Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Dave on June 26, 2012, 06:05:35 PM
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Once it starts to become a real thing, it comes out of the transfer thread and into one of its own. So here we go:
Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert is homing in on Feyenoord midfielder Karim El Ahmadi to become his first signing.
The 27-year-old Netherlands-born Moroccan international has been with Feyenoord since signing from home town club Twente Enschede in 2008.
But new Villa manager Lambert is now keen to bring him over to England.
"We're in talks at this moment, those talks are ongoing and we hope to reach a positive conclusion with Feyenoord and the player," said Lambert.
"Karim is a player who I feel could definitely improve our squad.
"He has experience of big club football and also at international level.
"He can pass the ball well and he could be an important player for us in central midfield. Let's see how things progress. We're very hopeful."
Assuming the PR side of things is staying as it has for the last 5 years or so, the fact that we're talking openly about him presumably means it's done and dusted. So welcome Karim. Hopefully you are more Petrov, rather than Berson.
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Can I be the first misery arse to say "In the shirt, on the pitch"!
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De Telegraaf are saying that he's already here and in discussion with us. Feyenoord are desperate to keep him.
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Neil, what kind of player is he?
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Neil, what kind of player is he?
He would fill the roll that Barry vacated as his in the same mould as fat arse. I spoke earlier to the father of my son's best friend, who's a huge feyenoord fan and he's gutted about it. He puts much of the turnaround in their fortunes down to his contribution.
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Looks pretty good....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhX-5yAowC0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhX-5yAowC0)
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I've seen him. He is world class.
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El Ahmadi has revealed he is set to seal a 'dream' move.
I like that very much.
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From the clips he looks elegant, unhurried, strong in the tackle, non-wasteful in the pass, in charge; what's not to like? Granted that's just the clips and granted that it's a different league but hopefully PL is just the sort of manager to get the most out of him. As someone said, his name wouldn't have been on everyone's lips as our likely first signing so Lambert must have done some homework on him.
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Looks like a decent player and will no doubt bolster our midfield, looking better already with holman as well, anyone know if makoun will be coming back ?
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Like I said I'm really Lambert has shown already that he's going to look abroad.
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El Ahmadi has revealed he is set to seal a 'dream' move.
I like that very much.
As much as I would like to think that he is bowled over at the prospect of moving to Villa Park, I somehow imagine that for anyone getting their snoz in the Premier League trough it is a "dream move" regardless of the shirt you end up wearing...
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El Ahmadi has revealed he is set to seal a 'dream' move.
I like that very much.
Because it's the Premier League, not the Villa..
He's going to do well for us. He is certainly not a goalscorer but he is a very hard worker and his stamina is very impressive. Karim is cool on the ball, likes to pass and move, and is excellent positionally. He is very disciplined and and keeps his composure very well.
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Like I said I'm really Lambert has shown already that he's going to look abroad.
Having read lamberts autobiography hes a keen fan if european football and says he learnt a great deal from hitzfeld among others, also referred to several bust ups with mcleish in his book- no love lost there!
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Lambert is certainly moving away from the "MON junior" tag by signing a Morroccan from a Dutch team as his first Villa transfer.
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I signed him on football manager for Fiorentina, he was a beast and with-in 6 months he'd took Montolivo's place... Need I have to say any more?
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Neil, what kind of player is he?
He would fill the roll that Barry vacated as his in the same mould as fat arse. I spoke earlier to the father of my son's best friend, who's a huge feyenoord fan and he's gutted about it. He puts much of the turnaround in their fortunes down to his contribution.
My impression was that he was more of a 'Milner' type player in the middle of the park. Never stops working, always goes full blooded into a tackle, and has a great pass on him.
(This impression comes entirely from things I've read today - I still don't even know his name off by heart)
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Didn't we describe Makoun in very much the same way as this before he arrived?
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He seems like good player just what we need.
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Didn't we describe Makoun in very much the same way as this before he arrived?
Eh, Makoun is a more of a neat, technical attacking central midfielder. El Ahmadi is all over the place. Watch his games on YouTube, there are about 15 [full] matches that show his every touch and tackle. He can track all over the field, and he's very willing to drop back and defend. From what I can see he breaks up counter attacks very well also. He is a much stronger defender that Makoun, and could compliment him very well.
We could be playing some very neat football come next year.
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I'm really hoping for a midfield three of Makoun and El Ahmadi holding behind Ireland; with Herd waiting in the wings. Mouth watering.
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Didn't we describe Makoun in very much the same way as this before he arrived?
Eh, Makoun is a more of a neat, technical attacking central midfielder. El Ahmadi is all over the place. Watch his games on YouTube, there are about 15 [full] matches that show his every touch and tackle. He can track all over the field, and he's very willing to drop back and defend. From what I can see he breaks up counter attacks very well also. He is a much stronger defender that Makoun, and could compliment him very well.
We could be playing some very neat football come next year.
Adam's right, Makoun was described as a defensive midfielder before we signed him. He just turned out not to be able to tackle.
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Certainly gets about the park looking at that clip. As already said, plays some decent balls as well, nothing too fancy just pass and move. Let's hope he and Ireland plus the others get on the same wavelength straight away.
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Didn't we describe Makoun in very much the same way as this before he arrived?
Eh, Makoun is a more of a neat, technical attacking central midfielder. El Ahmadi is all over the place. Watch his games on YouTube, there are about 15 [full] matches that show his every touch and tackle. He can track all over the field, and he's very willing to drop back and defend. From what I can see he breaks up counter attacks very well also. He is a much stronger defender that Makoun, and could compliment him very well.
We could be playing some very neat football come next year.
Adam's right, Makoun was described as a defensive midfielder before we signed him. He just turned out not to be able to tackle.
He had a great foul on him though.
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I'm really hoping for a midfield three of Makoun and El Ahmadi holding behind Ireland; with Herd waiting in the wings. Mouth watering.
Interestingly Makoun doesn't appear on the squad list on Pravda...
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I'm really hoping for a midfield three of Makoun and El Ahmadi holding behind Ireland; with Herd waiting in the wings. Mouth watering.
Interestingly Makoun doesn't appear on the squad list on Pravda...
Just had a look myself.
I'd hope that it's because he's on loan at Olympiacos. Still listed as a Villa player on Wiki.
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Doesn't a loan run until the end of June?
I am excited by this chap, I hope he turns out to be like Tiote and not Bradley, because we saw clips of him that made everyone think he was going to be quality.
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Just had a look myself.
I'd hope that it's because he's on loan at Olympiacos. Still listed as a Villa player on Wiki.
Oh, well if Wiki says so.... ;)
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Would he be in the mould of a Fellaini?
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Didn't we describe Makoun in very much the same way as this before he arrived?
No, i think you're thinking of Djemba Djemba.
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Latest in a glorious line of Moroccan Villans: Kachloul, Hadji, El Ahmadi...
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Latest in a glorious line of Moroccan Villans: Kachloul, Hadji, El Ahmadi...
I smell a cracking, and somewhat impossible, team with a theme developing here.
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Stephen Ireland was merely making him feel wanted with his smoking Twitpic.
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ITSOTP
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Latest in a glorious line of Moroccan Villans: Kachloul, Hadji, El Ahmadi...
Think this Moroccan might be a little different, El Ahmadi was born and raised in Holland so he is actually Dutch of Moroccan decent and grew up playing Dutch football and played for their youth national team before switching to the Moroccan national team.
Fingers crossed...
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If he can do the behind the leg pass at VP it would be great. Looks like a steal to me.
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If he can do the behind the leg pass at VP it would be great. Looks like a steal to me.
Yep hopefully exploiting the foreign markets finally.
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Now feck all about the lad but great to see we have a manager for the first time in a long while who's thinking outside the box in terms of signings.
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Seems he is an energetic central midfielder, we've lacked that in midfield ever since Milner left tbh.
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Energy in the middle of the park is much needed, plus he and Herd you would think in tough games would be useful together.
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Anyone who can think of a song for him gets a shiny sixpence.
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Anyone who can think of a song for him gets a shiny sixpence.
Don't know about a song but the nickname could be Cadbury's KahrimEl.
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Anyone who can think of a song for him gets a shiny sixpence.
"One El Ahmadi, there's only one El Ahmadi, one El Ahmadi, there's only one El Ahmadi..."
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If he ever hits the bar we could sing Karim El Ahmadi, hit the crossbar, hit the crossbar.
To Rock the Casbah
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he's an upgraded version of NRC from what I can see. He can tackle, he'll run around all game being a royal pain, but is neat and tidy and can pass the ball to a teammate having done the hard work. We've been dying for that since Milner and certainly since NRC himself left for
Juventus, Napoli, Bayern....Bolton
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Good news if he signs. With Karim, Brett and Chris in midfield we should have plenty of energy. Just need a Sid like sprayer of great balls and we may have the making of a decent midfield.
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Always good to see a player who is constantly looking for the pass rather than shying away.
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How much?
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Good news if he signs. With Karim, Brett and Chris in midfield we should have plenty of energy. Just need a Sid like sprayer of great balls and we may have the making of a decent midfield.
Barry Bannan?
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We could name a pub after him. What"s the name of that one right by Spaghetti?
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Can I be the first misery arse to say "In the shirt, on the pitch"!
I got there first on the transfer thread you git!! I'm the king of misery.
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he's an upgraded version of NRC from what I can see. He can tackle, he'll run around all game being a royal pain, but is neat and tidy and can pass the ball to a teammate having done the hard work. We've been dying for that since Milner and certainly since NRC himself left for Juventus, Napoli, Bayern....Bolton
Just about to post the same thing. In the video posted above he breaks up the play but most passes then are played sideways/backwards. We do need that player but without a creative nearby to take the newly won ball we will be struggling to have scoring chances.
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Looks pretty good....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhX-5yAowC0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhX-5yAowC0)
Looks the sort of player we could do with in midfield to break up the other teams rythym.
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Good news if he signs. With Karim, Brett and Chris in midfield we should have plenty of energy. Just need a Sid like sprayer of great balls and we may have the making of a decent midfield.
Barry Bannan?
Stephen Ireland?
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average player after a british passport
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average player after a british passport
Doesn't Steven Davis already have one of those?
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average player after a british passport
You forgot to add KRO.
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average player after a british passport
Yes and likely to stop Steve Warnock from developing into a permanent midfielder and thus denying England another international superstar.
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How much?
2,111,198 pounds and 43 pence. Can you get a Crunchie for 43p these days?
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average player after a british passport
Lambert or Curly Tail?
I vote Lambert.
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Looks decent - maybe a Petrov replacement.
I would imagiine he'd be signing for Norwich if Lambert hadn't moved to B6.
Things looking up - he looks skillful AND a grafter.
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average player after a british passport
You forgot to add KRO.
Im no blue nose nob
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Is this the return of Cranial Injury?
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Looks decent - maybe a Petrov replacement.
I would imagiine he'd be signing for Norwich if Lambert hadn't moved to B6.
Things looking up - he looks skillful AND a grafter.
I can only go by the clips I have watched (Id never heard of him) but he looks like a Nigel De Jong type. Not over skillful but certainly a grafter and someone who will work for the team and not for himself. Should be a good addition to the playing squad.
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average player after a british passport
Two questions -
1) Since when has playing for an English club given foreign players a British passport?
2) Seeing as he's got a Dutch one, what advantage do you think a British one would give him?
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Ive just read that the fee will only be around 2.4mil so if anybody thinks we are getting a world beater, think again.
He will provide tackling ability in the middle which currently we do not have.
Paul Lambert will be working to a tight budget so this is the type of signing we should expect for the season ahead.
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Once it starts to become a real thing, it comes out of the transfer thread and into one of its own. So here we go:
I agree Dave,
But it's odd you should say that, as I've started a fresh link twice regarding something that's started as a speculation thread, and mine was locked!
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Ive just read that the fee will only be around 2.4mil so if anybody thinks we are getting a world beater, think again.
Whereas if we pay £24m for him he would be a world beater?
I dont think anybody is claiming he is a world beater though, for what it's worth.
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Ive just read that the fee will only be around 2.4mil so if anybody thinks we are getting a world beater, think again.
He will provide tackling ability in the middle which currently we do not have.
Paul Lambert will be working to a tight budget so this is the type of signing we should expect for the season ahead.
Only time will tell if hes any good in the PL, but the evidence so far suggests that he has the graft of Milner combined with the passing ability and intelligence of Ireland. If we can get more players of this potential quality at these relatively low transfer fees then why waste money on over valued "name" players. As I've said previously, the over inflated prices of English players (typified by Spurs latest valuation of Kyle Naughton) is a part of the problem with English football...why spend extortinate amounts when you get the same quality, if not better, from a foreign import at less than half the price?
edit: I'm sure his wage demands, and the wage demands of similar foreign players, wont be as excessive as English or high profile players either, and that can only be a good thing for the well documented financial and wage situation at the club.
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I have friends that are Feyenoord fans, and they are gutted that he may be leaving - "this is a big shit of a transfer for us" - exact words! They think that he a far better player than Holman, and I thought he looked decent! They discribed him as a Nigel de Jong type of player!
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We certainly need a player who can tackle and protect the back 4. This would free up Ireland to get forward and then between them we can use Herd as a box-to-box type player. That would suit me.
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Can I be the first misery arse to say "In the shirt, on the pitch"!
I got there first on the transfer thread you git!! I'm the king of misery.
He'll be off to the African nations cup for half the bloody season too!
Does that win me the misery prize?
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If it does turn out to be a £2.4m fee, there's two things to remember:-
1. He's got 12-months left on his contract, so the price reflects this.
2. Look at the great transfer value Newcastle have gotten recently. We can't point to them and say "Why can't we do that" and then moan that we're paying too low a fee and the player won't be a world beater!
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How much did Viera cost Arsenal, a couple of million? God he must have been shit.
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If it does turn out to be a £2.4m fee, there's two things to remember:-
1. He's got 12-months left on his contract, so the price reflects this.
2. Look at the great transfer value Newcastle have gotten recently. We can't point to them and say "Why can't we do that" and then moan that we're paying too low a fee and the player won't be a world beater!
Exactly John. The reason we're in the financial mess we are is that for four years we paid way over the odds for players. We've always moaned that we've not had a manager who could find foreign bargains, so hopefully this is the first step in rectifying that.
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I have friends that are Feyenoord fans, and they are gutted that he may be leaving - "this is a big shit of a transfer for us" - exact words!
I can't get that phrase out of my head now. I can just see them, sitting in their caravans with their flipflops on.
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An all action midfileder, just what we've needed for years now. Hurry up and sign!
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Why has only won 10 Moroccan caps - is it because Morrocco don't qualify for much in the way of tournaments?
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Are Morrocco any good? Might be a Giggs/Wales type of scenario?
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Also won't his price reflect him being in last year of contract?
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When did he start playing for them? He represented Holland, being dutch born and all, until quite high up I think. But the British passport will come in handy for him needing to get out of his home country of Holland to another European nation.
There is some proper shit written on here at times, and if you write uninformed twaddle and someone picks you up on it, calling them a nob in response is unacceptable, and will mean you are not around for long.
Also, just because someone writes complete twaddle, does not mean they are a heathen, so can we cut that out too while we are at it.
Judging a player by their transfer fee is equally mad.
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It looks like a pretty basic piece of business. Maybe I'm being naive, but I'd say defensive midfielder is about the easiest position to fill.
Having said that, he looks tidy on those Youtube clips. Doesn't play with his head down, like NRC.
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How much did Viera cost Arsenal, a couple of million? God he must have been shit.
I'd much rather spend £20m on a player like Henderson.
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Looks pretty good. I'd like to see him partnering Ireland. The ability to spot a pass and execute it is something they have in common... When Stevie's up for it.
