Hopefully he can bring a bit of the Ajax way to Villa Park!
All the best! UTV
Aston Villa is delighted to announce the signing of Anwar El Ghazi from Lille on a season-long loan.
The winger is a graduate of the academy at Dutch giants, Ajax for whom he played over 70 times including in the Champions League where he scored against Barcelona in the Nou Camp in 2014.
Capped at senior international level by the Netherlands, El Ghazi has been with Lille since January 2017.
He said: “I am thrilled to join a football club of the size of Aston Villa.
“I visited Villa Park late last night after flying in from Holland and it gave me goosebumps.
“I can’t wait to get out there and experience it for real and play in front of such passionate fans.”
Adaptable twice-capped Netherlands international El Ghazi can also play at left-back and in the centre of defence
Taken from the BBC website. So that's the CB problem solved then....
Adaptable twice-capped Netherlands international El Ghazi can also play at left-back and in the centre of defence
Taken from the BBC website. So that's the CB problem solved then....
He can’t be worse than Jedinak.
When did we become Ameriken.
And did a Dutch Moroccan really say goosebumps.
Good work by AT.
Adaptable twice-capped Netherlands international El Ghazi can also play at left-back and in the centre of defence
Taken from the BBC website. So that's the CB problem solved then....
He can’t be worse than Jedinak.
True. Hopefully a bit more mobile though!
My buddy from Eindhoven just text me - doesn't like him as he is from Ajax :) but goes on to say he is a dangerous player
Hopefully an exciting player
My buddy from Eindhoven just text me - doesn't like him as he is from Ajax :) but goes on to say he is a dangerous player
Hopefully an exciting player
Can you find out please if this guy is a left back operator or just a left winger
He's a Mendes client it seems.
Surely that BBC article should say centre forward and not defence. There's nothing anywhere about him ever having played in defence, he's a goal scoring winger/forward.
Wonder if Albert will end up back at Boro on loan?I thought that this morning, there will need to be a fall guy, but then he played a lot better last night.
He's a Mendes client it seems.
Surely that BBC article should say centre forward and not defence. There's nothing anywhere about him ever having played in defence, he's a goal scoring winger/forward.
and it’s no good asking Bruce what his position is because he definitely won’t know
When did we become Ameriken.
And did a Dutch Moroccan really say goosebumps.
He probably said gooshbumpsh.
My buddy from Eindhoven just text me - doesn't like him as he is from Ajax :) but goes on to say he is a dangerous player
Hopefully an exciting player
Can you find out please if this guy is a left back operator or just a left winger
He'll be a right back. And like it.
He's a Mendes client it seems.
Surely that BBC article should say centre forward and not defence. There's nothing anywhere about him ever having played in defence, he's a goal scoring winger/forward.
I am surprised Lille let him go out on loan. He played 39 games for them last season.
I am surprised Lille let him go out on loan. He played 39 games for them last season.
Well with the level of coaching he will receive at villa he will be off to Barcelona next summer.
I am surprised Lille let him go out on loan. He played 39 games for them last season.
Adaptable twice-capped Netherlands international El Ghazi can also play at left-back and in the centre of defence
Taken from the BBC website. So that's the CB problem solved then....
He can’t be worse than Jedinak.
Adaptable twice-capped Netherlands international El Ghazi can also play at left-back and in the centre of defence
Taken from the BBC website. So that's the CB problem solved then....
He can’t be worse than Jedinak.
There's no way he can play at centre back
Can he play tomorrow?
He’s from the EU isn’t he?You still have to get international clearance to transfer between clubs in football federations in different countries. I think that even applies for transfers between Scotland and England for example, so we would have had to have received international clearance for McGinn when he joined us from Hibs before he could play for us.
He’s from the EU isn’t he?
Ads, he comes across as a lad who really wants to come to the club and pleased with that. Hopefully another plus for John Terry as well, know he is Chelsea through and through, but he also has felt real passion at Villa and the away support is second to none, We have to make VP a fortress as well where opposition players worry
He really comes across well, however I have one question, Why the F^"K has Micah Richards got a locker at Bodymoor Heath?
He really comes across well, however I have one question, Why the F^"K has Micah Richards got a locker at Bodymoor Heath?
It’s where he keeps his mop and bucket.
For anyone interested
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dmfz-gEXgAA-Qe5.jpg)
Apparently he let something slip about the lack of visibility of Bruce at training.
Not much more to add, he just said he hadn’t seen Bruce at training in days.Apparently he let something slip about the lack of visibility of Bruce at training.
Go on...
In fairness it's because he's away scouting.
He's determined to find out what Gregg's do with the leftovers at the end of the day.
Not much more to add, he just said he hadn’t seen Bruce at training in days.Apparently he let something slip about the lack of visibility of Bruce at training.
Go on...
Not much more to add, he just said he hadn’t seen Bruce at training in days.Apparently he let something slip about the lack of visibility of Bruce at training.
Go on...
I wonder if it's because a fair few of the squad are on international duty?
He should be there whether he takes it or not.
I was under the impression the coaches took training not Bruce anyway.
Is that not the case ?
Warnock is like that aswell, it's an old school English coaching thing to leave most of the week to the coaches and then manager comes in a day or two before the game to assess things.
Warnock is like that aswell, it's an old school English coaching thing to leave most of the week to the coaches and then manager comes in a day or two before the game to assess things.
I remember hearing O'Neill saying something like he felt the players would get tired of hearing his voice if he was there constantly, so he wouldn't be there all the time as he wanted his presence to have an impact and keep players on their toes. Guess he got it from Brian Clough.
So what do these managers do during the days they're not training, read H&V all day at the office in VP while laughing their arses off?
So what do these managers do during the days they're not training, read H&V all day at the office in VP while laughing their arses off?
I think he posts on here too.
Pleased Bruce has left out this waster. He was getting a bit ahead of himself by scoring and providing assists. Obviously foreign lad doesn’t know the English way so Bruce is teaching him a lesson
That French kid saw Bruce arranging the wheels bins on the training pitch and fucked off back to France pronto.Pleased Bruce has left out this waster. He was getting a bit ahead of himself by scoring and providing assists. Obviously foreign lad doesn’t know the English way so Bruce is teaching him a lesson
Quite. Talented player turns up and is surprised that a shit manager is shit, gets binned out.
File alongside Veretout, Amavi, Adama et al.
Dunno about this, he didn’t show much stomach for the fight at Sheffield, think Bruce called this one right.
Dunno about this, he didn’t show much stomach for the fight at Sheffield, think Bruce called this one right.
Dunno about this, he didn’t show much stomach for the fight at Sheffield, think Bruce called this one right.
Three subs that came on also were lively. Starting with Elmo on right wing is effectively wasting a sub though
Dunno about this, he didn’t show much stomach for the fight at Sheffield, think Bruce called this one right.
Three subs that came on also were lively. Starting with Elmo on right wing is effectively wasting a sub though
Agree, he should be RB instead of Hutton
He was pretty poor v Rotherham I thought . Confidence issue?
Can't see him starting in the next couple of games
Dunno about this, he didn’t show much stomach for the fight at Sheffield, think Bruce called this one right.
Three subs that came on also were lively. Starting with Elmo on right wing is effectively wasting a sub though
Agree, he should be RB instead of Hutton
Yes. Largely because Hutton should be LB instead of Taylor
Dunno about this, he didn’t show much stomach for the fight at Sheffield, think Bruce called this one right.
Three subs that came on also were lively. Starting with Elmo on right wing is effectively wasting a sub though
Agree, he should be RB instead of Hutton
Yes. Largely because Hutton should be LB instead of Taylor
Hutton shouldn't be anywhere near the team full stop
First game since 1st September after a goal and assist in a new league.
No minutes in 7 weeks and we have people writing him off when he's chucked in and will need time.
Typical dead head Villa all round.
Disappointed with El Ghazi. For a fairly big guy he's incredibly weak and easily brushed off the ball. Bruce was stupid to sign him and Bolasie on big wages. We'd be better off developing Andre Green and saving a fortune on wages.
He one that Elmo nearly got on the end of was a beauty. I didn't notice any frustration, but you could see what he wanted to do, he just lacked sharpness to execute it.
I fail to see what question or weakness El Ghazi was the answer to. When looking at our squad one of the last things needed was another wide player. Feels like one of those just because we can signings, that always cost us a lot of dough for very little return.
Recall clause but only if he’s wanted by his parent club.
Recall clause but only if he’s wanted by his parent club.
So what you are saying is that he is an orphan.
Well he came through the ranks at Ajax, and I know they're not the force they once were but I believe their coaching set-up still has a very good reputation. Lord only knows what he must have made of Bruce's training sessions.
Well he came through the ranks at Ajax, and I know they're not the force they once were but I believe their coaching set-up still has a very good reputation. Lord only knows what he must have made of Bruce's training sessions.
No doubt he's got excellent technique but when I saw him play for Reading I noticed he didn't really challenge for headers in duels and also didn't want physical contact when challenging for the ball so get the feeling that's why we haven't seen him much so far.
Didn’t he get dropped after Sheffield United having been the only player to come out of that game with any credit at all? Another victim of Bruce’s outstanding man management and coaching. He was fucked off and has been reintegrated into the fold. There’s a very decent player in there.
Superb first touch to set up the chance and an excellent finish, first right, then left.That was precision. Watching from Upper North I was right in line and shouted "goal" as soon as bll left his feet.
Wonderful!!
Well he came through the ranks at Ajax, and I know they're not the force they once were but I believe their coaching set-up still has a very good reputation. Lord only knows what he must have made of Bruce's training sessions.
No doubt he's got excellent technique but when I saw him play for Reading I noticed he didn't really challenge for headers in duels and also didn't want physical contact when challenging for the ball so get the feeling that's why we haven't seen him much so far.
Amongst all the mayhem of Wednesday night, it was only the next day I realised what a sublime first touch he had for his goal. That ball is just killed before the final shot.It was a superb goal, great control, very little backlift. The finish reminded me of Ronaldo (no other comparisons between the players before people spit their tea out!)
Smith said he's been training hardThat means Boro can’t do that with Grealish, Kodjia and Bolasie at the same time.
Shouldn't forget that forest left him one v one. Which Smith said he was surprised by
Boro won't be doing that
Well he came through the ranks at Ajax, and I know they're not the force they once were but I believe their coaching set-up still has a very good reputation. Lord only knows what he must have made of Bruce's training sessions.
No doubt he's got excellent technique but when I saw him play for Reading I noticed he didn't really challenge for headers in duels and also didn't want physical contact when challenging for the ball so get the feeling that's why we haven't seen him much so far.
You sure you didn’t dream that? Don’t think he’s ever played for Reading.
It's hard to imagine Boro being anymore compact though with their shape.
It will be more physical with Friend and Shotton at full back.
It's hard to imagine Boro being anymore compact though with their shape.
It will be more physical with Friend and Shotton at full back.
Pulis been even more defensive than usual this season. Against Derby at home they had Ayala, Flint and Fry as their back 3, McNair and Friend as the defensive wing backs and then Besic, Adam Clayton and Howson as three deep sitting midfielders. Downing supported Assombalonga in attack
Seems to have even given up on playing out and out wingers as he did at Stoke.
A good impact player at bestEl Ghazi looked better on Wednesday night than previous appearances - he put in one or two great crosses and scored a super goal. Maybe he'll come good; at least for this division.
Agreed, he was great. Full of running and good decision making. What an embarrassment of attacking riches we have.It’s just incredible the bloke who bought them had no intention of attacking. Absolutely bonkers how easily Smith is making this look!
A few weeks ago against Norwich I thought he was a complete bottle job. Once again just look at what good, solid, intense coaching does.
It does seem Bruce's mentality was to compete and just hope one of our quality players would pull a rabbit out of the bag. When it worked it looked good but there's no consistency in that as we have found to our cost.
It does seem Bruce's mentality was to compete and just hope one of our quality players would pull a rabbit out of the bag. When it worked it looked good but there's no consistency in that as we have found to our cost.
Well it was. His approach entirely was to buy more experienced or better quality players relative to the what our opponents could do and then leave them to win games. So at times we looked lost, without a plan and mostly average and then Snoddy wins it at Sheffield Utd. You don’t have to coach or teach then.
You can fuck your fat arse off to Spain to play golf with your mates on international breaks instead of improving yourself knowing you’ve done the bare minimum. A point proven by accident by El Ghazi when he revealed Bruce was rarely there. Bruce dropped him for spilling the beans
Bruce was lazy and felt he earned the right to do as little as possible. The hunger that he had at Wigan or the Noses as a younger manager was gone. He took the path of least work as our manager hoping it would be enough to see the job through.
Oooo.... I'm developing a little man crush on this wee lad....
ExactlyOooo.... I'm developing a little man crush on this wee lad....
Wee?! He's 6'2"!
https://twitter.com/mcguinnessav/status/1071167714692132865
Once they realised how good he is West Brom were terrified. Get him signed up.
No one, absolutely fucking nobody, will tell me O’Hare hasn’t got more ability than this joker. Get rid....return to fucking sender
Sorry, but when did we sign Ronaldo ?He really reminds me of him
I was wrong, especially after Norwich. Hopefully we'll sign him at the end of the season - we have the option. No brainer!
When he took the two defenders to the touchline, then skimmed them both, was sublime.
This is why it’s also important not to criticize players too quickly. Look at how many wrote him off at the start of the year. Also the criticism of Tammy has been surprising after one poor game. In fact it was mainly one terrible miss. These are young players who are going to make errors or have ups and downs as they develop. El Ghazi looks the real deal now. Under Bruce like many of our players they looked way less than that and disinterested. There’s lots more to come from all of them.
Looks a bit like Ronaldo on the ball.
Christ where has he been all season, he’s been fantastic lately!
