing his departure.
So, we will not have KM as manager. Thank Christ (for us but also for him). We are Aston Villa; Ricky Sbragia type solutions are not for us.
We are beginning to look very naive in terms of our approach at executive level: slightly parochial, unconnected, rudderless, indecisive, out of control of events. We need a quality and experienced manager and very, very quickly and that manager needs to have a week or so to deal in the transfer market. That is so painfully obvious. If it has to be Sven for one year with a medium term plan behind that, then so be it. At least he would likely get the basics of the team setup and approach right. He'd also have an idea about one or two players he would like in, I imagine.
Bob Bradley, why not? Just not this year, it's not the right time.
Come on guys, get your acts together.
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Bob Bradley, why not? Just not this year, it's not the right time
definitely not
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General
Bob Bradley is quoted in the Independent today as having made contact, one way or another, with the club regarding the managerial position.
My personal view is that, if we appoint him, it will be a disaster. This is just for the record as a concerned supporter.
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The problem we have now is down to MON, I had an employee give notice a while back after working for me for eleven years, he was an integral member of staff and had been well looked after, he was in a vital position. I asked him to stay until i could train someone up but he refused. It took six months before things settled down. I would imagine it won't be any different at Villa.
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The problem we have now is down to MON, I had an employee give notice a while back after working for me for eleven years, he was an integral member of staff and had been well looked after, he was in a vital position. I asked him to stay until i could train someone up but he refused. It took six months before things settled down. I would imagine it won't be any different at Villa.
O'Neill did say '' I will obviously be assisting the club in the immediate short-term with regard to the handover of my duties."
What form did this take?
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From reports he picked the side and before Fitzgerald handled transfers not much else. Not much to hand over.
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General, as you've said already, the club will find the right man for the job. Yesterday's result brought many of us back down to earth faster, and more painfully, than we'd imagined after such a great start to the season under Kevin MacDonald last week.
We're all upset after yesterday's result and in particular the manner of it. I've a lot of respect for Kevin MacDonald for having taken the responsibility for it in his post-match interviews. It's easy to pick apart a whole number of things but in essence the only change to the side that won so handsomely on day one was Ireland in for Milner. Had the penalty have gone in I'm sure we'd have had a different outcome, however, we didn't.
I personally would rather we had a couple more weeks of pain to get the right appointment for the next few years, than rush it and get it wrong. Randy doesn't strike me as a man that gambles so I'm not sure how the management appointment thing will go, Bob Bradley would clearly be a gamble. If it turned out well, Randy is a hero and if it fails, I'm sure I don't need to tell you what the reaction would likely be. There really doesn't appear to be many high-quality managers out of work at the moment, have we approached other clubs about theirs?
p.s. Please can you give Randy a nudge about buying another midfielder and striker. Thanks
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the players must take the full blame for yesterday... the lack of effort and work rate, not closing things down and the very visible show of them giving up was utterly disgraceful and totally unforgiveable..
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If we get Bob fucking Bradley then we might as well jack it all in and wind the club up. Its a waste of everybody's time and money.
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General, who exactly is in charge of our transfer targets/policy right now?
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If we get Bob fucking Bradley then we might as well jack it all in and wind the club up. Its a waste of everybody's time and money.
Ads, this is your final warning, calm down a bit.
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General, who exactly is in charge of our transfer targets/policy right now?
The General said the manager is. This either means that Kevin is indeed the manager or Randy has bought Ireland off his own bat - you wouldn't let a caretaker manager buy an 8million pound + player on £60K+ p/w would you?
I must admit I am concerned.
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General, if bob Bradley becomes manager of Aston villa then we will no longer be mentioned as a top 6 club, we cannot have a man with no experience of English or European football ,and I believe many fans would turn on the board if that happened.
I do not agree that it should take so long to appoint a manager, this is a vital time and the dithering about gives the new man no chance to buy players in (maybe that's the plan).
We need an experienced manager now and please could you confirm whether randy has gone home as there was no sign of him yesterday?
The next few days will go a long way to showing us whether the board has the ambition this club so needs.
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GERNERAL, PLEASE READ THIS
IF YOU READ ALL THESE POSTS PLEASE PLEASE PASS IT ON TO MR LERENER THAT WE AS PAYING LOYAL FANS DO NOT FOR THE LOVE OF GOD WANT BOB BRADLEY AS MANAGER !!! WE PAY FOR OUR SEASON TICKETS AND TICKETS AND FOLLOW THE CLUB ABOUT THE COUNTRY ( AND EURPOPE ). WE DESERVE SOME SORT OF SAY. I AM SURE WE WILL RESPECT WHOEVER ELSE YOU APPOINT BUT PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT APPOINT BOB BRADLEY AS I WILL SERIROUSLY CONSIDER GIVING MY 13TH YEAR SEASON TICKET UP AND GO AND SUPPORT BROMSGROVE ROVERS
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I'd really prefer it if you stopped speaking for all of us pmk1981.
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ok, do you want bob bradley in charge ?
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GERNERAL, PLEASE READ THIS
IF YOU READ ALL THESE POSTS PLEASE PLEASE PASS IT ON TO MR LERENER THAT WE AS PAYING LOYAL FANS DO NOT FOR THE LOVE OF GOD WANT BOB BRADLEY AS MANAGER !!! WE PAY FOR OUR SEASON TICKETS AND TICKETS AND FOLLOW THE CLUB ABOUT THE COUNTRY ( AND EURPOPE ). WE DESERVE SOME SORT OF SAY. I AM SURE WE WILL RESPECT WHOEVER ELSE YOU APPOINT BUT PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT APPOINT BOB BRADLEY AS I WILL SERIROUSLY CONSIDER GIVING MY 13TH YEAR SEASON TICKET UP AND GO AND SUPPORT BROMSGROVE ROVERS
I don't think you will, somehow.
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General, may I add that for some reason I don't really have any feelings either way about Bob Bradley. I'd be concerned about his lack of experience at this level and would expect a number 2 to be appointed with him who knows the English game. Unless the ultimate plan is to turn us into Aston Villa Clarets and start throwing small egg-shaped balls to beefy men in jodhpurs. If that is the case then would you relocate us to the South caost? Its nice down there. Hove Clarets anyone? No? okay.
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I'm neither for or against someone like Bob Bradley. But how some people can get so hot over someone they know next to nothing about in terms of their ability I have no idea. I bet when Arsenal appointed some geeky looking bloke with experience in France/Japan, and Man U got some fella with success with a small team in Scotland the fans were just as livid.
Quite honestly, as fans we have very little knowledge of how good or bad someone can be in a new position. Especially someone who's never managed in the PL. That shouldn't be any indicator of their ability otherwise lots of foreign managers would never get a job in England e.g Mourinho, Hiddink, Benitez etc.
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GERNERAL, PLEASE READ THIS
IF YOU READ ALL THESE POSTS PLEASE PLEASE PASS IT ON TO MR LERENER THAT WE AS PAYING LOYAL FANS DO NOT FOR THE LOVE OF GOD WANT BOB BRADLEY AS MANAGER !!! WE PAY FOR OUR SEASON TICKETS AND TICKETS AND FOLLOW THE CLUB ABOUT THE COUNTRY ( AND EURPOPE ). WE DESERVE SOME SORT OF SAY. I AM SURE WE WILL RESPECT WHOEVER ELSE YOU APPOINT BUT PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT APPOINT BOB BRADLEY AS I WILL SERIROUSLY CONSIDER GIVING MY 13TH YEAR SEASON TICKET UP AND GO AND SUPPORT BROMSGROVE ROVERS
I don't think you will, somehow.
dave, you are right ,i coulnt give up the villa, and of course if bradley gets the job i will be behind the bloke but i dont want to be in that position......
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ok, do you want bob bradley in charge ?
As I don't know anything about him, like you I'd imagine, I don't know if I want him as our manager. I'd certainly never stop supporting the club. I also know how to turn my capslock key off.
Anyway, this isn't the place to discuss it, there's already a place to discuss the new manager.
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GERNERAL, PLEASE READ THIS
IF YOU READ ALL THESE POSTS PLEASE PLEASE PASS IT ON TO MR LERENER THAT WE AS PAYING LOYAL FANS DO NOT FOR THE LOVE OF GOD WANT BOB BRADLEY AS MANAGER !!! WE PAY FOR OUR SEASON TICKETS AND TICKETS AND FOLLOW THE CLUB ABOUT THE COUNTRY ( AND EURPOPE ). WE DESERVE SOME SORT OF SAY. I AM SURE WE WILL RESPECT WHOEVER ELSE YOU APPOINT BUT PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT APPOINT BOB BRADLEY AS I WILL SERIROUSLY CONSIDER GIVING MY 13TH YEAR SEASON TICKET UP AND GO AND SUPPORT BROMSGROVE ROVERS
I don't think you will, somehow.
dave, you are right ,i coulnt give up the villa, and of course if bradley gets the job i will be behind the bloke but i dont want to be in that position......
You certainly won't watch Bromsgrove Rovers.
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pmk - to the non league thread if you want to know what Dave is on about!
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you know what, ever since oniel left most of the discussions on here turn into fellow villa fans arguing i dont want to get into an argument but i would rather someone who knows the english / european game to be given a chance. Bob Bradley had his usa team play well against very shit sides in the world cup and yes i include england in that. Just think we need someone that the players will respect, ie kev macdonald
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you know what, ever since oniel left most of the discussions on here turn into fellow villa fans arguing i dont want to get into an argument but i would rather someone who knows the english / european game to be given a chance. Bob Bradley had his usa team play well against very shit sides in the world cup and yes i include england in that. Just think we need someone that the players will respect, ie kev macdonald
Yes, but managed to tactically find a way of beating Spain the year before, and nearly Brazil. You cannot discount that with a good, not great US team. England didn't close to getting the ball off Spain in a friendly, and I dare say it would have been the same against Brazil with a much better manager.
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you know what, ever since oniel left most of the discussions on here turn into fellow villa fans arguing i dont want to get into an argument but i would rather someone who knows the english / european game to be given a chance. Bob Bradley had his usa team play well against very shit sides in the world cup and yes i include england in that. Just think we need someone that the players will respect, ie kev macdonald
Yes, but managed to tactically find a way of beating Spain the year before, and nearly Brazil. You cannot discount that with a good, not great US team. England didn't close to getting the ball off Spain in a friendly, and I dare say it would have been the same against Brazil with a much better manager.
Indeed. I do think it's wrong to discount him outright.
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Actually general, tell bob that he can only have the job if he brings his son.
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Actually general, tell bob that he can only have the job if he brings his son.
Seconded. If we were ever looking for a midfielder destroyer that can actually play a bit it is Micheal Bradley. I think he'd fit in brilliantly in the PL alongside Stephen Ireland. In fact there have been very few US born players that haven't done well in England come to think of it.
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General, may I add that for some reason I don't really have any feelings either way about Bob Bradley. I'd be concerned about his lack of experience at this level and would expect a number 2 to be appointed with him who knows the English game.
Agree with this.
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There's a manager thread to discuss managers.
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General Krulak here:
1. I find it somewhat disconcerting to discover that after all the good moves made by the Club over the past few years (and here I mean the entire Club NOT just Randy and the Board...but all the people who have put their hearts and souls into the Club) that somehow we are now rudderless, leaderless, etc. etc. Are we in a tough spot right now? Absolutely! Do we recognize that fact? Absolutely! Are we working to correct it? Absolutely! One of the problems is that you want me to come on the site and say, "Here is the list of people we are looking at...here is who we think we want...here is where we are on the negotiations...and here is when we expect him on site." Don't you see that I cannot do that...that it would make absolutely ZERO sense! Our previous manager left us 5 days before the kickoff of the season...5 days. No warning...he and Randy had talked on Saturday and Randy had flown back to the US secure in the knowledge that all was fine...only to learn on Monday that the man had resigned. Randy immediately flew back to the UK...completed theMilner/Ireland deal...put KM in charge as the interim manager and began to bring advisors in re. the choice of the next manager. The lads played a fine game against West Ham and took an away goal at Rapid Vienna...they came back and went to Newcastle and had a howler...we ALL know that. How many quality managers do you think are out there right now waiting on their couches at home..waiting for a call from the Villa? How many have currently just signed contracts and cannot get out of them? This is NOT some simple task of just going out and throwing money at someone and having them just pick up and leave their Club. People say that KM is ambivalent about the position...no, he is doing what many would do in his place...he is giving it a think. Does that make him a bad person? A week ago many fans were saying, "Give it to Kevin"...now, one game later, it is throw him out. Let's get serious here...we are working this issue hard but we need to do it right...I just cannot come on this site and sgive the details you want. Each of you already know that whatever I say that might be "newsworthy" will automatically get in the papers. Why would you want me to do that?
2. I absolutely know you are frustrated! Randy knows it! We care deeply about the Club and are as concerned as any out there. I make sure your comments are heard...ALL of them. I attempt to provide as much info as I can but I also need to be circumspect in what I say because it won't help the cause to be too outspoken.
3. There is a rumor out there re. Curtis Davis and playing and his contract. Total nonsense.
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Thank you general for making things a bit clearer- clearly martin leaving like he did has done us no favours but I'm sure with the right appointment we will look back in time at his leaving as a blessing in disguise.
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"Waiting for a call from THE Villa" General. It is always 'THE' in capital letters....otherwise top rant!
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Yes thank you for the clear up General and also putting the Curtis Davies rumour to bed.
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Thanks, general. Now can we please stop the backbiting, at least on this thread.
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Well said General - you are absolutely right in everything you say.
Please don't appoint Bob Bradley though!!
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General, sir. Top marks for that response. This is a hell of task that you and the rest of the board have. We all need to cool down, because this appointment will shape Villa for the next few years. The next few games as important as they are will pale into insignificance if we cannot get this appointment right.
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Shall we all have a drink to the General tonight a) to relax and b) to him - he doesn't have to come here to post, and at the moment he's kind of fighting against the fans with whom there is tremendous 2 way respect.
Cheers everyone, and relax while Randy & Co sort things out.
ps. I'm not being a sycophant !
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General, no need to take this advice but now that MON has gone why don't you take the lads to one side and give them one of your 'pep' talks.
KM would appreciate it, I would appreciate, and so would the Hearts and souls of the club.
We need leadership, you've got proven leadership, so use your skills to gel the club, the players and the fans together, just in case it gets a bit too frenzied.
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General Krulak
I agree with the sentiment of your post. Few things in life are as bad as the Villa getting hammered, particularly by the like of Newcastle, however probably the worst part of a bad defeat is reading some of the garbage that appears on this site (others too probably). People do need to vent their frustration but some of the knee jerk stuff I've read here over the past couple of days are just sad. Surely people can handle their disappointment in a more mature way by beating up their wife or perhaps driving under the influence! It always works for me.
Thanks for your patience in the face of some pretty absurd accusations pointed at the Club.
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General Krulak here:
1. I find it somewhat disconcerting to discover that after all the good moves made by the Club over the past few years (and here I mean the entire Club NOT just Randy and the Board...but all the people who have put their hearts and souls into the Club) that somehow we are now rudderless, leaderless, etc. etc. Are we in a tough spot right now? Absolutely! Do we recognize that fact? Absolutely! Are we working to correct it? Absolutely! One of the problems is that you want me to come on the site and say, "Here is the list of people we are looking at...here is who we think we want...here is where we are on the negotiations...and here is when we expect him on site." Don't you see that I cannot do that...that it would make absolutely ZERO sense! Our previous manager left us 5 days before the kickoff of the season...5 days. No warning...he and Randy had talked on Saturday and Randy had flown back to the US secure in the knowledge that all was fine...only to learn on Monday that the man had resigned. Randy immediately flew back to the UK...completed theMilner/Ireland deal...put KM in charge as the interim manager and began to bring advisors in re. the choice of the next manager. The lads played a fine game against West Ham and took an away goal at Rapid Vienna...they came back and went to Newcastle and had a howler...we ALL know that. How many quality managers do you think are out there right now waiting on their couches at home..waiting for a call from the Villa? How many have currently just signed contracts and cannot get out of them? This is NOT some simple task of just going out and throwing money at someone and having them just pick up and leave their Club. People say that KM is ambivalent about the position...no, he is doing what many would do in his place...he is giving it a think. Does that make him a bad person? A week ago many fans were saying, "Give it to Kevin"...now, one game later, it is throw him out. Let's get serious here...we are working this issue hard but we need to do it right...I just cannot come on this site and sgive the details you want. Each of you already know that whatever I say that might be "newsworthy" will automatically get in the papers. Why would you want me to do that?
2. I absolutely know you are frustrated! Randy knows it! We care deeply about the Club and are as concerned as any out there. I make sure your comments are heard...ALL of them. I attempt to provide as much info as I can but I also need to be circumspect in what I say because it won't help the cause to be too outspoken.
3. There is a rumor out there re. Curtis Davis and playing and his contract. Total nonsense.
General, just remember that the comments on here are made by people who love the Villa and are hurting. A couple of weeks ago I posted that I was not feeling the same connection to the club or football that I have felt in the past. This result has hurt me a lot and is a bitter pill to swallow. So please understand that some comments made are just people lashing out in anger/pain at seeing our club humiliated in such a way. At least it has proved to me that I still feel the same about the Villa as I always have done and always will do, just like every true Villa supporter.
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1. I find it somewhat disconcerting to discover that after all the good moves made by the Club over the past few years (and here I mean the entire Club NOT just Randy and the Board...but all the people who have put their hearts and souls into the Club) that somehow we are now rudderless, leaderless, etc. etc. Are we in a tough spot right now? Absolutely! Do we recognize that fact? Absolutely! Are we working to correct it? Absolutely!
Hello General. Thanks for posting a response. I don't think anyone is doubting that we are working towards a solution (and in any case, how could we know otherwise?) but you will know from your military days that decisive leadership at critical times is important in terms of the message that is being sent out to the troops, so to speak. If you look at it from the fans' (or players') point of view, I reckon it would be hard to deny that we are lacking in that leadership and direction right now. We don't look like we know which path we should take and that we are lacking in experience. Obviously, I hope events prove me wrong.
Your comments re MON's resignation are interesting and his abysmal timing means that he has forfeited a good deal, if not all, the goodwill he was afforded as manager. Nevertheless, it is the job of those who lead to maanage that risk and, failing that, esnsure that there is a plan B in place. There really doesn't look like we have one. In addition, while I suppose that this is all water under the bridge, your comments suggest that MON had dealings with someone other than RL between the Saturday and the Monday and that (assuming that MON and RL had an "understanding") this had something to do with his resignation. Like I say, all water under the bridge I guess.
Finally, I don't think you should read into that a lack of gratitude at the progress the club has made over recent years. It isn't that, but more like a show of concern that that progress is in danger of being frittered away.
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Thanks General for a great post !!! I for one am behind kevin mac 1000000 % and even more so for him coming on National Tv and admitting he was WRONG and it was his fault and that i respect the chap. Never seen a manager do that before. Sunday was a freak and a learning curve for Kevin, he will learn from that and it will help him move on and help in the motivation of the players for the coming games. After all it is only 3 points lost and we can bounce back in the leagiue on sunday. I admit i may of been wrong posting earlier about bob bradley not being wanted here, but im sure you guys will make the right decision.
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Shall we all have a drink to the General tonight a) to relax and b) to him - he doesn't have to come here to post, and at the moment he's kind of fighting against the fans with whom there is tremendous 2 way respect.
Cheers everyone, and relax while Randy & Co sort things out.
ps. I'm not being a sycophant !
I like your suggestion. I'm going to pour another glass!
Don't forget it looks like at the end of tonight we will be 2 pts ahead of the bindippers with a similar goal difference so things can't all be that bad.
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General thanks for your reply. It came from the heart and thats all we can ask for. Personally I am worried at the moment about whats going on but I would rather the club wait to get the right man than rush into getting the wrong man which would put us back years. With the squad we have KM could cope until Xmas if it came to it I m sure. I trust you and Randy 100% to do whats right whoever you choose. Whoever comes in I m sure people will get behind 100%. A lot of people did nt want John Gregory when he came in but I remember he got a lot of backing once in post.
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I think that the big issue here is although Martin O'Neill moved us forward, we ultimately still didn't make progress in certain areas. To change some of those issues appears simplistic enough with the addition of 2/3 players. Of course, with the transfer deadline fast approaching and no manager in place this could be YET ANOTHER season of season Petrov run out of legs on 60 minutes and Heskey and Carew fighting it out to be the most ineffective striker ever.
I feel this will be a big test on the fans loyalty, as realistically it could well be another season of little change. I think it would be helpful if Randy was a little more vocal at present, because when he does speak - people listen. He also needs to in England for the foreseeable future to help move things along quickly in the transfer market if need be.
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This is just another instalment of of the ups and down of Aston Villa. We will survive this time as we have survives all other times. We should trust in Randy as he has never done anything to give us any reason not to has he?
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Top post again GK...thanks for giving us the insights into everything you possibly can...no other club has contact with the fans like us....thats down to you sir, well done, never one to duck a bullet.
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General
I think it would be nice/positive if you responded to those who praised/supported Randy's activities/initatives at the Villa and not just to those who critizise this current administration.
I believe Randy is doing a great job, as indeed you are.
Isaac
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General Krulak here:
1. Please know that I understand the frustration...and confess that I feel it too at times. It is painful to wait...and painful to bear what has been placed on us. I absolutely pass on EVERY comment made on H&V...positive and negative. NO ONE has ever asked me to "tone down" a post and if they did, I would tell them to stuff it. Randy wants to know what people think and Randy needs to know what people think. I have NEVER seen him back away from a challenge and he won't now. There is no question we need to make some decisions and I can tell you, we will.
2. I absolutely recognize that there are a legion of fans who are supporting and have been supporting Randy and the Club. It is GREATLY appreciated!! Again, there is no attempt to portray the Fans in ANY light other than caring folk who want nothing more than the best for the Club. Being frustrated and venting does not lessen the belief of the Fan or his/her concern for the Club.
3. KM was a man in his comments....I have a great deal of respect for his stance.
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General Krulak if there was a saluting smiley I would be using it, it is great that you take the time to post here and I always look forward to your posts.
UTV
The Doc
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General Krulak if there was a saluting smiley I would be using it, it is great that you take the time to post here and I always look forward to your posts.
UTV
The Doc
I Agree. Great post & just having someone from Villa read these boards & comment i think is brilliant.
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(http://combatsim.invisionzone.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/icon_salute3.gif)
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General, I would simply like to echo the sentiments of those above and thank you for taking the time to post candidly. It genuinely helps sooth the apprehension I feel about the present season.
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General top posts over the last couple of days. Thanks for keeping us in the picture as much as possible.
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General Krulak if there was a saluting smiley I would be using it, it is great that you take the time to post here and I always look forward to your posts.
UTV
The Doc
(http://209.85.12.227/12095/23/emo/salute2.gif)
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Heartfelt words general,but do you think it is now time to see if further investment in to club would be right thing to do as it seems we are at a level and if we want to be serious about champions league aspirations ,we will need to invest more.
maybe a dubai billionaire or chinese billionaire will take us to next level.
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(http://combatsim.invisionzone.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/icon_salute3.gif)
Cheers Maz
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General Krulak if there was a saluting smiley I would be using it, it is great that you take the time to post here and I always look forward to your posts.
UTV
The Doc
(http://209.85.12.227/12095/23/emo/salute2.gif)
That's fantastic. He's in uniform AND he's taller than Maz.
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General,
Thank you for your responses here. It is well and truly beyond the call of duty.
I started a thread and some posters have suggested that I was showing a lack of respect to you and Randy.
That was not my intention and I apologise if you may have perceived it as so.
It is an incredibly frustrating time for Villa fans as we are in the dark as to what's going on re appointing a new manager and the possibilty of signing players before the window shuts.
I understand that this is unavoidable. The only way for you to go about your business effectively is to keep things out of the public domain.
So please understand that everyone is behind you, but until there is a new man in place and we can see what, if any, signings are made, there are going to be concerns. These are unchartered waters for the club in the Randy era and having blind faith is not everyones cup of tea.
Thanks
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Hi General,
Apologies, I think my question got lost in the onslaught of comments!!!
I have heard KM state that things are very stretched coaching wise at the moment. Will we be looking at bringing in some temporary coaches to assist KM if no manager is appointed soon?
Many thanks
Adam
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General, who's in charge of the reserves?
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Gordon Cowans.
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And who's doing Gordon Cowans's job?
To be honest Mark it wasn't an entirewly serious question just thought it would lighten the 'aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh' mood regarding mangaers and the like.
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General Krulak here:
1. Do I think that we need to continue to invest in the Club? Absolutely! There is no question that, like most Clubs, we have some areas where we could use help. Anyone who watches us play can come to that very same conclusion. That is NOT a slam against our players!! Gabby, Collins and Cuellar will all be back this week...players who can make a difference right now. Is there that "special someone" out there who can make the "final" difference...I don't know but I am sure that we have people looking at that. The question is about availability and total cost. I am NOT in the transfer business so I am NOT able to answer those two questions...and neither are most who post on this thread. What I try very hard to do is answer those questions that I can answer, pass on to Randy those issues that are of great concern to the Fans, and try to make sense of difficult situations. Sometimes I succeed...and sometimes I fail. I recognize that.
2. I will be off the site until Friday. I am going to a Board Meeting in Houston (not AVFC) and will not be able to be on site. I am not a coward...and I am not skipping out.
3. We ALL recognize that life is tough right now. NO ONE is sitting on their hands.
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General Krulak here:
2. I will be off the site until Friday. I am going to a Board Meeting in Houston (not AVFC) and will not be able to be on site. I am not a coward...and I am not skipping out.
Sir, you are certainly no coward.
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
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What you doing for Eid, General?
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Top post Mazrim. Top post.
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
Brilliant Mazrim. That's probably the first time I've laughed since before Sunday.
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
genuine LOL
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General-As a regular reader of this thread (not a contributor admittedly) I feel I have an idea of where you are comming from.Whilst I usually agree with your comments,I think you are way off the mark if you think you have the same feelings for AVFC as some of the fans on here.
As I see it,your support is for Randy-If he were to leave tomorrow,would you still be following Villa & their results in two years time?For most of us,Villa are for life-We have a saying over here:"You can change your car,you can change your wife but you can never change your football team"Nobody expects you to be dancing from the rooftops after Sunday but the hurt,anguish,frustration & uncertainty that the fans over here are feeling is 24/7 in a lot of cases.
To compare every situation in life to the American Marines is very short sighted & the contex you used in the "new recruit/football fan" scenario is completely unrealistic.