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I have friends that are Feyenoord fans, and they are gutted that he may be leaving - "this is a big shit of a transfer for us" - exact words!
I can't get that phrase out of my head now. I can just see them, sitting in their caravans with their flipflops on.
We must shtop dis transfer no? :P
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A midfield three of this new guy (I won't even try!), Makoun and Ireland ahead of them should certainly help ball retention.
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Why has only won 10 Moroccan caps - is it because Morrocco don't qualify for much in the way of tournaments?
You obviously are not aware of the Moroccan cap embargo.
*tsk*
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This is some of that "smart" business Faulkner mentioned I suppose.
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never heard of him before, and have only seen the you tube clips,
but he looks the exact opposite from NRC that you can possibly get, just by the way he recieves the ball finds space then distributes the ball in a comfortable manner suggests he could be good for us and in no way like NRC
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Always seems to offer an option, hassles the opponents and keeps his head up, I'd rather wait and see whether he can do it in the premier league though, I got hyped up about Makoun and Bradley so I'd rather wait this time
As an aside, on the youtube clip, 2 mins 20 seconds, what a save!
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I do like how, for a defensive midfielder, the first thing Lambo said about him was that he's a good passer of the ball. There are some things you can judge managers' instincts by, and whether they prefer a passer or, say, a Cattermole type in the holding role may be one of them.
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How much did Viera cost Arsenal, a couple of million? God he must have been shit.
I'd much rather spend £20m on a player like Henderson.
You'd much rather PL spend the majority, if not all, of his budget on one player, rather than buy a handful of players to fill the gaps of our squad for considerably less money?
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How much did Viera cost Arsenal, a couple of million? God he must have been shit.
I'd much rather spend £20m on a player like Henderson.
You'd much rather PL spend the majority, if not all, of his budget on one player, rather than buy a handful of players to fill the gaps of our squad for considerably less money?
I think he was taking the piss.
Welcome to H&V by the way. It's your turn to make the tea
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
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How much did Viera cost Arsenal, a couple of million? God he must have been shit.
I'd much rather spend £20m on a player like Henderson.
You'd much rather PL spend the majority, if not all, of his budget on one player, rather than buy a handful of players to fill the gaps of our squad for considerably less money?
I think he was taking the piss.
Welcome to H&V by the way. It's your turn to make the tea
I had a feeling he was. I thought I'd make a moronic comment anyway.
And I've been here a while ... just never signed up.
Milk & sugar?
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I was indeed taking the piss. I'm just not as good at it as Damon.
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I thought I'd make a moronic comment anyway.
That's the spirit. If we never made moronic comments life would be very dull.
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I thought I'd make a moronic comment anyway.
That's the spirit. If we never made moronic comments life would be very dull.
If only my boss thought the same way.
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If no one made moronic posts on here there'd only be 15 posts a day.
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
I'd have Holman or Gabby over Albrighton but otherwise it looks potentially very strong. With Holman, El Ahmadi and Makoun coming in I doubt we will need all of Bannan, Clark, Herd, Gardner, Delph, Albrighton, Carruthers so I think either loan out say Caruthers and Gardner or sell 2 of Bannan, Delph and Albrighton
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I'd be happy with loans, but not so sure about selling them, Albrighton particularly!
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
I'd have Holman or Gabby over Albrighton but otherwise it looks potentially very strong. With Holman, El Ahmadi and Makoun coming in I doubt we will need all of Bannan, Clark, Herd, Gardner, Delph, Albrighton, Carruthers so I think either loan out say Caruthers and Gardner or sell 2 of Bannan, Delph and Albrighton
What happens if we get any injuries or suspensions if we've sold or loaned out everyone else? ;)
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Ive just read that the fee will only be around 2.4mil so if anybody thinks we are getting a world beater, think again.
Probably not a world beater, as he's 27 and been around in Holland for years. But if we take what we've been told that - he's only got one year left on his deal, Feyenoord are in financial difficulty so can't afford to lose him on a free, he's one of their highest earners and the fact that they're selling him at a loss, it suggests that we've got ourselves value for money.
Let's just hope that value is valuable enough.
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Unless they significantly improve i cannot see a future for Albrighton and Bannan - its a shame but sentiment gets us nowhere. Albrighton started very well and was the best crosser of a ball i had seen for years - but then he just went backwards and his main threat became his biggest weakness.
Now i would like to put everything that was shit last year at the door of TSM but maybe Mark is one of many promising young players who get the big time and big money and think they do not have to improve
Hope i am wrong
One thing for sure is that across the middle of the park we could have some very different players and that can only be a good thing - maybe we will never see a CB play there again
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Looks decent - maybe a Petrov replacement.
I would imagiine he'd be signing for Norwich if Lambert hadn't moved to B6.
Things looking up - he looks skillful AND a grafter.
Not so sure about that. Is it just a coincidence that our first two signings have been from the Dutch league? I remember reading something about us having a scout over there, so maybe he has recommended El Ahmadi to the club and Lambert liked what he saw.
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
I'd have Holman or Gabby over Albrighton but otherwise it looks potentially very strong. With Holman, El Ahmadi and Makoun coming in I doubt we will need all of Bannan, Clark, Herd, Gardner, Delph, Albrighton, Carruthers so I think either loan out say Caruthers and Gardner or sell 2 of Bannan, Delph and Albrighton
What happens if we get any injuries or suspensions if we've sold or loaned out everyone else? ;)
Everyone? I said 2, which would leave a pool of 10 midfielders, hopefully with youngsters like Johnson pushing through also.
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
I'd have Holman or Gabby over Albrighton but otherwise it looks potentially very strong. With Holman, El Ahmadi and Makoun coming in I doubt we will need all of Bannan, Clark, Herd, Gardner, Delph, Albrighton, Carruthers so I think either loan out say Caruthers and Gardner or sell 2 of Bannan, Delph and Albrighton
Yeah theres many combinations of players that can be used in that set up and would be wise to use the squad fully rotating the players and giving valuable game time to the younger players. Obviously there are injuries and cup competitions to take into consideration too, so would rather a few were sent out on loan rather than sell if they are surplus to requirements initially.
Hopefully we'll strengthen the defence now and get rid of the likes of Hutton.
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Lambert was known to pick a different team every week depending on who they were playing at Norwich, so having options may well be the key for him.
For example, away at Arsenal you may play Herd, Makoun and Karim to stifle them through the middle, with Holman and for an example of another link Whittingham out wide, who are sure to give you some defensive cover out wide too, but carry a threat going forward. But at home to Wigan, we may only need one of the 3 holding player, and need more pace, so a Matt Phillips right and NZogbia left, with Gabby and Bent up top and Ireland in the side too may help. Horses for courses and all.
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Good news if he signs. With Karim, Brett and Chris in midfield we should have plenty of energy. Just need a Sid like sprayer of great balls and we may have the making of a decent midfield.
Bannan or Makoun?
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Good news if he signs. With Karim, Brett and Chris in midfield we should have plenty of energy. Just need a Sid like sprayer of great balls and we may have the making of a decent midfield.
Bannan or Makoun?
Agreed, both of whom I'd pick ahead of Herd. And I see Holman as more of a wide attacker than a midfielder anyway.
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
He may well do but 5 out of those 6 are either unproven or underperformers.
Good to see us looking to solve the problem positions though - useful start from Lambert
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
He may well do but 5 out of those 6 are either unproven or underperformers.
Good to see us looking to solve the problem positions though - useful start from Lambert
Disagree. I don't know why Marc is in that line up but throw in Gabby or Holman and all six of those players are experienced veterans.
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I thought I'd make a moronic comment anyway.
That's the spirit. If we never made moronic comments life would be very dull.
If only my boss thought the same way.
You are not supposed to do it all the time. Just when it's not appropriate!
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Lambert was known to pick a different team every week depending on who they were playing at Norwich, so having options may well be the key for him.
For example, away at Arsenal you may play Herd, Makoun and Karim to stifle them through the middle, with Holman and for an example of another link Whittingham out wide, who are sure to give you some defensive cover out wide too, but carry a threat going forward. But at home to Wigan, we may only need one of the 3 holding player, and need more pace, so a Matt Phillips right and NZogbia left, with Gabby and Bent up top and Ireland in the side too may help. Horses for courses and all.
You are assuming N'Zogbia and Gabby are going to offer more than just walking onto the pitch this season? If he can get either of those two playing to their undoubted ability he will save a fortune in transfer fees which can be spent on buying a new back five.
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........ but maybe Mark is one of many promising young players who get the big time and big money and think they do not have to improve
Hope i am wrong
Don't think he is the "Bertie Bigbollox" type of player:
But, even during his summer holidays, hard-working Villa winger Marc Albrighton has been displaying a ‘no pane, no gain’ attitude by helping his mates clean windows.
Albrighton swapped his boots and shinpads for a bucket and sponge to join Bolehall Swifts boss Daren Fulford and his son Conor on their round in Tamworth town centre. While the 22-year-old wideboy will be hoping to climb the Premier League ladder with Paul Lambert’s Lions next season, he has always tried to stay grounded and close to his hometown.
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El ahmedi will be a useful addition , i hope that paul will make major defensive changes too and would like to see clark in central defence alongside a new centre half and full backs.
Has culverhouse joined us or has paul recruited any other backroom staff ?
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
He may well do but 5 out of those 6 are either unproven or underperformers.
Good to see us looking to solve the problem positions though - useful start from Lambert
It was just an example mate...there are a number of options to fill any of those positions which has to be a good thing for PL and the squad as a whole. Hopefully we'll see a few more transfers soon and give us more options at the back too.
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If no one made moronic posts on here there'd only be 15 posts a day.
all of them mine ;D
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If no one made moronic posts on here there'd only be 15 posts a day.
all of them mine ;D
Without the moronic posts your post count would be 3 :P
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Lets see how players like Albrighton do with Lambert. I'd like to thing he'll have his confidence boosted and will thrive. For the first half of Houlliers season he was superb. He ran out of steam. Under McLeish, like a lot of our attacking talent, he looked ill at ease and just lacking in confidence completely.
I'm not gonna write him off just yet. When he's on it he's a good player. He likes taking people on and is capable of delivering real quality from out wide. The thing with Marc too is he'll try his luck at taking people on a lot. An attack minded manager will encourage that, where-as McLeish probably kept track of everytime he gave the ball away and tore into him. I'm guessing, but it may have been that way in part. He seemed to be a little shackled as did all of our attackers.
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
He may well do but 5 out of those 6 are either unproven or underperformers.
Good to see us looking to solve the problem positions though - useful start from Lambert
It was just an example mate...there are a number of options to fill any of those positions which has to be a good thing for PL and the squad as a whole. Hopefully we'll see a few more transfers soon and give us more options at the back too.
There may be a number of options but they mostly comprise players who as I have said are either inexperienced or serial under performers, which is why I'm surprised to see people getting excited about the sort of line up you outlined.
Anything relying on Makoun and Ireland as central midfielders is fraught with danger, as we saw last season when we relied on Petrov and Ireland.
This is why I said lambert had made a sensible/good start but obviously there's still a very long way to go to transform the shambles of last season's midfield.
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Hes a very right footed player so wonder whether he will be used on the right side of midfield or central...or may be even as part of a central midfield duo if PL reverts to 4231 formation.
El Ahmadi - Makoun
Albrighton - Ireland - N'Zogbia
Bent
He may well do but 5 out of those 6 are either unproven or underperformers.
Good to see us looking to solve the problem positions though - useful start from Lambert
Disagree. I don't know why Marc is in that line up but throw in Gabby or Holman and all six of those players are experienced veterans.
you seem to,have missed the point. they may be veterans, but they have they seriously under performed last season in particular and in certain cases over a number of years.
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If we're going to judge the players based on being unproven or underperforming under AM last season then we're going to need to replace the whole squad mate. Under new management I'd rather be optimistic and think that we will see the likes of Ireland, N'Zogbia and Bent playing to the best of their ability, and seeing unproven players such as Makoun and Albrighton to fulfil their potential.
Personally I dont think either Makoun or Albrighton are or will prove to be good enough, but their are a number of youngsters and potentially more transfer targets that may strengthen those positions making a more competitive squad challenging for first team places...which in itself is another thing we've been lacking for a few seasons.
Regardless of what we think, on paper 2 holding defensive midfielders who can tackle and distribute the ball out wide to the wingers or through the centre to Ireland, should make us more likely to supply Bent with enough chances.
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I was hopeing it was an Arab investor, dissapointed to find out he plays football
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Lets see how players like Albrighton do with Lambert. I'd like to thing he'll have his confidence boosted and will thrive. For the first half of Houlliers season he was superb. He ran out of steam. Under McLeish, like a lot of our attacking talent, he looked ill at ease and just lacking in confidence completely.
I'm not gonna write him off just yet. When he's on it he's a good player. He likes taking people on and is capable of delivering real quality from out wide. The thing with Marc too is he'll try his luck at taking people on a lot. An attack minded manager will encourage that, where-as McLeish probably kept track of everytime he gave the ball away and tore into him. I'm guessing, but it may have been that way in part. He seemed to be a little shackled as did all of our attackers.
Like England's wide players in the Euros, I always got the impression McLeish emphasised that defending was the priority for our wide players. Anything they produced going forward was a bonus, but being solid defensively was the number one requirement.
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I was hopeing it was an Arab investor, dissapointed to find out he plays football
And isn't, technically, an Arab.
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Has the fecker signed yet?
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Has the fecker signed yet?
Doesn't look like it.
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If we're going to judge the players based on being unproven or underperforming under AM last season then we're going to need to replace the whole squad mate. Under new management I'd rather be optimistic and think that we will see the likes of Ireland, N'Zogbia and Bent playing to the best of their ability, and seeing unproven players such as Makoun and Albrighton to fulfil their potential.
Personally I dont think either Makoun or Albrighton are or will prove to be good enough, but their are a number of youngsters and potentially more transfer targets that may strengthen those positions making a more competitive squad challenging for first team places...which in itself is another thing we've been lacking for a few seasons.
Regardless of what we think, on paper 2 holding defensive midfielders who can tackle and distribute the ball out wide to the wingers or through the centre to Ireland, should make us more likely to supply Bent with enough chances.
I am (or at least would like to be) optimistic about a new manager getting the best out of all the players in the current squad. As you suggest they're not as bad as last year's results under TSM suggest.
However, the midfield still needs a lot of work (as I'm sure Lambert knows) and I wouldn't want us to be in the same position as last season - having to rely on Ireland and AN Other in the centre of the park.
In addition, I don't think a triumvirate of, say, Ireland, Gabby and N'Zogbia in support of Bent generates enough goals. Historically speaking the 4 of them in total score just over a goal a game. So I'm not sure the 4-2-3-1 option with the current squad works.
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Depends. Who is behind them? How much support are they getting from the full backs and midfield? How much more are the midfield winning the ball back for them? How much commited to attack can they be under this manager? Is Gabby fully fit? Are the tactics now about getting the ball to Ireland for him to find the other 3 in good positions etc...
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Yeah I agree with that pestria. I think we would be all be very naive to believe or to forget that the current state of the squad is not good enough to see major improvements in results and performances under new management...yes, they will improve but not drastically. The defence needs wholesale changes and additional players need to come in to reinforce both midfield and attack...hopefully El Ahmadi is just the first of many new players coming in. We need at least 5 or 6 quality players to be challenging in the top half next season.
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Bent is just under a 1 in 2 striker, Gabby should be good for 5-10 even playing wide and N'Zogbia is capable of up to double figures a season. I see no problem there, but we would need Ireland to get more goals. If you add in the subs contributions, plus say 10-15 from the back 4 and two defensive midfielders, we'd be OK.
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Gabby has 8 League goals in the last 2 seasons, and that's with playing wide during that time. I'd rather have Weimann and Bent up front.