When you watch the replay his miss wasn't as bad as at first glance the ball was behind him and he snatched at it what i am more worried about is his lack of technique in heading the ball, it is a separate skill set and if he can get it right he will be almost the complete centre forward.
I thought his debut was decent. He certainly got a good reception when he was subbed.
After that though, for whatever reasons, he's not featured until the Boro game.
Player of the season since Smith arrived would be a contest between Abraham, McGinn, tuanzebe for me
Its entirely down to coaching. You could see when he came on against Norwich (I think-or maybe QPR) he struggled for the time he was on to get used to the system, but learned very quickly. He can now play with either full-back and has confidence to take players on. Still work to do in closing down the long ball, but getting better by the game.He mentioned in an interview a month or so ago he was surprised by the physicality of the Championship. I'm sure Smith has had a part to play but it's also about him needing time to get up to speed in a new country and new league.
Look at the first goal against Albion. When Anwar got the ball. there were 3 defenders in front of him. Jack made a run out wide, and 2 followed him. That;s nearly always the case. He opens up play
At some point in the near future I expect Bruce (who will be back in management at say Sheffield Wednesday) to be on the Alan Brazil show spouting some shit about not being a bad judge of players and pointing to the likes of El Ghazi, Tuanzebe and McGinn as examples. Failing to realise that he had no idea what to do with them.
There was a big Jack sized hole in the midfield today and it showed. We were back to Bruce days of not knowing what to do with the ball in this area.
Poor today and played like he thought it was too cold and wet for football !
He is the oil in the engine...The Villa engine?
There was a big Jack sized hole in the midfield today and it showed. We were back to Bruce days of not knowing what to do with the ball in this area.
I'd like to see him in the middle as well, although I worry he'd be a bit too "headless chicken".
His cross for the goal yesterday was excellent too, which you'd obviously lose if you brought him inside.
Have we got the option to buy this fella? He’s getting better every game.
Did I read somewhere that we have an obligation to buy, rather than an option?
if so, like with Scott Sinclair.
Another player who looks more confident and physically stronger.
Maybe this old fashioned idea of a manager being at the trading ground and working with players is something to do with it.
Still 50/50 for me. He's got talent but it's not shown enough during 90 minutes to warrant a decent price tag. If it's over 5m i'd be trying to back out of it.
Still 50/50 for me. He's got talent but it's not shown enough during 90 minutes to warrant a decent price tag. If it's over 5m i'd be trying to back out of it.
Edited as when he signed the club announced 4 years so smeg knows why loads of places are saying he's out of contract in the summer!
Edited as when he signed the club announced 4 years so smeg knows why loads of places are saying he's out of contract in the summer!
Must admit, I thought that he was only on loan
I like him. He's technically very good and he gets up and down a lot. He doesn't often waste possession and he has a knack for getting into good positions. He's also quick and you can see full backs are often worried he is going to run at them.
Think he has a lot of potential; he's still only 23 after all and will likely grow into being a very good player. I would definitely keep him.
If he adds end product (it's coming) and consistency he could be top drawer, which is something I didn't think I'd be saying after his first couple of games.
He’s still developing and I love his swagger. Played really well today.
he needs more consistency, too hit and miss for me but very good yesterday.
he needs more consistency, too hit and miss for me but very good yesterday.
Consistency comes with experience. DS is probably the best type of Manager to unlock El Ghazi's undoubted talent. One player we need to sign up for next season - I believe we have the option to buy him?
Apologies if this is covered elsewhere.
The BBC Match Report clearly states that El Ghazi was mistakenly sent off against Leeds today and that he never touched Bamford, who then simulated injury.
More than reasonable grounds for an appeal I would think ?
If the simulation by Bamford is proven, can retrospective action be taken against him ?
Apologies if this is covered elsewhere.
The BBC Match Report clearly states that El Ghazi was mistakenly sent off against Leeds today and that he never touched Bamford, who then simulated injury.
More than reasonable grounds for an appeal I would think ?
If the simulation by Bamford is proven, can retrospective action be taken against him ?
Bamford was yellow carded which unfortunately - due to the FA's positively ridiculous rules - means he can't have a ban instated.
El Ghazi's card will be overturned or Villa will kick up stink. All news sources have reported it as unjust, as did the commentators at the time.
That red card has to be rescinded. If it isn't, would it be a 1 or 3 game ban?
That red card has to be rescinded. If it isn't, would it be a 1 or 3 game ban?
Apologies if this is covered elsewhere.
The BBC Match Report clearly states that El Ghazi was mistakenly sent off against Leeds today and that he never touched Bamford, who then simulated injury.
More than reasonable grounds for an appeal I would think ?
If the simulation by Bamford is proven, can retrospective action be taken against him ?
Bamford was yellow carded which unfortunately - due to the FA's positively ridiculous rules - means he can't have a ban instated.
El Ghazi's card will be overturned or Villa will kick up stink. All news sources have reported it as unjust, as did the commentators at the time.
Bamford wasn't booked for simulation otherwise El Ghazi wouldn't have been sent off. As the ref didn't see that, it can be punished retrospectively. Whether it will be is another matter.
They charged £175 for a match ticket and a breakfast buffet. Robbing Yorkshire bastards.
They charged £175 for a match ticket and a breakfast buffet. Robbing Yorkshire bastards.
They charged £175 for a match ticket and a breakfast buffet. Robbing Yorkshire bastards.
But did that also include the meet-and-greet with St*v* H*d*e.
Two games only? They should up that. It should be two games for being a c**t and whatever our players suspension would’ve been.
The FA will have managed to fine us twice for failing to control our players, in games 7 weeks apart, while saying nary a word about assaults on players.
The FA will have managed to fine us twice for failing to control our players, in games 7 weeks apart, while saying nary a word about assaults on players.
Yes. I can only think they are waiting for the season to end before handing out a punishment for the Blues
How many days does it usually take for the FA to sort these appeals out? I'd rather it wasn't hanging over the club and player for days waiting for them to make a decision.
Maybe he's lethal the rest of the time, but yesterday I thought Bamford looked useless. I thought a cast member of TOWIE had won a competition to play upfront.
There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Not for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
I hope he get's it overturned before the Norwich game and that cheat Bamford get's a three game ban instead.
Maybe he's lethal the rest of the time, but yesterday I thought Bamford looked useless. I thought a cast member of TOWIE had won a competition to play upfront.
Not for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Not for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Bamford's yellow was for his assault on Hourihane, not for play acting. He can still get picked up retrospectively and should receive a 2 game ban.
El Ghazi's red will be overturned by the end of tomorrow I would imagine.
I hope he get's it overturned before the Norwich game and that cheat Bamford get's a three game ban instead.
I hope he get's it overturned before the Norwich game and that cheat Bamford get's a three game ban instead.
I hope not. I'd prefer to see him playing up front for Leeds. He's shit.
It at same time it’s possible that Hourihane will get a ban for his punch to stomach / ribsNot for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Bamford's yellow was for his assault on Hourihane, not for play acting. He can still get picked up retrospectively and should receive a 2 game ban.
El Ghazi's red will be overturned by the end of tomorrow I would imagine.
I hope he get's it overturned before the Norwich game and that cheat Bamford get's a three game ban instead.
I hope not. I'd prefer to see him playing up front for Leeds. He's shit.
It at same time it’s possible that Hourihane will get a ban for his punch to stomach / ribsNot for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Bamford's yellow was for his assault on Hourihane, not for play acting. He can still get picked up retrospectively and should receive a 2 game ban.
El Ghazi's red will be overturned by the end of tomorrow I would imagine.
It at same time it’s possible that Hourihane will get a ban for his punch to stomach / ribsNot for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Bamford's yellow was for his assault on Hourihane, not for play acting. He can still get picked up retrospectively and should receive a 2 game ban.
El Ghazi's red will be overturned by the end of tomorrow I would imagine.
I hope he get's it overturned before the Norwich game and that cheat Bamford get's a three game ban instead.
I hope not. I'd prefer to see him playing up front for Leeds. He's shit.
Kemar Roofe is a much better striker for way Leeds play.
I know who I'd rather see upfront for them if we meet again in PO final.
I hope he get's it overturned before the Norwich game and that cheat Bamford get's a three game ban instead.
this would only be fair in my opinion, a straight red is a 3 game ban.
UTV
The Doc
It at same time it’s possible that Hourihane will get a ban for his punch to stomach / ribsNot for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Bamford's yellow was for his assault on Hourihane, not for play acting. He can still get picked up retrospectively and should receive a 2 game ban.
El Ghazi's red will be overturned by the end of tomorrow I would imagine.
That is quite possible as well.
It at same time it’s possible that Hourihane will get a ban for his punch to stomach / ribsNot for simulation he wasn't.There's no doubt it will be over turned in plenty of time for Norwich so no need to panic about that.
I wouldn't be surprised if we get another fine for failing to control players though. Not that I think we deserve it, but the players actions - particularly Hourihane - were far worse than against Blues.
The only silver lining is I don't see how Bamford can avoid a ban.
Wasn’t he given a card as a result of the incident though which means he can’t be given a retrospective punishment?
Bamford's yellow was for his assault on Hourihane, not for play acting. He can still get picked up retrospectively and should receive a 2 game ban.
El Ghazi's red will be overturned by the end of tomorrow I would imagine.
That is quite possible as well.
If the ref or linesman had seen Hourihane do that he might have been sent off for violent conduct. You can't just go up and jab a bloke in the ribs. That was a twat thing to do as much as he was defending his teammates.
Well the incidents are now being analysed on SSN, and I get the feeling the following will happen on official review:
1. El Ghazi red card rescinded.
2. Bamford charged with deceiving officials and receive 2 game ban.
3. Hourihane charge with violent conduct and possible 3 game ban.
3. Both teams charged with failing to control players and fined.
I agree the “punch” was a nonsense and was so soft that their player didn’t react, however I think they will charge him for the action and intent.
Well the incidents are now being analysed on SSN, and I get the feeling the following will happen on official review:
1. El Ghazi red card rescinded.
2. Bamford charged with deceiving officials and receive 2 game ban.
3. Hourihane charge with violent conduct and possible 3 game ban.
3. Both teams charged with failing to control players and fined.
I agree the “punch” was a nonsense and was so soft that their player didn’t react, however I think they will charge him for the action and intent.
Agreed in principle, but a 2 match ban to equal Bamford's. It would be a massive fuck you from the FA to Villa if they took our request for a review and turned that into banning our player for longer than the Leeds lad. I'm not saying they wouldn't do it as they are daft eejits at the best of times, but I'd like to think some level of common sense would prevail.
I agree and think it should be no more than 1 game ban for Hourihane if they do charge him given that the action and footage is inconclusive (ie their player didn't react so he may not have made contact or it could have been a point/prod gesture as we can't see his fist). If it was a 3 game ban then the club should most certainly appeal.Well the incidents are now being analysed on SSN, and I get the feeling the following will happen on official review:
1. El Ghazi red card rescinded.
2. Bamford charged with deceiving officials and receive 2 game ban.
3. Hourihane charge with violent conduct and possible 3 game ban.
3. Both teams charged with failing to control players and fined.
I agree the “punch” was a nonsense and was so soft that their player didn’t react, however I think they will charge him for the action and intent.
Agreed in principle, but a 2 match ban to equal Bamford's. It would be a massive fuck you from the FA to Villa if they took our request for a review and turned that into banning our player for longer than the Leeds lad. I'm not saying they wouldn't do it as they are daft eejits at the best of times, but I'd like to think some level of common sense would prevail.
violent conduct is a 3 match ban, he only punched him softly isn't really much of a defence.
He goes to punch him, that the player hardly reacts is a credit to him but doesn't change it being violent conduct, I really don't get why anyone is trying to defend that. If that had been a sha player on Jack there'd almost certainly be zero attempts on here to play it down.
He goes to punch him, that the player hardly reacts is a credit to him but doesn't change it being violent conduct, I really don't get why anyone is trying to defend that. If that had been a sha player on Jack there'd almost certainly be zero attempts on here to play it down.
"He goes to punch him"
What does that even mean? Has he punched him or not, in your view?
If he has, why the total lack of reaction?
If they both got booked which I think they did, can the FA still act retrospectively?
If they both got booked which I think they did, can the FA still act retrospectively?
Red card rescindedWhere has this been officially confirmed? Any links?
Red card rescinded
John Perry (Telegraph) confirmed it. And sounds like no action over Conor. Good News if true....
What else did people think Hourihane would get done for? I'd not looked back at it since Sunday, but reading various tweeted replies to Henry Winter's piece prompted me to do so. From what I can see, he neither grabs Klich round the throat nor punches him, doesn't even swing a punch.There's a video of him making a sharp jab towards Kliche's stomach / chest which has been interpreted by many as a punch. There's comment that Klich doesn't react, but to be fair he does, he kind of spins away after the 'poke'
I suspect Hourihane got away with any further punishment because he was booked for his part in the fracas, so it was deemed to have been dealt with by the ref. Bamford was too, but the simulation was not dealt with by the ref hence the retrospective ban. Hourihane was pretty aggressive during the whole thing and can perhaps consider himself lucky to only end up with a yellow.Agreed. It was full on red mist and he raised his hands which is usually a big no no. I think he can count himself lucky.
I know by definition most football fans are partisan and I'm sure I have claret & blue specs along with the rest of you, but even so I have been pretty dismayed at how one eyed Leeds fans have generally been over the whole affair. Granted most accept Bamford was out of order (how could you not?) but loads are still aggrieved by Jack 'diving all over the place,' feel playing on was perfectly reasonable (whereas under the specific circumstances most people in football seem to think it was a disgrace) and are convinced Hourihane is Mike Tyson reincarnated.
Most fans think the world is against them (look at us with WM, Kalinic work permit, Beattie tapping up etc) but their 'woe me' attitude takes things to another level given their team and Bamfords conduct on Sunday.