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
genuine LOL
Ditto lol
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Could you get NASA to work with our team with space age methods too modern for all the competition :)
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Is there no Internet in Houston?
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
Excellent!
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Hi General, PLease can you comment on this post that someone posted on another thread ?
I hope to god it isnt bob bradley
Anyone read this post by GingerCollins29 on VillaTalk?
"Mr. Lerner prefers to be discreet with these things, which is why there has not been a sniff.
Unfortunately if I mention a name, then I will be liable. However the new manager has managed at International Level before, and one of his targets has played under him. I maintain still that the manager will be revealed within the media on Thursday, with an official press conference on Friday. There are 3 main transfer targets, a defender, a midfielder (this is the player that has worked under the new manager), and a striker. Deals for the midfielder and the striker will be completed prior to the Everton game, whereas there has been a delay on the defender deal due to wages. Unfortunately I cannot confirm when this player will join."
http://www.villatalk.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=63816&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=75
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Hi General, PLease can you comment on this post that someone posted on another thread ?
I hope to god it isnt bob bradley
Anyone read this post by GingerCollins29 on VillaTalk?
"Mr. Lerner prefers to be discreet with these things, which is why there has not been a sniff.
Unfortunately if I mention a name, then I will be liable. However the new manager has managed at International Level before, and one of his targets has played under him. I maintain still that the manager will be revealed within the media on Thursday, with an official press conference on Friday. There are 3 main transfer targets, a defender, a midfielder (this is the player that has worked under the new manager), and a striker. Deals for the midfielder and the striker will be completed prior to the Everton game, whereas there has been a delay on the defender deal due to wages. Unfortunately I cannot confirm when this player will join."
http://www.villatalk.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=63816&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=75
pmk1981, GingerCollins29 = same person?
Would make sense. Should ask Villatalk for an IP.
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Hi General, PLease can you comment on this post that someone posted on another thread ?
I hope to god it isnt bob bradley
Anyone read this post by GingerCollins29 on VillaTalk?
"Mr. Lerner prefers to be discreet with these things, which is why there has not been a sniff.
Unfortunately if I mention a name, then I will be liable. However the new manager has managed at International Level before, and one of his targets has played under him. I maintain still that the manager will be revealed within the media on Thursday, with an official press conference on Friday. There are 3 main transfer targets, a defender, a midfielder (this is the player that has worked under the new manager), and a striker. Deals for the midfielder and the striker will be completed prior to the Everton game, whereas there has been a delay on the defender deal due to wages. Unfortunately I cannot confirm when this player will join."
http://www.villatalk.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&t=63816&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=75
Can we not ask the General to confirm or deny stuff like that.
He's made it clear he can't comment on that kind of thing.
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plus he is away in Houston.
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plus he is away in Houston.
What he Is inside Whitney? The lucky bugger!
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plus he is away in Houston.
What he Is inside Whitney? The lucky bugger!
;)
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He's one of a specialised team that have been miniaturised to travel into Ms Houston to remove one of Bobby Brown's shoes from her backside.
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
Post of the year prize to Mazrim.
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
Post of the year prize to Mazrim.
Definitely!
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
Post of the year prize to Mazrim.
In the General's absence - I'm sure he would say something like - we don't have a problem - but we are working on the solution!
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plus he is away in Houston.
Isn't the Dundee United manager's name Houston? ;)
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General. Can you tell Houston we have a problem?
Post of the year prize to Mazrim.
Definitely!
this is very funny! well done poster
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Is there no Internet in Houston?
No, it was washed out to sea after the last hurricane.
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the Arsenal coach Stewart Houston to be announced as Villa manager then
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General
I am not sure if it has been mentioned before. When O'Neill left did he take his tame press reporter with him?
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General
I don't want to know names or any other info, but I was wondering whether or not we are working on any signings prior to the transfer window closing?
Are we looking to bring people in? Should be bother getting excited or has the manager situation uncertainty made signings unlikely?
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General,
Again a poor performance by the team. Little motivation,No pride and amateur defending!
We are starting to look rudderless. The team are obviously not playing for KM. I understand it is hard to find a new manager but 3 weeks is a long time and we must have had applicants.
We need new ideas and fresh blood in the team.
Please lets have direction before the season is a write off. We have just wasted the hard work of finishing 6th for the 2nd year in a row.
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General, I think we have now established once and for all that Kevin McDonald is not the man. I sincerely trust we won't be giving him the job anytime soon. If I can see it, obviously you and the rest of the decision-makers at VP can too?
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General,
Please, can Randy and the board hurry up and sort things out. Another desperate defeat and we are becoming a laughing stock. 26th August and our European involvement over, 6 goals shipped against a mediocre Newcastle side and we have sold our best asset again.
Keep this up and we will be down by Christmas!!
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General,
Please, can Randy and the board hurry up and sort things out. Another desperate defeat and we are becoming a laughing stock. 26th August and our European involvement over, 6 goals shipped against a mediocre Newcastle side and we have sold our best asset again.
Keep this up and we will be down by Christmas!!
Hear, hear, we are in for a long, long struggle unless someone acts decisively and confidently too. I am now extremely concerned at what is happening, or not happening. "Actions speak louder than words" is the phrase that comes to mind
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General
KM said today that he was going to be given until after the Everton game to decide if he wanted the job, he'd then get his interview, following which other people would be interviewed.
Is it wise to wait until after Everton to even interview him, given that the transfer window closes the day after? That will also be three weeks since Martin flounced out.
Is it wise to interview nobody else until KM has been interviewed?
Regardless of results this season, good or bad, if KM got the job, would it be because he was the best man available for it, or because it was the easy (already in place) option?
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General
The club is degenerating into an absolute shambles. Pull your collective fingers out and get it sorted. Where's the leadership when we need it? Nowhere near good enough.
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General, once again we are gutted...
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General,
I agree with 'Risso', where's the leadership?
I have nothing personal against Kevin MacDonald but it is quite clear that he is naive and inexperienced at the level Villa should be aspiring to. Unfortunately at the moment after yet another all too frequent shocking defeat it seems we really need a bigger character to 'steady the ship'.
This is now the crossroads for Villa as making an ill-informed decision could mean relegation because in all honesty the embarrassing defeats should they continue will demoralise both team and alienate fans. We are currently showing relegation form and I could see Villa becoming a Leeds, Sheffield Wednesday etc should we go.
Attendance for Everton I guess will be 28,000. Big club, yea right! Proud history, no future without the $$$
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Good evening General,
The one thing that you always say about Randy is that he wants to be judged by his actions, and that actions speak louder than words. The fact is we have just been knocked out of europe again at the first hurdle, the previous manager has not helped the situation by jumping ship 21 days ago, this is now 3 weeks ago and we have started the season with uncertainty and it shows, our captain came out on TV tonight and said that the lack of clarity surrounding the choice of manager is causing issues, with this being the case surely now actions do need to speak louder than words.
Lets get this club moving again....
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General,
We took a reported £3 million of Blues for Gardner and a reported £16 million off Man City for MIlner.
That's £19 million we have banked - add that to the Sky money and we shouod be cash rich at the moment.
Certainly, the £19 million above should be reinvested, how are you guys ( the board) planning to use this money ?
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General
The club is degenerating into an absolute shambles. Pull your collective fingers out and get it sorted. Where's the leadership when we need it? Nowhere near good enough.
Cue a hypathetical comparison to the American Marines
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An absolute shambles, General. 9 goals conceded in just 2 games against average opposition. Just what the hell is going on??
I usually hate knee jerk reactions, but I can honestly that if Randy fobs us off with a McDonald, Bradley, Sven or any of the other nobodies that have been linked with our managers job then my season ticket will be sent back to Villa Park. I thought under Lerner we were ambitious, forward thinking and exciting. This was what it was like under Ellis - always underachieving, always let down in the end.
Pull your finger out and get us a big name manager!!
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Will we be listening to our captain when he says we need to improve and get a manager in asap?
"We need to improve all over the park, we’re not doing things right.... It’s be nice to know who’s going to be manager of the club.”
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This is embarrasing - four years on and we back to where we started on the field. The writing has been on the wall and I feared this year would be a disappointment even before MON left us in the lurch. Now it appears worse than that.
Football is simple, the team with the best players wins which does not explain why we keep selling our best players, why we have no one in charge to select players and why we are in no position to strengthen our squad when the window shuts in a few days. This whole process in nothing short of a disgrace and the lack of comments from RL, our supposed leader is also shocking. All we keep hearing are the ramblings of man way out of his depth who is acting like a rabbit in the headlights. I almost feel sorry for KMc since he has had no guidance from above as far as the public are concerned. It is obvious the indecision is affecting players (Petrov alluded to that after the game) and it should have been sorted one way or another by now. What a waste of £500 on my ST - I feel sorry for my dad who bought his first ever ST and chose this season of medocrity to do it. Looking forward to plenty more disappointment :(
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General
I honestly suggest that you don't attempt to respond to what has been said tonight. We are all too angry to hear stuff like 'trust Randy' 'nobody wanted this to happen' 'things are happening behind the scenes' etc. etc
Do you know what - it's all sounds like Bullshit!! Just be honest and admit it if it is. If Randy has lost interest or can't afford to run a Premier League club anymore then sell us quickly to someone who can before we reach the point of no return.
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General any chance you can get Davies shot after one of the most comical clearances I have ever witnessed in football. Roy keane would sort this shower of shyte out.
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General any chance you can get Davies shot after one of the most comical clearances I have ever witnessed in football. Roy keane would sort this shower of shyte out.
Like he did at Sunderland?
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Jesus Christ. I don't know if I've mellowed over the last week but its been two poor games not months of defeats. We were left in the shit when MON left and its always gonna be tough to get a good, suitable manager with just days to go until the season starts. I accept we need some leadership and progress but to be calling the situation a disgrace is a bit too much for me. I'm angry, but do you know what? I'm angry at the players tonight. Yes there were players out of position but that team should have been good enough to win that tonight. Guzan, Beye, Davies and NRC were very poor. Who bought them and who threw his toys out of the pram when the going got tough? I feel the blame for these last few weeks lie solely with one man.
All those talking about the board getting their fingers out etc. Who is available? Who could we get in?
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General, I know you're not at fault here, to me O'Neill has really left us in it 5 days to got until the start of the season with a squad of average players. I'd also like to add that I have just posted this as my Facebook status having returned from the match.
Aston Villa can fuck off if they think they're having any more of money this season. That was the most gutless, spineless performance I've ever seen. Heskey, Beye, Davies, Petrov can get shot for all I'm concerned, they aren't fit to wear the shirt.
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General, we need strong leadership on and off the pitch and it has to begin now, otherwise it will be a very long and painful season.
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General, have you any idea how much the season tickets will be next season when were in the championship?
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General;
1. Tell Randy to have a good manager in by Monday so he can sort our team out. Randy has had enough time to pick his man and get him in, it's obvious Macdonald isn't the man for the job. No excuses really, if Randy hasn't appointed a new man by Monday some Villa fans will start to turn on him.
2. If we keep playing Petrov and not get a better central-midfielder than him before the transfer window closes, we can forget about another top 6 finish. JUST GET FLAMINI.
3. Tonight wasn't very good. Letting them score 2 goals in 5 minutes is poor... most Villa fans don't care though as the club doesn't seem that bothered about the Europa Cup.
Regards,
Annoyed Villa Fan
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General, we need strong leadership on and off the pitch and it has to begin now, otherwise it will be a very long and painful season.
Culminating in a visit to the Coca Cola League for the club's very first time.
I bet Moyes is rubbing his hands with glee at the thought of playing this Villa club on Sunday.
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General, I assume you still have MONs contact details, any chance you can pass on a message?
Dear Martin,
Thank you for being kind enough to leave our club completely in the shit. Thank you for taking all your coaching staff with you five days before the start of the new season. Thank you for wasting £100 million on average (at best) players.
You are an odious little prick, a bottler who 'downs tools' (even though you swore not to) at the slightest provocation.
We hate you,
Lots of love,
Aston Villa
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P.S. On a less offensive note, pass this along to K-Mac before the Everton game
--------Petrov----NRC----------
Albrighton---------------Young
--------------Ireland------------
-----------Agbonlahor----------
This is a winning formation. You have two disciplined and defensively solid midfielders protecting the defense and keeping possession, two wingers in their natural positions, an attacking CM playing in his best position and feeding through balls to a speed demon of a striker.
Easy eh?
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General, for 3 seasons our European qualification has been blown away by giving no respect to the opposition and picking weak teams, especially in the away leg.
I appreciate the new policy is to use the kids as much as possible, to save money perhaps, but it hasn't worked. Does the Board appreciate this, and should a miracle happen and we qualify again next season, which seems very unlikely, will the team selection policy remain the same?
Whilst I appreciate we won the Peace Cup and went to Wembley twice, we have sold off our 2 best players in successive seasons and are now managed by a reserve team coach who on his last 3 results doesn't seem to have grasped the idea of what is required to manage a great club in the Premiership.
In your opinion is that the way a club with top 4 ambitions should be run, even in the short term?
Lastly has the shameful exit from Europe again affected the chances of signing a decent top manager, if one was being considered ?
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General, for 3 seasons our European qualification has been blown away by giving no respect to the opposition and picking weak teams, especially in the away leg.
I appreciate the new policy is to use the kids as much as possible, to save money perhaps, but it hasn't worked. Does the Board appreciate this, and should a miracle happen and we qualify again next season, which seems very unlikely, will the team selection policy remain the same?
Whilst I appreciate we won the Peace Cup and went to Wembley twice, we have sold off our 2 best players in successive seasons and are now managed by a reserve team coach who on his last 3 results doesn't seem to have grasped the idea of what is required to manage a great club in the Premiership.
In your opinion is that the way a club with top 4 ambitions should be run, even in the short term?
If we're judging winning the Peace Cup as some mark of success, we're only a couple of steps above the Blues and their listing FA Cup semi final appearances on their "honours" list.
I'd hope we'd be way above that.
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Randy Lerner has failed this club by raking in almost£20m profit this summer and not appointing a manager yet!
Don't worry Lerner the window is almost over so you can keep your cash, the lack of a manager is a disgrace.we are out of Europe and may now attract lesser managers- I've rarely felt this club has been going downhill fast as much as I feel it now.
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General, for 3 seasons our European qualification has been blown away by giving no respect to the opposition and picking weak teams, especially in the away leg.
I appreciate the new policy is to use the kids as much as possible, to save money perhaps, but it hasn't worked. Does the Board appreciate this, and should a miracle happen and we qualify again next season, which seems very unlikely, will the team selection policy remain the same?
Whilst I appreciate we won the Peace Cup and went to Wembley twice, we have sold off our 2 best players in successive seasons and are now managed by a reserve team coach who on his last 3 results doesn't seem to have grasped the idea of what is required to manage a great club in the Premiership.
In your opinion is that the way a club with top 4 ambitions should be run, even in the short term?
If we're judging winning the Peace Cup as some mark of success, we're only a couple of steps above the Blues and their listing FA Cup semi final appearances on their "honours" list.
I'd hope we'd be way above that.
I agree but the General keeps referring back to it, so the Board must feel it relevant
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General, for 3 seasons our European qualification has been blown away by giving no respect to the opposition and picking weak teams, especially in the away leg.
I appreciate the new policy is to use the kids as much as possible, to save money perhaps, but it hasn't worked. Does the Board appreciate this, and should a miracle happen and we qualify again next season, which seems very unlikely, will the team selection policy remain the same?
Whilst I appreciate we won the Peace Cup and went to Wembley twice, we have sold off our 2 best players in successive seasons and are now managed by a reserve team coach who on his last 3 results doesn't seem to have grasped the idea of what is required to manage a great club in the Premiership.
In your opinion is that the way a club with top 4 ambitions should be run, even in the short term?
If we're judging winning the Peace Cup as some mark of success, we're only a couple of steps above the Blues and their listing FA Cup semi final appearances on their "honours" list.
I'd hope we'd be way above that.
I agree but the General keeps referring back to it, so the Board must feel it relevant
Does he?
Can't say I've noticed that myself.
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General, I am sure you are as gutted as the rest of us by tonights result and poor performance.
Can you confirm please that it has not been Mr. Lerners intention to deliberately delay the appointment of a new manager until the transfer window has closed and therefore guarantee not having to spend any more money.
My guess is that you will tell us it not the case, but you know what, it certainly appears like that.
I am sure Mr.Lerner has the best intentions for the club. This has to be demonstrated by bringing in a top class man to kick start our season. No doubt the timing will mean he has to work with the players already at the club and cannot bring new blood in.
I sincerley hope that the promise of a bright future still applies, because at this moment, the present stinks.
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Randy Lerner has failed this club by raking in almost£20m profit this summer and not appointing a manager yet!
Don't worry Lerner the window is almost over so you can keep your cash, the lack of a manager is a disgrace.we are out of Europe and may now attract lesser managers- I've rarely felt this club has been going downhill fast as much as I feel it now.
I'd hang on a bit before making such comments.
At least until the managerial partnership is announced.
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Oh by-the-way General; can you explain to every Villa fan why Kevin Macdonald has gone down the same route as O'Neill playing players out of position? Hasn't Macdonald learnt anything from watching MON making mistakes? Cuellar is not a right-back and Beye is not a left-back!!! Argh, why is it so hard to play players in their normal positions?!
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General, for 3 seasons our European qualification has been blown away by giving no respect to the opposition and picking weak teams, especially in the away leg.
I appreciate the new policy is to use the kids as much as possible, to save money perhaps, but it hasn't worked. Does the Board appreciate this, and should a miracle happen and we qualify again next season, which seems very unlikely, will the team selection policy remain the same?
Whilst I appreciate we won the Peace Cup and went to Wembley twice, we have sold off our 2 best players in successive seasons and are now managed by a reserve team coach who on his last 3 results doesn't seem to have grasped the idea of what is required to manage a great club in the Premiership.
In your opinion is that the way a club with top 4 ambitions should be run, even in the short term?
If we're judging winning the Peace Cup as some mark of success, we're only a couple of steps above the Blues and their listing FA Cup semi final appearances on their "honours" list.
I'd hope we'd be way above that.
I agree but the General keeps referring back to it, so the Board must feel it relevant
Does he?
Can't say I've noticed that myself.
Yes and O'Neill did in one of his last interviews, in reference to the use of the kids
I'm sure someone will look back and prove my point one way or the other.
I can't be bothered
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Hi general
A lot of people on this site are going to be saying things with their heart tonight so there's going to be a coupl of pages on this thread which aren't going to be very productive. That said I think Kev Mac looked like someone who was doing a job he didn't want tonight. I know statements have been made that we're going to wait until after everton but I don't see the point. I like him as a coach, as do all Villa fans but he just doesn't look like he's interested. 3 days wait would normally not be an issue but when that accounts for 60% of the chance to make any changes to the playing side in the next 4months it has to be considered as a big issue when he looks like his mind is already made up.
The fans are hurting again tonight and the only thing I can see picking us up is the announcement of a big name manager followed by a couple of signings in the next few days.
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P.S. On a less offensive note, pass this along to K-Mac before the Everton game
--------Petrov----NRC----------
Albrighton---------------Young
--------------Ireland------------
-----------Agbonlahor----------
This is a winning formation. You have two disciplined and defensively solid midfielders protecting the defense and keeping possession, two wingers in their natural positions, an attacking CM playing in his best position and feeding through balls to a speed demon of a striker.
Easy eh?
I really hope this is what we see on Sunday.
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Randy Lerner has failed this club by raking in almost£20m profit this summer and not appointing a manager yet!
Don't worry Lerner the window is almost over so you can keep your cash, the lack of a manager is a disgrace.we are out of Europe and may now attract lesser managers- I've rarely felt this club has been going downhill fast as much as I feel it now.
Not been supporting the Villa very long then?
Do you really think that Randys' motives have been money orientated after all this time? The mind boggles, it really does.
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I'm not impressed with the lack of speed in appointing a manager, but I think Randy is a good way off making a profit out of us yet. The main reason we're in this mess is that O'Neill wasted so much money.
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Thought the same Lee mate,
He'd have been suicidal in the mid-eighties!
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I'm not impressed with the lack of speed in appointing a manager, but I think Randy is a good way off making a profit out of us yet. The main reason we're in this mess is that O'Neill wasted so much money.
And quit in the way he did taking all the coaching knowledge with him
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General,
This is the first time I have posted on your thread but I feel the need here.
I have a lot of respect for what Kevin Macdonald has had to do and done at our club for the last 15 years. But surely someone who is showing signs of "hmmm what to do, what to do" is not the man to take us forward. He has not said "Yes I want the job".
I'm sure Randy or yourself General have not really got where you have got in life unless you was 100% committed and 100% up for the challenge.
Surely you either want the job or you don't. I can't understand the logic of seeing how someone thinks in couple of weeks time.
I know he is caretaker manager and looking after the team in this need, but as for taking our club forward we need someone who "wants" the job and is going to take it by the scruff of neck and sort this shambles out.
I'm hoping Randy and the board are thinking this too.
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No lee , I've been supporting us over 30 yrs - I think randy gave it his all for 4 yrs but has realised the top 4 is further away than ever.
The emergence of money bags citeh , and the recession have left us unable to compete financially and I think randy probably realised this.
If he cannot invest enough to take us further I'd thank him and hope he finds someone who can , but right now he needs to appoint a manager and fast or I see bad bad times ahead.
Ring Sven and get him in - we need experience!
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Actually ct I was a season ticket holder through the 80s and remember hoe quick our decline came once things started to go wrong - I have that fear again tonight.
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Actually ct I was a season ticket holder through the 80s and remember hoe quick our decline came once things started to go wrong - I have that fear again tonight.
I was about to contradict that but on reflection you are right, they did go down hill quickly but I doubt we'll be breaking up the squad for the same monetary reasons as quickly, even if RL is short of funds :)
There was the same attitude to managers at the time too wasn't there.
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
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Actually ct I was a season ticket holder through the 80s and remember hoe quick our decline came once things started to go wrong - I have that fear again tonight.
I was about to contradict that but on reflection you are right, they did go down hill quickly but I doubt we'll be breaking up the squad for the same monetary reasons as quickly, even if RL is short of funds :)
There was the same attitude to managers at the time too wasn't there.
I wasn't around back then, but I can assume that our squad isnt as good as it was in the 80's.
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
Our top striker has 1 goal from 40minutes of football.
Our defence has conceded 9 in 3 hours.
No further comment...
(given that I agree that we need a striker but it's not going to help if the whole side isn't sorted out first)
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
Our top striker has 1 goal from 40minutes of football.
Our defence has conceded 9 in 3 hours.
No further comment...
(given that I agree that we need a striker but it's not going to help if the whole side isn't sorted out first)
But the very same defence was one of the hardest to crack all last season.
No further comment.
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
Our top striker has 1 goal from 40minutes of football.
Our defence has conceded 9 in 3 hours.
No further comment...
(given that I agree that we need a striker but it's not going to help if the whole side isn't sorted out first)
But the very same defence was one of the hardest to crack all last season.
No further comment.
Up untill New Year id agree but since then we've leaked goals left, right & centre.
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P.S. On a less offensive note, pass this along to K-Mac before the Everton game
--------Petrov----NRC----------
Albrighton---------------Young
--------------Ireland------------
-----------Agbonlahor----------
This is a winning formation. You have two disciplined and defensively solid midfielders protecting the defense and keeping possession, two wingers in their natural positions, an attacking CM playing in his best position and feeding through balls to a speed demon of a striker.
Easy eh?
Too lightweight, will only work against bottom six teams.
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No lee , I've been supporting us over 30 yrs - I think randy gave it his all for 4 yrs but has realised the top 4 is further away than ever.
The emergence of money bags citeh , and the recession have left us unable to compete financially and I think randy probably realised this.
If he cannot invest enough to take us further I'd thank him and hope he finds someone who can , but right now he needs to appoint a manager and fast or I see bad bad times ahead.
Ring Sven and get him in - we need experience!
Your post mate from previously doesn't make sense. Yes we need the above, but to put this down to penny pinching, is just incorrect. Since Randy has been here, We've already had Chelski and the Manure Sky conglomerate to break. Yes, City have rocked the boat and made it harder, but it was always nigh on impossible to break anyway. The recession has shagged a lot of clubs, and dare I say it, if Ellis had still been about, we would have been in a worse position as we were struggling to make ends meet at the end of his tenure.
If Randy get ths right man, and he needs to do it quickly, then we are will steady the ship and move on.
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General;
Don't know what else to say except that was embarrassing and totally unacceptable!
Losing faith in leadership (all sectors) by the hour!
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
It's not the same defence tbf but I would point out that whilst the defence of last season started superbly,they lost their way a bit in the second half of the season.
Our top striker has 1 goal from 40minutes of football.
Our defence has conceded 9 in 3 hours.
No further comment...
(given that I agree that we need a striker but it's not going to help if the whole side isn't sorted out first)
But the very same defence was one of the hardest to crack all last season.
No further comment.
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
It's not the same defence tbf but I would point out that whilst the defence of last season started superbly,they lost their way a bit in the second half of the season.
Our top striker has 1 goal from 40minutes of football.
Our defence has conceded 9 in 3 hours.
No further comment...
(given that I agree that we need a striker but it's not going to help if the whole side isn't sorted out first)
But the very same defence was one of the hardest to crack all last season.
No further comment.
I don't disagree in the slightest, that's actually the point I was making. Sorting out why a team that conceded less than most last year suddenly looks so fragile in defence is, in my opinion, the most important thing to do, the chances of us achieving anything this year without investment are tied entirely to utilising our assets and our defence should be one of those but at the moment it's looking like our biggest weakness, identifying why will go a long way to getting us back on track.
EDIT:
That said this is all massively off topic for the questions to the general thread so if a friendly mod could move it somewhere else I'd appreciate it as I really don't like the idea of derailing such an important thread with nit picking.
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General Krulak. This needs sorting, we're going shite. That's all for now.
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If we can't get appoint a manager in time, we need to get quality striker on a season loan otherwise we will be in trouble.
It's not the same defence tbf but I would point out that whilst the defence of last season started superbly,they lost their way a bit in the second half of the season.
Our top striker has 1 goal from 40minutes of football.
Our defence has conceded 9 in 3 hours.
No further comment...
(given that I agree that we need a striker but it's not going to help if the whole side isn't sorted out first)
But the very same defence was one of the hardest to crack all last season.
No further comment.