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Holman will surely be pushing Gabby/Ireland/N'Zogbia for a starting role, maybe he will be good for a few goals also. Of our current midfielders on our books I can potentially see Delph and Gardner being good for a few goals, but wont expect many from Makoun, Herd and Bannan. Albrighton could chip in with a few if he finds form.
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8 in two seasons with a couple of decent sized injury lay offs and the handicap of TSM. Barring injury, I'm pretty confident Gabby will score at least 8 this coming season alone.
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It looks like it's pretty much done by the sounds of this
Aston Villa close to sealing El Ahmadi signing
Thursday 28th June 2012, 10:59AM BST.
Aston Villa today remain on course to wrap up the signing of Feyenoord midfielder Karim El Ahmadi early next week.
It is understood the two clubs have yet to reach formal agreement on the fee for the player although sources in Holland revealed Feyenoord officials will meet with their Villa counterparts after the weekend to finalise the terms of a £3m deal.
El Ahmadi was absent from a training session in Rotterdam yesterday and Feyenoord coach Ronald Koeman said that the player’s imminent departure was a “sporting loss” but one which was “financially good for the club”.
El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Meanwhile, Marc Albrighton is looking forward to returning to pre-season training next week having recharged his batteries over the summer.
“I have so much enthusiasm going into this campaign. I can’t wait for pre-season to start next week,” he said
http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/aston-villa-fc/2012/06/28/aston-villa-close-to-sealing-el-ahmadi-signing/
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Good to hear Marc sounding enthusiastic as always...make or break season for him and hope he gets back on form.
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I'm very happy about this going through and I really believe that he is a great deal for us.
More than anything else, it gives us a pretty formible midfield next season with Al Ahmadi, Holman, Ireland, NZog, Bannan and Albrighton all in the mix. We just need a little injection of pace there to help out Bent and Gabby.
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
Good summing up there Maz - i think we would all love "one of our own" to be a big star - he has all the attributes its his application he needs to work on
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Gabbys problem is that he doesnt have a football brain. He is good on instinct but when he has time to think it generally goes wrong. I dont think he'll get any better but if he can regain and consistantly put in the performances of a few seasons ago then hes worth keeping.
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8 in two seasons with a couple of decent sized injury lay offs and the handicap of TSM. Barring injury, I'm pretty confident Gabby will score at least 8 this coming season alone.
I am not confident that he will even be here at the start of the season.
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Bent is just under a 1 in 2 striker, Gabby should be good for 5-10 even playing wide and N'Zogbia is capable of up to double figures a season. I see no problem there, but we would need Ireland to get more goals. If you add in the subs contributions, plus say 10-15 from the back 4 and two defensive midfielders, we'd be OK.
I like N'Zog and think he'll improve loads on last season, but ..... although he got 9 once for Wigan he typically scores 3-5 per season.
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Gabby - stats from here (http://"http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb/players/profile.overview.html/gabriel-agbonlahor").
06/07
38(1) apps, 9 goals, 7 assists
07/08
37(0) apps, 11 goals, 9 assists
08/09
36(1) apps, 12 goals, 10 assists
09/10
36(1) apps, 13 goals, 7 assists
10/11
27(9) apps, 3 goals, 1 assist
11/12
33(1) apps, 5 goals, 7 assists
I think the problem with Gabby is that he is majorly influenced by the manager. Look at the difference under MO'N as opposed to the last two seasons (I also appreciate him being fooked around in positions). If Lamp can get him back on to form, scoring goals, then he still has the potential for a 10 goal player.
On account of Weimann coming through he will need to prove himself and, due to his pace and energy, perhaps be that 'impact player' that we can utilise in the last 10-20 minutes of a game, who we can bring on and fire the team up, make speedy runs and, most importantly, get vital goals towards the end of the game.
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Gabby scored 16 goals in all comps about 3 yrs ago, so talk of him scoring 8 this season as if it would be a good achievement shows how much our expectations of him have now dropped. He looked like a player, injury aside, that would be good for 15-20 goals in all comps per season at least.
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It looks like it's pretty much done by the sounds of this
ITSOTP has become GTTC for me nowadays ("Got The Text Confirmation").
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The 16 goals was while playing as a striker and I'm basing 8 on him being predominately a wide player during 12/13.
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
I must admit I found that quote rather annoying too
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
I must admit I found that quote rather annoying too
I’m sorry, but I don’t see the issue here. Do you honestly think that a foreign player gives two hoots about us and our history? To most foreigners players, we’re a bit part Premier League who once won the European Cup before they were probably born. Of course they want to play against the Sky 4 and if they were good enough, they would be playing for the Sky 4. Its just the way of the world.
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At least he's saying he wants to play against them. Give it 12 months and that will change if he does well.
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The 16 goals was while playing as a striker and I'm basing 8 on him being predominately a wide player during 12/13.
Unfortunately it's not as simple as 'he scores 16 goals when he's playing as a striker'. We were a much better side then with Carew, Young, Milner and Downing helping to create more chances for him. Darren Bent has effectively replaced him too. On top of that he's reaching what should be the peak of his career and it will only be downhill from there. Before, the prospect of selling him was largely dismissed but with how things have changed, we would have to consider any serious approaches for him. I think Lambert can use him effectively and we can see more of the old Gabby but selling him could be the right move from the squad point of view.
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At least he's saying he wants to play against them. Give it 12 months and that will change if he does well.
We'd make a nice fat profit anyway.
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Yes, and that's the way to look at it. There's nothing we can do about the motives of players (as long as we're not paying them as much as some will), so we should embrace it and use it to our advantage.
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
I must admit I found that quote rather annoying too
I'm not sure what's wrong with that really, he's said Villa are a top club and that he wants to test himself against the best in the league. That's what I'd probably expect to hear from most players.
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
I must admit I found that quote rather annoying too
I'm not sure what's wrong with that really, he's said Villa are a top club and that he wants to test himself against the best in the league. That's what I'd probably expect to hear from most players.
Agree
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
I must admit I found that quote rather annoying too
I'm not sure what's wrong with that really, he's said Villa are a top club and that he wants to test himself against the best in the league. That's what I'd probably expect to hear from most players.
Agree
it's not a big deal at all. I don't care what motivates him, and if putting the boot into the more successful teams is it then great. He wants to play in this league and do well for us. That's good enough for me.
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If he had gone the other way and tried to persuade us he's a live long Villa fan I'd have been more pissed off that he thinks we're stupid.
He sounds hungry*, which can only be a good thing.
*yes, I know there's a Dunne joke waiting to happen there!
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Are people being critical of a player relishing facing the top sides and being up for it? This thread has had its moments.
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If he had gone the other way and tried to persuade us he's a live long Villa fan I'd have been more pissed off that he thinks we're stupid.
He sounds hungry*, which can only be a good thing.
he has just had an out of fatbody experience with those words
*yes, I know there's a Dunne joke waiting to happen there!
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Are people being critical of a player relishing facing the top sides and being up for it? This thread has had its moments.
It isn't that long ago that players joining the Villa relished playing for one of the top sides?
His comments show, as someone else has said, that to a decent player in the Netherlands we are now just a generic Premier League team.
Secondly, compare and contrast his comments to those of Lambert when he joined. Plenty on here were messing their pants over Lambert talking up our history, etc, etc - is it too much trouble for new signings to try to look at the club in the same way as us fans? Even if they don't mean it (you reckon Lambert's a lifelong Villa fan?!) then they should at least say the right things.
We all bemoan the fact that modern footballers are mercenaries - comments like those quoted support that view.
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In fact, fuck it - I'll be the first to compare him to CNZ, the mercenary bastard!!! ;)
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It's turning into one hell of a long conversation! Two days and not expected to be done before Monday? Oh well!
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Are people being critical of a player relishing facing the top sides and being up for it? This thread has had its moments.
It isn't that long ago that players joining the Villa relished playing for one of the top sides?
His comments show, as someone else has said, that to a decent player in the Netherlands we are now just a generic Premier League team.
Secondly, compare and contrast his comments to those of Lambert when he joined. Plenty on here were messing their pants over Lambert talking up our history, etc, etc - is it too much trouble for new signings to try to look at the club in the same way as us fans? Even if they don't mean it (you reckon Lambert's a lifelong Villa fan?!) then they should at least say the right things.
We all bemoan the fact that modern footballers are mercenaries - comments like those quoted support that view.
I'd rather he was honest like he has been. Personally I'm fed up with footballers giving answers that have clearly been written by their agents/club PR people. As long as he performs on the pitch, I couldn't care less what his motivations are.
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Are people being critical of a player relishing facing the top sides and being up for it? This thread has had its moments.
It isn't that long ago that players joining the Villa relished playing for one of the top sides?
His comments show, as someone else has said, that to a decent player in the Netherlands we are now just a generic Premier League team.
Secondly, compare and contrast his comments to those of Lambert when he joined. Plenty on here were messing their pants over Lambert talking up our history, etc, etc - is it too much trouble for new signings to try to look at the club in the same way as us fans? Even if they don't mean it (you reckon Lambert's a lifelong Villa fan?!) then they should at least say the right things.
We all bemoan the fact that modern footballers are mercenaries - comments like those quoted support that view.
If Lambert didn't know Villa's history, then there'd be something very wrong. Expecting El Ahmadi to spout on about our history would be like expecting an English player to go on about Twente or AZ's history if they were to sign for them.
And I can guarantee you there would be someone on here complaining if he gave the sort of false and meaningless platitudes you seem to be looking for. Sometimes they just can't win.
Also, we are, at the moment at least, a generic Premier League team, we're not a top team, and if a player came out with something like that it would be a bit embarrassing really. History is all well and good, but you're only as good as your last season.
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There really must be fuck all going on if some people are acctually dissecting these comments and finding faults. I'm stunned he's been as complimentary as he has been seeing as he doesn't even play for us. Breaking news, he's not joining Man U or Real Madrid, so be happy that he has already come across as being positive and eager to do well.
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Are we seriously getting on a players back before he's even joined? I really don't see the fuss at all. Is it really that big a deal? He could have said far worse and there are some rent a gob players out there who probably have when they've joined new clubs.
Anyway, once signed and sealed (hopefully), then welcome aboad Karim!! Pay no attention to the moaners. I for one will give you the benefit of 10 games. If you're shite, then I'll start moaning about you! But not before you've kicked a fecking ball. :)
:p
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We should fine him 2 weeks wages for those disrespectful comments 8)
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I think if we'd signed Jordan Rhodes from Huddersfield and he said he was looking forward to testing himself in the premiership, playing against the likes of Chelsea, Utd, City etc. No-one would have batted an eyelid.
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Is he still talking or has he signed?
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I didn't think it was an issue, what's he going to say? I'm really looking forward to playing west Brom
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Are we seriously getting on a players back before he's even joined?
No we're not...its just a couple of petty miserable old gits.
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Are people being critical of a player relishing facing the top sides and being up for it? This thread has had its moments.
It isn't that long ago that players joining the Villa relished playing for one of the top sides?
His comments show, as someone else has said, that to a decent player in the Netherlands we are now just a generic Premier League team.
Secondly, compare and contrast his comments to those of Lambert when he joined. Plenty on here were messing their pants over Lambert talking up our history, etc, etc - is it too much trouble for new signings to try to look at the club in the same way as us fans? Even if they don't mean it (you reckon Lambert's a lifelong Villa fan?!) then they should at least say the right things.
We all bemoan the fact that modern footballers are mercenaries - comments like those quoted support that view.
I don't think he has said anything wrong at all. Imagine if it was 1981 again, he was joining us as Champions and he used exactly the same words:
“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Ipswich, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool.”
There is absolutely nothing disrespectful in that - he simply wants to challenge himself against the very best teams/players. Perfectly understandable and just what I want to hear from a new signing, to be honest.
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Was he the co-pilot in Airplane?
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El Ahmadi said:?“Villa is a top club. I will miss Feyenoord, but nobody will blame me I want to take this step.
“I am looking forward to playing against clubs like Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal.”
Is it too much to ask for new players to lie about their reasons for joining us if necessary and not admit that they couldn't give a rats ass who they're playing for as long as they can play against the Sky 4?!
I must admit I found that quote rather annoying too
I’m sorry, but I don’t see the issue here. Do you honestly think that a foreign player gives two hoots about us and our history? To most foreigners players, we’re a bit part Premier League who once won the European Cup before they were probably born. Of course they want to play against the Sky 4 and if they were good enough, they would be playing for the Sky 4. Its just the way of the world.
yes and he didnt mention Liverpool ;)
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
I think you're being extremely harsh. In the early part of the season -up unto his injury he was spoken of in international call-up terms.. When he came back he was in a team not creating goals and playing up top by himself. No, he wasn't playing well also - but his ,midfield certainly didn't help. neither, I must add, did his manager.
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
I think you're being extremely harsh. In the early part of the season -up unto his injury he was spoken of in international call-up terms.. When he came back he was in a team not creating goals and playing up top by himself. No, he wasn't playing well also - but his ,midfield certainly didn't help. neither, I must add, did his manager.
Good call that.
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Are we seriously getting on a players back before he's even joined?
No we're not...its just a couple of petty miserable old gits.
Oi! Less of the old!
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
I think you're being extremely harsh. In the early part of the season -up unto his injury he was spoken of in international call-up terms.. When he came back he was in a team not creating goals and playing up top by himself. No, he wasn't playing well also - but his ,midfield certainly didn't help. neither, I must add, did his manager.
Wanting him desperately to do well but accepting that a third season of indifferent form might be enough is "extremely harsh"?
I dont think so.
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Things have been a bit quiet since the managerial appointment. We've run out of things to argue about.
Hence this nonsense.
I can't believe nobody has pointed out the obvious problem with this transfer. His funny shaped head.
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
I think you're being extremely harsh. In the early part of the season -up unto his injury he was spoken of in international call-up terms.. When he came back he was in a team not creating goals and playing up top by himself. No, he wasn't playing well also - but his ,midfield certainly didn't help. neither, I must add, did his manager.
Wanting him desperately to do well but accepting that a third season of indifferent form might be enough is "extremely harsh"?
I dont think so.
Houllier used him as a winger first and foremost. McLeish did early on and to be fair he was looking good. he was at is best either playing with Carew or being on the end of Young's crosses or playing as the focal finishing point of a counter-attacking team. His role in a Darren Bent led forward line can be questioned but waiting for him to 'succeed' is wide of the mark for me.
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In my opinion Gabby has this season (possibly to Christmas) to cut it with the new manager. If he doesnt then its time to part ways. We cant carry him forever however much I want him to succeed.
I'm convinced theres an absolutely lethal weapon there somewhere but somebody will need to unlock it soon. Too much of the joker, not enough business.
He'll have big competition this season from Bent (who will start ahead of him), Weimann and whoever else Lambert brings in. He'll have to make a big impact on Lambert and may have limited opportunity to do so.
It would be great for the fans who love him if he could become the player we all hoped he could be. If not, well c'est la vie.
I think you're being extremely harsh. In the early part of the season -up unto his injury he was spoken of in international call-up terms.. When he came back he was in a team not creating goals and playing up top by himself. No, he wasn't playing well also - but his ,midfield certainly didn't help. neither, I must add, did his manager.
Wanting him desperately to do well but accepting that a third season of indifferent form might be enough is "extremely harsh"?
I dont think so.
Houllier used him as a winger first and foremost. McLeish did early on and to be fair he was looking good. he was at is best either playing with Carew or being on the end of Young's crosses or playing as the focal finishing point of a counter-attacking team. His role in a Darren Bent led forward line can be questioned but waiting for him to 'succeed' is wide of the mark for me.