I suspect Hourihane got away with any further punishment because he was booked for his part in the fracas, so it was deemed to have been dealt with by the ref. Bamford was too, but the simulation was not dealt with by the ref hence the retrospective ban. Hourihane was pretty aggressive during the whole thing and can perhaps consider himself lucky to only end up with a yellow.Agreed. It was full on red mist and he raised his hands which is usually a big no no. I think he can count himself lucky.
So we've been charged twice in a season with failing to control our players - guessing that will escalate the punishment a bit?
If Bamford does appeal, would that mean he's eligible to play the next 2 games whilst the appeal is heard?
Indeed he would, but if it means some input into the play-offs, then I wouldn't be surprised if he did...If Bamford does appeal, would that mean he's eligible to play the next 2 games whilst the appeal is heard?
I wouldn't bother if I was him. He'd just make himself look even more of a twat than he already has.
If Bamford does appeal, would that mean he's eligible to play the next 2 games whilst the appeal is heard?
He was certainly one of our better players again today and have to respect his religious beliefs. Bit worried about Tuesday, he will have fasted for longer.
He was certainly one of our better players again today and have to respect his religious beliefs. Bit worried about Tuesday, he will have fasted for longer.
It's a night game so he can take on food.
Fair play to him. He's observing Ramadan so is fasting. Deano said he was just knackered at the end rather than injured.
Fair play to him. He's observing Ramadan so is fasting. Deano said he was just knackered at the end rather than injured.
Fair play to him. He's observing Ramadan so is fasting. Deano said he was just knackered at the end rather than injured.
Completely forgot about that. Means he couldn’t even accept water. That’s hard. Makes his display al the more impressive.
Yes that's correct from what I have been told. Anwar and Ahmed are fasting. Tuesday night will be more difficult as at 8PM they would be about 7 hours further into the fast than yesterday. Dean and Villa nutritional staff have to think around that.Fair play to him. He's observing Ramadan so is fasting. Deano said he was just knackered at the end rather than injured.
Completely forgot about that. Means he couldn’t even accept water. That’s hard. Makes his display al the more impressive.
Presumably Elmo was affected too.
Yes that's correct from what I have been told. Anwar and Ahmed are fasting. Tuesday night will be more difficult as at 8PM they would be about 7 hours further into the fast than yesterday. Dean and Villa nutritional staff have to think around that.Fair play to him. He's observing Ramadan so is fasting. Deano said he was just knackered at the end rather than injured.
Completely forgot about that. Means he couldn’t even accept water. That’s hard. Makes his display al the more impressive.
Presumably Elmo was affected too.
One idea could be to bench El Ghazi and as fast ends around 8.50 PM he will be ready for the second half?
Yes that's correct from what I have been told. Anwar and Ahmed are fasting. Tuesday night will be more difficult as at 8PM they would be about 7 hours further into the fast than yesterday. Dean and Villa nutritional staff have to think around that.Fair play to him. He's observing Ramadan so is fasting. Deano said he was just knackered at the end rather than injured.
Completely forgot about that. Means he couldn’t even accept water. That’s hard. Makes his display al the more impressive.
Presumably Elmo was affected too.
One idea could be to bench El Ghazi and as fast ends around 8.50 PM he will be ready for the second half?
It can't surely be reasonable to ask them to start the game if they haven't eaten anything all day ahead of an evening kickoff? It also sounds like a bad idea to do so from a football perspective.
I think some Imams think it's acceptable to break fast when you are playing sport, so long as you make up for it at some point. Opinion is divided, though. Either way, neither AAG or Elmo looked affected yesterday, they will at least be able to drink water on Tuesday night, regardless. Albeit they won't have had anything to eat for about seventeen hours.Yes so and I will try to explain as much as I can.
What do they do in the Arctic Circle where the sun never sets?
What do they do in the Arctic Circle where the sun never sets?
Grrrrr, religious sky fairy nonsense.....
We'e got a club chaplain. Can't we get a club iman to tell them Allah says it's okay?Only the Christian guys as far as I know. Personally I think they need a Buddhist one who could teach the players meditation and keep an eye on mental health issues. Just saying like.
Surely it’s the same for Hegazi for the baggies? He played okay yesterday.
Grrrrr, religious sky fairy nonsense.....
Not massively thoughtful Risso. Obviously I think about this stuff as it’s my job to, but have you ever (had the chance to) ask/ed someone why they fast?
If it was an away fixture further away the travel exemption also might come into play but enemy lines are pretty close to home in this case. Thanks for sharing the work citation Aftab.
Has anyone ever had any contact with the club’s Chaplains Revs Philip Nott & Ken Baker?
This sort of thread always makes me think of the Billy Bragg song, God's Footballer, inspired by Wolves’ Peter Knowles.
All this starving yourself bullshit.
I'll never understand the absolutely nuts things religion makes people do.
Is it connected to sleep? Smith mentioned we'd been monitoring his sleep.Fasting results in disturbed sleep. Pattern is you break fast at around 9PM. Dinner will take around 45 minutes. After that you will either relax at home or go to the mosque for an elongated prayer. This will finish around midnight. Return home and go to sleep but wake up at 3AM for breakfast. This is your meal to start fast for next day. Post that you may go back to bed or do other things till your work day starts. So ensuring a players sleeps adequately is a must I would think.
Surely it’s the same for Hegazi for the baggies? He played okay yesterday.Yes, he had plenty of energy to slide in on Adomah for his booking.
Is it connected to sleep? Smith mentioned we'd been monitoring his sleep.
Why replace players that played well just because you have decided that they won't be physically fit despite the evidence to the contrary... such as the fact they both played well?
Why replace players that played well just because you have decided that they won't be physically fit despite the evidence to the contrary... such as the fact they both played well?
Why replace players that played well just because you have decided that they won't be physically fit despite the evidence to the contrary... such as the fact they both played well?
They can take on food and water at half-time. Presumably they've dealt with this before and don't consider it a problem. Seems a bit odd to decide it is a problem on their behalf, and you leave yourselves open to legal action if you decide to drop players based on their religious beliefs.
They can take on food and water at half-time. Presumably they've dealt with this before and don't consider it a problem. Seems a bit odd to decide it is a problem on their behalf, and you leave yourselves open to legal action if you decide to drop players based on their religious beliefs.
They can take on food and water at half-time. Presumably they've dealt with this before and don't consider it a problem. Seems a bit odd to decide it is a problem on their behalf, and you leave yourselves open to legal action if you decide to drop players based on their religious beliefs.This will not happen. There are lot of do's and don'ts that kick in during Ramadan. It is actually more restrictive mentally than physically. Purpose being to cleanse your self and set good habits for the rest of the year. During fast your personal conduct must be exemplarily. Threatening someone or taking an aggressive stance just because you are fasting invalidates your fast. Instruction there is do not fast if fasting is going to impinge on your chosen way of providing a living for yourself and your family. There are dispensations and alternatives available to remedy this for individuals.
We'll all let him off if he decides to not be that devout for the evening, right? Playing his part in warding off the forces of evil from Smethwick is surely a godly enough endeavour.In the book first verse of Chapter 31 starts with : Fuck the Albion. Need I say more.
Apparently you're allowed to eat/drink if you're going on a 'journey', which seems very much open to interpretationWell, El Ghazi is going on a trip to Sandwell which is the second stop on our journey to the Premier League. My interpretation is therefore: Elmo and Anwar, fill your boots like it is is 05/06/2019!
Isn't there something about skipping your fast for work reasons and 'paying it forward' by doing charitable work instead? I know a few people in Bergen who both follow the Mecca timings and do charity work because they feel that they're cheating otherwise.Yes all of that and more as mentioned previously.
We'll all let him off if he decides to not be that devout for the evening, right? Playing his part in warding off the forces of evil from Smethwick is surely a godly enough endeavour.In the book first verse of Chapter 31 starts with : Fuck the Albion. Need I say more.
We'll all let him off if he decides to not be that devout for the evening, right? Playing his part in warding off the forces of evil from Smethwick is surely a godly enough endeavour.In the book first verse of Chapter 31 starts with : Fuck the Albion. Need I say more.
Ramadan Mubarak Aftab!Thank you.
Do vitamin supplements etc, pills and injections, count?Not allowed unless it’s necessary prescribed medicine.
Are there any Christian players that do not play on Sundays or Easter weekend?
Any Jewish players that will not play on Fridays?
The way sky fuck about with the fixtures there must be other players effected by their religious beliefs clashing with football.
I remember Johnathan Edwards refusing to jump once. I think.
FOOTBALLER Simon Burgher could have been exchanging passes with Stan Collymore and Dwight Yorke in the Premiership.
He could be wining and dining in the second city's finest restaurants and driving round in an open top sports car on a mammoth salary.
But the 31-year-old turned his back on a superstar lifestyle at Villa Park to follow God.
The former Exeter City and Bromsgrove Rovers midfielder is a devout Seventh Day Adventist - which means Saturday is his day of rest.
He played for the Vauxhall Conference club for eight years without ever featuring in Saturday matches.
His midweek displays were so impressive that boyhood heroes Villa came knocking on his door wanting him to sign a professional contract.
But as that meant playing at weekends he turned them down flat and he now plies his trade for minnows Rover Sports in the Wolverhampton Sunday League.
And he may even have to quit them if a proposed take-over of Saturday club Wednesfield takes place later this year.
Now a PE and human biology teacher in Small Heath, Burgher spoke of his rejection of the dream move to Ron Atkinson's Villa.
"I am a lifelong Villa fan and it was a hard decision to have to make.
"They came in for me five years ago when I was at Bromsgrove and wanted me to sign professional forms. But that would have meant going against my beliefs and so I said no.
"But it wasn't easy to do. I had to think long and hard about it. I asked God for guidance and hopefully He made the right decision for me."
Burgher, who lives nearby the ground in Aston, does not smoke or drink and never misses church on a Saturday.
He said: "Everyone knows the Sabbath used to be on a Saturday and was changed just for convenience. I can never be paid for playing on that day."
Burgher lines up against former club Lodge Cottrell on May 10 in the final of the Birmingham County Premier Challenge Cup.
Looking ahead to the match Burgher said: "It's going to be a right old ding-dong! They are my mates and have been phoning me all week saying how they are going to chop me down!"
A story most probably don't know.QuoteFOOTBALLER Simon Burgher could have been exchanging passes with Stan Collymore and Dwight Yorke in the Premiership.
He could be wining and dining in the second city's finest restaurants and driving round in an open top sports car on a mammoth salary.
But the 31-year-old turned his back on a superstar lifestyle at Villa Park to follow God.
The former Exeter City and Bromsgrove Rovers midfielder is a devout Seventh Day Adventist - which means Saturday is his day of rest.
He played for the Vauxhall Conference club for eight years without ever featuring in Saturday matches.
His midweek displays were so impressive that boyhood heroes Villa came knocking on his door wanting him to sign a professional contract.
But as that meant playing at weekends he turned them down flat and he now plies his trade for minnows Rover Sports in the Wolverhampton Sunday League.
And he may even have to quit them if a proposed take-over of Saturday club Wednesfield takes place later this year.
Now a PE and human biology teacher in Small Heath, Burgher spoke of his rejection of the dream move to Ron Atkinson's Villa.
"I am a lifelong Villa fan and it was a hard decision to have to make.
"They came in for me five years ago when I was at Bromsgrove and wanted me to sign professional forms. But that would have meant going against my beliefs and so I said no.
"But it wasn't easy to do. I had to think long and hard about it. I asked God for guidance and hopefully He made the right decision for me."
Burgher, who lives nearby the ground in Aston, does not smoke or drink and never misses church on a Saturday.
He said: "Everyone knows the Sabbath used to be on a Saturday and was changed just for convenience. I can never be paid for playing on that day."
Burgher lines up against former club Lodge Cottrell on May 10 in the final of the Birmingham County Premier Challenge Cup.
Looking ahead to the match Burgher said: "It's going to be a right old ding-dong! They are my mates and have been phoning me all week saying how they are going to chop me down!"
Didn’t a bloke pack up playing in the 80s as playing on Sunday’s would go against his religion, seem to mind he played for Walsall or maybe the Tatters.
It was Peter Knowles of Wolves, I think you're talking about? Retired in 1970. His Wiki page suggests that he was contracted until 1982, though, does that mean he was getting paid all that time?
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Knowles
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Knowles
They kept Jack and McGinn wuietvtova point, this man steopedv up big time!
Motm for me today, well played Anwar
I think there is a quality player there. Honestly feel like he's been hit and miss during his time with us but he was good today and I'd be happy to sign him permanently if the deal is good.
Well done to him today.
Nice touch from him with the Nouri t-shirt.
https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1133083654085840896
Nice touch from him with the Nouri t-shirt.
https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1133083654085840896
Wondered about that shirt, just looked him up, had forgotten the story https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abdelhak_Nouri
I would have been skeptical about spending money on this lad before his performances in the play-offs but when you consider how he stood out, bearing in mind also that he was fasting for Ramadan, it really does show the quality he has. I'd be happy to see us trigger whatever fee we agreed when he took him on loan, if it's around the £5m mark as reported then we'd be stupid not to.
I would have been skeptical about spending money on this lad before his performances in the play-offs but when you consider how he stood out, bearing in mind also that he was fasting for Ramadan, it really does show the quality he has. I'd be happy to see us trigger whatever fee we agreed when he took him on loan, if it's around the £5m mark as reported then we'd be stupid not to.
El Ghazi broke the fasting rule for the final:
"After those semi-final matches, I thought: I have to be professional and not fast during the final, because then I have to be on top," said El Ghazi in conversation with the club channel of Aston Villa. "Of course it is part of my faith, but sometimes you have to make other decisions. I have discussed this extensively with my family and I hope that God will forgive me."
40,000 fans in the stadium forgive you fella! He was absolutely immense yesterday I thought, and my vote for MOTM. That can't have been an easy decision for him, and I hope we sign him up for next season.