I don't disagree in the slightest, that's actually the point I was making. Sorting out why a team that conceded less than most last year suddenly looks so fragile in defence is, in my opinion, the most important thing to do, the chances of us achieving anything this year without investment are tied entirely to utilising our assets and our defence should be one of those but at the moment it's looking like our biggest weakness, identifying why will go a long way to getting us back on track.
EDIT:
That said this is all massively off topic for the questions to the general thread so if a friendly mod could move it somewhere else I'd appreciate it as I really don't like the idea of derailing such an important thread with nit picking.
Appologies-I was attemting to respond to Tim,I was in agreement with your post.
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General,
This is my first post so please be gentle, I have been a lifelong Villa fan and remember well the ups and downs of the 80's, from European champions to relegation in no time at all, I saw it all as many of the posters on here did too. I love the club even though opportunities to watch the Villa have been far less than I had wanted as I too embarked on a military career for the last 22 years. The first luxury I intend buying myself with my pension this xmas is a season ticket, I would love to be able to park my backside in the Holte and cheer the boys to victory week in and week out, however I have a very nasty feeling at the moment that I will be watching a battle for mid table mediocrity.
Now I know you have to tow the party line, however you must be just as concerned as the majority of posters on here are feeling at the moment. I am sure in your long military career you have experienced a situation where you had to replace a Company commander or Regimental CO at short notice, usually this wouldnt be so much of a problem as their 2ic would step into the role with minimum disruption. However, with the lack of a 2ic, would you promote a Platoon commander into the role, especially if the said Platoon commander lacked the experience or tactical nouse to keep the unit functioning at maximum effectiveness. As you well know, when you have a bad commander in charge, the troops soon lose focus, its like a disease, cliques form, mistrust between men and the command structure, discipline starts to deteriorate. Before you know it you have a unit which cannot function as it should.
While I accept that the Villa and the military are a different beast, no lives are at stake, no mission is at risk etc, but human nature is the same. At the moment we have an inexperienced man in charge, the difference between managing a premiership outfit and the reserve team is massive. He lacks the tactical knowledge as have been proved in the last couple of games, not his fault but unfair to expect him to step straight into the firing line (pardon the pun). A lot of the backroom left when MoN bailed out so he has been pretty much left high and dry, there are no Sergeant Major types to keep the lads in line, not enough coaches to coach and allow the manager to manage. This cannot be allowed to carry on as we can all see what will ultimately happen. You of all people can see this.
There are a lot of posters on here who know a lot more about the club than what I do but what we all want and deserve is to see the team organised as it should be, an experienced manager with the correct back up behind the scenes, everything else will fall into place. What we dont want to see, however misguided it is, is the suck it and see attitude to the running of the team (notice "team" not "club"). The time it has taken to replace MoN is a luxury we havent got, would you have allowed a unit under your command to go the same way?? I would hazard a guess you would have had a suitable replacement in a lot quicker had you seen similar results in your Platoon commander.
If I have spoken out of turn then I apologise, but things could get rapidly worse if nothing is done.
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General
The honeymoon is well and truly over. I always said that people would turn, to a man, when things got grim. That has obviously happened. Without the majority of supporters on the side of the Board, the prospect of the business remaining viable has gone. You have been unique in being available like you are on forums such as this but we don't have the AGMs now where we can let our feelings be made known directly to the Chairman and seek answers to questions about our club. When we were Shareholders we felt like part of the club. That has now gone. The message needs to go back that there is unrest in the camp and it is growing by the minute.
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GK, i know you always say that there is lots of hard work going on behind the scenes but 3 weeks must be a record for a premiership team to be without a manager
The longer its left the less attractive we are looking as a propostition ....and this is before we give oursleves time to sign anyone
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General, you have said it is hard to get the right Manager but when Kev M is saying in the media that we are not interviewing anyone until after the Everton game and with things going so bad on the pitch this delay worries me. When teams lose Managers they tend to go into overdrive to target people they feel can do the job. Right now the silence and associated feeling of apathy and directionless are depressing and things need to happen quick to give us that direction we need.
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General.
Firstly can I place on record the way in which Kevin Mac has done at such a good job in the last three weeks at Villa in very trying times. Kevin has been an excellent servant to Aston Villa and should remain so, in what his job WAS.
I've been a massive supporter of Randy Lerner and thank him for all that he has done for Villa, but his lack of urgency in not gaining a manager since Martin O'Neill's departure has been extremely disapointing. It is obvious that money needs to 'come in' due to the excessive wage bill, but this whole situation regarding Kevin Mac's deadline to 'want the job' looks like it is a case of him seeing out the window to prevent any expenditure on players. This i'm sure you will deny but you can see where we are coming from.
Fans coming out of the ground tonight were extremely angry, frustrated, disapointed, but to a man and women were all talking about the lack of leadership both on and off the pitch and complete and utter lack of professionalism of a number of players. Tonight we played a reasonable team in Europe, a team that our kids got a credible draw against last week. However players like Curtis 'pub player Davis', Habib Beye and Emule Heskey are not fit to wear an Aston Villa shirt - especially if they can't beat Rapid Vienna at home.
Randy's lack of communication to the fans is also not helping matters, no I know it isn't his 'style' but Randy has a responsibility as an owner as do the inadequate players who have a responsibility to perform to the best of their ability. The fans are getting pissed off, we've been through worse times yes, but I know a number of fans who feel like they're being 'conned' - Was it not for the fact that Randy HAS done so many positives for the club I'm sure you would have seen and heard the fans in a not such a pleasant way.
If we can't get a manager - tell us
If we can't afford players - tell us
If we have financial problems - tell us
If we have to sell out best player to bring in cash every year - tell us.
We support Villa, whether it be good or bad, we just want to know where we stand and what cards we're trying to play with.
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General
The level we need to get to is where our performance is not that poor that another team's supporters, with a crowd of 6000 and struggling to beat lowly Rochdale, can still feel that they have something to take the piss out of.
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JamesMilnersNo8Shirt, excellent post.
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I mostly agree with ''JamesMilnersNo8Shirt''... the board and Randy need to get their act together. Hiding away and refusing to give any interviews let alone make Villa fans aware of the managerial issue leaving us and the club in limbo is professionally poor.
I really appreciate General Krulak coming on here posting, it's great to have him; however, I do think there should be a bit more honesty and just tell Villa fans straight up with what's happening instead of leaving us in limbo not knowing anything just relying on the media picking our next manager. There are plenty of managers out there Randy can get, it just seems odd it's taking so long despite Randy saying we'd have a new manager in place for the Newcastle game...
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It just looks to me like randy has given kmac till sept 1st to see how he does - knowing that if it didn't work, he would have got £20m in from transfers and spent nothing , and a new man couldn't buy anyone.
Kmac has been an abysmal failure in the last 2 games and we have crashed out of Europe to boot- we have no hope of making the top 4 without huge investment -stand still and teams go past you.
This season Europe was important to us and it's gone - don't tell me general there are no managers who want the villa job- sven for all his faults wants the job and as a club manager fits the bill- go get him .
Hearing randy's been on a holiday break with his kids in Milan and at NFL board meetings hardly inspires- he should be sorting this mess !
If randy has no longer the money to take us to where we wish to get then he should be honest - he's been great for 4 yrs but finances change.Maybe he realises the dream is over , if so please find us an owner who can finance us further and move us on .
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General, Hard times ahead.
The Man Citeh factor has destroyed our plans hasn't it. They've taken our best player the last two seasons and are buying any other player we would like to buy. What should have been a fight between us and Spurs for 4th by now with Liverpool and Everton out financed has blown up. Spurs will now only get this year in the CL with the new big 4, Citeh, Arse, Manure and Chelski ready to to take shape this season. Liverpool may come back with a new owner but not quickly.
So what do we do now then ? Settle for that 6th to 10th spot with the odd good cup run ? I don't mind I'm Villa till I die. Just be honest (in fairness you always are) and tell us the plan. Good footy at home and and a reasonable price promise will do. We're not daft, the CL is miles away for us unless you have several hundred million to spare.
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The general is a wise man , he will only tell us what randy wants him to tell us as demonstrated by his repeated statements that things were fine between randy and mon!
General, is there a clause to stop mon speaking about why he left in detail , as I'm sure we would like to know exactly what cutbacks and spending cuts he was told were required, I'm no fan of mon but would would like to hear his side of things.
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General, I really fee depressed after last night. I am ten times more disappointed with this result than the Newcastle result. Now we are again hearing "the players are hurt", "now we must bounce back" etc. Playing in Europe means so much to me and other fans, and for second year running we loose to Rapid Wien. Not Barcelona, not Bayern Munich, but Rapid Wien!! We spend an entire season to qualify for Europe, and then when we have the chance, we blow it. It might be a while before we get the chance again.
Why do we see such important games as "an opportunity to give the fringe players a chance" ? We played a lot of first team players, I know, but also players put up for sale, who played really terrible. And it was such a tactical bad performance as well. We have been cunned by the same team two years in a row now, do these players not learn anything from these games. I am really fed up with reading "we were in control" etc. We were not! We should have put far more pressure on them when 1-0 up, they know they might only get one or two chances to score, so they are not in a hurry.
I know you are as disappointed as the rest of us, but since this is a questions thread, I will ask you: Will this humiliation have any consequences for those players not up for it? I am not saying they do not care, but some of the players have certainly not been focused the last two games.
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General can you seriously tell me whether you or randy think that kevin macdonald has in any way got the credentials to manage aston villa- if so, then I find it amazing- get a manager in now please - kmac says you will begin interviews next week, exactly why has this not been done 2 weeks ago?
Oh yes of course , to save randy money! I am just so angry at the lack of leadership at our club - say what youblike about doug but he wasn't a ditherer and he was a self made millionaire.
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General, I really fee depressed after last night. I am ten times more disappointed with this result than the Newcastle result. Now we are again hearing "the players are hurt", "now we must bounce back" etc. Playing in Europe means so much to me and other fans, and for second year running we loose to Rapid Wien. Not Barcelona, not Bayern Munich, but Rapid Wien!! We spend an entire season to qualify for Europe, and then when we have the chance, we blow it. It might be a while before we get the chance again.
Why do we see such important games as "an opportunity to give the fringe players a chance" ? We played a lot of first team players, I know, but also players put up for sale, who played really terrible. And it was such a tactical bad performance as well. We have been cunned by the same team two years in a row now, do these players not learn anything from these games. I am really fed up with reading "we were in control" etc. We were not! We should have put far more pressure on them when 1-0 up, they know they might only get one or two chances to score, so they are not in a hurry.
I know you are as disappointed as the rest of us, but since this is a questions thread, I will ask you: Will this humiliation have any consequences for those players not up for it? I am not saying they do not care, but some of the players have certainly not been focused the last two games.
Personally I don't think some of the playes do care, to see Stewart 'tiny bollocks' Downing laughing with opposition players as they walk off the pitch having just been dicked 6-0 is evidence enough for me.
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True, they pick up their 30 or 40 grand and enjoy themselves, they don't love the club as we do and don't feel our pain- the game is all about money now and I much preferred the 70s and 80s brand.
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GC, if you think kev mac's the answer then please reconsider, he doesnt seem to want it, uninspiring with interviews. Great servent to the club at his actual job but not for this. At least he's let us know something about new managers which you seem to be hiding from. No interviews yet? What?? Had long enough to get it sorted. Randy in Milan on Holiday and NFL board meetings at a time like this. Are you sure he's not losing his passion for the club?
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General just what is the point of us shelling out good money to watch european games if the club dont take the competition
seriously? Why bother trying to qualify in the first place? ... Surely the main aim at the start of any season is to finish as high
up the league as possible and qualify to Europe (With the current situation I very much doubt we'll be doing that anytime soon again)
Secondly could you just run through the current status with regards appointing a manager. ie timescales etc
Regards
C&B
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JamesMilnersNo8Shirt, excellent post.
It would have been apart from the player "nicknames". That's usually when the recipient of such a letter decides to ignore the contents.
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To use some British military parlance, 'Don't panic, don't panic'. Well it was Dad's Army but the message is right.
We have only played twice this season in the PL. The Newcastle game was a freak result and obviously damaged a bit of confidence, nevertheless we still have 36 PL games to go in the season. If it takes us another 10 to 14 days to find the right man (we don't play again until Mon 13th) we will still have 35 games left. The choice of new manager will be vital but the right man will be able to turn it around pretty quickly, he may even decide to deploy players in their right positions! That leaves a huge chunk of season left to qualify for Europe again which is quite feasible in my view with our current squad (Davies & Beye not included). For the past few years Everton have had really bad starts to their season but have redeemed themselves later on so it frequently happens.
I hope Randy doesn't rush into the wrong decision because fans are getting the jitters and coming up with some really absurd stuff. He's got more sense than that though.
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General,
With so much wrong at the club, it seems a bit churlish of me to mention this, but the service in the Lower Holte food stands was awful last night (worst it has been for years). If my daughter hadn't of come out without having any dinner, there was no way I would have queued that long.
The bloke who served me (eventually) couldn't have gone much slower, and really just couldn't be arsed.
I got into the ground an hour before kickoff, and by the time I had bought Little Miss Kingus a pie, the programme kiosk had closed and the teams were on the pitch.
As I said, in the grand scheme of things, not that important... but it did add to what ended up being a very poor night at the Villa.
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Unfortunately, Randy hasn't got a great record of appointing the right man for the job at the Brown's
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General,
While I've been fully supportive of Randy's ownership of Villa, I cannot help but think that a lack of a "football man" on the board is seriously undermining efforts. While I know you have said in the past that Randy is his own man and it will ultimately be his call, I really fear that without someone with an extensive knowledge of the game, he will not be able to make the most informed decision.
Has Randy ever considered, or would he consider, appointing such a man, such as Graham Taylor (just picking a name here, not necessarily advocating his selection) to help Randy, not just in terms of picking the right manager, but in general going forward. I'm struggling to think of any successful club that doesn't have such an individual in place.
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graham taylor is watfords chairman now so couldnt be considered , ron atkinson?
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graham taylor is watfords chairman now so couldnt be considered , ron atkinson?
Again, I was only using an example. There are plenty of options out there if they are willing to look. It needn't even be a full time position.
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Dear General,
It is very rare for me to post on your thread(s), but right now I feel that I need to just to try to convey my fears for the club.
After last night's result, it feels as though all the efforts of finishing sixth last season have counted for nothing. For the second season running we have failed to actually qualify for the second tier European competition. It all seems a very long way from what I, and possibly others, had hoped for when we were presented with the "Proud History - Bright Future" fanfare over three years ago.
For all of Mr Lerner's efforts - the Acorns sponsorship, the external work on the Trinity Road Stand, The Holte Hotel renovation, free transport to Chelsea and Sunderland, completion of the training ground, and the small matter of team building which I understand has cost an average of approx. £40M per season so far, and other stuff that I presently haven't recalled - I feel that there is a very real chance that unless we get a manager from the very top of the game then when Mr Lerner at some point hands the club over to someone else (as will surely happen in time as nothing is forever) his tenure will be considered one of window-dressing and false hope of something better, sadly.
I would urge Mr Lerner not to in any way go for the cheap option (doing stuff on the cheap was something the previous Chairman was regularly accused of) when acquiring the next manager. To do so would be folly. Aston Villa Football Club needs an established manager with a proven track record, in my opinion, to have any chance of competing at the top level on a consistent basis.
I realise that this isn't really a question, just what I'm thinking at this juncture.
Thank you for your attention, General.
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Has this already been asked?
When O'Neill left Villa, was there an agreement/payment made which meant that he couldn't speak publicly about his departure or is he just choosing to say nothing?
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Dear General
Through all the teeth gnashing and vitriol being spouted at the moment through pure frustration i for one appreciate in the cold light of day that finding the right man would be hard enough under normal circumstances but to find a credible replacement at this time is to ask a working manager to do a "MON" and walk out just like he did. I for one do not think there is anyone who would be that disrespectful to their current employer as MOn was.
I would imagine that Randy is feeling very hurt and betrayed at the moment by a man who he gave control of the club to and supported financially more than any other manager in our history only to have it thrown in his face like it has been.
I could spout off like a lot of fans through frustration but i will not - i will however ask a simple question.
We obviously would not hesitate to purchase a player for 3/4/5/6/7 million so surely we could afford the alledged buy out clause that Ajax put on Martin Jol when Fulham went calling.
Is this something that would be considered?
Also without giving too much away could you explain the actual process - surely its not like any normal recruitment is it - i mean wher potential applicants forward a CV and then a series of interviews take place? PLease tell me it is more a case of knowing who you want and then legally sorting out the right deal (severance pay / how we conduct it in the nedia so the releasing team dont lose face etc)
Communication (which since Randy's tenure you have been praised for) could not be more important at this time.
The biggest issue is that we are hearing only platitudes nothing of a firm plan is in place
Either way the best of luck - surely Randy knows this is the most important decision he will make since he bought the club and one that will dictate his legacy with the Villa
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the longer the uncertainty exists, and the more bad results we get, the less attractive we become to prospective managers and new signings (can live in hope!!!)
if we have a bad season, then other players will be looking to leave at the end of this season, players such as Ashley Young etc.
Decisive action to appoint the CORRECT manager is needed NOW general
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General,
Some clown on here has insisted you get manager in by Monday. Just grabbing someone, (anyone) you can to appease fools like this by the first day of the working week is going to help no-one. It's clear that this season will be one of transition. It'll cost Randy in season ticket sales and merchandise, no doubt but that's just for this season. Provided we finish as the top midlands team and try as hard as we can for a European spot, then that's as good as we can expect given the bizarre circumstances of the last few weeks. Just get the RIGHT person. Not just some bloke who can start Monday.
Now, I'm sure....100% sure....that if my missus had been in charge for the Vienna game, we'd have won. Why? Because she knows nothing - NOTHING - of football. So, she'd have to walk around asking each player who they are and where his normal playing position is and play them there. I promise you, that would have resulted in a far better outcome than the one we've seen.
I have to ask why?
We all thought it was the dawning of a new age when we slaughtered West Ham. Players in their correct positions, players motivated, players using modern tactics and skills you'd expect of someone getting thousands of pounds per week. So what has happened between then and now? Sure there are injuries but not one fan on this board (and I'll take a stab that no-one at VillaTalk either) has come up with an explanation as to why we have players in positions that are completely foreign to them. Not one. I hope that Randy has issued a 'please explain' to Kevin Mac. And I hope that explanation becomes publicly available because the only reason I can see that this has happened is that he was TOLD to throw the game......and I don't want to go there!
And surely to God it must make you sick when you see a player that has cost Randy 10 million quid (say it slooowly - "ten m-i-l-l-i-o-n") and gets paid probably double the money in one week that a US Marine getting his arse hammered in the mid-east gets in a year, who can't even perform to a level that would give him a starting spot in a decent pub team.
A possible solution?
Get eleven ex-marines....I mean some real bad-ass mofo's....one for each player. Get these men on the side-lines giving each player the death stare and ready to give an almighty bollocking when they balls it up. These lads need to feel the humiliation and public embarrassment that we, as fans, have felt.
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Sp
General,
Some clown on here has insisted you get manager in by Monday. Just grabbing someone, (anyone) you can to appease fools like this by the first day of the working week is going to help no-one. It's clear that this season will be one of transition. It'll cost Randy in season ticket sales and merchandise, no doubt but that's just for this season. Provided we finish as the top midlands team and try as hard as we can for a European spot, then that's as good as we can expect given the bizarre circumstances of the last few weeks. Just get the RIGHT person. Not just some bloke who can start Monday.
Now, I'm sure....100% sure....that if my missus had been in charge for the Vienna game, we'd have won. Why? Because she knows nothing - NOTHING - of football. So, she'd have to walk around asking each player who they are and where his normal playing position is and play them there. I promise you, that would have resulted in a far better outcome than the one we've seen.
I have to ask why?
We all thought it was the dawning of a new age when we slaughtered West Ham. Players in their correct positions, players motivated, players using modern tactics and skills you'd expect of someone getting thousands of pounds per week. So what has happened between then and now? Sure there are injuries but not one fan on this board (and I'll take a stab that no-one at VillaTalk either) has come up with an explanation as to why we have players in positions that are completely foreign to them. Not one. I hope that Randy has issued a 'please explain' to Kevin Mac. And I hope that explanation becomes publicly available because the only reason I can see that this has happened is that he was TOLD to throw the game......and I don't want to go there!
And surely to God it must make you sick when you see a player that has cost Randy 10 million quid (say it slooowly - "ten m-i-l-l-i-o-n") and gets paid probably double the money in one week that a US Marine getting his arse hammered in the mid-east gets in a year, who can't even perform to a level that would give him a starting spot in a decent pub team.
A possible solution?
Get eleven ex-marines....I mean some real bad-ass mofo's....one for each player. Get these men on the side-lines giving each player the death stare and ready to give an almighty bollocking when they balls it up. These lads need to feel the humiliation and public embarrassment that we, as fans, have felt.
Spot on Troy.
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Decisive action to appoint the CORRECT manager is needed NOW general
The CORRECT manager is (currently unemployed) sitting at home waiting for the call. All it takes is for Mr Lerner to decide NOW to call him. It's so obvious when you think of it rationally.
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disgraceful yet again, no direction on or off the pitch...
it takes time to get the right manager in, yes, but it has been 3 weeks since o'neill cowardly ran away, and according to macdonald, interviews havent even started yet...
disgraceful way to run our great club...
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If we can't get a manager - tell us
If we can't afford players - tell us
If we have financial problems - tell us
If we have to sell out best player to bring in cash every year - tell us.
We support Villa, whether it be good or bad, we just want to know where we stand and what cards we're trying to play with.
I thought I'd log on to find a number of posts on the General thread.
I feel largely the same as the poster above.
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Decisive action to appoint the CORRECT manager is needed NOW general
The CORRECT manager is (currently unemployed) sitting at home waiting for the call. All it takes is for Mr Lerner to decide NOW to call him. It's so obvious when you think of it rationally.
If you are suggesting what i think you are (That Randy asks MON to come back) then i think you have lost your mind or on serious drugs..
Have at no point you seen what the selfish, egotistical, arrogant bastard has done to our club - have you?
I honestly would rather get relegated than go back crawling to the slime ball that created this mess just so he could get off on the adulation.
I hope to God Randy feels the same
MON was good when he started - we needed him to stabalise the club - he did that , year on year he improved us (supported by untold funds lets not forget) then he hit his ceiling and started to waste funds on shit players that he then refused to play.
He had taken us as far as he ever was going to go - the clubs above us not only have huge funds available but they also have imaginitive managers who are tactically astute and know how to play the game at the highest level - unfortunately MON bottled it as he knew he would be out of his depth as well to be able to manage what he had.
Wycombe
Norwich
Leicester
Celtic
He had never managed at this level before and for once his hype outwieghed his actual ability
Time to move on - the future can still be bright - but it will be with out the selfish one
His resignation could and will do more damage in one fell swoop than ever his ability to improve us could - and he knew it
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MON was good when he started - we needed him to stabalise the club - he did that , year on year he improved us (supported by untold funds lets not forget) then he hit his ceiling
He had taken us as far as he ever was going to go - the clubs above us not only have huge funds available but they also have imaginitive managers who are tactically astute and know how to play the game at the highest level
entirely agree with that
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Troy I find your idea that randy asked kmac to throw last nights game quite ridiculous frankly.I too found his team selections bizarre but I'm sure it wasn't to throw the game.
I just think he was totally out of his depth and the fact he hasn't removed himself from the managerial speculation is dissapointing. K
kmac has done himself and Aston villa no favours over the last week and it's sad to see.
However we have had 3 weeks almost and not interviewed anyone yet and for that I find incompetent and unacceptable running of our club at the very top.
Holding back may have saved randy money in transfer fees general but in the long run it will cost him far more!
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There's a few threads elsewhere to discuss managers past, present and future.
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Some of the the hysterical rants on this thread are disrepectful and pathetic. The General has explained what the club are doing and has said they will take their time to get the right man. Cant we just trust the board to do this without demanding an update every 5 minutes. Doesnt everybody think that Randy has earned the right to be trusted on this. Four seasons of year on year improvement, wembley trips, the classy way they have conducted their business (Acorns etc) and sensitive way they have acknowledeged our heritage, the Generals honesty on these forums etc - yet the first blip and you would think we had Gillette and Hicks in charge. They deserve better than some of the comments now being thrown around on here and I only hope the General does not think that this is representative of all Villa fans because if it is, and I was Randy I, would just tell us to stuff it.
Also some people need to find some perspective in their lives. This isnt life or death. We have lost a couple of football matches whilst trying to replace a manager who walked out on the eve of the season. Nobody has died. We are not trapped down a mine until Xmas. The owners have done a great job and I believe they will get this right. How about giving them space to do this and everyone calm down and concentrate von getting behind the team on Sunday.
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what sanctimonious drivel !!
Most fans who are expressing an opinion are doing so because they care passionately about the club and what happens to it.
it called emotion.
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we have been told in the past that actions speak louder than words...
never has that been so appropritate, as now...
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As right as tyou are montague we're the ones who spend our money supporting a club that are seemingly drifting aimlessly. We all support Randy, and Kev Mac, but its hard to be posiitive when two average sides put 9 past you, you see the transfer deadline day looming and not a sniff of Villa transfer activity - in or out, you see a caretaker manager out of his depth but seemingly working with a cross-fingered board that it suddenly comes right so they don't have to spend on a new manager.
So, whilst you are right that no-one has died, we're not trapped down a well, and I'm not beseiged by the River Indus, my mundane existence is enlivened by my family and Aston Villa. When one or t'other start to fuck-up then it causes my great angst. I, an many others know where football ranks in our lives and know that we will always overreact. Its part and parcel of being a fan.
So, I'll have to finish this with a question to make it thread-specific, General, do you agree?
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Decisive action to appoint the CORRECT manager is needed NOW general
The CORRECT manager is (currently unemployed) sitting at home waiting for the call. All it takes is for Mr Lerner to decide NOW to call him. It's so obvious when you think of it rationally.
I've even put my phone on loud, in case I'm in the toilet or having a nap.
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Or both.
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3 weeks almost montague and no one interviewed- while randy has had a break in milan and attended NFL meetings- this is not a playthings and needs his full attention right now- we are fully entitled to let the general know if we feel angry with the situation!
Many of us eat , sleep and breathe Aston villa and it hurts to see the club like this- mon going is no bad thing , he should have gone in may though- but 3 weeks without even interviewing anyone until the transfer window is over is unforgivable!
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Is 3 weeks drifting aimlessly ?