I've always got the impression, especially last season, that Gabby does not want to play out wide. For me, he is a centre-forward and needs to play there. It is quite encoraging that Lambert got the best out of Simeon Jackson at Norwich, who is a similar type of player to Gabby, but in my opinion nowhere near as good. Hopefully he can do a similar job with Gabby.
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To be an effective centre forward Gabby needs to add movement to his game, and lose some of the bulk. He has lost a yard, and for a bloke that is just about pace essentially, your sacrificing your one talent. Love to be proved wrong, but I think he has peaked in a Villa shirt.
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Wasn't getting on the players back at all.I'm thrilled he's coming,but that comment re the Sky 4 made me cringe.
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Would it make you feel any better if he said he was looking forward to playing against Fulham, Stoke, West Brom and Wigan? Surely the fact that he's looking forward to playing against, wanting to put in good performances and trying to beat the best teams in the league as a Villa player is the exact kind of thing that we as Villa fans want to hear?
Yourself and Ad@m are very much in the wrong on this one I'm afraid.
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To be an effective centre forward Gabby needs to add movement to his game, and lose some of the bulk. He has lost a yard, and for a bloke that is just about pace essentially, your sacrificing your one talent. Love to be proved wrong, but I think he has peaked in a Villa shirt.
I don't buy the whole, "Gabby has lost a step..." argument. I realize when he was lighter he might have been a bit more nimble, but there were many cases this season in which a defender would turn his back thinking he could comfortably collect a ball 15 yards away from him, and Gabby would not only catch him and beat him to the ball but have the muscle to shield him off. He put a fair few of opposing defenders on their asses last year. He's still incredibly fast, no question about it. The only thing that Gabby needs to do is put the ball in the back of the net. Or absolutely shred outside backs and put a slotted ball on Darren Bent's foot. Goals, goals, goals. He needs to deliver in the aspect of the game he is responsible for.
Hope Lambert can get him to shine again.
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To be an effective centre forward Gabby needs to add movement to his game, and lose some of the bulk. He has lost a yard, and for a bloke that is just about pace essentially, your sacrificing your one talent. Love to be proved wrong, but I think he has peaked in a Villa shirt.
I don't buy the whole, "Gabby has lost a step..." argument. I realize when he was lighter he might have been a bit more nimble, but there were many cases this season in which a defender would turn his back thinking he could comfortably collect a ball 15 yards away from him, and Gabby would not only catch him and beat him to the ball but have the muscle to shield him off. He put a fair few of opposing defenders on their asses last year. He's still incredibly fast, no question about it. The only thing that Gabby needs to do is put the ball in the back of the net. Or absolutely shred outside backs and put a slotted ball on Darren Bent's foot. Goals, goals, goals. He needs to deliver in the aspect of the game he is responsible for.
Hope Lambert can get him to shine again.
[/quot
When has he ever been in the goals, goals, goals? He's never been capable of scoring regular goals playing up front. Hes just ordinary and we need to move him on. If he wasn't a local lad everyone's opinion would be the same.
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Someone posted Gabbys stats a few pages back...if playing regularly he should be getting at least 10 goals and 10 assists rather than the 4 goals and 4 assists which hes averaged over the last 2 seasons.
There is no room for sentiment, so in order for the team to progress I would have competition for places with Bent and Weiman...if that means he sits on the bench until called upon as a sub due to injury or change of tactics then so be it. Our midfield is already starting to look stronger so trying to accommodate him out wide for the sake of it when we have more natural and better creative wingers doesnt make sense.
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Would it make you feel any better if he said he was looking forward to playing against Fulham, Stoke, West Brom and Wigan? Surely the fact that he's looking forward to playing against, wanting to put in good performances and trying to beat the best teams in the league as a Villa player is the exact kind of thing that we as Villa fans want to hear?
Yourself and Ad@m are very much in the wrong on this one I'm afraid.
Just because you don't understand where we're coming from KRS doesn't make us wrong.
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interesting assumption that those who rate Gabby only do so because he's a Villa fan.
I'm a Villa fan, how come nobody thinks I should be playing for us?
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Because we have seen your legs and you make Bannan look like a giant! ;)
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Would it make you feel any better if he said he was looking forward to playing against Fulham, Stoke, West Brom and Wigan? Surely the fact that he's looking forward to playing against, wanting to put in good performances and trying to beat the best teams in the league as a Villa player is the exact kind of thing that we as Villa fans want to hear?
Yourself and Ad@m are very much in the wrong on this one I'm afraid.
It's not a case of being right or wrong though is it? I said the comment made me cringe. I have no control over that
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As someone siad, he's brilliant when he doesn't have to think about what he has to do i.e. instictive shots, taken first time. I would never back him 1 on 1 with the keeper running in on goal. When he has a decision to make, it's usually his downfall. Maybe with a decent coach, they can sort it out.
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I can't believe nobody has pointed out the obvious problem with this transfer. His funny shaped head.
Ha Ha
he's no kompany though
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Someone posted Gabbys stats a few pages back...if playing regularly he should be getting at least 10 goals and 10 assists rather than the 4 goals and 4 assists which hes averaged over the last 2 seasons.
There is no room for sentiment, so in order for the team to progress I would have competition for places with Bent and Weiman...if that means he sits on the bench until called upon as a sub due to injury or change of tactics then so be it. Our midfield is already starting to look stronger so trying to accommodate him out wide for the sake of it when we have more natural and better creative wingers doesnt make sense.
Pretty much what I said.
His goal scoring record isn't amazing, but it's not bad. I say we keep him as a 'super sub', which is something I believe Lamp will be able to utilise. Let Weiman and Bent get regular starts and bring Gabby in for the last 20 or so minutes, when we need someone with pace to outrun the tiring defenders and pop it behind the keeper.
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interesting assumption that those who rate Gabby only do so because he's a Villa fan.
I'm a Villa fan, how come nobody thinks I should be playing for us?
If it's a choice between you and Warnock or Hutton, get your boots on son.
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I'll do it for a grand a week.
D.boy: you make Bannan look like a giant too - an intellectual one. And anyway, I'm taller than him (just), so there.
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This Gabby debate seems to come round every few weeks, with the samre arguments being brought up.
For me, what he is is an average PL striker in terms of ability, but brought up a level beyond that due to his natural pace. MON used this well, as one of the reasons we had such a good away record was teams being too scared to play a high line at home against him. If we're in or around the CL spots, then may be we should be looking for better, but for where we are now he's a more than good enough and it's up to Bertie to get the best out of him.
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@ Ad@m and LamboAlways - lets just hope that he does well for us against all the teams next season home and away.
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@ Ad@m and LamboAlways - lets just hope that he does well for us against all the teams next season home and away.
Absolutely!
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Is he still talking or has he signed?
Don't think it's going to happen until early next week.
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@ Ad@m and LamboAlways - lets just hope that he does well for us against all the teams next season home and away.
At least against some teams would be an improvement on last season's bunch of underperformers.
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Doesnt the transfer period start on the first of july, therefore monday being the day he will be announced as our player due to the rules and the 1st being a sunday when announcements arent made.
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Doesnt the transfer period start on the first of july, therefore monday being the day he will be announced as our player due to the rules and the 1st being a sunday when announcements arent made.
Transfers can be completed whenever, but the player doesn't join the club until the window opens.
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Does the window open on the 1st July then? I thought it opened as soon as the season ended.
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Does the window open on the 1st July then? I thought it opened as soon as the season ended.
I'm not sure to be honest.
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The window officially opens on July 1st, but you can sign players up to contracts that come into affect on that date before then. There have been numerous deals that will become official on that date, like us with Holman, Hazard at Chelsea, that Japanese lad Kagawa at Man U etc etc. So we could complete the deal for Karim today and have him stretching the shirt this afternoon.
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Three days of 'talks' and as yet no outcome. I'm probably reading too much into things but I can't help wondering if a snag has been hit.
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They always said it would take a week in the press. Don't really understand why tbf
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They always said it would take a week in the press. Don't really understand why tbf
Agents justifying their cut probably.
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The majority of transfers take a few days from confirmation of the bid to the deal being signed. Those that are quicker are the exception.
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Aston Villa today remain on course to wrap up the signing of Feyenoord midfielder Karim El Ahmadi early next week.
It is understood the two clubs have yet to reach formal agreement on the fee for the player although sources in Holland revealed Feyenoord officials will meet with their Villa counterparts after the weekend to finalise the terms of a £3m deal.
http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/aston-villa-fc/2012/06/28/aston-villa-close-to-sealing-el-ahmadi-signing/
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Three days of 'talks' and as yet no outcome. I'm probably reading too much into things but I can't help wondering if a snag has been hit.
the one thing the club do is that if there is not truth in something they come out and publish it. They are working out the details. The player wants to come, Koeman has said as much and so has Lambert in not so many words. Not worried at all.
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Three days of 'talks' and as yet no outcome. I'm probably reading too much into things but I can't help wondering if a snag has been hit.
the one thing the club do is that if there is not truth in something they come out and publish it. They are working out the details. The player wants to come, Koeman has said as much and so has Lambert in not so many words. Not worried at all.
I agree, when, not if. I think we'll see several bits of movement next week.
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The delay will come back to money, no doubt. He'll sign.
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I get the feeling the club weren't ready for the news of El Ahmadi's transfer to be public and that actually, the deal is on track. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if there were a number of deals that were at an advanced point in negotiations.
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Does the window open on the 1st July then? I thought it opened as soon as the season ended.
Its to do with contracts. They end on June 30th. Until then its still the old season - i.e. 2011/2012. Tomorrow is the start season 2012/13.
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Is this guy going to be on semi sensible wages
I'm assuming the days of 40-50k a week for players is over ?
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40 k a week is normal for the Villa, so no worries.
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Was hoping he'd be closer to 15-20k tbh
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Frankly I don't mind what wages we're paying as long as it's what we can afford, a figure doesn't matter.
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Of course it matters, there will be a budget and we don't want it blown on 1 or 2 players when in reality we need 6 or 7 new faces
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Of course it matters, there will be a budget and we don't want it blown on 1 or 2 players when in reality we need 6 or 7 new faces
No the figure doesn't matter, because I'm guessing that the manager/board will know the budget and therefore whoever they sign will fit within that framework. If they think El Ahmadi is worth £40K a week then they'll pay it, if it's £20K then they'll pay it. So the figure itself isn't important. I doubt they look at one player and go, 'we desperately want him, so there's £100K a week. Oh bollocks that's the budget gone.'
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He is supposedly one of their top earners on £17k , I doubt we will more than double it so could see him starting on about £30k with incentives paid on achievements.
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Well he's probably on about 20k plus bonuses & he gets to play in the Premier League so global exposure
Looks like we're being more sensible with money this time around
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It's 17,000 Euro's a week isn't it? So about £14k a week.
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Even better then.
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It's 17,000 Euro's a week isn't it? So about £14k a week.
I would manage to struggle along on that
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17 grand and we can increase it to say 22 grand plus extra rather than 60 grand a aweek.
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14k a week wow, after tax and NI he'll net about 8k a week
Bloody hell, times are a changing
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14k a week wow, after tax and NI he'll net about 8k a week
Bloody hell, times are a changing
They had to change.
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
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Any agent with a brain will be reminding Villa that TV money goes up by 70% next year. He'll get at least £30k a week I reckon.
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
Or maybe he's is just relishing the challenge of playing in a better league against better teams.
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
Or maybe he's is just relishing the challenge of playing in a better league against better teams.
Indeed, I just think it shows he's up for a challenge and that's a good thing.
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
Or maybe he's is just relishing the challenge of playing in a better league against better teams.
Its not about who you are playing against its about who you are playing for.
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
Or maybe he's is just relishing the challenge of playing in a better league against better teams.
Its not about who you are playing against its about who you are playing for.
If you keep believing that the players care about the club in any way, then you're just setting yourself up to be let down.
And why should they? I don't give a shit who I work for, as long as I'm paid.
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
Or maybe he's is just relishing the challenge of playing in a better league against better teams.
Its not about who you are playing against its about who you are playing for.
If you keep believing that the players care about the club in any way, then you're just setting yourself up to be let down.
And why should they? I don't give a shit who I work for, as long as I'm paid.
I'd just much rather him be going out to put Kolo Toure in to row Z rather than him waiting to swap shirts with him after the game. If you go out on the pitch thinking you are inferior to the opposition (and yes i know we are but that isn't the point) then your always going to lose. We are all in the same division and they are there to be beaten not admired.
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Respected, perhaps?
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I have instantly been put off this player by his quote of "I can't wait to play against the likes of Man City, Man Utd, Arsenal & Chelsea".
He's already in awe of the opposition before we even kick a ball.
You're reading far too much into it.
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I'm clearly on my own with this then. Just another example of how low we have fallen in my eyes and i'll let that be my last say on the subject.
EDIT: And as Chris Smith has told me i'm reading too much in to it i'll give him the benefit of the doubt as I've never disagreed with any of his posts.
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I'm clearly on my own with this then. Just another example of how low we have fallen in my eyes and i'll let that be my last say on the subject.
EDIT: And as Chris Smith has told me i'm reading too much in to it i'll give him the benefit of the doubt as I've never disagreed with any of his posts.
Faints...
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I think far too much is being read into a fairly generic statement. He's excited about coming to a better standard of league, that's all.
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MJC: Wouldn't it be better too see how he plays before passing judgement rather than make up your mind based on on a throwaway line you found on the Internet? It just seems to me the standard sort of stuff you read when players move to England.
P.s no need for the bitchy comment.
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I'm clearly on my own with this then. Just another example of how low we have fallen in my eyes and i'll let that be my last say on the subject.
EDIT: And as Chris Smith has told me i'm reading too much in to it i'll give him the benefit of the doubt as I've never disagreed with any of his posts.
Because it has been so long since we signed a "decent" overseas player, you might have forgotten how they see the premier league. When someone abroad looks England or the CL, all they see are those 4-5 names, so he essentially wants to test himself against the best we have to offer. Hopefully he will pass those tests with flying colours as well.
He also hasn't actually signed as of yet anyway so he can't really say how pleased he will be for playing for us in case we are gazumped in the last minute.
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MJC: Wouldn't it be better too see how he plays before passing judgement rather than make up your mind based on on a throwaway line you found on the Internet? It just seems to me the standard sort of stuff you read when players move to England.
P.s no need for the bitchy comment.
You'll have to take my word for it i guess but it wasn't a bitchy comment it was actually a compliment !
Many people disagree with things i say on here, thats their prerogative, but i'm not one to get in to slanging matches with fellow Villa fans. I respect everybodys opinion.
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Even mine? You must be mental!
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Fair enough, MJC, of course I take your word for it.
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Ah it gives me a warm, fuzzy glow.
Anyhow, the comments on him looking forward to playing them I took as wanting to show what he has got, ie to beat them, not to swap shirts. Judging by his youtube against Ajax, he is not afraid of putting his foot in, which we need.
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I think we (speaking generally) would have preferred to have seen quotes of him saying what a dream it would be to play for Aston Villa. However, we have to be realistic that our current standing in Europe isn't what it once was and its up to us to work on that over the next few years to change that and to reach a point where players do say that it is a dream to play for us.
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Any agent with a brain will be reminding Villa that TV money goes up by 70% next year. He'll get at least £30k a week I reckon.
That's the point, we and other clubs need to take back control.
Under MON we were fleeced by every agent going, regardless of our income we need to bring the average wage bill down perminately.
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I think far too much is being read into a fairly generic statement.
Absolutely. I would not have given the comment a second thought were it not for all the fuss over it here.
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The prospect of el ahmedi and makoun in a 4231 formation really excites me ,i am already getting a very good feeling about next season.