Oh wow.They kept Jack and McGinn wuietvtova point, this man steopedv up big time!
yes. whatever you just said, I agree with Luke :)
Being reported that we've triggered the option to sign Anwar.
Being reported that we've triggered the option to sign Anwar.
Shit me, we're not fucking around in this window are we. Very pleased if true, £8m is very little these days for a player of his age with definite potential. He grew on me over those last couple of months, and he obviously loves playing for us which is important as well.
I thought it was reported when we signed him on loan the trigger was about £4-5m......still, all good news!
I think in the premier league he will have to more to his game than knock the ball behind the defender and chase after it
Good signing though and for me adds to the squad, not sure if he is a starter every week.
I like him but £8m sounds toppish to me. I thought he was a free agent this summer and expected out option to be less than that.
24 year old Dutch international who was just our MVP in the playoffs. A snip at £8mHe is but hasn't played for them for 4 years.
For the purposes of me making my point it still counts!
What’s England international Seth Johnson up to these days?
That's nearly three times what we paid for SJM... to be fair that is everything to us getting him at an absolute bargain price.
That's nearly three times what we paid for SJM... to be fair that is everything to us getting him at an absolute bargain price.
Mad. SJM must be right up there in our best ever value for money signings. If you factor in his key role in getting us back into the PL the return on investment is staggering.
That's nearly three times what we paid for SJM... to be fair that is everything to us getting him at an absolute bargain price.
Mad. SJM must be right up there in our best ever value for money signings. If you factor in his key role in getting us back into the PL the return on investment is staggering.
That's nearly three times what we paid for SJM... to be fair that is everything to us getting him at an absolute bargain price.
Mad. SJM must be right up there in our best ever value for money signings. If you factor in his key role in getting us back into the PL the return on investment is staggering.
And for which we have Steve Bruce to thank.
Bruce did pretty well on individual signings tbh, including the 17/18 loans. His issues were squad balance, terrible in game tactics and players out of position.Hogan.
£8m is a steal. I think he's got huge potential.
I love when he's direct and uses his blistering pace to drive past the opposition. He'll only get better and is a good age.
Very glad we’re in for El Ghazi but the key word here is potential...we’ve seen it in glimpses, but at 24 he needs to be more consistent and up his game in the Premier League. A great opportunity for him so hope he grabs and makes the most of it.£8m is a steal. I think he's got huge potential.
I love when he's direct and uses his blistering pace to drive past the opposition. He'll only get better and is a good age.
Agree completely.
Let's hope so. The encouraging thing is he did improve during the season. If he can continue his development, he'll be one hell of a player.Without him we wouldn't have made it through the play offs.
Got to say when I first saw him at home against Sheff Wed I thought another journeyman but he has surprised and he now works and plays like a left winger. - Cant head mind bar the play off goal.He didn't head that!
Aston Villa is delighted to announce that Anwar El Ghazi has joined the club on a four-year deal.
The Dutch international enjoyed a highly impressive loan spell at Villa Park last season after signing from French outfit Lille.
And the 24-year-old, who scored at Wembley in the play-off final, will now have the opportunity to showcase his talents in the Premier League after moving for an undisclosed fee.
El Ghazi was recently regarded as one of the hottest prospects in European football after coming through the ranks at the world-renowned Ajax academy and was a major success story in last term’s successful promotion push with six goals in 37 appearances.
Head Coach, Dean Smith, said: “Anwar proved to everybody at Wembley how good a player he can be for Aston Villa.
“He’s ready for the step up to the Premier League and he’s a young player who has an awful lot of potential. It’s now my job and the job of the coaching staff and Anwar himself to fulfil the potential that he undoubtedly has.
“He’ll be a great addition to the squad for next season.”
Great news. He really showed how good he can be towards the end of the season, and importantly, he also showed good attitude to come back from a less than stellar start. I like him a lot.
Great news. He really showed how good he can be towards the end of the season, and importantly, he also showed good attitude to come back from a less than stellar start. I like him a lot.
Happy with Anwar signing, cheap at that price. When he first started in the first tea I was calling him El Khazi as he was toilet, but after being coached by DS e has got better and better.
Looking forward to hopefully see him progress further next season.
We've paid €5m according to L'Equipe today, bargain.I was looking at the replies to the LOSC Pravda announcement (https://twitter.com/losclive/status/1138009824984293376?s=19) on Twitter. Virtually every tweet is positive, wishing Anwar luck, saying "Once a 'dogue' always a 'dogue", and expressing regrets that he was moving on. The only criticism I did see was one bloke who said that he lacked 'explosivité' for a winger but hoped he would develop his game in England.
I love Anwar, for the following reasons:
1) Didn't sulk when he got dropped, but worked hard and took his chance when he got it.
2) Scoring at Wembley.
3) Not thinking he was the dog's bollocks and looking for a move elsewhere.
4) Putting aside his strongly held religious beliefs for the good of the club during Ramadan.
5) Impatiently urging the official AVFC social media sites to announce his signing yesterday.
A top, top chap indeed.
I love Anwar, for the following reasons:
1) Didn't sulk when he got dropped, but worked hard and took his chance when he got it.
2) Scoring at Wembley.
3) Not thinking he was the dog's bollocks and looking for a move elsewhere.
4) Putting aside his strongly held religious beliefs for the good of the club during Ramadan.
5) Impatiently urging the official AVFC social media sites to announce his signing yesterday.
A top, top chap indeed.
Number 1 is the key for me but I'd expand on it. He clearly has plenty of natural talent, that was obvious from the very beginning but what wasn't quite there was the work rate and consistency that you need over a long season. By the end of the season he'd added that, working much harder off the ball (and having a decent understanding of when to track back and when to hold his position) and that extra effort seeing him get more of the ball in better areas. From August to May I'd say he's the most improved player in the squad.
I love Anwar, for the following reasons:
1) Didn't sulk when he got dropped, but worked hard and took his chance when he got it.
2) Scoring at Wembley.
3) Not thinking he was the dog's bollocks and looking for a move elsewhere.
4) Putting aside his strongly held religious beliefs for the good of the club during Ramadan.
5) Impatiently urging the official AVFC social media sites to announce his signing yesterday.
A top, top chap indeed.
Number 1 is the key for me but I'd expand on it. He clearly has plenty of natural talent, that was obvious from the very beginning but what wasn't quite there was the work rate and consistency that you need over a long season. By the end of the season he'd added that, working much harder off the ball (and having a decent understanding of when to track back and when to hold his position) and that extra effort seeing him get more of the ball in better areas. From August to May I'd say he's the most improved player in the squad.
He was also, let's not forget, playing in front of Neil Taylor, so the attacking intent on that side was entirely down to him. On the right side, you had Elmo overlapping whenever he could, which made life easier for Albert and Green, neither of whom looked anywhere near as good as Anwar.
I love Anwar, for the following reasons:
1) Didn't sulk when he got dropped, but worked hard and took his chance when he got it.
2) Scoring at Wembley.
3) Not thinking he was the dog's bollocks and looking for a move elsewhere.
4) Putting aside his strongly held religious beliefs for the good of the club during Ramadan.
5) Impatiently urging the official AVFC social media sites to announce his signing yesterday.
A top, top chap indeed.
Number 1 is the key for me but I'd expand on it. He clearly has plenty of natural talent, that was obvious from the very beginning but what wasn't quite there was the work rate and consistency that you need over a long season. By the end of the season he'd added that, working much harder off the ball (and having a decent understanding of when to track back and when to hold his position) and that extra effort seeing him get more of the ball in better areas. From August to May I'd say he's the most improved player in the squad.
He was also, let's not forget, playing in front of Neil Taylor, so the attacking intent on that side was entirely down to him. On the right side, you had Elmo overlapping whenever he could, which made life easier for Albert and Green, neither of whom looked anywhere near as good as Anwar.
You put a proper attacking full back in with AEG he will become twice as lethal. You can see defences doubling up on him because they knew Taylor was useless. And even through that he looked great albeit at Championship level. It won’t be so easy in the PL so he will need help.
Love the belief on here but the jury's still out for me. If he is the player we all hope him to be, he's only scratching the surface of his talent. There's very little end product with his play, exciting though it can be with the ball at his feet. For much of last season I had him down as a show pony but the way he finished the season I really hope he can kick on.
His attitude is spot on, technically he has skill, pace and ability to get forward. It's what he does thereafter that needs to be worked on. Cutting in and shooting from outside the box to win a corner won't be enough. The fact he's surrounded by quality players will hopefully help drive him on as whoever plays wide left is going to be a very important player in the team.
Good luck to the lad, he deserves his chance.
He did work hard. Maybe the penny has dropped. Delighted for him with the goal, he did the right thing taking it off Jack's foot. Momentum was on his side and it was a tidy finish.
Yeah, he’s a good lad and I love that he showed how much the play-off final and promotion meant to him, even though he was only on loan, and that he really wanted to stay with us.
When I think of how many players we’ve bought over the years just looking for a payday or not giving a shit, it’s refreshing.
Nothing but a drama queen
Two goals and an assist in five and a bit Premier League games isn’t a bad start. If he kept that rate up over a season then that would be an involvement in 19 league goals.
Ronaldo he ain't. The only thing they share in common are the eyebrows. He's no winger, either. He manages to do one thing well in a game and then disappears. If he really does have to play, I'd prefer to see him playing more inside. Took his goal very well today. Maybe something to build on?
Good tonight I thought. Seemed to be playing a lot more centrally, and in front of Wesley a lot of the time. He has a real eye for goal and takes his chances well.Totally agree, shame he wasn't released earlier by Jack for the offside goal.
Was unable to get to the Newcastle game but interested to see that he is taking up more central positions.I think that he could be suited to being a central striker,he is a good finisher ,possesses a powerful shot , has good pace and can run at defenders as well as being reasonable in the air.Downside might be hold up play but playing the ball more in the channels would enable us to turn defences.Good tonight I thought. Seemed to be playing a lot more centrally, and in front of Wesley a lot of the time. He has a real eye for goal and takes his chances well.Totally agree, shame he wasn't released earlier by Jack for the offside goal.
Was unable to get to the Newcastle game but interested to see that he is taking up more central positions.I think that he could be suited to being a central striker,he is a good finisher ,possesses a powerful shot , has good pace and can run at defenders as well as being reasonable in the air.Downside might be hold up play but playing the ball more in the channels would enable us to turn defences.Good tonight I thought. Seemed to be playing a lot more centrally, and in front of Wesley a lot of the time. He has a real eye for goal and takes his chances well.Totally agree, shame he wasn't released earlier by Jack for the offside goal.
Very likely my poor memory, but wasn't it SJM who delayed the pass?Good tonight I thought. Seemed to be playing a lot more centrally, and in front of Wesley a lot of the time. He has a real eye for goal and takes his chances well.Totally agree, shame he wasn't released earlier by Jack for the offside goal.
Very likely my poor memory, but wasn't it SJM who delayed the pass?Good tonight I thought. Seemed to be playing a lot more centrally, and in front of Wesley a lot of the time. He has a real eye for goal and takes his chances well.Totally agree, shame he wasn't released earlier by Jack for the offside goal.
Yes. Though infuriatingly inconsistent, he has shown real promise.
But he doesn't like heading it, does he?
But he doesn't like heading it, does he?
I enjoyed his header from May 27th
But he doesn't like heading it, does he?
I enjoyed his header from May 27th
Technically his shoulder, I think.
But he doesn't like heading it, does he?
I enjoyed his header from May 27th
Technically his shoulder, I think.
I was going with the head/shoulder or as we should always remember it a bullet diving header that ripped the back of the net leaving Derby distraught and forlorn.
But he doesn't like heading it, does he?
I enjoyed his header from May 27th
Technically his shoulder, I think.
I was going with the head/shoulder or as we should always remember it a bullet diving header that ripped the back of the net leaving Derby distraught and forlorn.
Injuries coming thick and fast now.Why, other than Davies, who else is injured?
I thought he looked sharp until the injury. Hope it's not too serious.
Injuries coming thick and fast now.Why, other than Davies, who else is injured?
But he doesn't like heading it, does he?
I enjoyed his header from May 27th
Technically his shoulder, I think.
I was going with the head/shoulder or as we should always remember it a bullet diving header that ripped the back of the net leaving Derby distraught and forlorn.
Works for me!
He's a young and inexperienced player and like most wingers, blows hot and cold.
He's got the talent, had a decent return of goals and gets in good positions. Much like last season he started well, was dropped, came back very low on confidence and then turned into Ronaldo for a bit.
How good he can be depends on how consistent he can become. With the change of system, I'd give him a couple weeks out.
He's a young and inexperienced player and like most wingers, blows hot and cold.
He's got the talent, had a decent return of goals and gets in good positions. Much like last season he started well, was dropped, came back very low on confidence and then turned into Ronaldo for a bit.
How good he can be depends on how consistent he can become. With the change of system, I'd give him a couple weeks out.
The trouble is his replacement in Trezeguet isn’t much better.
Like has been mentioned before, might be worth trying him as a centre forward type, similar to Vardy.Should have been given a go several weeks ago.
Bit late to trial it in cup games, though
Like has been mentioned before, might be worth trying him as a centre forward type, similar to Vardy.
Bit late to trial it in cup games, though
El Gahzi showed how difficult it was for him to be a striker against Leicester other day.And yet, he set up our goal.
...
He’s doing pretty good, he’s been a good signing.El Gahzi showed how difficult it was for him to be a striker against Leicester other day.And yet, he set up our goal.
...
He has good footballing instincts, and his second Premier League season will see much grreater consistency.
Lest we forget, he already has 6 assists.
He’s doing pretty good, he’s been a good signing.El Gahzi showed how difficult it was for him to be a striker against Leicester other day.And yet, he set up our goal.
...
He has good footballing instincts, and his second Premier League season will see much grreater consistency.