General K did suggest it would not get better quickly and again he's not far wrong.
yes we need a man appointing before the next kickoff against Stoke, yes we need to try and keep the likes of Young away from Spurs, yes we need to improve the squad, and yes we need some leadership and not this designer vacuum that's been created. We are after all a football club not a private business but I don't think for one minute RL is allowing the club to drift aimlessly. Is that not right General?
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Decisive action to appoint the CORRECT manager is needed NOW general
The CORRECT manager is (currently unemployed) sitting at home waiting for the call. All it takes is for Mr Lerner to decide NOW to call him. It's so obvious when you think of it rationally.
If you are suggesting what i think you are (That Randy asks MON to come back) then i think you have lost your mind or on serious drugs..
Have at no point you seen what the selfish, egotistical, arrogant bastard has done to our club - have you?
Absolutely not, it was an attempt at sarcasm! The thought that it is so simple to find the CORRECT manager NOW is laughable however the thought of MON returning is even more absurd. I'm just bemused that people seem to think that there is this supply of top managers out there who are available straight away. Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs.
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what sanctimonious drivel !!
Most fans who are expressing an opinion are doing so because they care passionately about the club and what happens to it.
it called emotion.
I have a great deal of emotion and passion for the Villa, thanks.
Fans have every right to complain and express an opinion. My point is that when people are posting comments like "disgraceful way to treat our great club" and "incompetent and unacceptable running of our club at the very top" on a thread which the General has always used to answer fans questions with courtey and respect, and after all the owners have done for the club so far, then this is totally out of order and disrepectful.
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Some of the the hysterical rants on this thread are disrepectful and pathetic. The General has explained what the club are doing and has said they will take their time to get the right man. Cant we just trust the board to do this without demanding an update every 5 minutes. Doesnt everybody think that Randy has earned the right to be trusted on this. Four seasons of year on year improvement, wembley trips, the classy way they have conducted their business (Acorns etc) and sensitive way they have acknowledeged our heritage, the Generals honesty on these forums etc - yet the first blip and you would think we had Gillette and Hicks in charge. They deserve better than some of the comments now being thrown around on here and I only hope the General does not think that this is representative of all Villa fans because if it is, and I was Randy I, would just tell us to stuff it.
Also some people need to find some perspective in their lives. This isnt life or death. We have lost a couple of football matches whilst trying to replace a manager who walked out on the eve of the season. Nobody has died. We are not trapped down a mine until Xmas. The owners have done a great job and I believe they will get this right. How about giving them space to do this and everyone calm down and concentrate von getting behind the team on Sunday.
So we should only talk about football aSome of the the hysterical rants on this thread are disrepectful and pathetic. The General has explained what the club are doing and has said they will take their time to get the right man. Cant we just trust the board to do this without demanding an update every 5 minutes. Doesnt everybody think that Randy has earned the right to be trusted on this. Four seasons of year on year improvement, wembley trips, the classy way they have conducted their business (Acorns etc) and sensitive way they have acknowledeged our heritage, the Generals honesty on these forums etc - yet the first blip and you would think we had Gillette and Hicks in charge. They deserve better than some of the comments now being thrown around on here and I only hope the General does not think that this is representative of all Villa fans because if it is, and I was Randy I, would just tell us to stuff it.
Also some people need to find some perspective in their lives. This isnt life or death. We have lost a couple of football matches whilst trying to replace a manager who walked out on the eve of the season. Nobody has died. We are not trapped down a mine until Xmas. The owners have done a great job and I believe they will get this right. How about giving them space to do this and everyone calm down and concentrate von getting behind the team on Sunday.
Of course football isn't life or death, but if we use that as the criterion for what is allowed to be discussed, we might as well close the site down now. Lots of people are frustrated because the silence from those in charge at VP is deafening. And no sorry, being told to "trust the board" doesn't wash. The lack of action has already cost us another extended European campaign. The lack of football industry expertise is clearly costing us at the moment, and it simply isn't good enough.
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what sanctimonious drivel !!
Most fans who are expressing an opinion are doing so because they care passionately about the club and what happens to it.
it called emotion.
I have a great deal of emotion and passion for the Villa, thanks.
Fans have every right to complain and express an opinion. My point is that when people are posting comments like "disgraceful way to treat our great club" and "incompetent and unacceptable running of our club at the very top" on a thread which the General has always used to answer fans questions with courtey and respect, and after all the owners have done for the club so far, then this is totally out of order and disrepectful.
not it isnt... i have every respect for the general and have had many private conversations with him at villatalk over villa matters...
he knows that i am brutally honest, and i know that he is not a little fairy who wants his ego stroked...
i think it is extremely disrespectful to assume that he cant handle negative comments...
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Ah, how things have changed. Its now disrespectful to challenge the board/owners of our football club. Funny thing football.
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General, Please give us some good news asap
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General, Please give us some good news asap
Man City have put down a deposit for Albrighton ;)
Do what you have to do General but do it quicker.
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My own take on it is that in the modern game there is always going to be a mis-match between business principles and passion. The fans are passionate about their ('our') club, whereas owners, including Mr Lerner, are business people. Yes, they want their club to be successful, but because that is good business and profit comes from good business. In the same way that if I owned Argos I would want to sell a lot of stuff. Thus for owners, running a good business is the priority, where as for fans other types of success are more important. I am not suggesting these are mutually exclusive and are obviously complimentary, but ultimately they can contradict each other.
I believe the General cares about Villa (as does Mr Lerner), but I think they 'care' differently and therefore feel it differently to the rest of us, i.e. this is ultimately a business first, passion second (although that seems an oxymoron). The General obviously doesn't post on here to be a 'mate', but to communicate the business objectives (and deal with minor problems when he can). We are the consumers. We matter if we dutifully walk through the turnstiles week-on-week because we help pay the bills. Beyond that, I'm not always convinced that we matter to owners any more than an customer in Argos. Football isn't about football anymore, it is about overpaid prima donnas who have little sense of the reality of the fans' experience. That's why the last couple of defeats matter so much to me too - not just losing to mediocre opposition, but the capitulation that, for most of us in our own line of work, would not be tolerated.
Owners and players can talk of pain and hurt, but then fans are criticised for 'poor' attendances. I think Villa fans have, historically and currently, stuck with the club through thick and thin, and will continue to do so because we are passionate. Like many, I probably spend thousands per year on tickets and travel following Villa, and have done so for years. Small change for a premiership footballer or multi-millionaire owner.
Sorry for the rant, but the whole process of football (particularly the premiership) is toxic at times. Mr Lerner does seem to be a decent person and has invested in the club, but at this stage we need someone who is talking honestly to us, not through the smoke screen of business-lingo, saying it how it is. I am not always sure General how much you say on this thread is from the heart (it clearly is on occasions), and how much is the corporate line (it clearly is on occasions). I can't speak for others here, but I always prefer it how it is, rather than with a vaneer that covers the reality; the former communicates respect for the heart and soul of the club-the fans. Otherwise the club risks becoming another corporate nobody and ultimately a floundering business.
If you are able therefore to answer some of the questions raised on this thread over the last few days in a transparent way, that would help considerably.
Phew. Feel better for that.
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Hi General,
I've given it 24 hours before commenting.
I was at the West Ham game. The players played without shackles. You posted that evening that players were in their correct positions and it was great to see.
So can you tell us why we decided to rest the only two players in the first team squad who can play left back last night? Why we abandoned the formation that worked against them in the first leg, in a game we didn't need to chase. I thought this kind of stubborn buffoonery had gone.
After 25 years of going to games, I've decided not to bother again this season. It's 600 hours of my life I'll see again. Do let me know when it's safe to watch again.
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Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs
Hint - we are not the first club to be looking for a new manager. You identify a shortlist of managers that you think are suitable and you go out and get one
you dont let the situation drift for 3 weeks, at the start of a season, with the transfer window ebbing away and risk writing off a complete season with the chances being that a poor season will result in the better players seeking to move and crowds dwindling
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My own take on it is that in the modern game there is always going to be a mis-match between business principles and passion. The fans are passionate about their ('our') club, whereas owners, including Mr Lerner, are business people. Yes, they want their club to be successful, but because that is good business and profit comes from good business. In the same way that if I owned Argos I would want to sell a lot of stuff. Thus for owners, running a good business is the priority, where as for fans other types of success are more important. I am not suggesting these are mutually exclusive and are obviously complimentary, but ultimately they can contradict each other.
I believe the General cares about Villa (as does Mr Lerner), but I think they 'care' differently and therefore feel it differently to the rest of us, i.e. this is ultimately a business first, passion second (although that seems an oxymoron). The General obviously doesn't post on here to be a 'mate', but to communicate the business objectives (and deal with minor problems when he can). We are the consumers. We matter if we dutifully walk through the turnstiles week-on-week because we help pay the bills. Beyond that, I'm not always convinced that we matter to owners any more than an customer in Argos. Football isn't about football anymore, it is about overpaid prima donnas who have little sense of the reality of the fans' experience. That's why the last couple of defeats matter so much to me too - not just losing to mediocre opposition, but the capitulation that, for most of us in our own line of work, would not be tolerated.
Owners and players can talk of pain and hurt, but then fans are criticised for 'poor' attendances. I think Villa fans have, historically and currently, stuck with the club through thick and thin, and will continue to do so because we are passionate. Like many, I probably spend thousands per year on tickets and travel following Villa, and have done so for years. Small change for a premiership footballer or multi-millionaire owner.
Sorry for the rant, but the whole process of football (particularly the premiership) is toxic at times. Mr Lerner does seem to be a decent person and has invested in the club, but at this stage we need someone who is talking honestly to us, not through the smoke screen of business-lingo, saying it how it is. I am not always sure General how much you say on this thread is from the heart (it clearly is on occasions), and how much is the corporate line (it clearly is on occasions). I can't speak for others here, but I always prefer it how it is, rather than with a vaneer that covers the reality; the former communicates respect for the heart and soul of the club-the fans. Otherwise the club risks becoming another corporate nobody and ultimately a floundering business.
If you are able therefore to answer some of the questions raised on this thread over the last few days in a transparent way, that would help considerably.
Phew. Feel better for that.
And how much do you think Randy has trousered from renovating the Holte Hotel, the Holte mosaic, the Acorns sponsorship, Bodymore, European cup celebrations etc. How much will he see back from the millions ONeill has spunked on sub-standard squad players. He may be a businessman and he may not feel the same sort of passion as most supporters but I think he genuinely cares about the club and its heritage and is not just in it for the return. I hope so anyway, and from my view of what he has done so far I have no reason to doubt him.
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Hi General,
I've given it 24 hours before commenting.
I was at the West Ham game. The players played without shackles. You posted that evening that players were in their correct positions and it was great to see.
So can you tell us why we decided to rest the only two players in the first team squad who can play left back last night? Why we abandoned the formation that worked against them in the first leg, in a game we didn't need to chase. I thought this kind of stubborn buffoonery had gone.
After 25 years of going to games, I've decided not to bother again this season. It's 600 hours of my life I'll see again. Do let me know when it's safe to watch again.
Did this myself last year after the Wigan game. First game back this season after Mon had gone.......Rapid Vienna.....oh dear....
I would imagine that someone with General in front of his name may be aware of the requirement for leadership......within the club and on the pitch. Kindly explain this to management and players at the earliest opportunity.
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Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs
Hint - we are not the first club to be looking for a new manager. You identify a shortlist of managers that you think are suitable and you go out and get one
you dont let the situation drift for 3 weeks, at the start of a season, with the transfer window ebbing away and risk writing off a complete season with the chances being that a poor season will result in the better players seeking to move and crowds dwindling
If it was that easy do you think that they would have done it by now? Do you really think that it's just a matter of deciding who we would like and then just offering them the job? Do you really think that the club are deliberately leaving this situation to drift, and are unaware of the impact which it's having on and off the pitch?
Sorry for cluttering up the General's thread with this but some of these comments about the Board's 'lack of leadership' are bewildering. The one thing they can be accused of, is lacking in communicating the details of the situation with the fans and that information void is being filled with pointless speculation and unwarranted slander.
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If it was that easy do you think that they would have done it by now?
you would have hoped so wouldn't you
Do you really think that it's just a matter of deciding who we would like and then just offering them the job?
pretty much yes, thats the way football works. Identify the manager you want, talk to his current employers if he is employed, agree a compensation figure, offer him the job, hopefully he accepts. Pretty much the same as what happens with players e.g. Milner
Do you really think that the club are deliberately leaving this situation to drift, and are unaware of the impact which it's having on and off the pitch?
No, but I think they haven't acted quickly enough for whatever reason, lack of necessary football knowledge or skills, maybe not realising the full impact
And I don't think I have slandered anyone with any of my posts
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We are told the club have been inundated with applicants , of which many are experienced international or premiership managers past or present- yes we could and should have appointed by now.
Look at svens club record-would he not have been a better option with all his contacts and experience than kmac?
Or is randy waiting till the window is over so he doesn't have to spend? The general I respect greatly but he is randy's man and is not going to tell us things randy doesn't want us to know!
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My thoughts on the new Manager are, if we aren't going to be competing for trophies / titles then give us a Manager who can give us another 'Big Ron' era.
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My own take on it is that in the modern game there is always going to be a mis-match between business principles and passion. The fans are passionate about their ('our') club, whereas owners, including Mr Lerner, are business people. Yes, they want their club to be successful, but because that is good business and profit comes from good business. In the same way that if I owned Argos I would want to sell a lot of stuff. Thus for owners, running a good business is the priority, where as for fans other types of success are more important. I am not suggesting these are mutually exclusive and are obviously complimentary, but ultimately they can contradict each other.
I believe the General cares about Villa (as does Mr Lerner), but I think they 'care' differently and therefore feel it differently to the rest of us, i.e. this is ultimately a business first, passion second (although that seems an oxymoron). The General obviously doesn't post on here to be a 'mate', but to communicate the business objectives (and deal with minor problems when he can). We are the consumers. We matter if we dutifully walk through the turnstiles week-on-week because we help pay the bills. Beyond that, I'm not always convinced that we matter to owners any more than an customer in Argos. Football isn't about football anymore, it is about overpaid prima donnas who have little sense of the reality of the fans' experience. That's why the last couple of defeats matter so much to me too - not just losing to mediocre opposition, but the capitulation that, for most of us in our own line of work, would not be tolerated.
Owners and players can talk of pain and hurt, but then fans are criticised for 'poor' attendances. I think Villa fans have, historically and currently, stuck with the club through thick and thin, and will continue to do so because we are passionate. Like many, I probably spend thousands per year on tickets and travel following Villa, and have done so for years. Small change for a premiership footballer or multi-millionaire owner.
Sorry for the rant, but the whole process of football (particularly the premiership) is toxic at times. Mr Lerner does seem to be a decent person and has invested in the club, but at this stage we need someone who is talking honestly to us, not through the smoke screen of business-lingo, saying it how it is. I am not always sure General how much you say on this thread is from the heart (it clearly is on occasions), and how much is the corporate line (it clearly is on occasions). I can't speak for others here, but I always prefer it how it is, rather than with a vaneer that covers the reality; the former communicates respect for the heart and soul of the club-the fans. Otherwise the club risks becoming another corporate nobody and ultimately a floundering business.
If you are able therefore to answer some of the questions raised on this thread over the last few days in a transparent way, that would help considerably.
Phew. Feel better for that.
Well put, and bang on the money.
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Hello General,
As an American Villa fan I'm interested to know if there have been any recent talks to partner with a MLS club? I know Arsenal and Spurs both have deals for friendlies, etc. in place with Rapids and Quakes respectively. With a great club in Columbus (Randy's backyard), I would love to strike something up there. The fans are passionate and it would form a marketing vessel to promote Villa across the country. Thanks.
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Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs
Hint - we are not the first club to be looking for a new manager. You identify a shortlist of managers that you think are suitable and you go out and get one
you dont let the situation drift for 3 weeks, at the start of a season, with the transfer window ebbing away and risk writing off a complete season with the chances being that a poor season will result in the better players seeking to move and crowds dwindling
If it was that easy do you think that they would have done it by now? Do you really think that it's just a matter of deciding who we would like and then just offering them the job? Do you really think that the club are deliberately leaving this situation to drift, and are unaware of the impact which it's having on and off the pitch?
Stop making sense.
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Calmed down since last night - and while i concur with most of the posters here re manager / signings etc, my worry is this:
Randy last night witnessed with his own eyes what MoN has done with his cash which, IMO, leaves him viewing it in one of two ways:
!) MoN invested wisely and the chaps that make up the squad have suffered from MoN's "play the first 11 philosophy" and will come good once they get some more game time
or
2) MoN has pissed my cash up against the wall with signings such as NRC, Heskey, Guzan (who has me sweating like a cornered virgin whenever a cross comes in), Beye, Davies, Cuellar - not to mention Sidwell, Salifou who were not even good enough for that team and certainly not to mention signings he has made that we have moved on at a loss. FUCK ME WHAT HAVE I DONE!!!!!
My question General is does Randy have the stomach for it all over again - what is clear to me is that the squad is woefully short of what is required if we have any ambition other than to be a run of the mill top10 club over time (which i think we will be despite some of the hyperbole posted in the last 24 hours) - so he is going to have to suffer a loss on the dead wood and invest further if we want to try to develop the squad and all this will do for the wages / turnover metric.
MoN has taken us forward for sure - but when the gloss wears off we get what we got last night - we are very short of being competitive - and I think we all agree beasting our best 11 until they crawl onto the pitch on their nuts come March is not the way forward.
Will Randy chalk MoN up as the tosser he has proven to be and invest further - or will he think balls to it - i'm going to spunk what i have lest on Brett Favre.
To lighten the mood a little - trying to take any positive i can from last night - who'd have thought Heskey is more deadly with his cock from 3 yards than either of his feet or his suede.
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I don't suppose any club deliberately goes out to make a balls up of things. Are we supposed to feel sorry for the board because getting a new manager is a bit tricky? If they're not up to the job, then they should get some help. As far as I can see, you could comfortably fit their collective football knowledge on the back of a postage stamp.
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Let's get back to questions for the General please.
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General
Will we be hearing something from the club sometime soon?
We know Randy doesn't like the limelight, but might this be the occasion for him to do a proper press conference? Uncertainty is a lot easier to handle when you feel at least informed.
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As far as I can see, you could comfortably fit their collective football knowledge on the back of a postage stamp.
For real, bro? Congrats on totally disrespecting our board.
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I don't suppose any club deliberately goes out to make a balls up of things. Are we supposed to feel sorry for the board because getting a new manager is a bit tricky? If they're not up to the job, then they should get some help. As far as I can see, you could comfortably fit their collective football knowledge on the back of a postage stamp.
Firstly how do we know they are not up to the job, have I missed something. They might not meet your criteria but until an appointment is made its hard to assess how good they are.
Secondly are you sure their football knowledge is so poor. randy's certainly isn't.
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General ..............you might find this question a little sarcastic but here goes..............
You are still out there aren't you and haven't done an O'Neill on us ?
I'm really becoming concerned for the future and need positive re-assurance
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Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs
Hint - we are not the first club to be looking for a new manager. You identify a shortlist of managers that you think are suitable and you go out and get one
you dont let the situation drift for 3 weeks, at the start of a season, with the transfer window ebbing away and risk writing off a complete season with the chances being that a poor season will result in the better players seeking to move and crowds dwindling
If it was that easy do you think that they would have done it by now? Do you really think that it's just a matter of deciding who we would like and then just offering them the job? Do you really think that the club are deliberately leaving this situation to drift, and are unaware of the impact which it's having on and off the pitch?
Stop making sense.
It's not so much a case of making sense Pelty-Anyone with half a brain knows that it's a thankless task to find a decent manager out of the rubbish that is out there.
My criticism lies with the board & ultimately Randy-This stand off between MON & Randy had been going on since last season-It was covered in a lot of papers at the time.If Randy didn't trust MON with transfer money (& I can't say that I blame him,given the shit that he bought) Then just get rid of him-English football is a ruthless beast & I'm not sure that there's room for nice guys like Lerner & Faulkner
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General, after a very dissapointing couple of games (without a manager) I was wondering how this will affect our future. It would appear we have a lack of transfer funds. With the club reported to have lost £50Million last year. We got to the the final of the League cup, semi final of the FA Cup and finished 6th in the league, surely we need to better that by a great deal or we will have a greater loss this year. We cant afford to lose that amount of money every year. Having said that the only way I can see us going forward is to have a large investment to bolster the squad, which is what i think Martin O'Neil has said in every interview for the last 4 years but did not do it. Every game I look to the bench and there is no one on there who I think will turn a game around. It would help if we had a manager in place sooner rather than later although it would seem the cheaper option (Kevin Mac) would be prefered by yourselves, I don't feel the best league in the world should have people getting promoted to management. If we are to better ourselves we need to get in a better manager than MON otherwise we are going backwards. Everyone says how much of a great manager we have lost but we shouldn't let that ruin the club. I guess what Iam trying to ask is what are your ambitions for the club and how do you plan on fulfilling these ambitions?
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As far as I can see, you could comfortably fit their collective football knowledge on the back of a postage stamp.
For real, bro? Congrats on totally disrespecting our board.
He's entitled to ,as he is a site moderator and has over 20,000 posts,don't you agree General ?
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As far as I can see, you could comfortably fit their collective football knowledge on the back of a postage stamp.
For real, bro? Congrats on totally disrespecting our board.
He's entitled to ,as he is a site moderator and has over 20,000 posts,don't you agree General ?
He's entitled to as a member of this board, whether he be a moderator or not and no matter how many posts he has. We are all entitled to our opinion.
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Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs
Hint - we are not the first club to be looking for a new manager. You identify a shortlist of managers that you think are suitable and you go out and get one
you dont let the situation drift for 3 weeks, at the start of a season, with the transfer window ebbing away and risk writing off a complete season with the chances being that a poor season will result in the better players seeking to move and crowds dwindling
If it was that easy do you think that they would have done it by now? Do you really think that it's just a matter of deciding who we would like and then just offering them the job? Do you really think that the club are deliberately leaving this situation to drift, and are unaware of the impact which it's having on and off the pitch?
Stop making sense.
It's not so much a case of making sense Pelty-Anyone with half a brain knows that it's a thankless task to find a decent manager out of the rubbish that is out there.
My criticism lies with the board & ultimately Randy-This stand off between MON & Randy had been going on since last season-It was covered in a lot of papers at the time.If Randy didn't trust MON with transfer money (& I can't say that I blame him,given the shit that he bought) Then just get rid of him-English football is a ruthless beast & I'm not sure that there's room for nice guys like Lerner & Faulkner
I am not going to get into a long discussion on this, but your problem is that you actually believe the papers. Without exaggeration, they are wrong on all things Villa probably around 90-95% of the time. I can assure you they were wrong re: this supposed stand-off between Randy and MON in the April-May timeframe. I am just going to leave it at that.
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Hint: the really good ones already have good jobs at good clubs
Hint - we are not the first club to be looking for a new manager. You identify a shortlist of managers that you think are suitable and you go out and get one
you dont let the situation drift for 3 weeks, at the start of a season, with the transfer window ebbing away and risk writing off a complete season with the chances being that a poor season will result in the better players seeking to move and crowds dwindling
If it was that easy do you think that they would have done it by now? Do you really think that it's just a matter of deciding who we would like and then just offering them the job? Do you really think that the club are deliberately leaving this situation to drift, and are unaware of the impact which it's having on and off the pitch?
Stop making sense.
It's not so much a case of making sense Pelty-Anyone with half a brain knows that it's a thankless task to find a decent manager out of the rubbish that is out there.
My criticism lies with the board & ultimately Randy-This stand off between MON & Randy had been going on since last season-It was covered in a lot of papers at the time.If Randy didn't trust MON with transfer money (& I can't say that I blame him,given the shit that he bought) Then just get rid of him-English football is a ruthless beast & I'm not sure that there's room for nice guys like Lerner & Faulkner
I am not going to get into a long discussion on this, but your problem is that you actually believe the papers. Without exaggeration, they are wrong on all things Villa probably around 90-95% of the time. I can assure you they were wrong re: this supposed stand-off between Randy and MON in the April-May timeframe. I am just going to leave it at that.
My problem is not that I believe the papers but they did a pretty good imitation of Nostrademous if everything was Hunkey Dorey between the two fellas.
They were reporting the Milner deal to Man City around the same time as well.
My problem is that I think we are too nice at boardroom level-we need to be a bit more ruthless-I only care about Villa,I don't give a fuck who we upset-If there is a manager out there who is under contract who could do a job for us,then lets go & get him-You don't win any trophies for integrity in this league,especialy if you can't compete financialy
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Nechells - Pelty is General Krulaks son, so give it a rest.
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General, Is it true that the club are not prepared to approach a manager that is already in employment?
If so we are not going to get the best man for the job as you said we would.
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Silence is deafening.
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My own take on it is that in the modern game there is always going to be a mis-match between business principles and passion. The fans are passionate about their ('our') club, whereas owners, including Mr Lerner, are business people. Yes, they want their club to be successful, but because that is good business and profit comes from good business. In the same way that if I owned Argos I would want to sell a lot of stuff. Thus for owners, running a good business is the priority, where as for fans other types of success are more important. I am not suggesting these are mutually exclusive and are obviously complimentary, but ultimately they can contradict each other.
I believe the General cares about Villa (as does Mr Lerner), but I think they 'care' differently and therefore feel it differently to the rest of us, i.e. this is ultimately a business first, passion second (although that seems an oxymoron). The General obviously doesn't post on here to be a 'mate', but to communicate the business objectives (and deal with minor problems when he can). We are the consumers. We matter if we dutifully walk through the turnstiles week-on-week because we help pay the bills. Beyond that, I'm not always convinced that we matter to owners any more than an customer in Argos. Football isn't about football anymore, it is about overpaid prima donnas who have little sense of the reality of the fans' experience. That's why the last couple of defeats matter so much to me too - not just losing to mediocre opposition, but the capitulation that, for most of us in our own line of work, would not be tolerated.
Owners and players can talk of pain and hurt, but then fans are criticised for 'poor' attendances. I think Villa fans have, historically and currently, stuck with the club through thick and thin, and will continue to do so because we are passionate. Like many, I probably spend thousands per year on tickets and travel following Villa, and have done so for years. Small change for a premiership footballer or multi-millionaire owner.
Sorry for the rant, but the whole process of football (particularly the premiership) is toxic at times. Mr Lerner does seem to be a decent person and has invested in the club, but at this stage we need someone who is talking honestly to us, not through the smoke screen of business-lingo, saying it how it is. I am not always sure General how much you say on this thread is from the heart (it clearly is on occasions), and how much is the corporate line (it clearly is on occasions). I can't speak for others here, but I always prefer it how it is, rather than with a vaneer that covers the reality; the former communicates respect for the heart and soul of the club-the fans. Otherwise the club risks becoming another corporate nobody and ultimately a floundering business.