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Bent
Holman Ireland Nzogbia
Makoun El ahmedi
Poulsen clark CB??? Clyne
given
subs from Whittingham Gabby Weimann Herd Lichaj Gardner Collins Albrighton Baker Carruthers Delph Bannon Johnson
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Bent
Holman Ireland Nzogbia
Makoun El ahmedi
Poulsen clark Anyonebutdunne Clyne
given
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Clark isn't a centre-half for me. He'll become a decent midfielder maybe but not a centre-back. I'm more impressed with baker. I'd get Kjaer in. Also, and not helpfully there was one centre-half I saw who I was quite impressed with. Cannot remember his name or who he played for. Wasn't one of the leading lights though.
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I think clark will be a top centre half and possible captain in coming seasons, an able midfielder but i see him as a better defender.
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I think clark will be a top centre half and possible captain in coming seasons, an able midfielder but i see him as a better defender.
I agree with this. He looks like he reads the game well. Needs the older head next to him, but someone better than the wreckless Collins or Dunne. For now, rather than the lightweight Makoun, who I would use for squad cover elsewhere, I'd have Clark next to El Ahmadi, unless we can bring in another midfielder as a DCM.
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I think clark will be a top centre half and possible captain in coming seasons, an able midfielder but i see him as a better defender.
I agree with this. He looks like he reads the game well. Needs the older head next to him, but someone better than the wreckless Collins or Dunne. For now, rather than the lightweight Makoun, who I would use for squad cover elsewhere, I'd have Clark next to El Ahmadi, unless we can bring in another midfielder as a DCM.
Centre half for me and he will be a good one as long as he is coached properly and plays with someone more experienced I dont think he is quick enough or has the range of passing to play anywhere in midfield
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Looks a centre half to me, but needs to get stronger and nastier
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I'm of the centre half opinion also. And a bloody good one at that.
The mention of Makoun... have i missed something somewhere? Has Lambert given him the chance to come and prove himself? Thought he was off the pace when he started which was understandable but was impressed with his one touch passing and link up play. Does the simple thing and no more but at a pace that doesn't kill the attack. Back to El Ahmadi, before anybody puts him in the team have anyone seen him play? £2.5m for a 27 year old don't particularly grab me as a class act that needs to play. I'm thinking squad player.
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I'm of the centre half opinion also. And a bloody good one at that.
The mention of Makoun... have i missed something somewhere? Has Lambert given him the chance to come and prove himself? Thought he was off the pace when he started which was understandable but was impressed with his one touch passing and link up play. Does the simple thing and no more but at a pace that doesn't kill the attack. Back to El Ahmadi, before anybody puts him in the team have anyone seen him play? £2.5m for a 27 year old don't particularly grab me as a class act that needs to play. I'm thinking squad player.
I am pretty sure that everyone will have a chance to prove themselves in pre-season
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No doubt a good few will be writing him off at Burton after his first mistimed tackle or misplaced pass
It's what we do 8)
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No doubt a good few will be writing him off at Burton after his first mistimed tackle or misplaced pass
It's what we do 8)
sell him now i say
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I'm of the centre half opinion also. And a bloody good one at that.
The mention of Makoun... have i missed something somewhere? Has Lambert given him the chance to come and prove himself? Thought he was off the pace when he started which was understandable but was impressed with his one touch passing and link up play. Does the simple thing and no more but at a pace that doesn't kill the attack. Back to El Ahmadi, before anybody puts him in the team have anyone seen him play? £2.5m for a 27 year old don't particularly grab me as a class act that needs to play. I'm thinking squad player.
I am pretty sure that everyone will have a chance to prove themselves in pre-season
He has a year left on his contract which affects the price. I've not seen him play, but we don't need numbers in central midfield, we have plenty who can play there (Makoun, Herd, Ireland, Bannan, Gardner, Warnock at a push). We need more quality and the DCM role is a real deficit post-Petrov.
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You put a quicker, more dynamic CB next to Clark and he'll be superb. He reads the game well but he's not quick, so you can't pair him with a lumbering oaf like Collins or Dunne.
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Looks a centre half to me, but needs to get stronger and nastier
nastier?
Karim is know for some crazy from behind tackles and heavy lunges. He times them well and he's graceful in doing it so he's very effective.
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Clark's a CH for me; cultured, well-timed and a game-saver. He needs a good CH next to him. Baker's back-up - and a good one - for now.
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I'm of the centre half opinion also. And a bloody good one at that.
The mention of Makoun... have i missed something somewhere? Has Lambert given him the chance to come and prove himself? Thought he was off the pace when he started which was understandable but was impressed with his one touch passing and link up play. Does the simple thing and no more but at a pace that doesn't kill the attack. Back to El Ahmadi, before anybody puts him in the team have anyone seen him play? £2.5m for a 27 year old don't particularly grab me as a class act that needs to play. I'm thinking squad player.
It doesn't work that way. Newcastle only paid something like £3m for Tiote and he's essential to them.
Bargains are out there if you know where to look and know the type of player that will thrive in the PL and a players price doesn't always reflect his ability.
Beisdes, they should all be squad players who get in the team on merit alone.
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As so called punts go I would rather take a £2.5 one with sensible wages on El Ahmadi than £4m on Marlon Harewood or £5m on Zat Knight three weeks after he has signed a new 3 year contract.
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We really need to get with the times with our centre-backs. Had Houllier stayed he would have addressed this and shipped off Collins and Dunne as soon as possible. We need defenders with a bit more mobility, fitness, and some more speed, alongside the required traits of strength, tackling and heading ability. Collins and Dunne are relics. They're defenders who should be in bottom half sides, or a club like Stoke.
Clark for me is a player potentially for the national side. He does need a decent defender by him,and yes someone with a decent turn of speed. Someone like a young Mellberg would be good. Baker I like too. He's not bad on the ball and is decent in the air as well as mobile. For me he's not a first choice but an excellent back up. We need one or ideally two more CB's in. It will before difficult to ship off Collins and Dunne in the summer. It may take another window or two beyond to really build Lambo's ideal backline.
It would seem from our links that Lambert has identified this and is trying to re-galvanise our backline. He's going for pace at fullback so we can breakaway quickly and we want defenders who can efficiently bring the ball out and play with it.
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Clark for me is a player potentially for the national side.
He's already played for them.
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Clark for me is a player potentially for the national side.
He's already played for them.
Didn't realise he'd opted to play for Ireland. Think he may have missed the boat to be honest. He's got the ability to step into the England set up in the near future. Then again, he's as much chance winning a major tournement for Ireland as he does for England!
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Both his parents are Irish. He may see international football as something you do to help identify you as a person rather than picking to have a 3% chance of winning something rather than a 0.7% chance of winning something.
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Both his parents are Irish. He may see international football as something you do to help identify you as a person rather than picking to have a 3% chance of winning something rather than a 0.7% chance of winning something.
Think you're being a bit generous with 3% there Dave.
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I think Dave is allowing for a nuclear holocaust wiping out Spain, Germany, France, Italy... Lichtenstein, San Marino, Transylvania...
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It will before difficult to ship off Collins and Dunne in the summer.
There were rumours West Ham were in for Collins but they seem to have gone quiet.
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It will before difficult to ship off Collins and Dunne in the summer.
There were rumours West Ham were in for Collins but they seem to have gone quiet.
I hope it happens. There's a few takers for Collins. With his height, Pulis might fancy him if he's in the market for another CB. I just want him out. Dunne is a more difficult sale because of his profile, wages and his age. I'm hoping Hughes will try and take him to QPR.
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All done and dusted. He's signed.
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Got the text message! Welcome to the Villa Karim El Ahmadi!
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I'm of the centre half opinion also. And a bloody good one at that.
The mention of Makoun... have i missed something somewhere? Has Lambert given him the chance to come and prove himself? Thought he was off the pace when he started which was understandable but was impressed with his one touch passing and link up play. Does the simple thing and no more but at a pace that doesn't kill the attack. Back to El Ahmadi, before anybody puts him in the team have anyone seen him play? £2.5m for a 27 year old don't particularly grab me as a class act that needs to play. I'm thinking squad player.
Bradley looked off the pace too but hes just had a really good season and looks a great player .
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El Signed . great news ;))
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Ace! (http://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~2829241,00.html)
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Hurrah!
First of many (I hope!).
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Welcome to te greatest club on the planet Karim. Looking forward to seeing you in action in Philadelphia. Good luck and very well done to the club in getting this sorted.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Like it !
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
That's got to be the chant!!
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Ah brilliant, welcome aboard. Positivity increasing.
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Just heard on the radio that the fee is 'around £2 million'. If that's right, very good business indeed.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
That's got to be the chant!!
Get that onto the Brigarda lot!
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If he has a near miss...?
Karim El Ahmadi. Rock the crossbar, rock the crossbar.
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Just watched his AVTV interview. He is beaming and looks delighted to be here. He also said of Holman that he never stands still. We've now signed two players that seemingly will bring a lot of energy and drive and work their bollocks off during games. Very happy indeed, snd will be more soonce we get the defence sorted out.
IN LAMBERT WE TRUST
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
That's got to be the chant!!
Get that onto the Brigarda lot!
I believe some of them are coming to Harborne on Sunday for carnival so we'll be able to practice it in the White Horse.
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He appears to have a Sid-esque nose, which I'm taking as a very positive sign.
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Welcome Karim! You could be a hero here.
To paraphrase the words of Jim Ross: "The Lambert era has begun!"
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What's his CA & PA on FM?
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Welcome to Villa Park Karim! :)
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Yes! combining my favourite band the Clash and a chant down at VP!
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Love it! Has to be the tune!
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For that sort of money, it looks like a cracking bit of business. Hopefully he can dictate games as well as it appears he has in Holland. Welcome aboard Karim!
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Great song, great idea but isn't it "Rockin' the Casbah, Rockin' the Casbah?"
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Great song, great idea but isn't it "Rockin' the Casbah, Rockin' the Casbah?"
It's actually Rockin' the Casbah, Rock the Casbah;. I was geeky enough to go check the lyrics sheet in my LP of Combat Rock!
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Had a quick check on Fifa. He has a 74 overall, with 87 stamina, 84 ball control, and 81 short passing; as well as the 'flair' trait.
My god I'm lame.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Great song, great idea but isn't it "Rockin' the Casbah, Rockin' the Casbah?"
It's actually Rockin' the Casbah, Rock the Casbah;. I was geeky enough to go check the lyrics sheet in my LP of Combat Rock!
Top! Thanks for that I thought there was a Rockin' in there somewhere. Best we get the song right from the off. Don't wanna incur the wrath of Joe Strummer. And on the subject how come they're using London Calling on an advert? I thought Strummer wouldn't let anyone use his songs for advertising?
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Oh he has the flair trait all right...
(http://www.esquire.nl/var/hearst/storage/images/media/images/karim-el-ahmadi/12490-1-dut-NL/Karim-El-Ahmadi.jpg)
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Oh he has the flair trait all right...
(http://www.esquire.nl/var/hearst/storage/images/media/images/karim-el-ahmadi/12490-1-dut-NL/Karim-El-Ahmadi.jpg)
Brilliant.
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Oh he has the flair trait all right...
(http://www.esquire.nl/var/hearst/storage/images/media/images/karim-el-ahmadi/12490-1-dut-NL/Karim-El-Ahmadi.jpg)
Wrong colour!! Gone down in my estimation ;)
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If he ever hits the bar we could sing Karim El Ahmadi, hit the crossbar, hit the crossbar.
To Rock the Casbah
Well done Karl for the being the first to suggest it in here.
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Welcome Karim, do us proud son, do us proud.
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If he ever hits the bar we could sing Karim El Ahmadi, hit the crossbar, hit the crossbar.
To Rock the Casbah
Well done Karl for the being the first to suggest it in here.
Shit, must have missed it. Oh well, great minds and all that.
Thanks for showing me up PWS.
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He appears to have a Sid-esque nose, which I'm taking as a very positive sign.
You're right about the nose. Even more positive will be if his football skills are Sid-esque.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Great song, great idea but isn't it "Rockin' the Casbah, Rockin' the Casbah?"
It's actually Rockin' the Casbah, Rock the Casbah;. I was geeky enough to go check the lyrics sheet in my LP of Combat Rock!
Top! Thanks for that I thought there was a Rockin' in there somewhere. Best we get the song right from the off. Don't wanna incur the wrath of Joe Strummer. And on the subject how come they're using London Calling on an advert? I thought Strummer wouldn't let anyone use his songs for advertising?
Err.... not sure how to break this to you....
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Yes, his 10 years in a box has cooled his opposition to advertising.
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Welcome, Karim.
And what in the blue hell does all that FM shite mean??
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Welcome to the Villa Karim.
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Oh he has the flair trait all right...
(http://www.esquire.nl/var/hearst/storage/images/media/images/karim-el-ahmadi/12490-1-dut-NL/Karim-El-Ahmadi.jpg)
Fuck me. Stick in the midfield next to Ireland and the Jumper and that be the smoothest, most crazy combination of players and fashion in the league.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
Great song, great idea but isn't it "Rockin' the Casbah, Rockin' the Casbah?"
It's actually Rockin' the Casbah, Rock the Casbah;. I was geeky enough to go check the lyrics sheet in my LP of Combat Rock!
Top! Thanks for that I thought there was a Rockin' in there somewhere. Best we get the song right from the off. Don't wanna incur the wrath of Joe Strummer. And on the subject how come they're using London Calling on an advert? I thought Strummer wouldn't let anyone use his songs for advertising?
Err.... not sure how to break this to you....
Hahaha! It goes without saying I'm talking about from the grave
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Oh he has the flair trait all right...
(http://www.esquire.nl/var/hearst/storage/images/media/images/karim-el-ahmadi/12490-1-dut-NL/Karim-El-Ahmadi.jpg)
(http://soccersoccersoccer.com/images/MU120200_01.jpg)
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Could we have that tablecloth removed from the thread please?
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*Tea-towel.
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Welcome to the club Karim. A couple of things;
1. Be better than Hassan Kachloul.
2. Don't do an Alpay after a season.
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Toilet-roll.
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Joe didn't seem to mind when 'Should I Stay Or Should I Go' went to number 1 on the back of an advert. And he was alive then.
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Woohoo, 2 new signings
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Welcome, do us proud
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No gold PL badges for those fuckers this year. And thats one of the worst shirts I've ever seen.
Is it definitely not a tea towel?
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Just watching some more stuff on this lad. I know Youtube can make even naff players look decent in 5 minutes but we could have a star here. I just love how his motor is always going and he not only looks for the ball all the time, but is always moving and chasing down. He can pass as well and will prove to be a superb link man in all three phases of the pitch. He'll do a lot of the dirty work that can go unnoticed. Something we really have been crying out for.
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Welcome to the club Karim. A couple of things;
1. Be better than Hassan Kachloul.
2. Don't do an Alpay after a season.
What are you intimating at here ?
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Nothing, he says it about English players as well, and some of his best friends are north Africans/Arabs/Turks.
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Welcome to the club Karim. A couple of things;
1. Be better than Hassan Kachloul.
2. Don't do an Alpay after a season.
What are you intimating at here ?
I would imagine, something along the lines of;
1. Dont be shit
2. Dont throw a hissy fit and fall out with the fans
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
What about rock the holte end?
Looking forward to seeing him in action. Anyone know how much we paid for him?
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Welcome to the club Karim. A couple of things;
1. Be better than Hassan Kachloul.
2. Don't do an Alpay after a season.
What are you intimating at here ?
I would imagine, something along the lines of;
1. Dont be shit
2. Dont throw a hissy fit and fall out with the fans
It's funny with Kachloul, I thought he played really well in the first home game when we were beating Man U 1-0 until the 90ish minute. I thought that he and Hadji were great signings at the time.
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Karim El Ahmadi! Rock the casbah, rock the casbah.
g
What about rock the holte end?