Lest we forget, he already has 6 assists.
I'd agree with your 3 points, which is why I think he will look alot better next season. Despite which, he has done some good stuff this season (the 2 horrendous misses against Leicester and Sourhampton notwithstanding).He’s doing pretty good, he’s been a good signing.El Gahzi showed how difficult it was for him to be a striker against Leicester other day.And yet, he set up our goal.
...
He has good footballing instincts, and his second Premier League season will see much grreater consistency.
Lest we forget, he already has 6 assists.
The issues for me with El Ghazi are threefold:
1) he’s anonymous for large parts of the game and hides from the ball
2) I think he really struggles with the step up in physicality despite being 6’2”.
3) he struggles to impose himself.
In his defence some of this is to do with the 4-3-3 system where for large parts he ends up acting as a secondary left back. He does have some talent as proven by assists etc but I’m coming to the conclusion he just lacks the mentality or physicality to impose himself in this league. He really has struggled with the step up in quality and his form has massively suffered.
The issues for me with El Ghazi are threefold:
1) he’s anonymous for large parts of the game and hides from the ball
2) I think he really struggles with the step up in physicality despite being 6’2”.
3) he struggles to impose himself.
In his defence some of this is to do with the 4-3-3 system where for large parts he ends up acting as a secondary left back. He does have some talent as proven by assists etc but I’m coming to the conclusion he just lacks the mentality or physicality to impose himself in this league. He really has struggled with the step up in quality and his form has massively suffered.
Nobody's talking about John McGinn.
Yep, mentally weak is very harsh and with no real proof to back it up.
Awful against Southampton. Good v Burnley.
Can have some real dreadful performances.
Sometimes does not look interested.
he started dropped Watford shit against SouthamptonAwful against Southampton. Good v Burnley.
Can have some real dreadful performances.
Sometimes does not look interested.
Errrr he was dropped for Burnley which I think proves the point.
And for £7m or so that's what you get, potentially better, at the moment Ok. Bournemouth have £20m + players sitting on their bench these days. I have no qualms about his ability being questioned but the coward/lacks heart bollocks is simply just that.
And for £7m or so that's what you get, potentially better, at the moment Ok. Bournemouth have £20m + players sitting on their bench these days. I have no qualms about his ability being questioned but the coward/lacks heart bollocks is simply just that.
He played an absolutely brilliant through ball and put in a quality cross for Guilbert. He faded out of it second half, but he wasn't entirely anonymous.
I think at TRez has more impact and gets involved more.
Agreed, the problem is the same can be said of Luiz and Hourihane.I think at TRez has more impact and gets involved more.
I think both of them have more impact as a sub than when they start.
Doing 1 decent thing a game isn't the necessary output you need from one of your attackers. He's not good enough at the moment for Premier League football.
Has there been any news on the possible career ending injury that El Ghazi picked up at Southampton?
Has there been any news on the possible career ending injury that El Ghazi picked up at Southampton?
Recovery time is about 2 / 3 minutes. Be a bit bloody patient!!
Has there been any news on the possible career ending injury that El Ghazi picked up at Southampton?Could be out for a while. Snapped his g-string apparently.
Quality!! 👏👏Has there been any news on the possible career ending injury that El Ghazi picked up at Southampton?
Recovery time is about 2 / 3 minutes. Be a bit bloody patient!!
Yes indeed..
El Ghazj and Trez have done their bit for Villa.Maybe I not enough for some but hey ho!!!
El Ghazj and Trez have done their bit for Villa.Maybe I not enough for some but hey ho!!!
Both have been utter flops. If we stay up we need to get rid of both. As the season has progressed they have got worse and worse.
AEGs "performance" was a disgrace in Saturday. He didnt fancy it and bottled it. We dont people like that at our club
El Ghazj and Trez have done their bit for Villa.Maybe I not enough for some but hey ho!!!
Both have been utter flops. If we stay up we need to get rid of both. As the season has progressed they have got worse and worse.
AEGs "performance" was a disgrace in Saturday. He didnt fancy it and bottled it. We dont people like that at our club
I completely agree with that. I see a player in El Ghazi, I see nothing in Trez.I agree with this as well. El Ghazi has better attributes and with good coaching could improve further.
They have not been utter flops. Yes not quite good enough but they have contributed. El Ghazi played a major part in our promotion.El Ghazj and Trez have done their bit for Villa.Maybe I not enough for some but hey ho!!!
Both have been utter flops. If we stay up we need to get rid of both. As the season has progressed they have got worse and worse.
AEGs "performance" was a disgrace in Saturday. He didnt fancy it and bottled it. We dont people like that at our club
They have not been utter flops. Yes not quite good enough but they have contributed. El Ghazi played a major part in our promotion.El Ghazj and Trez have done their bit for Villa.Maybe I not enough for some but hey ho!!!
Both have been utter flops. If we stay up we need to get rid of both. As the season has progressed they have got worse and worse.
AEGs "performance" was a disgrace in Saturday. He didnt fancy it and bottled it. We dont people like that at our club
I’ve come to the conclusion he’s got plenty of talent technically but he just hasn’t got the “bottle” or mental toughness you need to play at the highest level. The guy is 6’2” and he’s as soft as shite, easily dominated physically and far too easy to intimidate in the tackle.
Top class cross for our goal. More of those please Anwar.I really hope he fancies it for the rest of the season. There's too many games where he either looks frightened of defenders who might bash him about a bit, or where he just isn't fancying it. He's got plenty of quality, but I think he's one of those players, because he'll only ever do it 1 game in 4, you'll never see him at a top 4 side in a decent league. But of course, there-in lies the Catch 22, if he was doing it week in, week out, we'd not have got him.
It kind of matches his performances. Nobody likes a player that hides. Not blaming him, I just don't think he's good enough for the PL. For the Championship we've a half decent player. Still, if fans want to defend his performances, help yourself.
Pretty much relegated us with that first class display of bottling. Wanker.
Pretty much relegated us with that first class display of bottling. Wanker.
shut up. the reason we're getting relegated is because we can't defend and our strikers are shit but let's put all the blame on a youngster who helped get us promoted and has contributed more than most this season.
where the fuck is Davis when these chances are created? At least El Ghazi gets in the positions.
He could be an important player for us next year.
Don’t tell me to shut up thanks.
Don’t tell me to shut up thanks.
I will when you're calling people wankers and talking bollocks thanks
Both of you? I’m fine thanks, I haven’t told anyone to shut up.
Don’t tell me to shut up thanks.
I will when you're calling people wankers and talking bollocks thanks
You try to white knight me for criticising el ghazi and in the same sentence you slag off Davis, who actually IS a youngster and who also did his bit to get us up last season. At least troll me coherently.
You try to white knight me for criticising el ghazi and in the same sentence you slag off Davis, who actually IS a youngster and who also did his bit to get us up last season. At least troll me coherently.
shut up + something boring and incoherent about the age of a rubbish player
Ironically, Trez would have been on the end of that all day long.
You try to white knight me for criticising el ghazi and in the same sentence you slag off Davis, who actually IS a youngster and who also did his bit to get us up last season. At least troll me coherently.
We do have a tendency to call players all manner of wankers/c***s when they don't perform brilliantly, as if they're doing it on purpose. Myself included, from time to time. It isn't on, really.Yes I get the frustration, but there's no way that most people would even dream of saying such things to their face.
We do have a tendency to call players all manner of wankers/c***s when they don't perform brilliantly, as if they're doing it on purpose. Myself included, from time to time. It isn't on, really.
I’m sure we’re all unlikeable gobshites on here compared to the charming people we are in real life,
He isn't a c*** or anything, he's just an intensely rubbish, piss poor excuse for a winger. I hope that miss haunts him for years. I can take a player missing because they're not very good, but not because they're scared of getting hurt.
I’m sure we’re all unlikeable gobshites on here compared to the charming people we are in real life,
Oi! You've had enough of my money to give me charming status.
I've never met anyone on here who's charming in real life. Except Big Daz Wooley
I’m sure we’re all unlikeable gobshites on here compared to the charming people we are in real life,
I've never met anyone on here who's charming in real life. Except Big Daz Wooley
We do have a tendency to call players all manner of wankers/c***s when they don't perform brilliantly, as if they're doing it on purpose. Myself included, from time to time. It isn't on, really.
More seriously, of course I agree with this.
I’m sure we’re all unlikeable gobshites on here compared to the charming people we are in real life, especially immediately after a last minute capitulation that has probably relegated us. I reserve the right to let off steam in an anonymous echo chamber of similarly pissed of people without being told to shut up.
Is that so terrible? I think there a bit of a running joke that fans demonise players in over the top ways who have done something laughably trivial compared to any real life problem of any magnitude.
I’m sure we’re all unlikeable gobshites on here compared to the charming people we are in real life,
I've never met anyone on here who's charming in real life. Except Big Daz Wooley
Haha yes I was exaggerating a bit, I meant to say ‘very slightly less unlikeable gobshites.’
Has there been any news on the possible career ending injury that El Ghazi picked up at Southampton?This was another of those moments.
We do have a tendency to call players all manner of wankers/c***s when they don't perform brilliantly, as if they're doing it on purpose. Myself included, from time to time. It isn't on, really.
A bit like Trezeguet, every so often, does something really good but I cannot understand how this guy is playing in the top league in England. I presume we had a loan to buy and had to purchase or just thought we should sign him because of the continuity from last season, in a period of massive change at the club last summer. I think he is a huge let down, not just based on last night and the miss of the season from Villa but has been consistently underwhelming, lazy and seemingly without desire. He will probably do better next season as I think the Championship is his level.Yeah, that's it for me: he looked like a player last season who should grow into becoming a Premier League player. Instead, he has regressed - I suspect by not working hard enough at the grunt-work of being a footballer. The coaching staff should take some responsibility for this, because I think AEG has / had the raw materials to work with.
I've only really hated Gabor Kiraly after that FA Cup game at Old Trafford, and frankly he deserved it. Gets the chance to play in goal for Aston Villa and goes out looking like Compo from Last of the Summer Wine.
I've only really hated Gabor Kiraly after that FA Cup game at Old Trafford, and frankly he deserved it. Gets the chance to play in goal for Aston Villa and goes out looking like Compo from Last of the Summer Wine.
Other than that one, admittedly abysmal, error, he didn't do much wrong for us. And we would only have lost the replay, anyway. We know how it goes against those c***s.
The only players I really hate are those that obviously have the ability but can't be arsed. Even more so if said attitude comes from an innate feeling that they're too good for the club. Prime offender: Stephen fucking Ireland. I think he's my least favourite player ever, though Nigel cunting Callaghan pushes him close.
I've only really hated Gabor Kiraly after that FA Cup game at Old Trafford, and frankly he deserved it. Gets the chance to play in goal for Aston Villa and goes out looking like Compo from Last of the Summer Wine.
The ones that get a complete no-no from me are Hodge, Ireland, Richards and Charles because they clearly had attitude (of the wrong sort) ... I'm sure there are others!
AEG just frustrates me because I'm sure he could be better.
Didn’t Ireland win player of the season one year ?
(Admittedly he was shit for the most part )
The ones that get a complete no-no from me are Hodge, Ireland, Richards and Charles because they clearly had attitude (of the wrong sort) ... I'm sure there are others!
AEG just frustrates me because I'm sure he could be better.
Am I right in thinking that Gary Charles had a few publicized 'emotional issues' similar to Collymore?
Sorry, I meant NZogbia (Charles)The ones that get a complete no-no from me are Hodge, Ireland, Richards and Charles because they clearly had attitude (of the wrong sort) ... I'm sure there are others!
AEG just frustrates me because I'm sure he could be better.
Am I right in thinking that Gary Charles had a few publicized 'emotional issues' similar to Collymore?
Fabulous attitude in the interview.
Tyrone Mings
@OfficialTM_3
Good morning villains. I really hope all you who were berating and hounding El Ghazi enough to make him suspend his social media, are in his DM’s today, apologising. A team game utilises a WHOLE squad and we need everyone... may your apology be as loud as the disrespect
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.
What absolute rubbish. If you think dishing out abuse on Twitter is acceptable to the point where that person is having the close their account, then it says a lot about you.
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.
What absolute rubbish. If you think dishing out abuse on Twitter is acceptable to the point where that person is having the close their account, then it says a lot about you.
I didn't say it was, and the fact that you spend your life attacking other fans on here Clampy, says even more about you.
Do you think anybody dishing out abuse is going to take a blind bit of notice of what Mings says? Or is it just stirring things up even more?
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.
What absolute rubbish. If you think dishing out abuse on Twitter is acceptable to the point where that person is having the close their account, then it says a lot about you.
I didn't say it was, and the fact that you spend your life attacking other fans on here Clampy, says even more about you.
Do you think anybody dishing out abuse is going to take a blind bit of notice of what Mings says? Or is it just stirring things up even more?
Lovely bit of deflection there Risso. Didnt see that coming.
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.
What absolute rubbish. If you think dishing out abuse on Twitter is acceptable to the point where that person is having the close their account, then it says a lot about you.
The reality is people who spend their time abusing people via social media aren’t worth acknowledging. They’re twats and won’t see the error of their ways sadly. Best off just ignoring them.
I think El Ghazi has looked really sharp in his few appearances this season. Good on him for knuckling down.
Why didn't Barry take the penalty?Side splitting stuff.
While Twitter doesn’t represent all fans it’s truly astonishing how personally cruel some people can be. I’m glad Tyrone said this. He’s obviously seen the tweets, he’s seen first hand that it has hurt his friend and teammate. There’s no need for some of hate spewed on there.
While Twitter doesn’t represent all fans it’s truly astonishing how personally cruel some people can be. I’m glad Tyrone said this. He’s obviously seen the tweets, he’s seen first hand that it has hurt his friend and teammate. There’s no need for some of hate spewed on there.