If you are able therefore to answer some of the questions raised on this thread over the last few days in a transparent way, that would help considerably.
Phew. Feel better for that.
And how much do you think Randy has trousered from renovating the Holte Hotel, the Holte mosaic, the Acorns sponsorship, Bodymore, European cup celebrations etc. How much will he see back from the millions ONeill has spunked on sub-standard squad players. He may be a businessman and he may not feel the same sort of passion as most supporters but I think he genuinely cares about the club and its heritage and is not just in it for the return. I hope so anyway, and from my view of what he has done so far I have no reason to doubt him.
General
In the light of the above reply to my original post, would you agree that while it is very welcome that we have a beautiful Holte mosaic and ground improvements, none of these things actually score goals (coincidentally like many of our players). So that the imperative must be to bring in a goal-scoring striker before the transfer window slams shut so that we don't run the risk of owning the most beautifully maintained ground in the Championship?
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My problem is that I think we are too nice at boardroom level-we need to be a bit more ruthless-I only care about Villa,I don't give a fuck who we upset-If there is a manager out there who is under contract who could do a job for us,then lets go & get him-You don't win any trophies for integrity in this league,especialy if you can't compete financialy
I am sorry to post this here when there are couple of Manager threads out there.
Nechells stop talking complete crap. As far as I know Randy is a billionaire. You don't get there if you are NOT ruthless in making deals. That does not mean sh*tting on people but being very very good at seeing an opportunity , taking a risk and closing out. I am sure the people in the Boardroom have adopted his business behaviours and they will do the right thing.
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As far as I know Randy is a billionaire. You don't get there if you are NOT ruthless in making deals
But he inherited his billions didn't he?
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randys dad was a billionaire and randy inherited from him as i understand it , not that it matters as its what he does with it that counts , not where her got he from.
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I don't suppose any club deliberately goes out to make a balls up of things. Are we supposed to feel sorry for the board because getting a new manager is a bit tricky? If they're not up to the job, then they should get some help. As far as I can see, you could comfortably fit their collective football knowledge on the back of a postage stamp.
I'l still take Randy thanks,
rather than one of the numpty's with all that supposed football experience.
i should think that 90% of football chairman get it wrong if history is anything to go by,
ley them make the desision, then see if they got it right,
i think they will, and they should not be rushed into a panic appointment just placate a few people with absolutly no patience and no bottle
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General, I just wanted to draw your attention to some of the merchanside Man City are putting out on here: http://shop.mcfc.co.uk/stores/mancity/products/product_browse.aspx?category|category_root|16143=fashion
(click on fashion if the link isn't working from the homepage)
I think some of it is cracking, and if we had a similar outlook with our merchanside it'd sell well. The polos and stuff inparticular, as after reaching a certain age alot of fans don't really feel comfortable wearing replica shirts.
I'm sure the success of the track jacket sales this year will back up the demand for this sort of stuff.
Can we get a McGrath dvd too? :-)
Cheers!
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if the club really does have ambition... i think it's time...
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6343111,00.html
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if the club really does have ambition... i think it's time...
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6343111,00.html
Likes this!
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if the club really does have ambition... i think it's time...
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_6343111,00.html
That's pretty cool, with personal quotes from Koeman too saying he'd like to manage Villa.
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General, completely off topic, but what do you make of your contemporary General Conway’s comments with regards to the timetables our respective Governments have draw up for withdrawal from Southern Afghanistan and how this is giving sustenance to the Taliban?
Secondly, do you think that it will be General Mattis who will succeed him as Marine Corps Commandant?
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General Krulak here:
1. I am sorry I have been off the thread for the past few days...I know that this is a crucial time and not being on the boards does not help much.
2. There are so many comments and questions that I am not sure where to begin so let me just provide a few thoughts. First off, obviously I was gutted by the game results. I am NO different than any Fan...it hurt and that is a fact. I am afraid I cannot keep refuting those who somehow think I am a lesser fan (or that Randy is a lesser Fan) because I am on the Board. I am so taken aback by that sort of thinking because it is so foreign to the way of life that I lived for most of my adulthood. My loyalty, my strength, everything...it is all tied up in the Villa...just like it was tied up in the Marine Corps. Just because I have not followed the Club for years or happen to be on the Board does NOT somehow make me a lesser fan. Sooner or later, I would hope you all would recognize that fact. Now to a bigger point, the Manager. When MON left the Club, we immediately made up a list of Managers that we would approach. The list was made up with the help of several solid and respected advisors. It would have been insane not to do so. No one has been sitting on their hands. Yet, we had a season that was close upon us so Randy immediately asked KM to move into the position. It was a good move and needed to be done because a good Manager is not something that happens overnight. This was not intended to be permanent...it was an opportunity for someone who has been with the Club, knows the Club, has been successful with the Club, is liked and admired by everyone at the Club...players and staff...to give it a go and help HIS Club. This did not mean that KM had "won" the job..it was simply recognition that we needed a steady hand on the tiller and KM gave us the steady hand. He is a very good man and has always had the heath of the Club firmly in his mind. As a Club, we are blessed to have him!!! At the same time, we did not stop the search. That effort is ongoing!! As the search continues, so does the season. We understand that fact! Sometimes in seems like the fans believe we are just sitting back drinking beers...nothing could be further from the truth. At the same time, it makes NO sense to start naming names...putting out a list of candidates...that is just NOT the way it is done. Unfortunately, there are some Fans who believe this is an easy thing to do...it is not. Yes, we could probably go out and get any Manager...but we are not interested in any Manager...we are interested in the right Manager. Does anyone really believe that any owner would PURPOSELY let time fly by? Please think about it. Seriously, does anyone think that Randy, after putting so much money and effort into the Club, would just let time fly by without working his bum off?? Randy is in the UK right now...he has spent the VAST majority of the summer in the UK and since MON left, he has spent almost ALL of his time in the UK working this issue and others. We understand the frustration of the Fans...we really do. This issue is just not as simple as some would make it out to be. To think that we can just go into another Club and somehow entice their Manager to come to Villa Park is to underestimate the issue by a thousand-fold. It just is NOT that simple and for those who think it is, it isn't!
3. I must tell you that my respect for the Villa Fans knows no bounds...and the same goes for Randy!! We know these are tough times for you....they are for us too. We get it!! Please know that we ARE working hard on this issue and that we have our heads and hearts totally into the game. For those who think we have been laying back, you are dead wrong.
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Thank you, General! Your passion for this great club is obvious.
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General, (without naming names) are you even allowed to say or can you confirm that the list of managers includes some in existing jobs and if so have any of those been approached as yet?
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Thanks General - I'm reassured things ARE happening behind the scenes and we have to
be patient and have trust in Randy and his team-
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Thanks for that General,
I think the issue here is the mixed signals coming from within the camp, I know most is just rumour and conjecture, but after the bad old days of Deadly and co. a lot of the fans could see us spiralling to the old ways. Most are putting 2 and 2 together and getting nothing but minuses, me included. I am sure all on these boards agree how refreshing it is for someone such as yourself from within the club to come on here and try and put our minds at rest. Hopefully we will get some good news very soon, I definately think there needs a bit of "Hearts and Minds" activity to win everyone over again but I'm sure you already know that. Anyway good luck, we are all Villa till we die.
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General Sir,
What a top reply. Nightmare situation, thanks for putting some of the doubters right.
Come on you Lions!
ajmant
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General,
Is there any chance that Randy could join these messageboards, not to answer questions, but to give his thoughts on the club and how the season is progressing. Perhaps one post a month during the season?
Nothing more, but it would be interesting and maybe change the perception of him being aloof.
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Thanks, General.
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Thanks for the reassurance General.
Personaly, I dont think that it was needed. I honestly believe 100% that Randy will get the right manager for us.
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General,
I just wanted to let you know how much YOU annoy me!!!
The sheer fact that you come on here spouting your common sense. After Thursday I want blood, shouting at the TV, whinging on this forum and promising myself that I will not watch Sundays game as I am fed up of what the team has put me through.
You come on post a reply that makes me calmer about what is happening. Now I am in trouble with the Mrs as I told her we would go out to the Trafford centre. Now I know I will be driving to VP to watch the game instead cheering on this team that is on a rollercoaster.
As a request could you stop posting rational, sensible and well though out comments please. Otherwise, I will be living alone in a one bedroom flat with newspapers for curtains, fast internet and a subscription for RedHot Dutch after the wife leaves me!
(actually that does not sound so bad...)
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Very good post general ! I'm sure you realise football is an emotional game and maybe some of us may have gone overboard in our criticism after Thursdays shambolic display. I think once we have a new manager in place things will settle down much more.
I'm pleased you have told us more about the selection process and I hope in a weeks time we may have our man - please rest assured general we do appreciate your posts on here and I'm sure we all want a successful Aston villa- we are in it together even though we may have different views at times.
Aston villa are a great club general and your support is very much welcomed and appreciated!
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Fair enough General. A decent performance and result against Everton, and you'll have a nice quiet 2 week period to get things sorted. A repeat of the last 2 games though and things will get a little bit tetchy!
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General,
I just wanted to let you know how much YOU annoy me!!!
The sheer fact that you come on here spouting your common sense. After Thursday I want blood, shouting at the TV, whinging on this forum and promising myself that I will not watch Sundays game as I am fed up of what the team has put me through.
You come on post a reply that makes me calmer about what is happening. Now I am in trouble with the Mrs as I told her we would go out to the Trafford centre. Now I know I will be driving to VP to watch the game instead cheering on this team that is on a rollercoaster.
As a request could you stop posting rational, sensible and well though out comments please. Otherwise, I will be living alone in a one bedroom flat with newspapers for curtains, fast internet and a subscription for RedHot Dutch after the wife leaves me!
(actually that does not sound so bad...)
Brilliant post!
My jaw dropped when I read the first paragraph LOL! But you're right. The general has a wonderful way of calming the vast majority of us on here. Talking sense and making us look at this from a business point of view too as well as from a fans perspective. From a business perspective staying as we are without a manager is just insane and pisses all the hard work of the last 4 years up the wall. Of course the board are working hard on a manager. It's just common sense!!!
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Brilliant General K, from the heart and as expected.
Just make sure randy gets it right :)
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GK, nothing but the best response yet again. I don't know why we bother with all of the various threads on this site, we just need to communicate with you.
You simply do not have enough time to devote to your other ventures and keep Mrs K happy, you need to be an interactive answer system for us on here !
Thanks again
Daz
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We all get frustrated due to massive slump of form and lack of new players and no manager.
We can't see what is happening inside Villa Park and Randy Lerner's life. We won't know how hard he is working or what he have done so far since Martin O'Neill walked out.
The internet and media make us want 24 hours minutes to minutes coverage of what is happening.
What ever happens it is vital to get the next appointment right.
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General
Very supportive and thorough post - thanks for taking the time to do it.
I do think it would help all round though if the club issued an occasional official statement, perhaps via Mr Lerner or Mr Faulkner. Otherwise, the only information we get is when you post and that is dependent on your availability. I am sure the occasional statement from the club would help calm conjecture and speculation.
Thanks again.
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Yep, thanks for the heads up General.
I think the main thing is to hopefully get a win tommorow and then we've got the international break which is enough time to fully focus on the manager issue and hopefully bring in a manager during that period.
And yes, like diand said, it'd be nice for Randy Lerner to finally come out of hiding and perhaps give a statement of some sort. I think the no show of Randy does make some Villa fans minds wonder at time, to reassure everyone it'd be nice to hear from Randy once in a while; I hope that's not too much to ask for.
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Agree with that general, even if randy would prefer to put a letter from the chairman on the official site now and again it would help communication, as we have very rarely heard from him.
Doing so by letter would save him having to speak on camera , and I'm sure we would welcome his opinions-one thing about doug is he was always very accessible in that way, maybe overly so.
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General
Thank you for explaining the current process that is taking place. One thing which I am sure evry Villa fan would like to know is if we will not be bringing any players in before the transfer window shuts. Understandable if we are not but knowing would at least mean we won't be pulling our hair out between now and 5 pm on Tuesday wondering if a player is coming in.
Cheers
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Fair enough General. A decent performance and result against Everton, and you'll have a nice quiet 2 week period to get things sorted. A repeat of the last 2 games though and things will get a little bit tetchy!
somewhat remarkably, a win tomorrow, amidst all the gloom, we'll be perched in 4th. It won't take away all of the clouds but may give us all a welcome break from the malaise.
General, thanks for the update. This is a really important and interesting week for all of us. Getting the right man in is more important than the transfer window closing so best wishes with that.
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General;
Tell Randy to have a good manager in by Monday so he can sort our team out.
I think the main thing is to hopefully get a win tommorow and then we've got the international break which is enough time to fully focus on the manager issue and hopefully bring in a manager during that period.
You're all over the place, aren't you?
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General,
You've stated that a list of potential managers was drawn up with the help of "several solid and respected advisors." May we ask who they are and if they are from inside the club (coaches, former players) or external consultants (like Steve Stride?).
Regards and many thanks for coming on here at this time.
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Hi General,
Just a quick one. The fans and board have been through enough over the last few weeks. It is depressing to keep reading bad news about the club. Would you mind asking our so called "captain" to shut the hell up. Maybe he should try and inspire fellow players and be positive. I might also mention that he should maybe have a look in the mirror at his poor performances. Maybe he wishes us to strengthen in the centre midfield position (where he is currently not performing!)
Just so you know what I am on about...tomorrows News of the World:
The frustrated midfielder claims the weakened current squad is not strong enough for the challenge ahead and wants the board to spend before time runs out.
He groans: "It is a reality check. In football today, teams are prepared, teams are ready and if you're not ready, this is what happens. We need to learn that.
"It's going to be difficult for us to get into the top four.
"You can see that other teams are getting stronger, everybody is trying to compete.
"Tottenham, Manchester City and now Everton are the teams that are going to be really challenging us.
"We need to strengthen our squad before the transfer window closes.
"Other teams around us are doing it and we are getting left behind.
"We have a small squad and the 25-man rule just makes it worse for us.
"We've conceded nine goals in two matches and it's just not good enough. With all due respect to our opponents we should have not let that happen to us."
Poached
Petrov also questions how Villa can compete with the very best, if they continue to sell their best players.
Champions League-chasing rivals City poached Gareth Barry from the Midlands club one year ago and added insult to injury by nabbing James Milner just as the current campaign got underway.
"Obviously Milner was a very good player for us," stresses Petrov.
"You could see how outstanding he was in his very first game for Manchester City. We've lost a great player. That's the way football goes. When you get offered money like that you will get some chairman who accept it and others that don't.
"Unfortunately, we accepted it here. James Milner is not the first and won't be the last. Good players are wanted by good teams."
As Villa prepare to entertain Everton today, some might argue their European exit could aid a sustained league push this season but Petrov disagrees.
He adds: "It's no advantage. We wanted to be in Europe.
"We wanted to give the fans European nights and it's really disappointing that it's over.
"It will be difficult this year even though we've blown our chance at European football.
"It's a long season now. We started very well but didn't progress.
"All we can do now is battle on and hope that we can turn things around. It's going to be difficult.
"It's going to be very difficult but we'll push and see where we're going to end up."
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General;
Tell Randy to have a good manager in by Monday so he can sort our team out.
I think the main thing is to hopefully get a win tommorow and then we've got the international break which is enough time to fully focus on the manager issue and hopefully bring in a manager during that period.
You're all over the place, aren't you?
You sound like the school geek-anyway questions for the General only on this thread please
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Oh by the way the headline that his comments brought were:
PETROV SAYS VILLA ARE GOING BACKWARDS
Reality check for captain
Not "Proud History, Bright Future"
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Petrov is a through-and-through MON man. And I'm sure our ex-manager has had plenty to say to him down the phone over the last few weeks.
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anyway questions for the General only on this thread please
Who died and made you Pauliewalnuts?
Get back in your box, noob.
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anyway questions for the General only on this thread please
Who died and made you Pauliewalnuts?
Get back in your box, noob.
And less of that, please.
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Can we please take the captaincy off petrov, comments like these don't help morale, and since MON left he had look disinterested in every game.
General, you're a military man, get down to Bodymoor Heath and put a rocket up some of these players arses.
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General;
Tell Randy to have a good manager in by Monday so he can sort our team out.
I think the main thing is to hopefully get a win tommorow and then we've got the international break which is enough time to fully focus on the manager issue and hopefully bring in a manager during that period.
You're all over the place, aren't you?
get a life dude. stop being obsessive and checking/tracing every post i make... i bet you've got some sort of log where you keep my posts.
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General;
Tell Randy to have a good manager in by Monday so he can sort our team out.
I think the main thing is to hopefully get a win tommorow and then we've got the international break which is enough time to fully focus on the manager issue and hopefully bring in a manager during that period.
You're all over the place, aren't you?
get a life dude. stop being obsessive and checking/tracing every post i make... i bet you've got some sort of log where you keep my posts.
Excellent.
Take the night off.
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General Krulak here:
1. I had a very long talk with Randy today as we prepare for more talks tomorrow. To answer a couple of questions...yes, we do have a list and have had one since day #1. Yes, it does include individuals who are currently employed...I cannot imagine a list that wouldn't include those. Yes, we have spoken to individuals....as all of you might expect. As I have tried to indicate, we have not been sitting on our hands. At the end of the day, I believe you all realize that it would make no sense to name names or put out a list. It would hurt us, not help us.
2. I would imagine that Randy or Paul will put something out re. the situation very soon. That does NOT mean they will be announcing a Manager...just letting the Fans know where we stand.
3. I am sure that each of us has an idea of who should be the Manager. I have one, I am sure Dave W. has one, and I am sure 98% of the rest have ideas. At the end of the day, we all realize that we need someone who knows the League, who has shown that he can lead Lads to win, who understands our ethos, our traditions, and buys into what it means to wear the claret and blue. We need someone who shares the same vision as the owner...a team that can be a consistent winner...playing an exciting brand of football...and getting into Europe.
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Thankyou general. I know it is tough for you guys now and I am encouraged by the point you make that you are looking for someone who knows the league. I trust you will all make the right decision for the club
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Cheers General. I am glad that someone is keeping us fans updated with the situation. I appreciate that the club probably can't find the time to release these statements letting the fans know about the situation as they are busy looking for a new manager, and I just hope you can appreciate that us fans, especially those with season tickets like myself, are just frustrated that nothing is being said by the club, and that we are uncertain who will be the manager of the club that we are pumping the money in to. We know that yourself, Randy and Paul are the right men to move this club forward, with the right manager on board.
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Preferably some one who doesn't consider himself bigger than the club and is willing to look outside the UK.
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Thank you general, we appreciate it! I noticed in your list of aims you mentioned get into Europe ,I think that's maybe more realistic than the champions league this season but please could a new manager take Europe more seriously!
We worked hard to qualify only for kmac to rest half the 1st team and us end up getting knocked out straight away, Europe is important and I'd hope a new manager treats it that way should we qualify next time , thanks general!
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General,
Thanks for the replies. Its been a terrible week, emotions run riot. You say most people have an idea who to have. Me - no bloody idea! You are never going to make everyone happy, a manager will come in and not tick every ones boxes. What a incredible tough decision facing Randy and the board.
The only alarm bells I've had since MON left was if I was offered the chance to apply it would have been a resounding YES, you would have seen it in my eyes and tone of voice. I did not see that with Kevin McDonald from the first interview. Maybe at first I thought he was keeping his cards close to his chest, but as it went on there is too many doubts from him.
All the best though for today, we need to win for the sake of all the fans and every one involved with Villa.
The players need to pull a performance out the bag to give Kevin a big thank you for looking after affairs. Lets have this 16 day break with a smile.
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Preferably some one who doesn't consider himself bigger than the club and is willing to look outside the UK.
Hear, hear. It was bad enough at the time. Now, in retrospect it was an appalling way to go about things...
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Thanks for confirming the views of those few who believed you were doing it the right way, good news.
Personally I have no idea who should be manager and I must admit I am a little concerned you didn't offer any assurances you would ensure Randy signed the right man :)
Still having read the outlined criteria especially the bit about a manager who knows how to win, I for one am becoming excited at the prospect, even if it looks like a decision will be too late for the window closing.
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Dear General. I know you mean it well, when you write that the new manager should get us into Europe. However, can you not once and for all tell us how important the Europa League is to the club? When I saw the squad for the trip to Vienna, I asked you how important it was to the club, and you wrote that the manager picks the team. I do not believe that a caretaker manager can decide on his own to use such a game to play youngsters and not pick the strongest side for two games. As others has suggested, players could have been rested for the Newcastle game, if the 2 games against Rapid Wien were first priority. I just wish the club, perhaps after announcing the new manager, would come out and announce what exactly the priorities are for the club.
Good luck with finding a new manager. Up the Villa.
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Dear General. I know you mean it well, when you write that the new manager should get us into Europe. However, can you not once and for all tell us how important the Europa League is to the club? When I saw the squad for the trip to Vienna, I asked you how important it was to the club, and you wrote that the manager picks the team. I do not believe that a caretaker manager can decide on his own to use such a game to play youngsters and not pick the strongest side for two games. As others has suggested, players could have been rested for the Newcastle game, if the 2 games against Rapid Wien were first priority. I just wish the club, perhaps after announcing the new manager, would come out and announce what exactly the priorities are for the club.
Good luck with finding a new manager. Up the Villa.
good lord. You can't pick the strongest team for every game. That's the thing that many people criticized MON for. Now a new manager picks a squad based on availablity and also giving other players a chance and you're moaning at the General for not taking the competition seriously. That squad over two legs should have had enough to beat Rapid Vienna. The fact that our more "senior" players failed us in the 2nd leg. That suggests maybe the manager was right in the first leg with his team selection. The players, not the club are to blame for our exit this year.
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General Krulak here:
1. Beat Everton...Up the Villa....come on Lads!!
2. I do believe that Randy and the Club will be putting out a statement very soon. Randy DOES realize the concerns of the Fans and will want the fans to know essentially what he has done and when. As I indicated, he started taking action as soon as MON turned in his resignation and left 5 days before the start of the season. Randy has NOT stopped working the issue since that date!! He has refrained from putting out a statement for many reasons but the two key ones are, 1) It is not good business to conduct such a search in the full light of the media...it complicates the conduct of the search and 2) it is not good for the Club to wake up every morning and read another article about another Manager the owner is interviewing. At the same time, he wants you to know that he hasn't been sitting on his bum....that this is his #1 priority by a LONG SHOT!! The simple fact is that he has basically been in the UK for the entire time MUST show something...the Browns are into their final preseason game and Randy is in the UK!!
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General Krulak here:
1. Beat Everton...Up the Villa....come on Lads!!
2. I do believe that Randy and the Club will be putting out a statement very soon. Randy DOES realize the concerns of the Fans and will want the fans to know essentially what he has done and when. As I indicated, he started taking action as soon as MON turned in his resignation and left 5 days before the start of the season. Randy has NOT stopped working the issue since that date!! He has refrained from putting out a statement for many reasons but the two key ones are, 1) It is not good business to conduct such a search in the full light of the media...it complicates the conduct of the search and 2) it is not good for the Club to wake up every morning and read another article about another Manager the owner is interviewing. At the same time, he wants you to know that he hasn't been sitting on his bum....that this is his #1 priority by a LONG SHOT!! The simple fact is that he has basically been in the UK for the entire time MUST show something...the Browns are into their final preseason game and Randy is in the UK!!
General,
Regarding point 1. Can you stop jumping in the time machine and finding out the result before everyone else!!
Well done the lads. Heart and spirit in spades. Collins was immense!
I'll leave the performance for another day. I am just DELIGHTED we have our fighting spirit back!
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Good result for the lads General, showed good character. But I don't think KMac should get the job, good luck with the appointment.
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How's your health after that General? My nerves are just shot.
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General:
With your military background and positive attitude, has Randy considered you for the post?
;)
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Dear General. I know you mean it well, when you write that the new manager should get us into Europe. However, can you not once and for all tell us how important the Europa League is to the club? When I saw the squad for the trip to Vienna, I asked you how important it was to the club, and you wrote that the manager picks the team. I do not believe that a caretaker manager can decide on his own to use such a game to play youngsters and not pick the strongest side for two games. As others has suggested, players could have been rested for the Newcastle game, if the 2 games against Rapid Wien were first priority. I just wish the club, perhaps after announcing the new manager, would come out and announce what exactly the priorities are for the club.
Good luck with finding a new manager. Up the Villa.
good lord. You can't pick the strongest team for every game. That's the thing that many people criticized MON for. Now a new manager picks a squad based on availablity and also giving other players a chance and you're moaning at the General for not taking the competition seriously. That squad over two legs should have had enough to beat Rapid Vienna. The fact that our more "senior" players failed us in the 2nd leg. That suggests maybe the manager was right in the first leg with his team selection. The players, not the club are to blame for our exit this year.
I agree that the young players got a good result in Vienna, but I was still surprised to see Ashley Young, Luke Young and Petrov rested for the game. To me it showed that reaching the Europa League is not so important as we are told. And yes, some senior players certainly failed at home to Rapid Wien. Beye and Davies were not even on the bench today.
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thank you for keeping us informed....
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General,
Why do the board feel it is necessary that the new manager have experience of the Premier League? Does this not limit our outlook somewhat to candidates many would feel underwhelm significantly and rule out many of the best qualified?
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General, do the club have any plans to offer Ashley Young a new contract?
And when does the Nike kit deal expire?
Thanks.
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General, An easy question for you: Will we have a new manager before the transfer window closes? if not, surely the decision has to be made for Kevin Mac to sign players. another big concern of mine is without a manager working in the transfer market im worried we're still going to have Heskey playing for us after Tuesday! :'(
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General,
A couple of things from today's match...
My balti pie at half time was very nice indeed, as usual.
The service in the Upper Holte was very quick.
On a slightly negative note, and I don't wish to speak for everyone else, but would it be possible to have my big tv back please? I could hear (just about mind) what was being shown on the other screen before the game but couldn't see it.
How close are we to upgrading the sound system in the Holte?
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General Krulak here:
1. I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
2. I thought the lads played magnificently today. Total guts ball!! Think of the week they had...the three weeks they had! It has not only be physically tough but it has been mentally tough as well. YET, they played their hearts out!! I was VERY proud of them...and proud of our interim manager and coaches. They all deserve a well done.