Looking forward to seeing him in action. Anyone know how much we paid for him?
Reports saying around £2 million
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Welcome to the club Karim. A couple of things;
1. Be better than Hassan Kachloul.
2. Don't do an Alpay after a season.
What are you intimating at here ?
I would imagine, something along the lines of;
1. Dont be shit
2. Dont throw a hissy fit and fall out with the fans
It's funny with Kachloul, I thought he played really well in the first home game when we were beating Man U 1-0 until the 90ish minute. I thought that he and Hadji were great signings at the time.
My recollection was Hadji was a good player when he played? Admittedly I was about 11 at the time
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Alpay was Turkish so the relevance of that reference is a bit of a stretch.
Delighted with the signing, sounds like exactly what we're after...as long as he can adapt to the league. More like this please.
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When is the ACON
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Joe didn't seem to mind when 'Should I Stay Or Should I Go' went to number 1 on the back of an advert. And he was alive then.
Shit! I totally forgot about that advert. Interesting Punk outlook to let your track be used by such a big American corporation like Levis. I always thought you could block the use of a song you'd written for an advert if it went against your artistic integrity (beliefs)? Considering he gave away his rights for the Clash's 4th album so it could be affordable and supported the Rock Against the Rich Class War Anarchist gigs I'm pretty shocked lol
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I like what he says about getting the ball being his strength. It's nicely at odds with our previous policy of getting rid of it at all costs.
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Considering he gave away his rights for the Clash's 4th album so it could be affordable
Was "Should I Stay or Should I Go" on the 4th album? If he didn't own the rights he couldn't have stopped them from using it in an advert.
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Welcome to Villa Karim.
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Don't think we've had a stretching the shirt pic yet, so here we go.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v436/EnglishPride2004/karim.jpg)
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Good solid signing and hungry to prove himself in the premiership- excellent news.
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Joe didn't seem to mind when 'Should I Stay Or Should I Go' went to number 1 on the back of an advert. And he was alive then.
Shit! I totally forgot about that advert. Interesting Punk outlook to let your track be used by such a big American corporation like Levis. I always thought you could block the use of a song you'd written for an advert if it went against your artistic integrity (beliefs)? Considering he gave away his rights for the Clash's 4th album so it could be affordable and supported the Rock Against the Rich Class War Anarchist gigs I'm pretty shocked lol
I wouldn't have put it past Joe Strummer to have used the money from the advert for the good of other people. Check out the Strummerville website (http://www.strummerville.com/) to see what they do.
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Welcome to the club Karim. A couple of things;
1. Be better than Hassan Kachloul.
2. Don't do an Alpay after a season.
What are you intimating at here ?
I would imagine, something along the lines of;
1. Dont be shit
2. Dont throw a hissy fit and fall out with the fans
Exactly. It was more aimed at whenever we seem to uncover a gem and they are delighted to be here, have a good season then want to fek off and sign for Manure and we are holding them back etc etc. If anyone was inferring I was being racist I would expect a swift apology but I will say no more about it.
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No idea about who you are and what you're like - but the manager wants you, so that'll do for me. Welcome aboard and I hope to be suitably impressed!
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A deep-lying midfielder whose biggest asset is his ball-retention? Lambo's instincts and priorities are very encouraging indeed.
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Exciting times. I haven't had this sense of optimism about an upcoming season since the start of the MON era.
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Considering he gave away his rights for the Clash's 4th album so it could be affordable
Was "Should I Stay or Should I Go" on the 4th album? If he didn't own the rights he couldn't have stopped them from using it in an advert.
That would have explained it perfectly but the 4th album was Sandinista (where he gave away his rights) - Should I Stay Or Should I Go was from the 5th album Combat Rock. Gonna check out (http://www.strummerville.com/) to see if I can become any the wiser.
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Joe didn't seem to mind when 'Should I Stay Or Should I Go' went to number 1 on the back of an advert. And he was alive then.
Shit! I totally forgot about that advert. Interesting Punk outlook to let your track be used by such a big American corporation like Levis. I always thought you could block the use of a song you'd written for an advert if it went against your artistic integrity (beliefs)? Considering he gave away his rights for the Clash's 4th album so it could be affordable and supported the Rock Against the Rich Class War Anarchist gigs I'm pretty shocked lol
I wouldn't have put it past Joe Strummer to have used the money from the advert for the good of other people. Check out the Strummerville website (http://www.strummerville.com/) to see what they do.
Thanks for the link :-)
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Don't know anything about him but welcome aboard Karim!
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I haven't got a clue about this player yet for some reason I'm delighted
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Very easy to become over optimistic and not manage the expectations I guess. But players like this are a bloody good sign of intent. Especially after signings like Hutton.
It will be good to see some footy down the Villa again. Oh, and hear some new chants!
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What's completely ace is that we have signed two players that the media naturally wouldn't have linked us with. That is, has been or never were domestic players. I'm sure Lambert will look to this market for players but I expect they will be mainly up and coming players that are different to the dreary bollocks that we are normally expected to sign. Both of the players we have signed so far come with good reputations for the type of football we want to see. Very encouraging indeed.
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I never knew he existed before we were linked to him. All I knew of him since then is he plays in the Dutch League and he's 27. This lead me to believe that he's one that has slipped the net or, he's Mr Average. Now we've signed him I have looked further and from the you tube montages it looks like we may well have a good player. I know these clips can be misleading but it looks like we have a box to box worker who can pass. We've needed that for a while.
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Karim will rise to the top with Villa.
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Karim will rise to the top with Villa.
Karim can also go off.
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The sort of signing that fills me with optimism. Not a mega load of money, but a player who looks like he'll strive to achieve in the PL.
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Never really heard off him before,but his comments earlier sound very promising. look forward to seeing what he can do now.
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To put into perspective, this time a year ago we had an awful manager signing bloody Jermaine Jenas
Lambert has already done more good work in 2 weeks than the last manager
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A deep-lying midfielder whose biggest asset is his ball-retention? Lambo's instincts and priorities are very encouraging indeed.
Indeed ball retention is the only way forward, I'm glad Lambo realises it.
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Every year we have people moaning that other teams sign unknowns and Villa never do. It's about time we sign a Ba, Cisse or some other player that's been under the radar for the last 5 years.
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Very positive signing, at last.
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Watched a couple of you tube clips. He seems really busy, plays it simple. Looks like a good signing. Well done at all VP for doing it quickly. Next please........
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Watched a couple of you tube clips. He seems really busy, plays it simple. Looks like a good signing. Well done at all VP for doing it quickly. Next please........
Messi from Barcelona,on a free, fifteen grand a week and he is bringing one of his mates with him.?
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Welcome to Villa Park Karim, Lambert out of the blocks quickly with his first signing, happy days.
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I've been watching those YouTube clips as well. Bloody hell, a player who gets the ball, plays it simple then MOVES, looking for the return.
The bloke could be a revalation for us.
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Neil, what kind of player is he?
He would fill the roll that Barry vacated as his in the same mould as fat arse. I spoke earlier to the father of my son's best friend, who's a huge feyenoord fan and he's gutted about it. He puts much of the turnaround in their fortunes down to his contribution.
Sounds great. It's always a positive sign when other fans are 'gutted' to lose a player.
Welcome, Karim.
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Watched a couple of you tube clips. He seems really busy, plays it simple. Looks like a good signing. Well done at all VP for doing it quickly. Next please........
Messi from Barcelona,on a free, fifteen grand a week and he is bringing one of his mates with him.?
Sarcasm doesn't seem to work too well on the internet does it Dan? ha ha. Messi? I hope his mate is a better player than him!!
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Watched a couple of you tube clips. He seems really busy, plays it simple. Looks like a good signing. Well done at all VP for doing it quickly. Next please........
Messi from Barcelona,on a free, fifteen grand a week and he is bringing one of his mates with him.?
Sarcasm doesn't seem to work too well on the internet does it Dan? ha ha. Messi? I hope his mate is a better player than him!!
We can always live in hope Newby. Very pleased with the way things seem to be going at Villa so far though mate.
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Watched a couple of you tube clips. He seems really busy, plays it simple. Looks like a good signing. Well done at all VP for doing it quickly. Next please........
Messi from Barcelona,on a free, fifteen grand a week and he is bringing one of his mates with him.?
Sarcasm doesn't seem to work too well on the internet does it Dan? ha ha. Messi? I hope his mate is a better player than him!!
We can always live in hope Newby. Very pleased with the way things seem to be going at Villa so far though mate.
Absolutely, twitter people saying that there's something else imminent too. Let's hope so.
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To put into perspective, this time a year ago we had an awful manager signing bloody Jermaine Jenas
Lambert has already done more good work in 2 weeks than the last manager
In fairness, Lambert's remit, and what he is allowed to do and spend, may be totally different to that afforded to AM.
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Maybe, but McLeish had money and arguably wasted it
Hutton £5m - value for money ?
NZogbia £10m - same question
Jenas £1m loan fee + £2m in wages !!
Given and Robbie Keane you can argue were good signings
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To put into perspective, this time a year ago we had an awful manager signing bloody Jermaine Jenas
Lambert has already done more good work in 2 weeks than the last manager
In fairness, Lambert's remit, and what he is allowed to do and spend, may be totally different to that afforded to AM.
TSM did have nearly twenty mill to spend too though mate? He chose to spend it on a useless right back, and aging keeper etc. He DID have money to spend. I take your point about the remit though, they DO have a different remit. Hopefully PL can well and truly deliver.
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Maybe, but McLeish had money and arguably wasted it
Hutton £5m - value for money ?
NZogbia £10m - same question
Jenas £1m loan fee + £2m in wages !!
Given and Robbie Keane you can argue were good signings
Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
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TSM, please.
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TSM, please.
OVM thank you.
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Who?
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Who is what?
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Central midfield has been very weak since Milner left really.
I have no idea if this lad will hack it at prem level but good to see Lambert is thinking outside the box in terms of signings.
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OVM.
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OVM.
Old Villa Manager.
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They all are.
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They all are.
Some of them are Scottish too if you want to nitpick.
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Welcome Karim
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I would like to see another solid midfield player to play alongside him, with 1-2 being shown the door.
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Shoot me down but some muscle like N'Daw from SHA would be decent at this stage
Think he was loaned from a French side tbh
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Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
Isn't that the time when you can tell whether they were good signings or not? N'Zogbia, when on-form is possibly a £10m player. He hasn't showed that form so far and was pretty shit/disillusioned under McLeish so I'd classify him as a poor signing until he proves himself under the new management.
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Maybe, but McLeish had money and arguably wasted it
Hutton £5m - value for money ?
NZogbia £10m - same question
Jenas £1m loan fee + £2m in wages !!
Given and Robbie Keane you can argue were good signings
Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
You've got to be kidding. Hutton was an abysmal signing, whichever way you try to dress it up.
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Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
Isn't that the time when you can tell whether they were good signings or not? N'Zogbia, when on-form is possibly a £10m player. He hasn't showed that form so far and was pretty shit/disillusioned under McLeish so I'd classify him as a poor signing until he proves himself under the new management.
I hope N'Zogbia is sold. There is no excuse for the performances he put in. I thought he might come good but no.
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Maybe, but McLeish had money and arguably wasted it
Hutton £5m - value for money ?
NZogbia £10m - same question
Jenas £1m loan fee + £2m in wages !!
Given and Robbie Keane you can argue were good signings
Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
You've got to be kidding. Hutton was an abysmal signing, whichever way you try to dress it up.
We had a little over a day to sign a RB within our budget after Lichaj got injured. I can see why at that little notice OVM went for him. Not saying I agree with it but a lot folks forget the Rangers connection and the Lichaj injury when talking of the Hutton signing.
Maybe he would have signed him anyway thinking he could get the best out of him.
My point is everyone slates his signings when Hutton is the only bad one, which potentially had mitigating circumstances due to Lichaj. And a couple of bad contracts (Jenas & Given) that we don't know had anything to do with him once he had told the board he wanted the players.
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Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
Isn't that the time when you can tell whether they were good signings or not? N'Zogbia, when on-form is possibly a £10m player. He hasn't showed that form so far and was pretty shit/disillusioned under McLeish so I'd classify him as a poor signing until he proves himself under the new management.
Completely missing the point that the vast majority on here wanted N'Zogbia signed.
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Is that what constitutes a good signing then, the approval of supporters?
Let's look back at the clamour from fans to sign Yorke, Platt and Macca, and then we can work out if they were good signings or not.
Completely missing the point that our approval means fuck all, it's how they perform that matters.
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Is that what constitutes a good signing then, the approval of supporters?
Let's look back at the clamour from fans to sign Yorke, Platt and Macca, and then we can work out if they were good signings or not.
Completely missing the point that our approval means fuck all, it's how they perform that matters.
So it's not hypocritical to have a go at a manager for signing a player we wanted him to sign?
Having a go at him for not getting the best out of them once they've signed is one thing. Having a go for signing them in the first place when they wanted that player signed is another.
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Maybe, but McLeish had money and arguably wasted it
Hutton £5m - value for money ?
NZogbia £10m - same question
Jenas £1m loan fee + £2m in wages !!
Given and Robbie Keane you can argue were good signings
Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
You've got to be kidding. Hutton was an abysmal signing, whichever way you try to dress it up.
We had a little over a day to sign a RB within our budget after Lichaj got injured. I can see why at that little notice OVM went for him. Not saying I agree with it but a lot folks forget the Rangers connection and the Lichaj injury when talking of the Hutton signing.
Maybe he would have signed him anyway thinking he could get the best out of him.
My point is everyone slates his signings when Hutton is the only bad one, which potentially had mitigating circumstances due to Lichaj. And a couple of bad contracts (Jenas & Given) that we don't know had anything to do with him once he had told the board he wanted the players.
Whether Hutton was a rush buy he is shit and a bad buy, he wasn't wanted by Spurs for a reason. They paid £5m for him and loaned him to Sunderland who wanted to keep him but refused to pay the £5m asking price then AML strolls in and snaps him up even tho he wasn't good enough to make the Spurs team and they wanted rid of him, if he wasn't good enough for Spurs he shouldn't of been good enough for Villa. The first of his bench warmers he brought in.
His second bench warmer he brought was Given who was signed at the age of 35 for £3.5m on a 4 year contract worth £50k a week which comes to over £10m in wages - to me that is bad business for a keeper who isn't at the best time of his career, has had injury problems, is making mistakes and struggles with coming off his line and taking the ball out the air and if we don't sell him now I feel he will end up winding down his contract with last 2 years spent with his feet up on the bench whilst he counts his £50k for sitting down for 90 minutes.
His third bench warmer was Jenas, a complete waste of time and should never of been brought in especially with how much it cost.
Keane done OK for us, although I doubt he would manage a full season in the EPL these days and his short time at the club wasn't really worth the money it cost, think it worked out at over £70k per game in fees and wages - he only gets paid £35k a week by LA Galaxy.
N'zogbia I believe will come good and make the £10m worth paying and was the only signing I think AML done good with out of those players, shame he screwed him up.
Maybe some the contract decisions weren't all entirely his but he was the one that chose the players to bring in and IMO only N'zogbia was worth bringing in out of them 5 for the monies it cost for each of them to be at the club and if Lambert gets him playing again he could be a valuable member of the squad for a few years to come.
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... His second bench warmer he brought was Given who was signed at the age of 35 for £3.5m on a 4 year contract worth £50k a week which comes to over £10m in wages...
Five year contract, not four.
As you were.
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Much as I agree that Given was a bad signing, I don't see how he can be labelled a bench-warmer.
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... His second bench warmer he brought was Given who was signed at the age of 35 for £3.5m on a 4 year contract worth £50k a week which comes to over £10m in wages...
Five year contract, not four.