While Twitter doesn’t represent all fans it’s truly astonishing how personally cruel some people can be. I’m glad Tyrone said this. He’s obviously seen the tweets, he’s seen first hand that it has hurt his friend and teammate. There’s no need for some of hate spewed on there.
Twitter has always been an utter cesspit, and if you're famous in any sort of way at all, you're going to get abuse from some brain donor at some point, whatever walk of life you're from. It doesn't make it right of course, but if I was that concerned about it as a football player (or singer/politician/actor/scientist whatever), I just wouldn't have a Twitter account.
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.Exactly.
Or, well that's not very helpful Tyrone. Maybe if you put as much effort into not making mistakes you wouldn't present the opponents with a gilt edged chance every single match.Exactly.
Nothing wrong with criticising players on here or similar forums after a game, within reason. Seeking out somebody's Twitter to abuse them so you know they will read it is cuntish behaviour though. I have no sympathy for trolls whatsoever. Fair play Tyrone.Very well put. My thoughts exactly.
Leadership is set by exemplary conduct in your field not by mouthing off at the first chance you get.
Leadership is set by exemplary conduct in your field not by mouthing off at the first chance you get.
Leadership is set by exemplary conduct in your field not by mouthing off at the first chance you get.
Nah. It's set by supporting your teammate against bullying scumbags, even if it means you might attract some of their ugly behaviour yourself.
Twitter is the most hostile of social media. It's full of goading. Instagram is much nicer plus you can control comments better on there.
Leadership is set by exemplary conduct in your field not by mouthing off at the first chance you get.
Nah. It's set by supporting your teammate against bullying scumbags, even if it means you might attract some of their ugly behaviour yourself.
I'd have thought a better time to do it was when it happened, not after El Ghazi scored a penalty many months later
Sure, it would have been. In the absence of that, this is still better than not doing it.
Nothing wrong with criticising players on here or similar forums after a game, within reason. Seeking out somebody's Twitter to abuse them so you know they will read it is cuntish behaviour though. I have no sympathy for trolls whatsoever. Fair play Tyrone.
He enjoys the praise (and he had plenty in his first 12 months + at the club) he can wear the criticism when it's merited.[/b} Same for AEG and anyone else. I like El Ghazi, along with the 2017/18 team, the 18/19 team restored my enjoyment in watching Villa and that was due in no small part to him.
He enjoys the praise (and he had plenty in his first 12 months + at the club) he can wear the criticism when it's merited.[/b} Same for AEG and anyone else. I like El Ghazi, along with the 2017/18 team, the 18/19 team restored my enjoyment in watching Villa and that was due in no small part to him.
I'm not on Twitter but I imagine posts on there go a lot further than calling someone a c*** for missing a big chance. Death threats and other disgusting things about family members etc. It's really for the lowest of the low.
This is important bit but what constitutes 'criticism' is a key part of the discussion. Telling someone their performance wasn't good enough and they need to sort it out is fine, telling someone they're a c**t for missing a chance isn't and never will be. That's the line that gets crossed far too easily by football fans.
I felt he needed a break last season, he was clearly crumbling under the relentless backs-to-the-wall pressure. I hoped he'd pick up during restart, but still not. Here's hoping that now, if he gets his chance in a 'front foot' team, he can get back to that player of '18/19, because I love players that widen your eyes and quicken your pulse when they get on the ball, make you mutter the words "go on, son", and he certainly did that to me back then.
I'm not on Twitter but I imagine posts on there go a lot further than calling someone a c*** for missing a big chance. Death threats and other disgusting things about family members etc. It's really for the lowest of the low.He enjoys the praise (and he had plenty in his first 12 months + at the club) he can wear the criticism when it's merited.[/b} Same for AEG and anyone else. I like El Ghazi, along with the 2017/18 team, the 18/19 team restored my enjoyment in watching Villa and that was due in no small part to him.This is important bit but what constitutes 'criticism' is a key part of the discussion. Telling someone their performance wasn't good enough and they need to sort it out is fine, telling someone they're a c**t for missing a chance isn't and never will be. That's the line that gets crossed far too easily by football fans.
I love players that widen your eyes and quicken your pulse when they get on the ball, make you mutter the words "go on, son", and he certainly did that to me back then.
I know it shouldn’t be important but i love it when we extract every ounce of ability/value out off a player rather than just let them drift by signing more and more replacements.
I think if we can somehow join up best bits of Anwar, Trez and Bertrand we will have a world class player.
I wouldnt have cared if we'd sold him for £5m three weeks ago, absolute rammed my thoughts down my throat.
Brilliant goal from Anwar.Whipped and whacked, love it.
So that's what he does in training - bloody hell, that was some finish.
He’s clearly worked bloody hard at his game. He’s doing his pressing work much more diligently.
So that's what he does in training - bloody hell, that was some finish.
You've been his biggest critic !
He took his goal brilliantly today but there was a point early in the second half wide on the right just in from the touchline when he just bamboozled two Palace players with dummied a pass which left them looking at each other and then at him in complete disbelief as he closed in on the penalty area.
Great vote of confidence for him today, to be kept on in favour of Traore.
He looks like Ronaldo when he's on it, absolutely unstoppable, powerful and direct winger. Can go with either foot, works hard and can beat a man.
Then he looks like a pub player.
I suppose the good thing is Smith probably feels there's no pressure to rush Jack back if he's not quite ready now.
If you are talking about Traore and AEG fighting for a place, where does that leave Barkley?On the bench?
If he's lucky!If you are talking about Traore and AEG fighting for a place, where does that leave Barkley?On the bench?
Our best form since the start of the season was with Ghazi left, Grealish central and Traore right. I'd like to see us go back to that when Jack's back.
He looks like Ronaldo when he's on it, absolutely unstoppable, powerful and direct winger. Can go with either foot, works hard and can beat a man.
Then he looks like a pub player.
Agreed mate. He looked every inch the top half Premier League attacking player yesterday. Against West Ham, he looked Beazer Homes league, he literally didn't do a single thing right. Be interesting to see who gets dropped out of him and Bert when Grealish is fit. On yesterday's form you couldn't see it being El Ghazi. I suppose the good thing is Smith probably feels there's no pressure to rush Jack back if he's not quite ready now.
He looks like Ronaldo when he's on it, absolutely unstoppable, powerful and direct winger. Can go with either foot, works hard and can beat a man.
Then he looks like a pub player.
Agreed mate. He looked every inch the top half Premier League attacking player yesterday. Against West Ham, he looked Beazer Homes league, he literally didn't do a single thing right. Be interesting to see who gets dropped out of him and Bert when Grealish is fit. On yesterday's form you couldn't see it being El Ghazi. I suppose the good thing is Smith probably feels there's no pressure to rush Jack back if he's not quite ready now.
That's the thing though, Traore and AEG are sometimes great and often really not at it at all, which is the difference between good players and great ones.
He looked well up for it last night, was great to see.
I always remember people would get annoyed by Carew being inconsistent, and Woodhall always used to point out that if he was consistently at his (very good) best, he wouldn't be here in the first place. Don't think that has direct relevance to AEG, but just sprang to mind.
Our best form since the start of the season was with Ghazi left, Grealish central and Traore right. I'd like to see us go back to that when Jack's back.
Interesting as you could equally argue Trez Barkley Jack if you're talking about the whole season so far....nice to have options anyway
Always rated El Ghazi, but he needs to cut out the stinkers and find some consistency.
Always rated El Ghazi, but he needs to cut out the stinkers and find some consistency.
Other than 45 minutes against West Ham with some mitigating circumstances, when has he had a stinker this season?
Always rated El Ghazi, but he needs to cut out the stinkers and find some consistency.
Other than 45 minutes against West Ham with some mitigating circumstances, when has he had a stinker this season?
Last week against Leicester.
Great guy, with a brilliant attitude . Barkley could learn a thing or two from AEG
Always rated El Ghazi, but he needs to cut out the stinkers and find some consistency.
Other than 45 minutes against West Ham with some mitigating circumstances, when has he had a stinker this season?
Last week against Leicester.
He wasn't that bad. First game back again an'all.
Great guy, with a brilliant attitude . Barkley could learn a thing or two from AEG
You really don’t like Barkley do you ?
... selecting the right games to do that.No personal stuff from me and it's just my opinion but I think we would be unwise to write Barkley off. What he adds to Jack's game and what Jack adds to his when their partnership works is not inconsiderable. Their link up play has been magical at times. We should aim to get that back.Great guy, with a brilliant attitude . Barkley could learn a thing or two from AEGYou really don’t like Barkley do you ?
No personal stuff from me and it's just my opinion but I think we would be unwise to write Barkley off. What he adds to Jack's game and what Jack adds to his when their partnership works is not inconsiderable. Their link up play has been magical at times. We should aim to get that back.
Has done well to get back into contention at all. That miss against Everton seemed to destroy his confidence for a while. Another enigmatic type, you can tell usually within 10 minutes if he's going to go well or have a stinker. Has all the attributes to be a top player at this level but is wildly inconsistent.
I've always said with wingers that they are mostly inconsistent. We have three of them like that. The likes that aren't are your Mahrez's who will cost £70m - £80m plus. He is fine as are Traore and Trez.
I like him, have from the start, and did even when he'd turned into the anti-christ away at Everton for not scoring what was not as easy a chance as it was made out. He seems like a nice lad as well.
I like players that take shots too, it's an underrated part of the game. Except in the mind of Tonev.
I like him, have from the start, and did even when he'd turned into the anti-christ away at Everton for not scoring what was not as easy a chance as it was made out. He seems like a nice lad as well.
I like players that take shots too, it's an underrated part of the game. Except in the mind of Tonev.
It's quickly becoming a lost art I reckon, everyone seems to want total football and walking the ball into the net.
I forget how young he is. There's still a lot of scope for improvement in both ability and attitude at his age.He confuses the hell out of me, as does Trez.
What struck me was the effort he put in all match until subbed, if he did that every game he would be an asset but too many times he seems to drift through games.
Hard to place what his market value is....£7m or £25m or anything in between?!
In case anyone is interested here's a few stats.It doesn’t actually work like that though,does it.
AEG's goal at Chelsea got us a point. His goal at Wolves in extra time got us 3 points, and his goal against Leeds also got us the 3 points. He's scored 7 goals this season like Jack and got us 7 points with 3 of them. His minute's per goal is 176. Bettered only by Barry who scored 1 in 90 min.
Question is. Is that a bad return?
In case anyone is interested here's a few stats.It doesn’t actually work like that though,does it.
AEG's goal at Chelsea got us a point. His goal at Wolves in extra time got us 3 points, and his goal against Leeds also got us the 3 points. He's scored 7 goals this season like Jack and got us 7 points with 3 of them. His minute's per goal is 176. Bettered only by Barry who scored 1 in 90 min.
Question is. Is that a bad return?
The goal ratio is fine. Good, even.
The assists less so. Ideally you also want a winger tying up at least two markers where possible, and freeing space for others.
He did that a bit in the Championship, less so in the top flight. So far.
Barry who?Venison
Barry who?
The goal ratio is fine. Good, even.
The assists less so. Ideally you also want a winger tying up at least two markers where possible, and freeing space for others.
He did that a bit in the Championship, less so in the top flight. So far.
Accepted. More assists would be great😀. My point is in the games I mentioned his goals alone got us the points. 3 goals, 7 points. They were the only goals we scored in those games. I don't think it's a bad return really. He gets so much stick so much of the time from some on here. I'm just trying to cut him some slack. Utv.
Just to add to that, I do like him as a player - and have done since he had that Championship Ronaldo look about him back in 2018/19.
The other things may come in time (hopefully for us) if he starts to believe in himself a bit more.
Just to add to that, I do like him as a player - and have done since he had that Championship Ronaldo look about him back in 2018/19.
The other things may come in time (hopefully for us) if he starts to believe in himself a bit more.
Just to add to that, I do like him as a player - and have done since he had that Championship Ronaldo look about him back in 2018/19.
The other things may come in time (hopefully for us) if he starts to believe in himself a bit more.
When he's good he's very good, but when he's bad he's an absolute liability. On an off game he makes bad decision after bad decision, and all sorts of unforced errors. He's 26 in less than a month, so for a winger should really be in his prime.
Just to add to that, I do like him as a player - and have done since he had that Championship Ronaldo look about him back in 2018/19.
The other things may come in time (hopefully for us) if he starts to believe in himself a bit more.
When he's good he's very good, but when he's bad he's an absolute liability. On an off game he makes bad decision after bad decision, and all sorts of unforced errors. He's 26 in less than a month, so for a winger should really be in his prime.
Yep, that's why he's behind Traore and Trez for me, when they're bad they still have something to offer, AEG seems too mentally weak to cope with having a bad game and completely falls apart.
He's had almost 2 full seasons to establish himself at this level, he's bagged a couple of fabulous goals along the way but he's ineffective far too often, makes some poor decisions and on occasion goes completely missing, wouldn't be at all surprised if he was offloaded in the summer & that's a shame.
This reminds me of the situation two years ago when Andre Green and Uncle Albert vied for one of the wide positions (Jack had the other side) and neither were able to grasp the place in the team.Snodgrass was decent the other year down the right side
This reminds me of the situation two years ago when Andre Green and Uncle Albert vied for one of the wide positions (Jack had the other side) and neither were able to grasp the place in the team.
This reminds me of the situation two years ago when Andre Green and Uncle Albert vied for one of the wide positions (Jack had the other side) and neither were able to grasp the place in the team.
He’s having a bloody good season at this level. I like him and I hope we keep him. We just need a more quality in the team and squad.
His goal scoring record this season is miles better than a load of "top" players.
His scoring record is great, it's just that usually his all round play isn't, as demonstrated by the fact he has no assists this season.This is a telling stat.
His scoring record is great, it's just that usually his all round play isn't, as demonstrated by the fact he has no assists this season.This is a telling stat.