3. I don't comment on transfers.
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General Krulak here:
1. I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
2. I thought the lads played magnificently today. Total guts ball!! Think of the week they had...the three weeks they had! It has not only be physically tough but it has been mentally tough as well. YET, they played their hearts out!! I was VERY proud of them...and proud of our interim manager and coaches. They all deserve a well done.
Absolutely spot on. They gave everything today. I'm a happy villan tonight.
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General Krulak here:
1. I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
2. I thought the lads played magnificently today. Total guts ball!! Think of the week they had...the three weeks they had! It has not only be physically tough but it has been mentally tough as well. YET, they played their hearts out!! I was VERY proud of them...and proud of our interim manager and coaches. They all deserve a well done.
3. I don't comment on transfers.
Thanks for clarification on the statement General, having Premier League experience but not necessarily management opens up other options.
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Can't fault the fight General, or the end result but the performances since the West ham game have still been poor. The lack of options remain obvious, either that or our last 2 managers have no clue about using them.
I note several pundits are now suggesting Randy never had any intention of spending in the window and that now seems to be the reason Mon left. I see the latest statement sort of refutes that, not that it can be proved either way of course now.
Thanks for clarifying the Premier League issue and wish Randy all the best, I can' wait for the tirade from the naysayers when the new appointment is made, I pray I'm not amongst them.
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General.
Took my 4 year old lad today for his 1st game. He's quite a nervous lad but he thoroughly enjoyed himself. Thanks in part to one of the stewards stewarding outside of the Holte End (top of the steps near the Doug Ellis - sorry I can't remember his name but he was aged around 50 at a guess) He came up to my nipper and said 'welcome to Villa Park' and offered him a sweet from his pocket. Just a small gesture I know, but it really helped him relax a little before we headed off to the Villa academy to see the family fun activities. - Thank you.
The Academy activities were quite good I thought, may I suggest in future that these activities could be scattered around the outside of the ground instead of being put inside the academy giving a much broader audience? My lad particulary liked the 'he's bigger than me and you' John Carew picture and all of the trophies on display.
Nice to see Ian Taylor, Des Bremner and Tony Moreley supporting the day too. Well done to all concerned, but please could you pass on congratulations to Kevin Mac and the team for sending my lad home happy.
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Hi General,
Saw the back of your head on TV. Looking good but turn around next time and give us a wave, yeah? :)
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General,
Will you be sitting on the interview panel? Have you got a list of questions lined up? Could you share a few with us?
Cheers and thanks.
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Will there be a ex player/manager ie Dennis Mortimer/Big Ron Atkinson to help out interviewing as I don't know if Randy is doing it alone 1-1 or what. :)
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Interesting point that Salsa. There are a range of experienced types with villa's best interests at heart. SGT would be a good person to consult on potential management options.
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Regarding the point you make about the next manager having knowledge but not actually managed in the premier. Well I hope that bob Bradley knows sod all about the premier league
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General Krulak here:
1. I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
2. I thought the lads played magnificently today. Total guts ball!! Think of the week they had...the three weeks they had! It has not only be physically tough but it has been mentally tough as well. YET, they played their hearts out!! I was VERY proud of them...and proud of our interim manager and coaches. They all deserve a well done.
3. I don't comment on transfers.
Can you please confirm we are trying to get the best man for the job!
Because it seems that we are only considering managers out of work.
All the best managers are currently at clubs, we need to be ruthless and think solely about Aston Villa!
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Who says we are only looking at managers out of work?
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General Krulak here:
1. I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
2. I thought the lads played magnificently today. Total guts ball!! Think of the week they had...the three weeks they had! It has not only be physically tough but it has been mentally tough as well. YET, they played their hearts out!! I was VERY proud of them...and proud of our interim manager and coaches. They all deserve a well done.
3. I don't comment on transfers.
Can you please confirm we are trying to get the best man for the job!
Because it seems that we are only considering managers out of work.
All the best managers are currently at clubs, we need to be ruthless and think solely about Aston Villa!
Surely the best men for the job are Mourinho or Ferguson!! Do you expect GK to say ''no, we are not looking for the best man for the job''? The board will appoint the person that;
1) Is interested in the job i.e. he applies!
2) Impresses in the interview.
3) Wants to come to VP for the long haul.
4) whose salary demands fall within our budget.
Basically the same as any other interview, and if the above are checked off, then he'll be the right man surely?!?
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I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
I agree and also sincerely hope that the board agrees with this point of view, General, as it would seem strange and arbitrary to rule out someone like Klinsmann (I'm not asking you to comment on individuals who may or may not be candidates, just Klinsmann is a good example), who know the Premier League very well from having played here, merely because they haven't actually managed here. That would seem a most strange decision, especially from a board and owner with the track records they have.
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General Krulak here:
1. I think it is important for a Manager to be familiar with the PL because in many ways it differs from other leagues. I do not intend to say that they have had to managed in the PL but that they be familiar with it.
2. I thought the lads played magnificently today. Total guts ball!! Think of the week they had...the three weeks they had! It has not only be physically tough but it has been mentally tough as well. YET, they played their hearts out!! I was VERY proud of them...and proud of our interim manager and coaches. They all deserve a well done.
3. I don't comment on transfers.
Can you please confirm we are trying to get the best man for the job!
Because it seems that we are only considering managers out of work.
All the best managers are currently at clubs, we need to be ruthless and think solely about Aston Villa!
Surely the best men for the job are Mourinho or Ferguson!! Do you expect GK to say ''no, we are not looking for the best man for the job''? The board will appoint the person that;
1) Is interested in the job i.e. he applies!
2) Impresses in the interview.
3) Wants to come to VP for the long haul.
4) whose salary demands fall within our budget.
Basically the same as any other interview, and if the above are checked off, then he'll be the right man surely?!?
Come on we shouldn't be waiting for people to apply,
We should be identifying who we feel is the best man for the job and doing everything possible to get our man.
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we shouldn't be waiting for people to apply,
We should be identifying who we feel is the best man for the job and doing everything possible to get our man.
Which we are.
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we shouldn't be waiting for people to apply,
We should be identifying who we feel is the best man for the job and doing everything possible to get our man.
Which we are.
Surely if they are already in a job, we have to wait for them to apply?!? If not, some gentle persuasion maybe needed to get them to apply. Tomatoes tomatoes Michael.
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Hopefully that's what happens.
In all honestly I am really looking forward to the next manager coming in, I have a positive feelling.
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General Krulak here:
1. sfx412: Please understand that you cannot believe everything you read in the paper. MON knew EXACTLY what the guidelines were for the transfer season...and knew them well in advance. Those guidelines did NOT include that he could not buy in the window!!!
2. Welshmeister: You made some very good points in your post. For those who are anxious for us to go after any and all Managers, I have some mixed feelings...based upon my life in the Forces. Again, this is ME as a FAN, NOT as a member of the Board of AVFC. AGAIN, this is a FAN comment...NOT a Board comment. I would have some small concern about hiring a Manager who is already with a team, in season,...someone who would up and quit the team for the money. My background in the Forces would make this choice a bit scary. Again, that is just me. I am sure that Randy is looking at a wide array of candidates and is open across the Board. That is why I said this is STRICTLY MY feeling....and mine alone.
3. I know Randy very well and I know he has been putting in a prodigious amount of time into preparation, research, obtaining advice, etc. etc. He is very thorough in his efforts...as could be seen in the work done in deciding that Villa was the "right" Club. He is now working as hard to find the "right" Manager. He also knows, as do I, that he will NEVER please everyone...thus he just needs to do what he thinks is right.
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General
Why does it follow that a manager leaving his team now means that it has to be about money necessarily? We're a big club with a great owner, stadium and fans. Surely that would be enough to tempt a lot of managers?
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Hello General, hope your well.
Just read Paul Faulkners statement about the manager search and notice that he says "It is of crucial importance that the candidates have experience of managing in the premier league".
Earlier you posted that they must have knowledge of it, but the official statement says differently.
Whilst i am over the moon that this finally rules out Bob Bradley (nothing personal to the man), I'm rather concerned that it has ruled out candidates such as Ronald Koeman who has publicly stated his desire to come here. I was quite excited with that prospect, and placed a £10 bet on his appointment. So the question is, can you refund my bet please as i feel misled. ;-)
Also worth mentioning that the current top clubs all have managers that had no premier league experience when they joined, so i would disagree with it being "crucial".
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General Krulak here:
1. sfx412: Please understand that you cannot believe everything you read in the paper. MON knew EXACTLY what the guidelines were for the transfer season...and knew them well in advance. Those guidelines did NOT include that he could not buy in the window!!!
General I rarely read the papers and hardly ever believe any views concerning Villa.
My point was more towards the fact several TV and Radio commentators are putting out the view or views, around the idea that Mon's exit was money, transfer money, related.
Andy Gray, mentioned during commentary 2 things I took umbrage too.
1. Randy never had any intention of spending during the window in answer to his fellow commentators offer that no new manager would be in place before the window closed
2. During a discussion about Milners transfer funds and spending them, Gray suggested that was the reason its rumoured Mon had problems with Randy and was the cause of his exit. I'm sure there are copies around somewhere on the net, if the club needs to be bothered.
He's not the only one offering that view. I don't believe it, but I dislike media people offering ill informed gossip, especially when the Villa offer no creditable reply.
That's my only point I do feel the club needs to improve its media liaison, even more so now one of their darlings left the club so abruptly.
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Mourinho had no experience of the Premier League, nor did Wenger or Benitez. O'Neill did, and he used that experience to buy Curtis Davies, Marlon Harewood and Nicky Shorey.p
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Evening General, any chance of an update on how todays interviews went? many more to go?
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Hello Mr Krulak Sir,
I know you are not meant to comment on our next manager but could you subtlly cough or something if there is any reason why moyes's odds are being slashed ? :-)
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Hello Mr Krulak Sir,
I know you are not meant to comment on our next manager but could you subtlly cough or something if there is any reason why moyes's odds are being slashed ? :-)
Looked like they were having a good old chat and a laugh before yesterdays game
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I....hardly ever believe any views concerning Villa.
Sums it up.
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please say moyes is coming to us, please :)
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Scratch comment
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My God, is that it? Is that honestly, really it? I've got longer handshakes from politicians.
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Hi General,
Please pass it on to Mr Lerner that Kev mac is a great chap and done lots for the club but he is not the man for the job :-)
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General, we need a big name, a man who will take us the next level. I don't feel Kavin MacDonald is that man. He is a reserve team coach, not the manager of a club with ambitions to break into the Champions League.
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"Hi Randy, I'm sorry to call you out of the interviews but K Mac is a non starter I'm affraid. Some random blokes on the internet said he's not good enough." :P
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Dave is right though Maz.
If he really wanted it then he should have been vocal about it sooner. Too much of a Mr Nice Guy for me and if it is him and he only gets it after the transfer window closes then that would be very annoying.
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Dave is right though Maz.
If he really wanted it then he should have been vocal about it sooner. Too much of a Mr Nice Guy for me and if it is him and he only gets it after the transfer window closes then that would be very annoying.
we all thought that oniel was mr nice guy and look what that cu/\t has done to our club
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Dave is right though Maz.
If he really wanted it then he should have been vocal about it sooner. Too much of a Mr Nice Guy for me and if it is him and he only gets it after the transfer window closes then that would be very annoying.
It is hard to imagine how we could compile a list of targets, research them all extensively, spend ages getting the right appointment in, and conclude that the best man for the club is the caretaker manager who has no idea of transfer windows, has never managed at any level, let alone the top flight, and has a decidedly patchy record over five games.
The only possible reason for that must be "we couldn't persuade anyone else to take it". It'd be a sub Graham Turner appointment, for me, and it'd be the end of any chance of getting back the feel good factor, the momentum.
I've defended the board on the accusations that have been levelled on here re transfer spending etc etc, but were we to appoint KM, it would beg the question why we didn't do it before the end of the transfer window. You don't have to be a massive cynic to work out what people are going to think there.
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If Kev is appointed, nice guy that he is, great Coach that he is; it says one thing to me - lack of ambition.
Time will tell.
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If KM is appointed, I'd be interested to see the list of candidates who were considered not to be as good.
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Dave is right though Maz.
If he really wanted it then he should have been vocal about it sooner. Too much of a Mr Nice Guy for me and if it is him and he only gets it after the transfer window closes then that would be very annoying.
we all thought that oniel was mr nice guy and look what that cu/\t has done to our club
He wasn't called the Poison Dwarf for nothing.
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I think if, and I still think its a fairly big if, K Mac gets the job, History will decide how right or wrong it was. Its all very well getting up in arms about it but the truth is there isnt one of you who knows how good he'll do in advance. Having no precedent works both ways doesnt it? We dont know how good or bad he'll be at it without some sort of evidence and a few matches isnt enough.
Appointing him in my opinion would be gutsy. Possibly foolhardy but definitely gutsy. That's why I'd rather he got the job than some duffer doing the rounds simply because he has been a manager before.
So better an unknown quantity than somebody we know is shit. Is that fair enough?
I dont think it would contradict any ambition either. Why should it? How do we know the limitations of his ability before he's even had a proper chance to show them?
Of course, I would like a top manager to be appointed more than anything. I've made no secret that I'd prefer Hiddink and I said so when we appointed MON.
There are managers I would rather appoint before K Mac but there's a whoooooooole shitload of guys I'd consider worse appointments as things stand.
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We dont know how good or bad he'll be at it without some sort of evidence and a few matches isnt enough.
Which is why you have to consider the merits of KM regardless of the matches he has handled as caretaker.
How many of us would have said, had we known at the end of last season that MON was off, "KM is the best man for the job"?
Like you said, we don't know how he'd do with the job, so why appoint him, other than "we can't think of anyone else" or "everyone else said no"?
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That's the point though Paulie. We dont know how good he'd do.
That's why I'd take a chance on how good he'd be rather than appoint a manager we know is so so or average or shite. The ambition there would be so so and average and shite and all because "manager x" has been a manager before.
And why appoint him? He's already here, he already knows the club, the squad, the reserves, the academy, the brickwork, every blade of grass. The players love him... there are plenty of pros. And yes, lots of cons too.
I must stress again though, that appointing K Mac isnt my first choice. But its closer to front than the back and I could be drastically wrong. I accept that.
If it doesnt work out, its Football, not life and death. Shankly was wrong.
So to sum up. Try and get one of the best or gamble with an unkonwn quantity. I personally dont really want anything else.
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I've said it before but such a risky move might be reasonable if the club was at a very low ebb, had just been relegated, or was totally potless. Then I could understand it. But a club with ambitions to get into the Champions League shouldn't be taking such a risk. Even if it paid off, does anyone honestly expect MacDonald to be so good that we'd be looking to finish fourth? Something that a manager as experienced (albeit limited) as Martin O'Neill was unable to do? History shows that appointing caretaker managers full time rarely works, if ever. By appointing him the Board are effectively saying they think MacDonald is, or will become, a better manager than O'Neill and I just don't see that there is any evidence for believing that.
As paulie says, the only sensible for reason for appointing MacDonald would be if everyone better turned us down or all the alternatives were worse. I can't believe that either of things would be true.
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General Krulak here:
1. First and foremost, I would not put a lot of faith in what you read in the papers. There are many people being considered....and looking at the list and odds that were on the film clip substantiates that fact and does not even reach them all. As I have been saying to the Fans since this all began...Randy has NOT been sitting on his bum!! He is out doing what an owner should do...meeting and speaking!! There will be some who are eager for the job...others that will not be eager. The ONLY way to find out iwho is eager and who is not is to talk to them...and that is what has been happening.
2. I will be off the site tomorrow and the next day as I have some meetings.
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With whom? Potential new managers?
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2. I will be off the site tomorrow and the next day as I have some meetings.
Ha ha ha, nicely done, General. You should write thrillers.
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Have the club done any potential transfer/loan discussion today at all ? as there is nothing on Skysports.
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General,
Any chance of a quick pm when the decision's made so i can stick me some money on it?!!!
;-)
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Appointing him in my opinion would be gutsy. Possibly foolhardy but definitely gutsy.
I'd say it was many things, including stupid, short-sighted and destined to end in failure. But most of all the word I'd use to describe it (if it happened) would be "cheap".
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The word I'd use would be 'ambitionless'.
Rather have KM as Manager UNTIL the right man becomes available than appoint him full time.
Also, that way, KM would be left with no egg on his face as he could go back to his 'proper' job which he does very well.
Round pegs, round holes.
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I think it would allow people to question why it was not done sooner to allow him to sign a couple of players. I think the board and the chairman have been brilliant thus far, and until the new man has been appointed and had a few months with the side etc it is tough to call it a cheap move, as January may yield some moves, but some would have question marks. Good time for a couple of days meetings General. Grill those candidates military style and make sure they are the right man.
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I posted this on another thread:
Whatever the unknown issues, there is simply no excuse for creating the damage he (MON) did by using the window as a bargaining tool. I for one am glad that, notwithstanding the possible "crisis", his bluff was called and the club took the position, to paraphrase the first statement from the club via the General, that- no man is bigger than the club. Some thought they were.
The fact is that K Mac was left alone and whatever blame can be applied to him, for whatever reason for the (two) poor results he was simply undermanned as MON took his entire team with him.
I also think that MON/Robertson used the power he/they thought they had to blackmail us. Clough wannabes. Without the ability, or as is becoming obvious - the respect of the players. Good riddance.
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General now the transfer window has closed and we still have most of those who I believe O'Neill was asked to remove from the wage bill, how will that impact on the clubs future financial thinking? I appreciate avoiding spending on new inputs has helped the balance sheet tremendously if not the teams short too medium prospects on the field, but has the objects outlined pre Mon's exit and just after been achieved?
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General,
Any chance of a quick pm when the decision's made so i can stick me some money on it?!!!
;-)
and me i could do with a few quid this month
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PM me general and i'll donate the money to the club so we can buy some bloody players!
I know you don't discuss transfers but any chance you could get someone on here who does talk about them? I have a few questions.
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Yes, could you have somebody from the club reveal all our plans for future transfers to the watching press please General. Some bloke wants to know something.
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Hi general, I don't know I this has been asked before but I for one don't have a clue what's involved and out of curiosity would like to know.
With buying a player what has to happen? It surely isn't a case of picking up the phone, seeing if someone wants to join if so, get his name printed on the back of his shirt. Collect his P45 and away we go.
There is so much that goes on deadline day. Why is that? What has to happen? Are insurance companies involved with the moving of players so if there's then is an injury he's covered or is that down to the player?
I just find it interesting is all and just want to know what processes are involved when selecting a player then going about buying him. What kind of things usually turn up in contracts (eg is a house involved for relocation etc). I understand you can't probably be too specific with that bit. We know that some paperwork has to be then faxed to the FA. Which I find funny. Talk about embracing technology! The FA not heard of emails? What other stuff has to be done? It does seem a complicated process. Or is it quite easy once you've met the player and he's had his medical?
Cheers general
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Yes, could you have somebody from the club reveal all our plans for future transfers to the watching press please General. Some bloke wants to know something.
Thats right, twist what i said. I didn't mention future transfers at all, I just want to know the reason for lack of transfers in the summer. We can't go forward without signing players. Or are you easily pleased? sounds like it.
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Hi General,
just seen a post that curbishley has been interviewed ! THIS CANNOT HAPPEN !!!
Please see http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=39650.0
to note that he is not wanted here by most of the fans going by the 3 votes
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Curbishly would be ridiculous as would our caretaker. Why do I get the feeling the appointment is going to be underwhelming?
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Curbishley = No
KevMac = No
Koeman = Yes
Sven = Yes
Please pass on my thoughts. I am serious about placing my season card in the drawer and not spending my kids inheritance down VP if Curbs gets the job. If KevMac gets it, I will be disappointed but will continue to support the club. If an internationally recognised manager with credentials gets the job, I will relax and admire my clubs ambitions to be amongst the best. A substandard appointment will take 10k off the attendance! What would that cost us? If the best costs, the fans will be back. Appoint pants, we all lose.
Thanks GK and continue to be our voice (this is my opinion, before anyone has a dig!)
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We have a thread for manager chat guys and I am sure the general knows where that thread is and will have noted that the most uninspiring man in Britain only has 3 votes.
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We have a thread for manager chat guys and I am sure the general knows where that thread is and will have noted that the most uninspiring man in Britain only has 3 votes.
Just to reiterate Ozz's post, we all know there is a thread where Britain's least inspiring football manager has polled 3/518 votes (a whopping 0.6 percent).
Just to be 100 percent sure we all know where to find it, it's here:
http://www.heroesandvillains.info/forumv3/index.php?topic=39650.0
*wink*
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Should we make the point again that only 3 of 518 votes cast in a poll on a Villa website have voted for a man that spent money more shabbily than MON while achieving lower league placings and then getting the sack at his last job over 2 years ago can be found though the link on your post above Paulie?
No maybe we should leave it there.
No winking required. At all.
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Should we make the point again that only 3 of 518 votes cast in a poll on a Villa website have voted for a man that spent money more shabbily than MON while achieving lower league placings and then getting the sack at his last job over 2 years ago can be found though the link on your post above Paulie?
No maybe we should leave it there.
No winking required. At all.
Are those 3 people banned yet?
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Once they have been identified they will be. Insanity is not something we need in these parts! Clear heads are essential at a time like this!
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It was me. I voted for Curbishley as a type of dirty protest because Pellegrini wasn't in the poll. Unfortunately, I hadn't thought it through fully and was unable to change my vote when Pellegrini was added.
General, please strike one vote off Curbishley and add it to Pellegrini before you next speak to Randy and Paul.
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You can guarantee that one of the votes will be Legion trying to vote for somebody else.
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General, please reassure us the the talks held with Alan Curbishley is just a red herring to throw the press off. I have a lot of respect for everything the board has done since coming to Villa, but this would be a major strike if there is any truth to it. As you have mentioned many times, don't believe everything you read in the papers, so I'll heed your advice on this one also, and kick the Curbs rumour to the curb...so to speak.
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General this interview process seems a bit unusual to me - generally the big clubs decide who they would like and then approach him with a view to seeing if he would take the job.
It is unusual for interviews like this to take place and the process seems a long drawn out affair- surely the club should be knowing who they want and going out to approach them and if turned down move to the next target rather than sifting through applications ?
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Surely we should be going for the best man for the job. Whether he is employed elsewhere shouldn't make a difference. If he is 'the one' then as a club and a business we go get that man? Business isn't nice. Business is business. Its a dog eat dog world
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General
I hope that the interview process does not assume that someone with a foreign sounding name will automatically be a better manager than one who has spent a lifetime in the English game, albeit maybe at a humble level, managerially. I assume that the club would take absolutely no notice of the preposterous replies to its facebook page where everybody seems to change their view as soon as a new name comes up, regardless of whether they know of the individual or not .
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In fairness, the Poll includes lots of people who have ruled themselves out and the majority of votes were made some time ago on an 'if I could have any one in the world' type basis. I'm sure if we did a fresh Poll based on the current more realistic candidates, Curbishley would get more votes. Maybe even 5 or 6.
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General,
Why did it take over 3 weeks to interview Alan Curbishley?
(Still hoping it's not true)
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General,
As a slight aside to the current manager situation, my 2 visits to Villa Park this season - West Ham & Everton - have unearthed an even more serious problem. The lack of draught beer in the lower north stand.
I am a season ticket holder and was not too impressed on the opening game of the season to find that the draught machine had broken 20 minutes into operation. I'd expected that it would be up and running by the Everton game but I was wrong. £2.50 for a piddly bottle of fosters equals an extremely expensive pre match beer.
Cheers
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General,
Why did it take over 3 weeks to interview Alan Curbishley?
He talks very slowly.
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Curbishley = No
KevMac = No
Koeman = Yes
Sven = Yes
Please pass on my thoughts. I am serious about placing my season card in the drawer and not spending my kids inheritance down VP if Curbs gets the job. If KevMac gets it, I will be disappointed but will continue to support the club. If an internationally recognised manager with credentials gets the job, I will relax and admire my clubs ambitions to be amongst the best. A substandard appointment will take 10k off the attendance! What would that cost us? If the best costs, the fans will be back. Appoint pants, we all lose.
Thanks GK and continue to be our voice (this is my opinion, before anyone has a dig!)
i agree with this General
also......
Klinsman - Yes
Moyes - Yes
but mostly SVEN - YES YES
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General,
Why did it take over 3 weeks to interview Alan Curbishley?
(Still hoping it's not true)
It will take longer than three weeks to identify the virtues that make him capable of managing Aston Villa.
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Say it ain't so General.
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When I have to report slightly underwhelming figures at work, I usually exaggerate how bad they are before releasing them, then when they're actually higher, it doesn't seem so bad. I think the Curbishley story is merely the board doing something similar.
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Koemann was a decent player but as far as I'm aware has been nothing more than mediocre at the biggest clubs in Holland, Portugal and Spain.
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When I have to report slightly underwhelming figures at work, I usually exaggerate how bad they are before releasing them, then when they're actually higher, it doesn't seem so bad. I think the Curbishley story is merely the board doing something similar.
i'm fully expecting to see robert mugabe, flanked by faulkner, holding a villa scarf aloft!
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Curbishley? Crikey General, you would knock 10,000 off the gate in one fell swoop.
I will do the job for half what he wants and still get us to mid table!
He did well at Charlton but there is a very big difference between someone that made Charlton a mid table team a few years ago and what is required for Aston Villa and where we want to go.
Anyhow, are there likely to be moves afoot to remove any players from the transfer list now that we are looking at a new incumbent to the post? I was just interested based on Luke Young's comments 5the other day.
Cheers
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General,what is the point of having a CEO,if when the ''shit hits the fan'' he as to go asking other people who we should bring in?
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In comparison to the welcome that MON received when he was appointed, please expect a welcoming committee of a tumbleweed and slow dong of a distance bell if Curbishley is given the job
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Curbishley = No
KevMac = No
Koeman = Yes
Sven = Yes
Please pass on my thoughts. I am serious about placing my season card in the drawer and not spending my kids inheritance down VP if Curbs gets the job. If KevMac gets it, I will be disappointed but will continue to support the club. If an internationally recognised manager with credentials gets the job, I will relax and admire my clubs ambitions to be amongst the best. A substandard appointment will take 10k off the attendance! What would that cost us? If the best costs, the fans will be back. Appoint pants, we all lose.
Thanks GK and continue to be our voice (this is my opinion, before anyone has a dig!)
i agree with this General
also......