As you were.
Opps my bad, but that just makes it worse.
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Much as I agree that Given was a bad signing, I don't see how he can be labelled a bench-warmer.
He was a bench warmer at City when we brought him as Hart was no1.
Hutton and Jenas weren't first choice players either.
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Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
Isn't that the time when you can tell whether they were good signings or not? N'Zogbia, when on-form is possibly a £10m player. He hasn't showed that form so far and was pretty shit/disillusioned under McLeish so I'd classify him as a poor signing until he proves himself under the new management.
Completely missing the point that the vast majority on here wanted N'Zogbia signed.
I wanted N'Zogbia, he has been crap, but I don't blame Mcleish I blame N'Zogbia. Any footballer who gets paid a small fortune to play this game and still needs encouragement to play needs shooting.
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Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
Isn't that the time when you can tell whether they were good signings or not? N'Zogbia, when on-form is possibly a £10m player. He hasn't showed that form so far and was pretty shit/disillusioned under McLeish so I'd classify him as a poor signing until he proves himself under the new management.
Completely missing the point that the vast majority on here wanted N'Zogbia signed.
I wanted N'Zogbia, he has been crap, but I don't blame Mcleish I blame N'Zogbia. Any footballer who gets paid a small fortune to play this game and still needs encouragement to play needs shooting.
Find it funny when people say players get paid loads so should be brilliant week in week out.
Players are only human and no matter what job you do and however much you get paid if your boss is rubbish, doesn't know how to run the business properly, puts all blame on his staff, denies all responsibility and undermines his staff by saying they aren't good enough to beat competitors and puts people in jobs they aren't used to doing then things are going to go down the pan quite quickly, which is exactly what happened last season.
I will happily print off this message and eat my words if we don't see a completely different N'zogbia this season.
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... His second bench warmer he brought was Given who was signed at the age of 35 for £3.5m on a 4 year contract worth £50k a week which comes to over £10m in wages...
Five year contract, not four.
As you were.
I refuse to believe those figures, please tell me you're joking.
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... His second bench warmer he brought was Given who was signed at the age of 35 for £3.5m on a 4 year contract worth £50k a week which comes to over £10m in wages...
Five year contract, not four.
As you were.
I refuse to believe those figures, please tell me you're joking.
Given was on £80k a week at City but had to take a pay cut to around £50k a week.
£50k a week totals £2.6m a year x 5 years (not 4 as I said before) comes to a grand total of £13m wages.
His 5 year contract plus transfer fee totals £16.5m.
And I believe he got a £1m pay off from City too as part of the deal so the whole deal is worth £14m in Given's bank account.
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It's not really the wage I'm concerned about (even though I think it's way too much for Given), it's the length of the contract. 5 years @£50k a week for a 34 year old keeper is bonkers.
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Most on here wanted N'Zogbia at that price.
With Luke Young leaving and Lichaj getting a longterm injury a day or so before deadline day we had to buy a RB. Hutton probably fit our price range and i'm assuming OVM knew him from Rangers days.
Jenas is the only shit signing he made. And that's mainly down to the contract which I doubt was OVM's decision.
There's a million and one sticks to beat OVM with, his signings were never one of them. What he did with them once he signed them is a different mattter.
Isn't that the time when you can tell whether they were good signings or not? N'Zogbia, when on-form is possibly a £10m player. He hasn't showed that form so far and was pretty shit/disillusioned under McLeish so I'd classify him as a poor signing until he proves himself under the new management.
Completely missing the point that the vast majority on here wanted N'Zogbia signed.
I wanted N'Zogbia, he has been crap, but I don't blame Mcleish I blame N'Zogbia. Any footballer who gets paid a small fortune to play this game and still needs encouragement to play needs shooting.
Find it funny when people say players get paid loads so should be brilliant week in week out.
Players are only human and no matter what job you do and however much you get paid if your boss is rubbish, doesn't know how to run the business properly, puts all blame on his staff, denies all responsibility and undermines his staff by saying they aren't good enough to beat competitors and puts people in jobs they aren't used to doing then things are going to go down the pan quite quickly, which is exactly what happened last season.
I will happily print off this message and eat my words if we don't see a completely different N'zogbia this season.
I agree.
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Just waiting for an article by N'Zogbia in the papers, saying how he is looking forward to playing for the new manager. That is when it will be confirmed that he knows his place is in jeopardy.
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Given may or may not prove to be value for money. Let's see how he performs in the next season or two. Let's see whether he transforms himself into a decent GK coach. Let's see if, like Friedel, he continues to attract interest from clubs requiring experience and assurance at the back.
I do think the agreed wage and length of contract seem excessive, but there you go (after all, we have form: we did also agree the Emule deal ....).
Regarding Hutton, I can see the logic for having bought him, given the timing and the fact that TSM knew him from previous managerial gigs. And Hutton did improve; I think he's taken a ton of stick from us here - some justified, some not.
I would not pick him if I were a Premiership manager; I thoroughly dislike his image and approach; I think his positioning and intelligence as a footballer is v limited. With CC still in the squad could have got by perhaps without signing another FB.
N'Zog - for me - was the biggest mistake: I was not a fan back then and am still not. Why? - simple: he has never demonstrated the ability to overcome his temperamental nature and put in a consistently-solid shift. Even at Wigan he flattered to deceive.
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I dont know about that. The season before we signed him he was one of the better attacking players in the league.
He has to get back on track this season though or he can do one. The McLeish leeway he (and most of the others) perhaps had last season wont wash now. He's playing under a popular manager and will be out on his ear if he doesn't make it happen.
On the other hand, if he does, what a player we have.
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Is that what constitutes a good signing then, the approval of supporters?
Let's look back at the clamour from fans to sign Yorke, Platt and Macca, and then we can work out if they were good signings or not.
Completely missing the point that our approval means fuck all, it's how they perform that matters.
So it's not hypocritical to have a go at a manager for signing a player we wanted him to sign?
I don't think it is actually - certainly not always. Managers are paid well to identify players and make the right decisions, we supporters can be blinded by temporary form, a good performance against our club, a couple of good reports in the press. A manager should be immune to all that and not be swayed by anything other than how he will fit into the way that he wants to play. They're approaching the situation with all the facts, we're playing blind.
A case in point, from what I'd read and seen when he arrived I'd was very pleased that we signed Mathieu Berson. He looked to be a decent player, with good pedigree who played well in a position that we needed someone like him in.
But I don't think it's particularly hypocritical to say that it was a poor signing and one that we shouldn't have made.
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Same might be said of Sidwell - when he played at Reading I always thought he bossed midfield against us and I was glad when he signed for Villa, perhaps we should have spotted that he hardly got a game for Chelsea.
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Is that what constitutes a good signing then, the approval of supporters?
Let's look back at the clamour from fans to sign Yorke, Platt and Macca, and then we can work out if they were good signings or not.
Completely missing the point that our approval means fuck all, it's how they perform that matters.
So it's not hypocritical to have a go at a manager for signing a player we wanted him to sign?
I don't think it is actually - certainly not always. Managers are paid well to identify players and make the right decisions, we supporters can be blinded by temporary form, a good performance against our club, a couple of good reports in the press. A manager should be immune to all that and not be swayed by anything other than how he will fit into the way that he wants to play. They're approaching the situation with all the facts, we're playing blind.
A case in point, from what I'd read and seen when he arrived I'd was very pleased that we signed Mathieu Berson. He looked to be a decent player, with good pedigree who played well in a position that we needed someone like him in.
But I don't think it's particularly hypocritical to say that it was a poor signing and one that we shouldn't have made.
A more recenct signing would be CN'Z.
I reckon +90% of Villa fans were in agreement with his signing. But, as soon as he didn't perform it was McLeish's fault.
I hope he can turn the corner with us this season. It might help with Makoun too, being a french speaker.
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I'm coming round to PWS's idea that the manager should just sign whoever we want on H&V.
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Is that what constitutes a good signing then, the approval of supporters?
Let's look back at the clamour from fans to sign Yorke, Platt and Macca, and then we can work out if they were good signings or not.
Completely missing the point that our approval means fuck all, it's how they perform that matters.
So it's not hypocritical to have a go at a manager for signing a player we wanted him to sign?
I don't think it is actually - certainly not always. Managers are paid well to identify players and make the right decisions, we supporters can be blinded by temporary form, a good performance against our club, a couple of good reports in the press. A manager should be immune to all that and not be swayed by anything other than how he will fit into the way that he wants to play. They're approaching the situation with all the facts, we're playing blind.
A case in point, from what I'd read and seen when he arrived I'd was very pleased that we signed Mathieu Berson. He looked to be a decent player, with good pedigree who played well in a position that we needed someone like him in.
But I don't think it's particularly hypocritical to say that it was a poor signing and one that we shouldn't have made.
i think what PWS is saying is that there is a big difference between signing Harewood or Heskey who most people said was not going to work out well and probably end up a disaster,
and the signing of N'Zog who people were wetting there pants over, i can still remember the level of hype on here over the mythical tussle with Sunderland and how we had just signed the next great thing.
i dont think the manager did necesarily take supporters views seriously, he certainly didnt with on any other subject, and ultimately whoever he signs good or bad are down to him, but there was massive support for the signing of N'zog at the time, so i can see what PWS is saying, in that we can be to critical in AM bringing in N'zog when we all thought it was good business.
on the other hand i cant remember many posters saying that Keane was going to be any good for us, but turned out a good loan deal, might even have scored the goals that kept us up, so AM got that one right, no doubts
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I'm coming round to PWS's idea that the manager should just sign whoever we want on H&V.
i dont think thats what he is saying in fairness
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I'm coming round to PWS's idea that the manager should just sign whoever we want on H&V.
9 goalkeepers
12 right backs
35 centre backs
17 left backs
27 defensive midfielders
2 wingers
and 1 striker
and we said McLeish was defensive :)
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It's not really the wage I'm concerned about (even though I think it's way too much for Given), it's the length of the contract. 5 years @£50k a week for a 34 year old keeper is bonkers.
Agree & his euros performance is a real concern, I don't think he'll last another two years at PL level personally
Silly contract length
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Just waiting for an article by N'Zogbia in the papers, saying how he is looking forward to playing for the new manager. That is when it will be confirmed that he knows his place is in jeopardy.
Shouldn't everybody's place be in jeopardy?
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Just watched a few of his youtube videos (I know, I know).
It is pretty evident that he likes to put a tackle in, but also i thought it was quite noticeable how comfortable he is on the ball. Added to that, he busts a gut to get the ball when he doesn't have it.
He's like a Reo-Coker with 90 percent of the stuff NRC was missing.
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Much as I agree that Given was a bad signing, I don't see how he can be labelled a bench-warmer.
Something seems to have happened over the summer which has caused a lot of us to reevaluate Shay Given.
It's true, he tends to stay on his line a bit too much and doesn't command his area as the truly great keepers do, but he has always been like this *
However, I also remember him pulling off some fantastic saves last season and keeping us in matches when we really didn't deserve to be.
He has his faults, yes, but "bad signing"? Really? In a summer in which we also signed that clueless clogger Hutton?
* As an aside, a while ago someone posted something from The Fiver about SG which was quite funny but summed up these weaknesses brilliantly. I'll try and find it.
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I knew Given was a goalie that stayed on his line too much but then again so did Friedel and Given is younger and more agile so I thought it was an improvement. It was, in my opinion.
I'd like a more complete goalkeeper but there are other priorities. I'm convinced Siegrist will become that in a year or three, in the mean time we need a convincing #2 to genuinely compete with Given. It would be nice if that keeper knew how to completely command his area. It takes a lot of heat off the centre halves.
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Read more: http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/aston-villa-fc/2012/07/03/new-aston-villa-signing-karim-el-ahmadi-lured-by-star-names/#ixzz1zYSiuPG2
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Much as I agree that Given was a bad signing, I don't see how he can be labelled a bench-warmer.
However, I also remember him pulling off some fantastic saves last season and keeping us in matches when we really didn't deserve to be.
That fingertip save against the Albion was absolutely crucial
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Given was a bad signing?! Maybe he isn't perfect but isn't that taking things a bit far?
EDIT: One should also remember that retiring at international level can also give a player a boost at club level. I certainly think it's helped the likes of David James not to be in contention any more.
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Bearing in mind the rumours of Given being at Bodymoor around Jan 2011, I would question if he was a TSM signing or one the club had line up that he didn;t object too?
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I think Given's actually on £40k/week, not £50k/week. However, as pointed out it was a 5-year contract given to a 35-year old so a crazy piece of business.
Given should be well regarded for making saves such as the one at Albion that was crucial in our survival. However, if PL deems it necessary to totally change the core of the team, I could understand why. What's done is done and we have to look forward to the future now.
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I dont know about that. The season before we signed him he was one of the better attacking players in the league.
He has to get back on track this season though or he can do one. The McLeish leeway he (and most of the others) perhaps had last season wont wash now. He's playing under a popular manager and will be out on his ear if he doesn't make it happen.
On the other hand, if he does, what a player we have.
Spot on
There were times during a game last season where he (N'Zog) and a few others did not have a clue where they were meant to be playing and even when they did they were being barked at about marking and defending
Get this guy doing what he does well - attacking and running at defenders and i agree with Maz we could have a player more damaging to the opposition than the likes of Young in his prime.
Conversely as Maz says if he strops about too much he should be binned
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I can recall sitting in a hotel room in Tokyo reading the match thread from that Albion game, pressing F5 every two seconds absolutely bricking it, and someone saying Given had pulled off a wondersave that kept us up. My only issue isn't with his wages though, it's the length of the contract.
What I really can't understand is how it slipped through the net when we've supposed to have been making prudent signings to bring down the wage bill for the last two years. It just goes to show how much of a joke our scouting network has been if Given was the best option available.
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I thought Given was a bad signing because I think he will prove to be one in time. He hasn't done so yet IMO and long may it continue. I just think he's very fragile but he only missed a few games last season so maybe he's over the long-term shoulder injury he had. I hope so.
The stuff about him not being dominant on set-pieces doesn't bother me, all we need to do to counter that is adopt a marking system that allows him to stay on his line to stop headers and shots, which is where his strength lies.
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Just waiting for an article by N'Zogbia in the papers, saying how he is looking forward to playing for the new manager. That is when it will be confirmed that he knows his place is in jeopardy.
He needs to do well this season especially after letting down the man who had faith in him to bring him to VP.
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* As an aside, a while ago someone posted something from The Fiver about SG which was quite funny but summed up these weaknesses brilliantly. I'll try and find it.
My guess would be this one:
In his increasingly rare moments of clarity, the Fiver's drink-addled, pig-toting knobbly-stick-waving Irish cousin Theme Pub O'Fiver has a theory about Shay Given from the County Donegal. To borrow a phrase from his opinionated champagne-swilling brother in arms Eamon Dunphy, Theme Pub is prepared to concede that while Shay Given from the County Donegal is a good goalkeeper, he is not a great goalkeeper. It is a point of view that has earned poor auld Theme Pub the opprobrium and slaps of many compatriots who worship at the altar of St Shay of Given and will not hear a bad word said about the goalkeeper, who hails from the County Donegal.
What Theme Pub has noticed, albeit through half-open bloodshot eyes, is that Shay Given from the County Donegal has played behind some terrible defences in his time; terrible defences starring players who became a laughing stock when they played in front of Given, but strangely went on to resurrect their careers elsewhere, lining up in back fours that played in front of goalkeepers that conspicuously weren't Shay Given from the County Donegal. Yes, Titus Bramble – the Fiver is looking at you. And you Fabricio Coloccini and Joleon Lescott … the rest of you know who you are.