I know its nowhere near a confirmed formula and all that but he's scored goals worth 7 points to us over the season.
Wolves
Chelsea
Leeds
Everton
His scoring record is great, it's just that usually his all round play isn't, as demonstrated by the fact he has no assists this season.This is a telling stat.
Maybe. But it's always been a pretty nebulous metric on which to judge a player.
If Watkins sticks away one of those gilt-edged chances from an El Ghazi pass at home to Palace on Boxing Day rather than sticking one against the bar and one against the post, is El Ghazi a better player as a result?
Good point, don’t know what the stats are for chances created.His scoring record is great, it's just that usually his all round play isn't, as demonstrated by the fact he has no assists this season.This is a telling stat.
Maybe. But it's always been a pretty nebulous metric on which to judge a player.
If Watkins sticks away one of those gilt-edged chances from an El Ghazi pass at home to Palace on Boxing Day rather than sticking one against the bar and one against the post, is El Ghazi a better player as a result?
Scored in the play off final at Wembley. Priceless
I said during the match thread I'd like to see him come in more and play closer to Ollie as El Ghazi is no winger. He's generally a waste of space hugging the touchline but could he play a more mobile role, I don't know but we have a few games left to give it a go.He's not a great dribbler,but not that many wide players are,his weakest area is tracking back or tackling,however he is reasonably pacy and has a good shot.A freed up role for him behind Ollie would be ideal.
Good point, don’t know what the stats are for chances created.His scoring record is great, it's just that usually his all round play isn't, as demonstrated by the fact he has no assists this season.This is a telling stat.
Maybe. But it's always been a pretty nebulous metric on which to judge a player.
If Watkins sticks away one of those gilt-edged chances from an El Ghazi pass at home to Palace on Boxing Day rather than sticking one against the bar and one against the post, is El Ghazi a better player as a result?
He doesn't impose himself enough on games and defensively he often gives the ball away or commits fouls in dangerous areas.
He's a curious player. I might be off the mark but I get the feeling he's quite introverted and this manifests on the pitch with him being peripheral too often. Like our two other frustrating wingers, how to harness their strengths more consistently is an ongoing battle.
In PL minutes played this season he's played the equivalent to 13.3 games and scored 8 goals. That's a goal every 1.66 games.
In PL minutes played this season he's played the equivalent to 13.3 games and scored 8 goals. That's a goal every 1.66 games.
This is not to denigrate El Ghazi, but Keinan Davis has a better goals-to-minutes record than that! This is according to something I heard on a podcast that may well be wrong. The stat was that he's played 150 PL minutes all season.
As it stands for me I want 4 wide players in the squad, Jack is a given that we want to keep him, I'd keep Traore because at his best he's superb, we need to work on his consistency. I then want 1 more who is capable of stepping up to top 4 level. That means 1 of AEG or Trez needs to go, not this summer because Trez will be out until near the end of next season anyway but next summer we'll have to make a call on them and I don't know which way I'd go.
This is an extract of an interview he’s done with The athletic. Just plain wrong.
“Last year, when we were almost going down, a lot of players were getting abuse. It was getting so personal that it made me feel aggressive,” the Villa star said.
“It didn’t feel right. An opinion is fine. I respect that — but one example of a message I received read: ‘I hope you die and never play for my club again’.
“When I looked on the profile and saw that it was from a season ticket holder of Aston Villa, I thought, ‘No way’. It made me really angry. Towards the end of the season, it happened again and then, after watching The Social Dilemma on Netflix, I just thought to myself, ‘Maybe I should just close down Twitter for a year’.”
Yeah , there’s no way I’d bother with social media if I was famous. Maybe I’d go on anonymously
He's a useful squad player who's made a good contribution this season but calling £4m a bargain is going a little far.
Apparently Chelsea's leading PL goal scorer this season is Jorginho with 7 goals.
I hope so. I watched a video on the club website of the team training last week and he looked great in the shooting-drills, deadly and accurate with his finishing. It reminded me of Dean saying last year that they want to see El Ghazi take his training performances into games more. His tendency to drift out of matches and failure to impose himself can be infuriating.Be interesting then if he's suited to with a crowd again and if no fans in stadium played any part on impact of how he was performing
I hope so. I watched a video on the club website of the team training last week and he looked great in the shooting-drills, deadly and accurate with his finishing. It reminded me of Dean saying last year that they want to see El Ghazi take his training performances into games more. His tendency to drift out of matches and failure to impose himself can be infuriating.Be interesting then if he's suited to with a crowd again and if no fans in stadium played any part on impact of how he was performing
Penalty apart, I thought he was quite ordinary again today. Why we let him take free kicks or corners is a mystery. If there was a potential swap deal available, or we could get 15 mill, I’d take it.Sadly I agree. Much as I like him and he's been a decent servant, he just never seems to step up to the next level that you feel he should be capable of on a consistent basis. He obviously has an eye for goal, but if he's going to be a top half winger then he should really be tearing teams like Salernitana a new one.
I think it all depends on who comes in for him - i think in a European league such as Italian, German or Dutch i think he would do very well.
I think the goals (especially pens) mask a level of anonymity that is a big part of his game at this level and certainly not good enough for the level we need to get to.
The club cannot carry any passengers from this point forwards.
Trez
Davis
AEG
Steer
all in the same level and need to be replaced
Do his penalties (finely despatched though they are) not detract from his goalscoring tally a bit ?Given our general shitness from penalties for decades, no. I don't know who else in the squad would have tucked that Wolves pen away so calmly too. If we win one and he's on the pitch, he would be first pick to take I thing and these could be match winning goals. Even the mighty he who must never be again mentioned, and who won most of them, never fancied it from 12 yards. I think it's a useful skill.
He's definitely a keeper.
He's definitely a keeper.
Only if we’re playing ‘Rush’ goalies!
Once Bailey gets fit - hopefully by September, then el ghazi will be in the benchyep, he was very poor yesterday except for his penalty.
The only Dutch bloke I can think of who doesn't speak good English is Steve McClaren.
The only Dutch bloke I can think of who doesn't speak good English is Steve McClaren.
I thought he wasn't very good. Moves often broke down when they got to him, had difficulty retaining the ball or keeping it in play (apart from one memorable volley-on-the-slide). He's a great penalty taker, and he can be a fine goalscorer in the right system, but now that G******* has gone we need more contributions from everybody in an attacking position.
I think he's a great player to have in the squad. Offers something different and unpredictable.
Go to Utrecht.
I like players that shoot and score goals. He's like the anti-Adama Traore, end product without the faffing about and baby oil.
Even his goal-celebrations are a bit restrained. Doesn't run to the crowd and give it the Big I Am like he should. Needs more belief as apparently he's top-class in training.
Can't argue with that.
Dean Smith on El Ghazi: "Anwar El Ghazi has scored his last six pens now so Ings is our second penalty taker if he is on the pitch."
Even his goal-celebrations are a bit restrained. Doesn't run to the crowd and give it the Big I Am like he should. Needs more belief as apparently he's top-class in training.
Since we returned to the Premier League AEG is our top scorer with 15 goals. Watkins and Ratboy are next with 14.
He’s also had two complete seasons, where Watkins had one and Ratboy missed a good chunk of last season injured.
He’s also had two complete seasons, where Watkins had one and Ratboy missed a good chunk of last season injured.
Am I the only one who thinks that was a mishit Panenka? If the keeper had gone the right way it would've been embarrassing.
Isn't that the point of a panenka? You know the keeper's moved so won't get to it? Did look very slow though. Doubt he'd have tried it in a league match.
Shouldn’t celebrate a goal v Barrow with a finger to the lips….unless aimed at Villa fans who think he should be sold.
Shouldn’t celebrate a goal v Barrow with a finger to the lips….unless aimed at Villa fans who think he should be sold.
I think he (along with Targett) was being given a bit of stick by the home crowd, so fair enough IMO.
And he went out of his way to shake hands with loads of Barrow kids on his way off. (Though the Covid-fearing part of me hopes he washed his hands as soon as he got back in the dressing room).
In the pub before the game I overheard Barrow fans who were quite excited that El Ghazi and Hourihane were playing, so it probably meant quite a lot to Barrow kids he shook their hands or high fived them.
In the pub before the game I overheard Barrow fans who were quite excited that El Ghazi and Hourihane were playing, so it probably meant quite a lot to Barrow kids he shook their hands or high fived them.
Did you swim there?
In the pub before the game I overheard Barrow fans who were quite excited that El Ghazi and Hourihane were playing, so it probably meant quite a lot to Barrow kids he shook their hands or high fived them.
Did you swim there?
It would have been quicker.
Used to live half way between Barrow and Kendal on the A590, it doesn't do well with any traffic. I hope Barrow made a bit of cash from it.Barrow got £200k from the televising of the game.
I wonder if we sometimes misread AEG's role. Maybe the coaches see him as secondary striker rather than a midfielder/winger provider and he scores. I think you can make an argument it's the midfield that lets the team down going forward. I mean McGinn for example scores an odd memorable goal but he is often more of a danger to spectators. I struggle to recall him playing many killer forward passes (for the record, love him to bits).I've said before - as have others - that he might make a better #10 than winger.
Shakespeare didn’t like his penalty though.
Shakespeare didn’t like his penalty though.
Disrespectful? Possibly. A player specialising in penalties wanting to try something new? Absolutely. I loved it.
Is he moody? I’ve never thought that? Lacking confidence in himself sometimes maybe?
He’s done well last night and fairly well on Saturday. Shakespeare didn’t like his penalty though.
sorry if it has already been mentioned but has any other villa player scored a hat-trick on their debut?
I didn’t think AEG needed to do it last night but then again has he taken his regular type that would have gone in too.
sorry if it has already been mentioned but has any other villa player scored a hat-trick on their debut?
Simon Stainrod.
I want to see if he does it in a Premier League game - hopefully.
sorry if it has already been mentioned but has any other villa player scored a hat-trick on their debut?
Simon Stainrod.
Fuck, I was there, Exeter away. I know he signed my programme and couldn’t get the pen to work, so he wrote on his boots.
Must have been good luck as four goals followed.
sorry if it has already been mentioned but has any other villa player scored a hat-trick on their debut?
Simon Stainrod.
Fuck, I was there, Exeter away. I know he signed my programme and couldn’t get the pen to work, so he wrote on his boots.
Must have been good luck as four goals followed.
I was there as well I think.
sorry if it has already been mentioned but has any other villa player scored a hat-trick on their debut?
Simon Stainrod.
Fuck, I was there, Exeter away. I know he signed my programme and couldn’t get the pen to work, so he wrote on his boots.
Must have been good luck as four goals followed.
I was there as well I think.
I expect AEG to be playing v Brentford
Dean Smith on Anwar El Ghazi:
"You only have to look at his stats from last season he scored 10 goals in the Premier League, which can get overlooked at times as a wide player.
It’s a good return from a wide player who didn’t start every game. This season, he’s started really well and got his goal against Newcastle.
He came off at 4-0 Vs Barrow with two goals and two assists to his name, so it shows you the kind of form he’s in."
He’s a strange player for whatever reason he doesn’t feel a totally committed Aston Villa player. He’s got really good goals/apps figures but he’s never assured of his place in the team. It would be interesting to hear some of our rival fans take on him.Very underrated by our own supporters. Best comparison is look at list of players who scored around 10 goals last season.
I despair that Anwar is ever going to beat an opponent and create a chance or an assist.he did dribble past one defender and crossed a ball into the box towards the end.
Motm today for us
He looked like the only player capable of making anything happen today.
Motm today for ustallest dwarf competition.
Motm today for ustallest dwarf competition.
I did not think any one had a particularly good game.Motm today for ustallest dwarf competition.
Was it really that bad for you?
People can say what they like however he's untouchable at Pens and dispatched his despite all pressure of first taker, Kepa verbals and crowds jeers ( Vs Chelsea in cup )
Well played El Goalzi. Credit to his mindset and striking ability.
I like him, he is direct and doesn't mind taking a shot.me too
Right now as a front three, I'd prefer him on the left, Watkins in the middle (Ings on the bench) and one of Buendia/Traore/Bidace on the right.
West Ham after him apparently. That would annoy me if true.Don't see how he'd fit in there with Bowen, Berharma and Fornals all playing there ...
Is he along with Mcginn, Mings and Steer the only remaining members of the promotion squad? Some turnaround of players if that's the case.
From his team selections (especially yesterday), and from his choice of substitutions (especially yesterday), it looks like Gerrard doesn't really want to even have a reasonable look at El Ghazi in competitive play, and has already decided that El Ghazi doesn't have a future at Villa. I find that disappointing, as with the right guidance and coaching I reckon El Ghazi could become a really good player. As it is already, his goal scoring record (including his unerring and clinical eye from the penalty spot) should make him a valuable member of the squad, especially at a time when we are hardly enriched. I reckon his fast and direct style, and willingness to have a shot a goal, would have suited us yesterday.Yeah - I think your right on all of that
I hope we sell him just because that will mean I can stop being undecided about him.
£15 million for a squad player is about right.
£15 million for a squad player is about right.
Agreed. Sell now before he gets cheaper.
Great price.
Bought for £4m, helped keep us up and establish ourselves, sell for £15m.
This is top transfer marketing.
Been a success for us imo but if £15m is offered I think it's time to sell.
Great price.
Bought for £4m, helped keep us up and establish ourselves, sell for £15m.
This is top transfer marketing.
Been a success for us imo but if £15m is offered I think it's time to sell.
Closer to £8m wasn't he?
They are in full meltdown mode over this, tbf too them I cant see why they would need him as they already have 4 wingers. https://www.grandoldteam.com/forum/threads/everton-jan-2022-transfer-thread.113391/page-669
Scored some priceless goals during his Villa career and deserves huge respect for that. No room for sentiment though, so a good move for both parties if it happens100% - goes with my best wishes.