Klinsman - Yes
Moyes - Yes
but mostly SVEN - YES YES
Moyes the man for me, but cant see it. All of these respected and can get in some big names, who the f*** is curbs gunna attract? Keep the future bright General!!
Just a quick thought, does Mr. Lerner ever have a look at forums, or do you have a chat what the fans are thinking??
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Please General - get me a Guus Hiddink as an early Xmas pressie
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Hi General,
Will you be logging in soon to tell us that the rumored names in news regarding the manager replacement are just that...rumors? Please tell us that these uninspiring names are just rumors made up in newspapers and that the clandestine meetings in London (if they did take place in London) with potential managers include names not mentioned in the newspapers because the names are so fabulous that no one would believe it if printed in the newspapers. Please?
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Get KOeman as a player 20 years back.
As a manager is a BIG NO NO.
Curbishley = No
KevMac = No
Koeman = Yes
Sven = Yes
Please pass on my thoughts. I am serious about placing my season card in the drawer and not spending my kids inheritance down VP if Curbs gets the job. If KevMac gets it, I will be disappointed but will continue to support the club. If an internationally recognised manager with credentials gets the job, I will relax and admire my clubs ambitions to be amongst the best. A substandard appointment will take 10k off the attendance! What would that cost us? If the best costs, the fans will be back. Appoint pants, we all lose.
Thanks GK and continue to be our voice (this is my opinion, before anyone has a dig!)
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General
If you do see Curbishley, just ask him to say "Birmingham" - could you put up with that pronunciation on a regular basis?
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Whoever is saying Koeman...seriously?? Have you even looked at his management track record!?
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
In what way?
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
None of them appeal to me, The thought of Toshack scares me...
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
None of them appeal to me, The thought of Toshack scares me...
And the thought of walking on the wild side with Curbs fills me with apathetic bile.
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
Not going to the Villa if they dont appoint a manager you approve of is, IMO, ridiculous. And you wouldnt carry it thorough!
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
Not going to the Villa if they dont appoint a manager you approve of is, IMO, ridiculous. And you wouldnt carry it thorough!
How else do I show my disapproval?Go down and boo my own manager?Curbs is a one way ticket to nowheresville and I ain`t catching that train.
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
Not going to the Villa if they dont appoint a manager you approve of is, IMO, ridiculous. And you wouldnt carry it thorough!
How else do I show my disapproval?Go down and boo my own manager?Curbs is a one way ticket to nowheresville and I ain`t catching that train.
You give him a chance before deciding he's shit?
I hope we don't appoint him but if we do then I'll get behind him.
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I'm the same as you Chris, I won't be impressed but I'll still go, Can't be worse than Dolly.
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I'm the same as you Chris, I won't be impressed but I'll still go, Can't be worse than Dolly.
And that's your benchmark? Crikey!
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General,
Why did it take over 3 weeks to interview Alan Curbishley?
(Still hoping it's not true)
He kept trying to buy a train ticket for place that doesn't exist....Burminum New Street.
General - Please give us hope that Curbishley in not in contention for the job.
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He did well at Charlton but there is a very big difference between someone that made Charlton a mid table team a few years ago and what is required for Aston Villa and where we want to go.
General. Can we avoid delusions of grandeur when appointing our next manager please. It's about time we took stock of where we really are in the grand scheme of things. Don't get me wrong i'm Villa through and through but i think a dose of realism is needed here.
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He did well at Charlton but there is a very big difference between someone that made Charlton a mid table team a few years ago and what is required for Aston Villa and where we want to go.
General. Can we avoid delusions of grandeur when appointing our next manager please. It's about time we took stock of where we really are in the grand scheme of things. Don't get me wrong i'm Villa through and through but i think a dose of realism is needed here.
I appreciate we're not Real Madrid, but surely we're a sufficiently decent proposition to go after a better class of manager than a former Charlton boss who has been sat at home watching Homes Under The Hammer and Bargain Hunt for two years, though?
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"General. Can we avoid delusions of grandeur when appointing our next manager please. It's about time we took stock of where we really are in the grand scheme of things."
What are we meant to be? A team allegedly attempting to get into the Champions League I thought. Would Spurs or Man City go for Curbishley? I think not. If you think I have "delusions of grandeur" there, let's put it down a level and say we're trying to get a UEFA Cup place (or whatever it's called nowadays). Would Everton go for Curbishley? No. He's a bottom of the Premier League standard manager at best. We'd be a laughing stock if we appointed him.
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General just a note to say if Curbs is our next manager I will not go down B6 till he`s gone.
What about Ranieri,Gullit,even Toshack or Walter Smith.
Ridiculous.
Not going to the Villa if they dont appoint a manager you approve of is, IMO, ridiculous. And you wouldnt carry it thorough!
How else do I show my disapproval?Go down and boo my own manager?Curbs is a one way ticket to nowheresville and I ain`t catching that train.
You give him a chance before deciding he's shit?
I hope we don't appoint him but if we do then I'll get behind him.
Chris how many of your mates queued up to take the piss about Curbishley this morning? I just cant imagine getting behing Curbishley on match day. Im actually shaking when writing this. Moyes in charge or Kilinsmann with Macdonald as coach for me.
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It has to be said that regardless of what you think of Curbishley's record, it's difficult to imagine any of the top 8 or so clubs from last season genuinely considering him as the kind of manager that will move them forward. With the possible exception of Villa it seems. I doubt Newcastle and maybe Sunderland would seriously consider him either.
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Once more - there's a managers thread for discussing managers.
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Curbishley = No
KevMac = No
Koeman = Yes
Sven = Yes
Please pass on my thoughts. I am serious about placing my season card in the drawer and not spending my kids inheritance down VP if Curbs gets the job. If KevMac gets it, I will be disappointed but will continue to support the club. If an internationally recognised manager with credentials gets the job, I will relax and admire my clubs ambitions to be amongst the best. A substandard appointment will take 10k off the attendance! What would that cost us? If the best costs, the fans will be back. Appoint pants, we all lose.
Thanks GK and continue to be our voice (this is my opinion, before anyone has a dig!)
i agree with this General
also......
Klinsman - Yes
Moyes - Yes
but mostly SVEN - YES YES
Koemans record for the last 8 years has been utter shite, he's left every team he's managed in a worse position? Arguably the same can be said for Sven......
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I find this interview process puzzling, shows a lack of knowledge in the Villa set up.
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I find this interview process puzzling, shows a lack of knowledge in the Villa set up.
I agree with you, this apparent drip feeding of certain names to test the water seems a bit strange, Curbishley is as uninspiring as Houllier, this reluctance to poach anyone who is currently employed might be noble but it's not a passport to success. If we hadn't poached Atkinson or Little from their clubs we may be looking at 28 years without a trophy, rather than the 14 we are currently on.
If it was me I would get David Moyes at all costs.
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I find this interview process puzzling, shows a lack of knowledge in the Villa set up.
Why?
Do managers normally get appointed without speaking to their new clubs?
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houllier as director as football and kev mac as manager ????
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So, General, what's our business plan for the next 5 years?
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Do managers normally get appointed without speaking to their new clubs?
No, but the bigger clubs tend to identify ONE manager and go and try get him, if they cant you move onto the next ONE on your list.
Not normally the way that you need to interview 5 or so managers that aren't good enough to currently be in employment
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Do managers normally get appointed without speaking to their new clubs?
No, but the bigger clubs tend to identify ONE manager and go and try get him, if they cant you move onto the next ONE on your list.
Not normally the way that you need to interview 5 or so managers that aren't good enough to currently be in employment
And how many managers end up sacking the ONE they went for after 18 months anyway?
There's an awful lot of conventional wisdom about how to do things in football, and it never seems to work. I agree with the board's strategy and process, other than the mystifying 'Premier League experience' thing, but that's another debate.
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Genera Krulak here:
1. Wow, I go away for two days and the long knives are out in force. Let me try and set a few things straight. We have looked and are looking at many Managers. We have certainly looked at Managers active with other Clubs, active in other locations, not active with other Clubs and within the UK. We are doing JUST what ALL Fans would expect of a Club. There are some who believe that we can go into any Club we want, throw a wad of money at the Manager and he just picks up his bag and moves...NOT quite like that! Seriously, Fans MUST realize that things are not as easy as they believe and that we are absolutely leaving no stone unturned. You can believe me or not...that is your option. I might also add that any Manager worth his salt is going to do some due diligence on the Club...he may even look at Fan blog to see who is being looked at and who is rated by the Fans. I am not sure that slagging some of these men while they are simply names in the media is real smart. But that is just one man's opinion. Comments about Randy not willing to spend money are just plain absurd and I will not comment on those again. He has more than bought this Club three times over...not many Clubs can make a statement like that!! Again, I am not sure what I can say to make people feel better...when everything I say is consider BS or PR. For those Fans who have stuck with us during these times, thank you very much. For those who have complaints, I am sorry. BUT, to somehow think that we are not taking this seriously or have lowered our sights...that is pure crap.
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Hi General
Seeing as you're back. Without naming anyone can you tell us where we are in the process and how the interview stage is going, is there likely to be an announcement soon or is there still quite a bit to be done?
A lot of websites and press have reported this as a done deal with Houllier late last night but that nothing has been stated to make that official by now makes me think maybe it's a case of them getting a sniff and running with it.
Like many others I've been on this and other sites most of the day trying to find out what's happening, a statement from you that meant I could concentrate on my job would be really appreciated, mainly by my boss!
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General thanks very much, great to see, most enjoyable, where will the conspiracists go now.
Not one to comment on unknowns, like yet to be appointed managers, I can see your point about those slagging off when they have no clue about the likely candidates, but to be honest if a bloke is going to be put off by a few opinions, misguided as they may be on here or any other fan site, he's no good in the job.
No idea who RL has in mind, but do your best to make sure the final decision puts all the doubting Thomas' with their long knives back in the box please.
Is it possible the new man will have some time at least to bed in before the Stoke game, or will it be going to the line again.
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Hi General,
I think we all know that we are in this together and that Randy and the board have done so much. The problem is down to frustration...the frustration that MON left us when he did, the frustration of the negative reporting on Villa, the frustration of the Newcastle result, the frustration of Europe, the frustration of transfers etc
This gets to everyone INCLUDING yourself and Randy I am sure. Some people show these frustrations, some don't. Some people have faith in the board, some don't.
Randy has been nothing but good to this club and DESERVES his choice and deserves our faith. There are thousands (i think) of people on this board and the fact that only 20 or so have made comments I think is pretty good. I think it shows the majority trust Randy and his vision.
I think it is important for you to realise that 95% of the supports trusts what is happening it is just the 5% vocalise it. It is important we stay as one moving forward and that you guys see that the vast majority support you. In a way it is the amount that is not written that is important.
Up the Villa
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we all want what is best for Villa, but we all handle our frustrations differently. Opinions are what makes football fans special, and whoever the board appoint it will never make everyone happy. Unless we can somehow prise Mourinho away from Real Madrid that is. We just need to trust the board, because in my opinion they have not given us any reason to doubt that they have the best intentions of the club at heart in whatever they do. We also need to give the new manager/DOF whatever he is, a chance to succeed. After all, we all want that.
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Hi General,
A serious question with no hidden agenda....
You made a comment before that maybe fans don't understand the difficulties of finding a manager. I accept that.
Bearing in mind this was the first full managerial appointment that the current board has made, was it more difficult than you guys imagined?
and was Randy able to draw on similar experiences from the Browns? If so is the process very similar?
Many thanks
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General Krulak its good that you've vented your spleen, and thats what this forum is about... And I am one of the ones that sometimes thinks your posts are just PR (never BS, but sometimes PR) but I wouldn't say your last post was PR. Its right that you can get as frustrated by all this as we are. Its a passionate game aint it?
You said "I am not sure what I can say to make people feel better" I'm less interested in what you say and more concerned with what you do.
Good luck and as this is a questions for the general thread I should ask one. Can you employ McLeish as our next manager?
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General - so you say that managers reading negative posts on this blog may be put off? - Curblishley you're shite!
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Cheers General for your words,we are a strange bread though us Villa fans,and football fans in general,all it takes is a nonsense headline from a lazy journo and we all panic like its Armageddon!
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Nice to have you back general , I'm sure nobody thinks you are talking bs ,we respect you sir!
Could you give us an indication if an appointment is imminent over the next day or so or are we looking at early next week?
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nobody deserves to be slagged off general,that we all agree i just think we maybe need to go the extra mile to get the right person in.
look again at your original wish list,if the new manager is not on that list then we are settling for 2nd best.
good luck and up the villa
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Genera Krulak here:
1. I am not sure that slagging some of these men while they are simply names in the media is real smart. But that is just one man's opinion.
So then mr general sir, are you sort of saying that curbishley and houllier are not favourites to be appointed ??
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General,
I have just returned to Villa Park after nearly 6 years absence [due to financial constraints, in other words my now six year old son] I was a season ticket holder [and fanzine sellor] during the dark times and wanted to pass on a few things that I have noticed upon my return...
First, the expectations of the club are now sky high, being Villa fans we always expect to be top of the league and winning everything insight, but we secretly know the reality of our situation [although we would never openly admit it] this is down to the change in philosophy of the club from the top, we all now believe that we can retake our place at the forefront of English football.
Second the customer service around the club has improved no end, from the ladies who showed me round the ground when me and my son picked out our new season tickets, to the e-mails and text messages keeping me informed of tickets and prices to the staff around the ground, and the staff in the ticket office when I phone to book extra tickets, always helpful
Third [and these are in no particular order] the introduction of reduced price tickets aimed at family's, I have spent less on my current season tickets for me and my son than I did for my last season ticket 6 years ago! This has enabled me to share my club with my son, our first game was a very special occasion for me [as was my first when my dad took me to VP for the firt time]
Fourth, the banners, flags, murals that show the greatest moment in our clubs history [the one that was never mentioned during the dark time] it brings a sense of pride and passion back to the club
Fifth, the attention to detail around everthing at the club.
sixth, The charity work around Acorns gave me as a Villa fan immense pride
seventh [getting harder to spell these] The professional way yourself and Randy operate our club, you make other owners look like the marx brothers
On another point can you have a look at the where the roof of the holte meets the trinity road stand, it drips a bit and son moans like mad when it rains!!
Thanks
Mark
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really good post Mark.
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General.
two years in a row i have spent my hard earned money to come support my team in europe only to be massivly let down on the night. we battle all season with the other 19 teams in the league for the right to play there yet when we get there its treated with no respect what so ever, this is a crying shame that needs to be put right, had i have known the team before i got the tickets i wouldn't have bothered. i appreciate its a difficult time for us at this moment in time but would it of hurt to inform the fans of our european intentions ?
secondly i along with many on this site have faith you will do right by the club, i do however choose to belive we have to shift some of the dead wood in order to keep afloat its just good business sence. the thing that scares many of us tho is not the prospect of loosing heskey or beye but the fact that nobody seems to want them which has the potential to leave a new high calibre manager in a transfer limbo. does the club have a contingency plan in place should this situation arise in january/next summer? a simple yes or no will do, i realise you can't give our trade secrets away on here lol.
all the best
trinity
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really good post Mark.
Yes, a lovely post Mark, good on you. Beautifully put...
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randy is the best, he has turned us from a falling club under ellis and o'dreary to a fighting for champions league 3 years on the trot. he has backed the manager, built a superb training ground and brought stability to us. granted we have a few "odd" names been bandered about for manager but its only paper talk. it has taken a long time because randy has put thought and spent money on getting advisers in to make sure he makes the best decision. i would of rather he takes his time than rush into something. YES i am worried that we might be getting houllier but he must show something to randy and his advisors and if he can recreate what he did for liverpool we are laughing.
i say give him the benefit of the doubt and we MAY be in for a nice surprise. REMEMBER ALL THIS CURBISHLY BOLLOX IS PAPER TALK !!
i dont think randy is that stupid to give curbishly the job. he needs to go one better than oniell
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General,
I wonder how mixed your feelings must be posting on the fans forums. Seemingly, you can't win sometimes.
I'm sure the board are doing what is required to push Villa forward. I'm sure the speculation does your head in, whether it be the Press or us lot. Is it this bad in the States I wonder?
Thanks for the updates, it is appreciated.
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Dear Genaral Krulak,
I have just read, in full, your response to another Blog.
This will be short but before I reply let me point out that my last "job" was as owner and executive Director of the largest company of it's type in the World. In the States. I am, however from Birmingham - no, not Alabama. I only say that to elicit some understanding of my opinion.
There is simply no excuse for the one comment that I read on that Blog. The anti American jibe is especially childish. I did not see many in our home town complaining when Ford took over Jaguar, Land Rover et al and put in place the foundation for that company to create the best vehicles in their history, and save, even create, jobs.
I have never sensed any anti American feelings here ( in truth I cannot remember any comment at all) and in fact I would prefer if Aston Villa were owned by this current management group than some of our competitors. Many of whom take advantage of foreign funds but are jealous of our percieved "good guy", image. This club is respected. Currentlyand not just because of "Acorns" but also and because of your choice to allow yourself to be in touch with the fans. Hurts sometimes doesn't it? But a brave decision on your part.
I have lived through and managed a few company re- structures. But, NEVER under the scrutiny of anyone outside the usual business press. I am impressed and respectful of what your management team is attempting to resolve in the public eye. To satisfy everyone in your eventual choice is impossible and of course we as emotional shareholders cannot know the basis for your ultimate decision.
However, I am no sycophant and have to say that nothwithstanding the problems your are attempting to engage,you of all people as a military man, know that to reveal your frustrations is not a good decision.
Only a couple of Jack Daniels, discussion with those you trust and the cold light of dawn will tell you if that was wise.
In the meantime I may only speak for myself but I sense I speak for many when I say. Carry on. All of you.
Do what is necessary to make this club better. And ignore please, ignorant and obviously ill informed comment. And to be honest I can understand your response.
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General Krulak here:
1. MarkM and Simba: Thanks you for your comments. Obviously, we are neither Saints nor Sinners....we are just some blokes trying to take a great Club and make it greater. We have hit one helluva bump in the road...and it has spilled some of the food in the back...but that doesn't mean that we won't feast later on!! I can only say what I have been saying for the past 30 days...we hear the Fans, we recognize the frustration, we are moving as fast a we can BUT, we need to do it right. We know that we cannot please everyone so we just need to try our best to do what is right.
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General
To lighten the mood, I've got a more routine question.
It has been mentioned before, but sometimes after the match, the traffic up Aston Hall Road towards Lichfield Road and the motorway is made one way (obviously away from the ground). They also put a policeman on the junction with Lichfield Road and turn off the traffic lights. Sometimes, however, there is no policeman there, the traffic is two way AND the traffic lights are on. When the traffic lights are on, cars are stuck waiting whilst the very little traffic coming up the Lichfield Road passes.
The difference in the flow of traffic away from the ground is absolutely incredible. On Sunday, we had the latter situation. To make things worse, one of the vehicles coming in the opposite direction in the two way traffic was a 40 ton lorry which could hardly fit between parked cars, let alone have traffic squeeze past it in the opposite direction.
I know you've said before that this is in the ambit of the police, but is there any way the club could talk to them to assess how they decide whether or not to have two way traffic, and whether or not the traffic lights are switched on?
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Genera Krulak here:
1. Wow, I go away for two days and the long knives are out in force. Let me try and set a few things straight. We have looked and are looking at many Managers. We have certainly looked at Managers active with other Clubs, active in other locations, not active with other Clubs and within the UK. We are doing JUST what ALL Fans would expect of a Club. There are some who believe that we can go into any Club we want, throw a wad of money at the Manager and he just picks up his bag and moves...NOT quite like that! Seriously, Fans MUST realize that things are not as easy as they believe and that we are absolutely leaving no stone unturned. You can believe me or not...that is your option. I might also add that any Manager worth his salt is going to do some due diligence on the Club...he may even look at Fan blog to see who is being looked at and who is rated by the Fans. I am not sure that slagging some of these men while they are simply names in the media is real smart. But that is just one man's opinion. Comments about Randy not willing to spend money are just plain absurd and I will not comment on those again. He has more than bought this Club three times over...not many Clubs can make a statement like that!! Again, I am not sure what I can say to make people feel better...when everything I say is consider BS or PR. For those Fans who have stuck with us during these times, thank you very much. For those who have complaints, I am sorry. BUT, to somehow think that we are not taking this seriously or have lowered our sights...that is pure crap.
General
Don't generalise all Villa fans we are not all out with the long knives as you put it far from it the vast majority aren't stupid and can see the the fantastic work you have have done for Aston Villa.
Maybe starting with a Ive been away for 2 days and a minority of fans are ............................
I think you are doing all you can, and if you spend another 2 years on these forums you will soon learn that you can never win what ever you post someone will be smart arse or not agree with you, best just to let it go over your head don't get frustrated because times that by a million and that's how every Villa fan has been feeling for the last 2 decades.
Tell Randy Bigmelonface loves him and thinks your are all doing a great job and if anyone disagrees with me I will eat them.
P.S Can we sign a striker please.
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Dear General,
Well, given the few minutes response- we can't complain that you are not giving attention to fans opinions.
Now, where has that ever happened in these circumstances?
Thanks.
It is very much appreciated and of course most of us recognise that you are hamstrung by quite normal legal parameters in terms of what you can actually say.
Relax. Easy ain't it. :)
That was impressive. Honestly blown away as you guys say.
Simba
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General, brilliant venting and some have commented that it has been even more forthright in other quarters. I think the large majority of people are on the same side as Randy and the board following he who shall not be named leaving us in the lurch in the way he did.
The only thing i will say is that each manager that is mentioned in the media as in th running, will be dissected on here as essentially that is what we are all on the site to do - chew the fat on all things Villa, and some of the candidates will inevitably excite fans much more than others, while fans are also the harshest critics we can be quite good scouts, and will remember all the candidates mentioned and their past achievements. I still remember old division 2 and 3 players from the 90s for no reason other than loving football a bit too much when I should have been out chasing girls! But the mistakes managers have made in other places are amplified when they may be coming to your club and will then get some stick on here if they are remember in a particularly bad light.
Hopefully though, a good manager with Kevin Mac in a good coaching role, a good scouting system and a new embrace for the delights of a value for money european and all will be dandy. Remember the knives that are out on the internet are a very, very, very small sample of people. Randy has not let anyone down in 4 years, and nothing suggests he is going to start now.
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Don't worry general , I'm sure the pans will soon be simmering nicely and we will have a feast fit for a king !
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im quite happy that our club is in turmoil at the start of the season and not in march.we always have a better standard of turmoil than everyone else. 4th in the best div in the world and i have just read on sky sports that donadoni has applied for the job, quality.
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General it is a suppoerter website and like us all you will vehemently disagree with some and agree with others, as a guideline however i would say in the past when posters have been united in opposition to MON buying a player i.e Harewood and Heskey they are invariably proved right. I have great faith in the knowledge of posters on this site and if they say a player or manager is not for us, with one voice, it's worth listening to.
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Genera Krulak here:
1. Wow, I go away for two days and the long knives are out in force. Let me try and set a few things straight. We have looked and are looking at many Managers. We have certainly looked at Managers active with other Clubs, active in other locations, not active with other Clubs and within the UK. We are doing JUST what ALL Fans would expect of a Club. There are some who believe that we can go into any Club we want, throw a wad of money at the Manager and he just picks up his bag and moves...NOT quite like that! Seriously, Fans MUST realize that things are not as easy as they believe and that we are absolutely leaving no stone unturned. You can believe me or not...that is your option. I might also add that any Manager worth his salt is going to do some due diligence on the Club...he may even look at Fan blog to see who is being looked at and who is rated by the Fans. I am not sure that slagging some of these men while they are simply names in the media is real smart. But that is just one man's opinion. Comments about Randy not willing to spend money are just plain absurd and I will not comment on those again. He has more than bought this Club three times over...not many Clubs can make a statement like that!! Again, I am not sure what I can say to make people feel better...when everything I say is consider BS or PR. For those Fans who have stuck with us during these times, thank you very much. For those who have complaints, I am sorry. BUT, to somehow think that we are not taking this seriously or have lowered our sights...that is pure crap.
General, you sound a bit stressed? I hate to think what this section of the message board will be like if our new manager turns out crap. Could be interesting. I've been a Villa fan for years and I will always have my say whether it be a positive or negative opinion. But most of all I will always continue to give 100% support for the club.
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General, don't listen to us with regards to whether we should sign a player/employ a manager (as suggested by a poster above). Continue getting advice from people who clearly know about football. We, as Villa fans, have never spoken with one voice.
I'm sure you didn't need that advice, but anyway.........
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100% behind the new manager, whom ever it may be.
100% behind the board. You guys have done good so far so there is certainly no reason to doubt you now.
This is been a stressful time for all involved. But it's been no more than one big family having a few minor squabbles. We'll always be arguing and at each others throat but we love each other really.
In Lerner we trust!
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Like many fans I feel frustrated at the current lack of news coming out of Villa Park, but then I stop and think.
Villa is being run like a club should be. Since the day Randy took over, things seem to have been done in the right way – in a way that makes you proud to be a Villa fan.
Sure it’s frustrating seeing the way other clubs are linked with players throughout the transfer windows whilst all is quiet at Villa Park. Do I think this is because Villa do not want to improve the squad and are intent on “standing still”? Sometimes I’m tempted!
Then I look at the way ‘Arry at Spurs, new rich kids Citeh and plenty of others “tap up” players by letting the media know that they want them – so blatantly that the FA, if they had the balls, could throw the book at them – and I realise how pleased I am that my club don’t do this.
Citeh’s pursuit of Milner this summer and Benitez’ pursuit of Barry in 2008 were both a disgrace.
It is frustrating, but right, that I will rarely hear about a player Villa have enquired about until the deal is virtually done. If the player’s current club tell Villa to f**k off then I will probably never know Villa were ever interested.
Same seems to apply with the search for the new manager. At times I wish we all knew more about what the board was thinking; who they were considering; who they had discarded. But the same thing applies. The club do things properly, so we will probably never know for certain who was approached; who was rejected; who rejected Villa – unless they choose to speak to the media. All we have to go on is the ill informed, more often than not, speculation of the media.
Is this frustrating? You better believe it!! But at the end of the day I accept this because I am pleased to see my club refuse to stoop to the low levels that others do and, based on his record to date, I trust Randy Lerner.
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i suppose it will be like introducing your first girlfriend to your parents, you hope its long term and you dont want them to embaress you!
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oh yeah, and you want to buy them nice things to make them look good ;)
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i suppose it will be like introducing your first girlfriend to your parents, you hope its long term and you dont want them to embaress you!