But while Given has been described by Roberto Mancini as "one of the five best goalkeepers in the world", he is not the best goalkeeper at Manchester City and has subsequently been shipped out. As is customary, no club that Jamie Redknapp would describe as "top top top top" has come in for him, so instead he has been sentenced to five years at Aston Villa for a fee believed to be in the region of £4m. It's a good bit of business for Villa, who have got themselves a goalie renowned as "a great shot-stopper", but whose ability to command his six-yard box is a mite questionable.
"Aston Villa is a huge football club and I'm really excited to be joining," said Given upon inking his contract, as you do. "I'm looking forward to training and playing with the players here. They're a good bunch of lads, very talented and I know several of them already which will help." Be afraid Richard Dunne and James Collins. Be very, very afraid. For that man in green anchored to his goalline not coming for that cross is Shay Given from the County Donegal.
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I'm coming round to PWS's idea that the manager should just sign whoever we want on H&V.
Is that what I really said Percy or are you taking what I said completely out of context regarding one player?
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I thought Given was a bad signing because I think he will prove to be one in time. He hasn't done so yet IMO and long may it continue. I just think he's very fragile but he only missed a few games last season so maybe he's over the long-term shoulder injury he had. I hope so.
The stuff about him not being dominant on set-pieces doesn't bother me, all we need to do to counter that is adopt a marking system that allows him to stay on his line to stop headers and shots, which is where his strength lies.
So what you are saying is to keep Given the defenders will need to do half his job for him so he can just stay on his line to cover up how bad he is at crosses and corners.
I really don't get how people can be happy with a keeper who can only do half the job a keeper is employed for.
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I thought Given was a bad signing because I think he will prove to be one in time. He hasn't done so yet IMO and long may it continue. I just think he's very fragile but he only missed a few games last season so maybe he's over the long-term shoulder injury he had. I hope so.
The stuff about him not being dominant on set-pieces doesn't bother me, all we need to do to counter that is adopt a marking system that allows him to stay on his line to stop headers and shots, which is where his strength lies.
Uh oh, my Percysabouttostarttalkingaboutzonalmarking sense is tingling......
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
I think he said just before he butchered Gabby's name that he wasn't sure how to pronounce it. Then promptly butchered it. Even if he watched every game he might not have noticed Gabby in most of them anyway. And in fairness to him, he did better than some of our lot would with people's names. It took months for some people to get Mcleish, MCCleish, Chris Houghton right...
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Some still can't spell Clark right.
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
I think he said just before he butchered Gabby's name that he wasn't sure how to pronounce it. Then promptly butchered it. Even if he watched every game he might not have noticed Gabby in most of them anyway. And in fairness to him, he did better than some of our lot would with people's names. It took months for some people to get Mcleish, MCCleish, Chris Houghton right...
Whoosh
*wink*
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
Give the bloke a chance guys..how often does any player come and watch a side before joining them? I would be interested how long it is since out initial interest in El Ahmadi? I doubt if he has had the chance to come and seee us play!
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*sigh*
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Irony/sarcasm truely doesn't work on t'internet, does it?
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Rissbert: fact is we had a keeper in Friedel who never came off his line yet one season playing behind Dunne and Collins only conceded one goal from a set-piece. Any idea why?
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Rissbert: fact is we had a keeper in Friedel who never came off his line yet one season playing behind Dunne and Collins only conceded one goal from a set-piece. Any idea why?
That season Collins and Dunne were playing for a manager who they looked like they wanted to play for. Both have gone downhill since O'Neill left in my opinion in performance and general attitude.
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
I think he said just before he butchered Gabby's name that he wasn't sure how to pronounce it. Then promptly butchered it. Even if he watched every game he might not have noticed Gabby in most of them anyway. And in fairness to him, he did better than some of our lot would with people's names. It took months for some people to get Mcleish, MCCleish, Chris Houghton right...
Whoosh
*wink*
No whoosh. I knew exactly what you were saying. I just stated a fact. No need to be a smartarse.
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
How many of us pronounce Karim's name correctly?
Not many I'll bet
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El Ahmadi said: “I have seen Villa a lot on television and, for me, it is a club who have good players.
“There are some top quality players here and some great players like Gabby Agbonlahor and Darren Bent, who are famous and fantastic players who I am looking forward to playing and training with.
“It’s a big team and a big club so I’m happy to be here.
“Villa Park is a special stadium and the training facilities are also brilliant.
“I had a good season in Holland but sometimes in life you have to make choices.”
Not happy about that quote to be honest. Only seen us TV, why hasn't the lazy bugger been to see us in person? Great players like Agbonlahor and Bent? That's not going to do the young players' confidence any good is it? Big team? We're a huge team, thank you very much. As for your good season in Holland, must you really keep going on in that O'Learyesque way about your old team?
FFS.
Did you watch the interview video?
He pronounced Agbonlahor 'Ablooor'. Not being funny, but he can't have watched us much if he didn't notice how Gabby's surname is pronounced.
How many of us pronounce Karim's name correctly?
Not many I'll bet
Give the man a chance! Condemned already for wanting to play for the greatest club in the world. Welcome Karim..Welcome. I hope you convert the sceptics with brilliant after brilliant performance!
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Seems a decent player. I'm sure it will be a decent signing. Safe amount of money spent so if he turns up it will be a huge bargain.
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Seems a decent player. I'm sure it will be a decent signing. Safe amount of money spent so if he turns up it will be a huge bargain.
Typical Villa signing players then not telling them the way to the ground. Faulkner out.
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Seems a decent player. I'm sure it will be a decent signing. Safe amount of money spent so if he turns up it will be a huge bargain.
Typical Villa signing players then not telling them the way to the ground. Faulkner out.
Yeah, maybe Karim's Missus has told him that we play near London just like Mrs. Unsworth told matey boy that we were based in Cheshire. More agg for the chubby cheeked chappy.
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Just seen an interview on SSN with El Ahmadi and Hollman...Karim said hes surprised in the difference in style of play having grown up in Dutch academies where they play from the back. Sounds like hes already been introduced to our back four and wondering why they wont pass the ball to him.
On a more positive note, Hollman said that we have a very technically gifted player in El Ahmadi.
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The Governor
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2012/07/12/3238188/new-aston-villa-signing-karim-el-ahmadi-ready-for-premier-league-?
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I have no doubt he'll work and play well with Ireland...both players want the ball and have good football intelligence. Should be a delight to watch if they click.
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
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Is that PL? Or Victoria Beckham?
Either way, cool.
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
That quote does contradict what he said on SSN this afternoon even though it was more about playing style than training methods.
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
Well let's hope there's a shift to that.
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
In full:
"The gaffer hopes to play good football with Villa and has told us to be scared of nobody, especially at home.
"I hope the fans are going to support us and help us do everything to take Villa to a good level, back where it belongs.
"You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland.
"There are a lot of precision games with the ball, so compared to Holland it's the same.
"It's about always wanting to play football. That's what I like and it's like how the Dutch teams play.
"I think with this coach we're going to play some good football."
It's a comment which as made me as happy as I have been to be a Villa fan in quite a long time.
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Very happy to hear that.
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That sounds very positive. Exactly the kind of thing we all want to hear.
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arent Feyenoord the stoke of dutch football :P
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arent Feyenoord the stoke of dutch football :P
Maybe in the same way the Belgians think of Leffe as industrial piss.
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Do Feyenoord play in red and white? If so, maybe they are the Stoke of Dutch football in the same way as PL is MON2 because he wears glasses.
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Mmmmmm........Leffe...
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
That quote does contradict what he said on SSN this afternoon even though it was more about playing style than training methods.
I wasn't very impressed with the way SSN edited that interview after reading the original article that Monty's re-posted. In his SSN interview, I think he said that he was used to playing in sides that played it out from the back and seemed to intimate that we had been struggling a little in training in this aspect. Given the style of play that we had been playing and some of the players that we still have in defence, that would make sense. I'm feeling very good about the way things are shaping up.
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Is this SSN interview available online?
Tbf, I don't think many English sides play from the back the Dutch way, but we have been one of the worst.
I don't think I've ever actually seen a lambert side play a full game, thinking about it! So not really sure what to expect in terms of style
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He looked very tidy in the Burton game. Always looking for the ball and getting forward as well. Looks like he could be a bargain.
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KEA talking about his role model in interview with the SundayMercury/Mat Kendrick
http://www.sundaymercury.net/midlands-sport/aston-villa-fc/aston-villa-fc-news/2012/07/15/aston-villa-new-boy-s-role-model-was-moustapha-hadji-66331-31395944/
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
In full:
"The gaffer hopes to play good football with Villa and has told us to be scared of nobody, especially at home.
"I hope the fans are going to support us and help us do everything to take Villa to a good level, back where it belongs.
"You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland.
"There are a lot of precision games with the ball, so compared to Holland it's the same.
"It's about always wanting to play football. That's what I like and it's like how the Dutch teams play.
"I think with this coach we're going to play some good football."
It's a comment which as made me as happy as I have been to be a Villa fan in quite a long time.
I'm glad to hear Lambert is trying to instill into the players the belief that they should fear nobody. They genuinely shouldn't. Same goes for the Villa Park crowd, by the way, we have absolutely nobody to fear on any given day. The amount of times I have been to games where we have faced the media darling clubs and you can just sense the fear in the air. Aston Villa is a club that can - and should - beat all comers.
I'm going to throw a little prediction in here that this season will see a return to the days of Villa sending man utd home battered, bruised and bewildered.
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This is how it should be in any level of football. Whether it is on a Sunday Park or in the Premiership. Every day can bring an upset and sometimes the team who is not as good as the other can cause a upset. If you go out without any fear I am sure you will have more of those underdog days than a team which has a mentality of keeping the score down.
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
In full:
"The gaffer hopes to play good football with Villa and has told us to be scared of nobody, especially at home.
"I hope the fans are going to support us and help us do everything to take Villa to a good level, back where it belongs.
"You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland.
"There are a lot of precision games with the ball, so compared to Holland it's the same.
"It's about always wanting to play football. That's what I like and it's like how the Dutch teams play.
"I think with this coach we're going to play some good football."
It's a comment which as made me as happy as I have been to be a Villa fan in quite a long time.
I'm glad to hear Lambert is trying to instill into the players the belief that they should fear nobody. They genuinely shouldn't. Same goes for the Villa Park crowd, by the way, we have absolutely nobody to fear on any given day. The amount of times I have been to games where we have faced the media darling clubs and you can just sense the fear in the air. Aston Villa is a club that can - and should - beat all comers.
I'm going to throw a little prediction in here that this season will see a return to the days of Villa sending man utd home battered, bruised and bewildered.
Oh, I do hope so!
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
This is a quote from Paul Lambert apparently:
“We’ll try and play football – I don’t like long ball.”
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Stretchered off whilst playing for Morocco v Mozambique last night I believe.
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Do we know how bad it is ?
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Can't find any other follow-up information.
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Oh great
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Lady Luck really has it in for us.
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""You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland"
Oh thank christ.
In full:
"The gaffer hopes to play good football with Villa and has told us to be scared of nobody, especially at home.
"I hope the fans are going to support us and help us do everything to take Villa to a good level, back where it belongs.
"You can see that there is more speed here but the training and what we do with the coach is similar to the training that we do in Holland.
"There are a lot of precision games with the ball, so compared to Holland it's the same.
"It's about always wanting to play football. That's what I like and it's like how the Dutch teams play.
"I think with this coach we're going to play some good football."
It's a comment which as made me as happy as I have been to be a Villa fan in quite a long time.
I'm glad to hear Lambert is trying to instill into the players the belief that they should fear nobody. They genuinely shouldn't. Same goes for the Villa Park crowd, by the way, we have absolutely nobody to fear on any given day. The amount of times I have been to games where we have faced the media darling clubs and you can just sense the fear in the air. Aston Villa is a club that can - and should - beat all comers.
I'm going to throw a little prediction in here that this season will see a return to the days of Villa sending man utd home battered, bruised and bewildered.
I think you could be right with your prediction, I know there's a few people flapping because we've only won once, but I think we could claim a few top four scalps this season....
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Looks like Westwood may have to be thrown in at the deep end.
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Hope it's not too bad.
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Morocco also won the match and have qualified for next years cup of nations
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This isn't the worst news because Delph seems to be doing a pretty similar job to KEA anyway. I'd pick Herd next match as we need a bit more physicality in midfield. Knowing PL, he'll probably pick Westwood.
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The pictures I saw didn't suggest he was stretchered off, he seemed to be walking off. Still bad news though, as is the African cup qualification. Delph has been playing a deep role alongside him at times. But can he play the holding role in the diamond we've played most of the season?
Westwood looked green against Southampton and herd isn't good enough in my view. He's ok if you want to play a kick and rush style, but I can't see him figuring in Lambert's possession based game
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This isn't the worst news because Delph seems to be doing a pretty similar job to KEA anyway. I'd pick Herd next match as we need a bit more physicality in midfield. Knowing PL, he'll probably pick Westwood.
I still don't see what Delph adds to the side. He's just a reckless challenge followed by a yellow card waiting to happen.
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I don't mind Delph, he might need a good run of games but his habit of picking up injuries has'nt helped him. We might be playing him too deep as well, was'nt he more of a attacking midfielder at Leeds?
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Delph is a yellow card waiting to happen.
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This isn't the worst news because Delph seems to be doing a pretty similar job to KEA anyway. I'd pick Herd next match as we need a bit more physicality in midfield. Knowing PL, he'll probably pick Westwood.
I still don't see what Delph adds to the side. He's just a reckless challenge followed by a yellow card waiting to happen.
I'm not really a fan of Delph either but he has been okay this season whenever he has started. He generally just stays deep and tries to pass it around to start attacks or just tick things over. On the negative side, he is pretty reckless when defending.
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the players pl rates in midfield are not strong or good enough in my opinion
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the players pl rates in midfield are not strong or good enough in my opinion
He didn't really inherit a good midfield though. Let's see how he shapes the midfield in the coming seasons.
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The only positive is we will see someone else play the role as its effectively been KEA all season so far.
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Does anyone know when Stephen Ireland is due to be back in the selection frame ?..................Godzvilla!
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20th October.
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20th October.
Good news (I hope)
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This isn't the worst news because Delph seems to be doing a pretty similar job to KEA anyway. I'd pick Herd next match as we need a bit more physicality in midfield. Knowing PL, he'll probably pick Westwood.
I still don't see what Delph adds to the side. He's just a reckless challenge followed by a yellow card waiting to happen.
My thoughts exactly.
Is Herd injured because I just can't understand how Delph would get the nod ahead of him.
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This isn't the worst news because Delph seems to be doing a pretty similar job to KEA anyway. I'd pick Herd next match as we need a bit more physicality in midfield. Knowing PL, he'll probably pick Westwood.
I still don't see what Delph adds to the side. He's just a reckless challenge followed by a yellow card waiting to happen.
Yes, we can drop our only real hope of scoring a goal with a regular 1 in 2 goal ratio, yet keep Delph in the side. Just bizarre.
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Delph is a yellow card waiting to happen.
Agreed. I find it hard to judge him as a player, as I invariably find myself whincing in anticipation when he's trying to win the ball back.
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There's no indication that KEA has an injury, certainly not one that may put him in doubt for the weekend. Good news if this is the case.
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... herd isn't good enough in my view. He's ok if you want to play a kick and rush style, but I can't see him figuring in Lambert's possession based game
Err, I don't think Herd is a hacker or a hoofer, particularly. In fact, I remember a number of rather neat passes from the lad last season. He needs to be in the MF at the moment, because it seems we are expecting KEA to do all the strong-arm stuff. Herd alongside KEA and Delph would - IMO - produce a very sold platform on which to build.
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If we're replacing a forward with a 3rd midfielder I think it needs to be someone more creative than Herd, i.e. Bannan or Ireland for me.