And out comes the photo album!!
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For God's sake. We do not have any say in this decision. I wish we had but I would ask any politician with knowledge of the past thousand years of British History to find a consitutional allowance. In example and thus precedence for us as supporters to guide the owners. Ours is the only major Nation without a written Consitution. Truly we have guided this Country and past Empire , two thirds of this planet, without anything in writing. Just common sense.
The simple fact is: they have bought, with their own money, this company. Our Aston Villa.
What we have is opinion. Our own opinion. And very unusual in our place as fans- an outlet to express it. To the management. Yo their credit.
Perfect? No. Well give me another way. Another way to run this club. This business. Beyond money and someone to supply it. We need an idea.
I have one: Let us buy shares in this club again. A very old idea.
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What we have is opinion. Our own opinion. And very unusual in our place as fans- an outlet to express it. To the management. Yo their credit.
This forum is not a place to express our opinions to the management, it is a place to express our opinions *full stop*.
I sometimes think people forget this.
To be entirely honest, I agree with a lot of what the General says, there has been some embarassing turning on the leadership of late, some of the stuff has been - in my opinion - utterly cringeworthy. Having said that, it is the right of those people to express those opinions.
But if it comes to suggesting we shouldn't be moaning about potential managers just in case they read it, then I'm sorry, but the General, and anyone else who follows that line, is way, way wide of the mark.
That is exactly the type of thing this forum is for, and the day we stop doing it because the club suggest we shouldn't is the day we might as well give up. This is an independent fans forum with a thread where a member of the club board posts. It isn't a club forum where the kids get let out to play.
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General, don't listen to us with regards to whether we should sign a player/employ a manager (as suggested by a poster above). Continue getting advice from people who clearly know about football. We, as Villa fans, have never spoken with one voice.
I'm sure you didn't need that advice, but anyway.........
Can I just point out you are giving him advise should he listen to you? :-))))))))))
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Well said Paulie: You are right. It is a place to express our opinions. But. This particular thread is an opportunity to do something else. To express to management, which is unusual. That is what I was trying to say. I see you agree.
As you said : it isn't a forum where the kids come out to play. No it is not. Possibly the only one. Doesn't a representative of the club demand some respect and expect some valid debate with mature arguement where he can respond within the construct of an adult interaction? I would hope so.
I would like to quote you: :"This an independent fans forum --- where a member of the club board posts". Yes of course. And does that preclude us from doing exacty what you say in your previous paragraph. No.
Except, we can moan and complain especially about the possibility of a manager we do not agree with. Bloody hell what's more important? But there are other forums to do it. Perhaps you expect this forum to give you Minutes of Directors meetings. Do You? You are putting your opinions/questions to a senior member of our club who volunteers his time and that deserves anybody but kids out to play. Or discussions that he cannot comment on.
You see, there are business ethics, and laws in place to protect those truths.
You are right again. . This particular thread is for "grown ups".
c'mon Paulie You are one of the smartest, This ain't the thread, that's all. You know that.
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Oh , General. With respect. Don't call your people or us fans; "Blokes". Somehow it just does not work. No offence. Man. Dude. etc. :)
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General,
As always, your posts are well received by this Old Man. It is great to get the opinions of somebody who is at the top within the club. The fact that the comments are your comments and not quotes that are then spun by the press makes it special. Like you, I get very frustrated reading some peoples comments and think how can they logically write that but, there again, football supporters and logic don't go hand in hand.
I believe that the task that Randy has is so much bigger than many people understand. It is not only appointing a manager but building a football management infrastructure that we currently do not have, other than Kevin Mac and his team.
I have written a long post on the thread about a replacement for MON and I am not going to repeat it here. All I will say is that Randy has a major task on to get the appointment right and I understand it will take time to do this but look to the future and not the past regarding the suitability of the candidate for the manager's job.
One question, how has Randy been able to go about this task outside of the public eye.
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I still remember old division 2 and 3 players from the 90s for no reason other than loving football a bit too much when I should have been out chasing girls!
Yeah, as dreamy as Brett Angell and Steve Palmer were, you'd have been better off chatting up they young lovelies of Walmley.
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Oh , General. With respect. Don't call your people or us fans; "Blokes". Somehow it just does not work. No offence. Man. Dude. etc. :)
With respect. I am sure the General is a 'good oke' and does not mean to offend anybody.
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Theres a quote from simba on page 76 saying its our club,not no more we r just customers who pay our money up front no matter wot they do or say! we have no say or choice,but we all still do it and they know that!!!!!!!!!
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general just a quick note about steve staunton i have seen him blank people when asked for autographs by fans on many occasions and i know of him being rude and abusive to fans,this is not the type of person we want at the villa
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I do like this thread. It must be one of the few places out there where a company director talks so candidly with concerned stakeholders.
On the other hand it's beginning to annoy me. The General comes on here and posts something trying answer people's concerns and ensure us that Randy has the clubs best interests at heart for the VERY long term. All some people seem to care about is that we are taking too long. Long term is 10 years or 50 years, not just this season or next.
They way some talk about some names in such black and white terms as if there can see the future and foresee what will happen is just plain silly. For god's sake don't give X the job he'll be a disaster etc. People succeed and fail for any number of reasons, not just what happened in their last job or that one they had 5 years ago. Isn't it possible that people change or that they were hamstrung by their previous board?
Re: Randy and the General are great blokes, doing a fantastic job but haven't got a clue, they're going to ruin the club type posts...see cognitive polyphasia.
All-in-all...some people need to realise that it's not as easy as they think it is getting a new manager. It's even harder getting the right manager. I don't just mean a big name I mean the manager who is going to work well with the board, take us forward and build something for the long term. or would you rather have the wrong one two weeks ago?
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General, don't listen to us with regards to whether we should sign a player/employ a manager (as suggested by a poster above). Continue getting advice from people who clearly know about football. We, as Villa fans, have never spoken with one voice.
I'm sure you didn't need that advice, but anyway.........
Can I just point out you are giving him advise should he listen to you? :-))))))))))
Good point, errrm yes he should make an exception just this once.
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General
The board have done enough in the past to show they deserve our trust. It's all very well having an opinion on the next manager but sometimes people go over the top.
IMO those involved will do what's best for the club all round.
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If we appoint Houllier I can only say I get the same feeling when we signed Harewood and Heskey.
People with names beginning with 'H' for horror.
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Yo their credit.
Blood.
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Whilst it appears to be a great idea to have a Director communicating directly with the fans I am beginning to doubt the wisdom of "airing our washing in full public gaze" - by that I mean, it is now evident that the press are wise to the General`s postings on here and other sites and using his comments as official club statements, although General Krulak points out they are his thoughts and not those of the board.
On the other hand we have posters making derogatory comments on this site that they would not dream of making face to face to this individual. Furthermore I have lost count of the number of inane questions put to the forum - I sometimes doubt the intelligence of some of our fellow posters and so called Villa fans.
I think it may be prudent for the General to stop posting on here and Villa Talk until the new management team is in place and for posters to get a sense of reality as to who we can attract as manager and the quality of player who wants to play for us.
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Whilst it appears to be a great idea to have a Director communicating directly with the fans I am beginning to doubt the wisdom of "airing our washing in full public gaze" - by that I mean, it is now evident that the press are wise to the General`s postings on here and other sites and using his comments as official club statements, although General Krulak points out they are his thoughts and not those of the board.
On the other hand we have posters making derogatory comments on this site that they would not dream of making face to face to this individual. Furthermore I have lost count of the number of inane questions put to the forum - I sometimes doubt the intelligence of some of our fellow posters and so called Villa fans.
I think it may be prudent for the General to stop posting on here and Villa Talk until the new management team is in place and for posters to get a sense of reality as to who we can attract as manager and the quality of player who wants to play for us.
Could'nt agree more Mersey.
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I do like this thread. It must be one of the few places out there where a company director talks so candidly with concerned stakeholders.
On the other hand it's beginning to annoy me. The General comes on here and posts something trying answer people's concerns and ensure us that Randy has the clubs best interests at heart for the VERY long term. All some people seem to care about is that we are taking too long. Long term is 10 years or 50 years, not just this season or next.
They way some talk about some names in such black and white terms as if there can see the future and foresee what will happen is just plain silly. For god's sake don't give X the job he'll be a disaster etc. People succeed and fail for any number of reasons, not just what happened in their last job or that one they had 5 years ago. Isn't it possible that people change or that they were hamstrung by their previous board?
Re: Randy and the General are great blokes, doing a fantastic job but haven't got a clue, they're going to ruin the club type posts...see cognitive polyphasia.
All-in-all...some people need to realise that it's not as easy as they think it is getting a new manager. It's even harder getting the right manager. I don't just mean a big name I mean the manager who is going to work well with the board, take us forward and build something for the long term. or would you rather have the wrong one two weeks ago?
Wish I could express myself in the same way. Well said!
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I do like this thread. It must be one of the few places out there where a company director talks so candidly with concerned stakeholders.
On the other hand it's beginning to annoy me. The General comes on here and posts something trying answer people's concerns and ensure us that Randy has the clubs best interests at heart for the VERY long term. All some people seem to care about is that we are taking too long. Long term is 10 years or 50 years, not just this season or next.
They way some talk about some names in such black and white terms as if there can see the future and foresee what will happen is just plain silly. For god's sake don't give X the job he'll be a disaster etc. People succeed and fail for any number of reasons, not just what happened in their last job or that one they had 5 years ago. Isn't it possible that people change or that they were hamstrung by their previous board?
Re: Randy and the General are great blokes, doing a fantastic job but haven't got a clue, they're going to ruin the club type posts...see cognitive polyphasia.
All-in-all...some people need to realise that it's not as easy as they think it is getting a new manager. It's even harder getting the right manager. I don't just mean a big name I mean the manager who is going to work well with the board, take us forward and build something for the long term. or would you rather have the wrong one two weeks ago?
Wish I could express myself in the same way. Well said!
I think the key to all that is WHO we appoint. The board have had their time (whether us fans like it or not) now it's over to them to produce the goods. As previously stated ACTIONS speak louder than words. I guess the board have done enough to warrant the time and respect to make the right appointment, I'll reserve judgement until then. Big big decision though and needs to be a good one, hence the delay hopefully.
Over to you Randy, please deliver.
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General,
their is rumours that an announcment will be made on Monday or Tuesday regarding an appointment of Manager....if this is true could you please advise that the process has been completed and that Randy has finaly got his man?
look forward to your response and thanks for all the hard work you have been doing keeping us informed!
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General Krulak here:
1. I understand that a paper indicated I called the fans "vipers"....I would like to know where I said that. My respect for the fans is known by all.
2. Posting on these sites probably is too dangerous right now.
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General Krulak here:
1. I understand that a paper indicated I called the fans "vipers"....I would like to know where I said that. My respect for the fans is known by all.
2. Posting on these sites probably is too dangerous right now.
Don't worry General I think the majority of fans understood what you were saying.
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The quality of postings on here is so varied. Here we have a reasonable and wise response. Thank you VCTM. And TheFoolio888.
Whilst it appears to be a great idea to have a Director communicating directly with the fans I am beginning to doubt the wisdom of "airing our washing in full public gaze" - by that I mean, it is now evident that the press are wise to the General`s postings on here and other sites and using his comments as official club statements, although General Krulak points out they are his thoughts and not those of the board.
On the other hand we have posters making derogatory comments on this site that they would not dream of making face to face to this individual. Furthermore I have lost count of the number of inane questions put to the forum - I sometimes doubt the intelligence of some of our fellow posters and so called Villa fans.
I think it may be prudent for the General to stop posting on here and Villa Talk until the new management team is in place and for posters to get a sense of reality as to who we can attract as manager and the quality of player who wants to play for us.
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General Krulak here:
1. I understand that a paper indicated I called the fans "vipers"....I would like to know where I said that. My respect for the fans is known by all.
Get yourself someone with a track record of successfully suing newspapers for lies. I know someone who's not doing much at the moment.
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General Krulak here:
1. I understand that a paper indicated I called the fans "vipers"....I would like to know where I said that. My respect for the fans is known by all.
2. Posting on these sites probably is too dangerous right now.
Well let me be the first as 'a fan' to say, even if you did call us vipers, then that's fine by me. If were going to 'give it' then we have to take it too. I would personally rather you continue posting, than have nothing in the way of dialogue with the board. If it makes you feel better, the exchanges between fans and board would have been even more colourful under HDE.
I like your candid replies, long may they continue. Just be prepared for the british press to quote and print how they see fit.
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General Krulak here:
1. I understand that a paper indicated I called the fans "vipers"....I would like to know where I said that. My respect for the fans is known
It was yesterday on Villatalk. You called the fans "pit vipers."
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In fairness Risso I think the General said some fans turned on Randy 'like' pit vipers, which isn't exactly the same as saying they are pit vipers.
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I think you are right VCM......time to knock it on the head General, thanks for the enthusiasm, encouragement, openess, honesty, over the years, unfortunately it could get to the stage whereby it is an open forum to get at the regime, and cause unnecessary divisions.
Again, appreciate it General, good health, and good luck, but i would suggest maybe stopping posting.
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I don't think he should stop posting, well i hope he dose'nt anyway. Maybe a break until the new manager is appointed would be a good idea.
I agree with VCTM though, some of the inane questions he gets asked on here are ridiculous and quite often a waste of his time.
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I do not think The General should stop posting. During his time off the site the anxiety of fans increases like a pot on the boil. Each time The General posts his comments the heat subsides through some of his well chosen words.
Like many posts on here, many people misread them in their haste, which causes misunderstanding. The 'vipers' comment is an example of this in that The General did not say some fans were vipers but that they turned like pit vipers. The analogy has been used to emphasise the 'speed of turning' not 'snake like'.
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In fairness Risso I think the General said some fans turned on Randy 'like' pit vipers, which isn't exactly the same as saying they are pit vipers.
Oh that's alright then. In that case, I think the General was like a bit daft for saying it.
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If people get offended by what the General said in his post then there are a few thin skinned people about!
It's not like he used to be a priest or something like that, shock horror a former General has a bit of a temper!
Having come back to the club I cant believe the open communication we have with the top level of management at the club, I think some are forgetting the reign of Ellis and co!
Do we as supporters have the right to vent our frustrations and concerns? yes of course, should we be suprised if the targets for these frustrations get a bit annoyed, no of course not.
I think its better to know that our opinions are herd rather than appearing to be ignored as per the previous owners
Mark
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So lets get this straight because a few fans have stopped thinking the sun shines out of Randy's arse and the General has got abit of a strop on about this, we should now not be allowed any communication with Aston Villa?
Remeber without us there is no club.
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Risso said the General is daft!!
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Risso said the General is daft!!
Risso said the General is daft!!
GOD you're such a grass!! LOL!!!
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http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/aston-villa/7981814/Randy-Lerner-would-be-taking-a-big-gamble-naming-Gerard-Houllier-as-Aston-Villa-manager.html
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The only reason that it's dangerous for the General to post on here is that the media are lazy, economical with truth good for nothings. Combine that with the fact that when it turns out that their 'facts' are wrong you don't see a retractment or 'fair cop gov' statement.
They have no morals and no care for what problems their stories may cause. See reporting of MMR, News of the World phone tapping and the Mirror's stories regarding squadies torturing prisoners.
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Risso said the General is daft!!
"like" daft. It's different.
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General K keeps telling me not to take notice of and certainly not to believe whats said in the papers.
Sound advice
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In fairness Risso I think the General said some fans turned on Randy 'like' pit vipers, which isn't exactly the same as saying they are pit vipers.
Oh that's alright then. In that case, I think the General was like a bit daft for saying it.
There's a rather big difference, as well you know, between "Villa fans are all pit vipers" and "there are some Fans who have just turned on Randy like pit vipers"
PeterW was the General's very own pit viper for a long time. Certainly long before any of this latest stuff happened. Malcolm is a special brand of -wind-up viper. East19 never has anything good to say. This is nothing new.
The General hasn't stated anywhere that ALL Villa fans are pit vipers. Your mis-quoting of him of tabloid-esque.
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Whoever is saying Koeman...seriously?? Have you even looked at his management track record!?
Of course they haven't. It is just a foreign name so it must be good.
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Long term is 10 years or 50 years, not just this season or next.
Time to pack in now then.
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general just a quick note about steve staunton i have seen him blank people when asked for autographs by fans on many occasions and i know of him being rude and abusive to fans,this is not the type of person we want at the villa
Its a wonder we didn't get rid of O'Neill well before he threw the towel in on this criteria.
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At last general it seems we have a new manager. Gerard houllier will be a steady hand on the tiller and I wish him well and all the best in his time at our club.
Let's hope we can all get behind him and give him our full support and move onwards and upwards , it will be a difficult season with no transfer window but I'm sure gerard will be impressed at the quality he finds here.
There you go troy - positive enough for you?
Thanks for all your efforts general and hopefully things will calm down a bit now!
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General.
Have you had a sneaky bet on Houllier to be next manager?
I know I would.
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For those doubting the intentions, integrity etc of Mr Lerner et al ... thank goodness we are not Blackburn
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11163004
Or Liverpool
http://www.clickliverpool.com/sport/liverpool-fc/129030-gillett-and-hicks-increase-liverpool-fc-debt-to-%C3%823514million.html
As bad as it seems right now we are better placed than others - Chelsea, Man Utd, Arsenal have been ahead for a while, whilst Citeh and Spurs are the bright new kids on the block.
We should back the owner and trust him on the new appointment - on the other hand if its Curbishley .......
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Hi General
Will AVFC be producing an app for Android phones?
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I've removed some pretty stupid posts from here.
The people involved know who they are and need to stop being quite so stupid, please.
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For those doubting the intentions, integrity etc of Mr Lerner et al ... thank goodness we are not Blackburn
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11163004
Or Liverpool
http://www.clickliverpool.com/sport/liverpool-fc/129030-gillett-and-hicks-increase-liverpool-fc-debt-to-%C3%823514million.html
As bad as it seems right now we are better placed than others - Chelsea, Man Utd, Arsenal have been ahead for a while, whilst Citeh and Spurs are the bright new kids on the block.
We should back the owner and trust him on the new appointment - on the other hand if its Curbishley .......
Agreed with the above.
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General,
If Houllier gets the job I will be happy because he is a very experienced manager and in light of the other candidates seems a wise choice.
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General
We had a thread running here about the non league day on Saturday. Have you ever taken in the delights of some non league football in England?
Cheers
Stu
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I think (if GH decides to join us) that the board should be congratulated .
Time will tell of course but his CV is impressive and to my mind it is a step up for us. We -Aston Villa- have to be realistic about our attraction to managers/coaches with the track record we want. I mean Guus Hiddink would be fantastic but would he come to us?
Villa are not a Champions League Club, and if we are honest since the FA Cup win in 1920, excepting one FA Cup win and of course the Championship/Euro win we haven't done much in ninety years to claim that we are a special Club. Not for some of the best coaches in the World.
Monsieur H is a very credible and impressive appointment for us. If he joins us he will have my support.
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General,
If Houllier gets the job I will be happy because he is a very experienced manager and in light of the other candidates seems a wise choice.
I am in agreement with this.
UTV
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
Dont blame you one tiny bit General.
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
yea and some of us on here beleive that houllier is NOT the "right" man for our club
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
yea and some of us on here beleive that houllier is NOT the "right" man for our club
Tough shit.
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Let PMK have his one man booing comedy circus. Every site/club needs a pantomime villain.
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
yea and some of us on here beleive that houllier is NOT the "right" man for our club
You can`t please all the people all the time - The internet etc has its obvious advantages with respect to communicationg opinions and such like, however we live in a society where individuals demand or want at will - Its all extremely self centred and immature. I may like for Villa to appoint Jol or Moyes, however I expect that it is unlikely at this time. I am therefore prepared to rely on the choice of our owner.
As pointed out on numerous occasions, those posting on here are a small minority of season ticket holders, fans, supporters etc.
Nobody knows what the majority of fans are thinking.
I am glad that Gen Krulak has made this pragmatic decision - I fear that his openness has been hijacked by some posters making childish and immature comments. Once again the minority spoiling things for the majority.
Thank you Gen Krulak for your insights - it was very much appreciated, whilst it lasted.
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
yea and some of us on here beleive that houllier is NOT the "right" man for our club
If he turns out to actually be the right man for the job are you going to come on here and apologise to the general/board? Everyone may think they know better but the reality is we have no idea of:
a) who was interviewed/not interviewed
b) how interested in the job they were (rather than the money)
c) what guidelines they will be working too
Without knowing any of this we are completely incapable of saying the board has got this right or wrong. All we can do is trust that the board have made a decision they think is right for the club. If it turns out badly no amount of telling people 'I told you so' is going to help so rather than bitching about it not being the appointment you'd have chosen get behind the new man and give him a fair chance.
I personally thank the general for sticking it out as long as he has and look forward to the time when things settle down and he is able to come back on here.
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Please, please can we stop the discussing of the merits of individual potential managers on here, and do it on any of the many threads already in existence for that purpose?
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Hi General
I think it is a wise move. We look forward to having you back on here when the manager issue settles out. Im sure most of the fans will get behind the new guy as they will realise it will be in everyones interest. It is worth pointing out that if you secured the services of Jose Mourinho as our manager in the morning, you would still recieve negative comment from some folks. That is the beauty of our club/sport - everyone is entitled to their opinion. Im personally just glad/relieved it wasnt Bob Bradley, that would have been a disaster due to lack of experience in the EPL etc.
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General
Apart from all the talk about those who are negative, there are also some who see through rose tinted spectacles. Some of these paint a very false picture.
I very much doubt that anyone who is happy with all things Villa is anything but a virtual supporter.
The ones that really need to be kept happy are those who put their money into the club, either as supporters and / or sponsors.
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i hope you return very soon general as you are greatly respected on here , doesnt mean everyone agrees with you on everything but we appreciate your views and efforts.
i look forward to welcoming gerard , thommo and whoever else he brings with him , and i hope and believe they will do very well for aston villa!
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A shame it's come to this General, we're not all moaners. How many other clubs can send a direct message to one of their directors? Hope you will be back soon.
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Let PMK have his one man booing comedy circus. Every site/club needs a pantomime villain.
Oi, feck-off. Wasn't that my job?
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General
Apart from all the talk about those who are negative, there are also some who see through rose tinted spectacles. Some of these paint a very false picture.
I very much doubt that anyone who is happy with all things Villa is anything but a virtual supporter.
The ones that really need to be kept happy are those who put their money into the club, either as supporters and / or sponsors.
Sorry, but I have to take issue with this as I'm a ST holder and generally regarded to be firmly in the 'happy clapper' camp.
I don't think that any ones few is defined by whether they go or not!
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General,
Think you've done the wise thing, good luck with finalising the appointment of our club's next manager.
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General
Apart from all the talk about those who are negative, there are also some who see through rose tinted spectacles. Some of these paint a very false picture.
I very much doubt that anyone who is happy with all things Villa is anything but a virtual supporter.
The ones that really need to be kept happy are those who put their money into the club, either as supporters and / or sponsors.
Sorry, but I have to take issue with this as I'm a ST holder and generally regarded to be firmly in the 'happy clapper' camp.
I don't think that any ones few is defined by whether they go or not!
So you're happy with no signings having been made? The choice of manager being very under-whelming? the fact that our best players are going on-by-one each season and we aren't now looking to replace them? You're happy that we've taken an age to look to appoint a manager and when we get close to it a man who was poor at liverpool and thought Sandor Westerveld was a better keeper than brad Friedel, not only has been offered the job, but then wants to wait until he says yes or no? Seriously, you're sitting their at the moment with your Villa scarf on, drinking tea out of your Villa mug, clicking 'reply' on your Villa mouse, and saying to yourself, 'Proud History Bright Future'? Because I'm not.
Surely anyone who has seen us lose 6-0 at newcastle and pathetically at home to rapid vienna, limp over the line at Everton shouldn't be applauding the board for taking so bloody long about this but should be asking questions. Such as why the bloody hell have we not acted sooner when it was obvious to us all the Kev Mac wasn't up to the job? Why after those performances have we not demanded answers as to why things have taken so long and we have allowed a transfer window to close without us signing one bloody player apart from a makeweight?
Happy? I'm bloody furious. randy has done brilliantly thus far that is without doubt. We've been stitched up this summer though. First by MON and now by a dithering board.
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General
Apart from all the talk about those who are negative, there are also some who see through rose tinted spectacles. Some of these paint a very false picture.
I very much doubt that anyone who is happy with all things Villa is anything but a virtual supporter.
The ones that really need to be kept happy are those who put their money into the club, either as supporters and / or sponsors.
Sorry, but I have to take issue with this as I'm a ST holder and generally regarded to be firmly in the 'happy clapper' camp.
I don't think that any ones few is defined by whether they go or not!
Take issue with it if you like. I very much doubt that, in your happy clapping, you agree with everything and never find anything to moan about. I may not be very perceptive because I don't know anyone who doesn't have the odd disagrement, now and again, concerning the club. My point to the Gerneral was intended to show him the other side of the coin and not assume that the people who criticise are to be discounted. Some of the earlier posts today were way out of order and have been deleted. Don't try to open the 'better than thou supporter' thing again. I pointed out who the club needed to keep happy and these are the people who put money in. That is a hard fact of business. You are fortunate to be happy and a season ticket holder at the same time right now.
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General Krulak here:
1. After much thought, I am going to stop posting on this site until the Manager issue settles out. Simply put, anything I post either 1) gets picked up by the media, put into the context they desire (viper comment) and causes problems for the Fans and Club, 2) is not believed by some fans anyway so not only does the media get it wrong but some Fans don't care anyhow which makes the posting doubly "dangerous." Let me just say what I have been saying all along, we will do our very best to get the "right" man for the job. We can't do much more than that.
I have to say General that if you consider the recent views expressed and media circus around a comment you didn't remember making, reason to quit the site and no doubt all others, until the managerial situation I question your motives.
Sorry and all that. You take the same risk every time you comment and whilst I appreciate you occasionally use the threat of stopping the excellent public service your views and comments offer, to calm situations down, from day one you always run the same risks now and will so, for ever.
Fans as you know, have views, some express them, some will disagree with the company line, many will agree, the media will and have always looked on this site looking for something to make news.
We are very lucky, in fact extraordinarily lucky, that you come on to all the sites and offer opinions and information, I'd imagine your various threads are the envy of every other clubs fansites, so to let a few derogatory views, comments and especially some disingenuous media reporting curtail your input seems to me, and I'm finding it hard to find the right words, slightly strange.
Best wishes though get back soon.