Scored some priceless goals during his Villa career and deserves huge respect for that. No room for sentiment though, so a good move for both parties if it happens100% - goes with my best wishes.
Scored some priceless goals during his Villa career and deserves huge respect for that. No room for sentiment though, so a good move for both parties if it happens
Somebody should show this to those moaning Everton fans.
Great price.
Bought for £4m, helped keep us up and establish ourselves, sell for £15m.
This is top transfer marketing.
Been a success for us imo but if £15m is offered I think it's time to sell.
Closer to £8m wasn't he?
Yup. Another one weoverpaid forbought off Jorge Mendes.
Scored one of the important goals in our recent history.
I reckon he’s quite a complex character, and obviously player that massively relies on confidence.
If he goes, I will wish him good luck.
And Jed Steer! :)Scored one of the important goals in our recent history.
I reckon he’s quite a complex character, and obviously player that massively relies on confidence.
If he goes, I will wish him good luck.
This.
If this happens only McGinn and Mings left from the 2019 promotion team, some turnaround in less than 3 years.
Also a loan would mean he can't play against us presumably
Scored one of the important goals in our recent history.
I reckon he’s quite a complex character, and obviously player that massively relies on confidence.
If he goes, I will wish him good luck.
This.
If this happens only McGinn and Mings left from the 2019 promotion team, some turnaround in less than 3 years.
Loan fees can be highly-loaded (we reportedly paid £11m for Barkley last season...I imagine Coutinho for a few months means a few mill in payment to Barcelona, even though it hasn't been reported), so it wouldn't be the worst thing if Everton paid, £2m-£3m now and then the remaining £12m in the summer when hopefully they think he's been good enough.
Scored one of the important goals in our recent history.
I reckon he’s quite a complex character, and obviously player that massively relies on confidence.
If he goes, I will wish him good luck.
This.
If this happens only McGinn and Mings left from the 2019 promotion team, some turnaround in less than 3 years.
+Steer and Hause. Good memories for AEG, but we're trying to move to another level now.
Love Tyrone, and think he was a massive catalyst for our 10 in a row. But I think due to his age, and club progression, he'll be phased out soon too.
We'll miss his penalties if nothing else. Can't remember the last taker we had I had as much confidence in.
Not to mention JPB who came on yesterday and JJ could probably do a job there at a push.Think that's another thing. Whoever is 5th(?) choice winger is going to get, what, half a dozen starts a season tops? We want that person to be JPB, who would really benefit from that - not AEG, who'd stagnate.
I can't see AEG getting much game time if he stays.
Very few players in world football would've scored the goal he did against Palace on Boxing Day 2020. When he's confident he can do some incredible things but as others have said he's far too inconsistent for where we aspire to be as a club so if we can get £15m for him I think he should go with our thanks and good wishes.
You've hated Anwar since the start !
We signed a player. He was a top pro, contributed to some major moments in our recent trajectory, scored some memorable goals and now we’ve outgrown him, he’ll be sold on for a profit.
Witchcraft.
You've hated Anwar since the start !
Hate's too strong a word. I can count on my thumbs the number of Villa players I've hated. If you'd said I've never really been a fan of his, you'd be closer to the truth. There are numerous reasons why, the obvious ones are his lack of effort; it's a basic characteristic Villa fans expect and I'm no different. People talk about him being inconsistent but I think the opposite, so often he'd do one great thing and then disappear for the rest of the match. You can probably count the games where he's performed well over 90 minutes on my thumbs too. That's real consistency.
Not sure why they'd want him to be honest.
Iwobi is an interesting comparison. He joined them for £28M rising to £32M at a similar time to when we signed El Ghazi permanently for £8M and is about the same age. He has scored 3 goals in 68 games, whereas Anwar has scored 15 in 65 (obviously a lot of penalties, but a lot of his appearances must have been as a substitute also). If some of our supporters are keen to get rid of El Ghazi, I wonder what Everton supporters think of Iwobi?Not sure why they'd want him to be honest.
Why would a club that regularly play Andros Townsend and Alex Iwobi in his position want somebody better than what they currently have? Goodness knows.
Iwobi is an interesting comparison. He joined them for £28M rising to £32M at a similar time to when we signed El Ghazi permanently for £8M and is about the same age. He has scored 3 goals in 68 games, whereas Anwar has scored 15 in 65 (obviously a lot of penalties, but a lot of his appearances must have been as a substitute also). If some of our supporters are keen to get rid of El Ghazi, I wonder what Everton supporters think of Iwobi?Not sure why they'd want him to be honest.
Why would a club that regularly play Andros Townsend and Alex Iwobi in his position want somebody better than what they currently have? Goodness knows.
Not sure why they'd want him to be honest.
Why would a club that regularly play Andros Townsend and Alex Iwobi in his position want somebody better than what they currently have? Goodness knows.
They think he's shite.Iwobi is an interesting comparison. He joined them for £28M rising to £32M at a similar time to when we signed El Ghazi permanently for £8M and is about the same age. He has scored 3 goals in 68 games, whereas Anwar has scored 15 in 65 (obviously a lot of penalties, but a lot of his appearances must have been as a substitute also). If some of our supporters are keen to get rid of El Ghazi, I wonder what Everton supporters think of Iwobi?Not sure why they'd want him to be honest.
Why would a club that regularly play Andros Townsend and Alex Iwobi in his position want somebody better than what they currently have? Goodness knows.
Going out on loan to Everton it seems. No obligation to buy. Skint pricks
There was an articulate Everton fan on Talksport recently calling-out Iwobi for smiling and smirking from the bench after another dismal defeat for Everton at Goodison. She came across very well, basically incredulous that Iwobi was on however amount of money a week, not giving a shit and laughing in the fans' faces.
There was an articulate Everton fan on Talksport recently calling-out Iwobi for smiling and smirking from the bench after another dismal defeat for Everton at Goodison. She came across very well, basically incredulous that Iwobi was on however amount of money a week, not giving a shit and laughing in the fans' faces.
Micah Richards's opinion on this would be interesting.
There's a few I'd sooner sew going out the door before himStitch that, Jimmy!
Some great, and crucial moments, for us. Best of luck Anwar.
There's a few I'd sooner sew going out the door before himSame here. I suspect the club feel the same too but you can only sell a player if a club comes in with an offer. He's been decent for us and he's left us with some fond memories. Good luck Anwar.
Some great, and crucial moments, for us. Best of luck Anwar.This.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
Maybe they should look at the gorgeous curler he stuck into the top corner against them last season. Miserable dopes.
What are his comments upon joining the Toffees.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
There's a few I'd sooner sew going out the door before him
I found it difficult to watch his Everton interview. It didn't seem right to see him in another team's colours.
Bye Anwar - a move that both parties needed.
We need to upgrade our 5 out of 10 performers.
Bye Anwar - a move that both parties needed.
We need to upgrade our 5 out of 10 performers.
Traore
Luiz
Ings
Trez
Cash
Target -done
off the top.
AEG was someone who I thought was ideal to have in the squad in these days of 9 on the bench.If it means Chuckwuemeka gets more game time, or at least a place on the bench week in week out for this season then this loan makes even more sense
Bit disappointed to see him go. Preferred him to Trez and Bert
I found it difficult to watch his Everton interview. It didn't seem right to see him in another team's colours.
I found it difficult to watch his Everton interview. It didn't seem right to see him in another team's colours.
That'll be the blue.
Nothing looks good in blue.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
Probably after reading this thread.
I said to a mate a while ago that the next stage of our development would be tricky because we'll probably have to seek upgrades on some popular players who have served us well during a time when the team has been likeable and restored plenty of pride. At the time, I thought McGinn might be in that number but he's stepped up a level. So it seems Anwar is the first to fall.I couldn't have said it any better. A real favourite of mine and very sad to see him go.
I don't think anyone needs to caveat good luck wishes with 'but it he wasn't good enough and we need to move on'. I think his record speaks for itself:
-Central role in the 10 game winning streak that got us to he play offs - he was one of our best players in that period
-Sacrificed his religious beliefs so he was in the best possible condition for the play off campaign
-Scored the opener in the play off final
-Scored some important goals in our first season back despite being in and out of the side
-Set up our goal in a Wembley cup final
-Reacted to being left out of the side for the first few months of last season by hitting an incredible run of form as we played some of the best football I've seen a Villa team play in years
-Scored some important goals last season, including winners at Leeds and Wolves and the equaliser at Chelsea
-Vindicated himself at Goodison last year after the ridiculously exaggerated criticism he got at the same ground the previous year
He also started this season well before being dropped when Smudger switched formation. He's been pretty unlucky, and clearly isn't Gerrard's sort of winger.
I really like Anwar and he's proved a snip at £8 million. He's more than paid back his transfer fee.
Hark at us, loaning out our unwanted players to smaller teams going through a rough patch!
Burnley at homeI don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
Probably after reading this thread.
I like Everton, big well supported club, similar to us. Historically bigger than Chelsea, Man City or Spurs. He's not good enough for them.
Thanks for the play off final goal, but too selfish otherwise.
He never seemed to want to cross for someone else, he just wanted to shoot, shoot and shoot. Can't recall the game last season when we had something like 27 shots on goal, mostly from him off target, and still didn't win.
I like Everton, big well supported club, similar to us. Historically bigger than Chelsea, Man City or Spurs. He's not good enough for them.
Thanks for the play off final goal, but too selfish otherwise.
He never seemed to want to cross for someone else, he just wanted to shoot, shoot and shoot. Can't recall the game last season when we had something like 27 shots on goal, mostly from him off target, and still didn't win.
I don't mind El Ghazi but for me he's firmly a bottom 6 player so I have no idea why Everton are buying him. Yes they're currently shite but it's not very aspiring. I would be pretty annoyed if I were a toffee.
Taking a look at their forums.. they aren't thrilled and already writing him off.
Probably after reading this thread.
I like Everton, big well supported club, similar to us. Historically bigger than Chelsea, Man City or Spurs. He's not good enough for them.
Thanks for the play off final goal, but too selfish otherwise.
He never seemed to want to cross for someone else, he just wanted to shoot, shoot and shoot. Can't recall the game last season when we had something like 27 shots on goal, mostly from him off target, and still didn't win.
I said to a mate a while ago that the next stage of our development would be tricky because we'll probably have to seek upgrades on some popular players who have served us well during a time when the team has been likeable and restored plenty of pride. At the time, I thought McGinn might be in that number but he's stepped up a level. So it seems Anwar is the first to fall.Spot on.
I don't think anyone needs to caveat good luck wishes with 'but it he wasn't good enough and we need to move on'. I think his record speaks for itself:
-Central role in the 10 game winning streak that got us to he play offs - he was one of our best players in that period
-Sacrificed his religious beliefs so he was in the best possible condition for the play off campaign
-Scored the opener in the play off final
-Scored some important goals in our first season back despite being in and out of the side
-Set up our goal in a Wembley cup final
-Reacted to being left out of the side for the first few months of last season by hitting an incredible run of form as we played some of the best football I've seen a Villa team play in years
-Scored some important goals last season, including winners at Leeds and Wolves and the equaliser at Chelsea
-Vindicated himself at Goodison last year after the ridiculously exaggerated criticism he got at the same ground the previous year
He also started this season well before being dropped when Smudger switched formation. He's been pretty unlucky, and clearly isn't Gerrard's sort of winger.
I really like Anwar and he's proved a snip at £8 million. He's more than paid back his transfer fee.
I said to a mate a while ago that the next stage of our development would be tricky because we'll probably have to seek upgrades on some popular players who have served us well during a time when the team has been likeable and restored plenty of pride. At the time, I thought McGinn might be in that number but he's stepped up a level. So it seems Anwar is the first to fall.
I don't think anyone needs to caveat good luck wishes with 'but it he wasn't good enough and we need to move on'. I think his record speaks for itself:
-Central role in the 10 game winning streak that got us to he play offs - he was one of our best players in that period
-Sacrificed his religious beliefs so he was in the best possible condition for the play off campaign
-Scored the opener in the play off final
-Scored some important goals in our first season back despite being in and out of the side
-Set up our goal in a Wembley cup final
-Reacted to being left out of the side for the first few months of last season by hitting an incredible run of form as we played some of the best football I've seen a Villa team play in years
-Scored some important goals last season, including winners at Leeds and Wolves and the equaliser at Chelsea
-Vindicated himself at Goodison last year after the ridiculously exaggerated criticism he got at the same ground the previous year
He also started this season well before being dropped when Smudger switched formation. He's been pretty unlucky, and clearly isn't Gerrard's sort of winger.
I really like Anwar and he's proved a snip at £8 million. He's more than paid back his transfer fee.
I sometimes think it gets forgotten by those criticising him for his propensity to shoot at every opportunity that if it wasn't for that propensity then we may not have scored that second goal in the play-off final. If you don't buy a ticket and all that. A player that deserves to leave with our gratitude.
I sometimes think it gets forgotten by those criticising him for his propensity to shoot at every opportunity that if it wasn't for that propensity then we may not have scored that second goal in the play-off final. If you don't buy a ticket and all that. A player that deserves to leave with our gratitude.
Except that wasn't a shot Dave, it was a header/shoulder effort from a great cross by Elmo. He didn't really have any other option in that instance.
Come on Risso, be nice to Anwar, it won't hurt ;)
It's about their decision making. The top players will know when someone else is in a better position, so when to play them in or when there's not any real options on. AEG just seems to have it in his head that he's going to shoot before the ball's even got to him. He's one that I've found very frustrating and we needed to improve on in order to get to where we want to get to.
El Gonezi.Can you explain that in the Thomas Muller style?
I said to a mate a while ago that the next stage of our development would be tricky because we'll probably have to seek upgrades on some popular players who have served us well during a time when the team has been likeable and restored plenty of pride. At the time, I thought McGinn might be in that number but he's stepped up a level. So it seems Anwar is the first to fall.Spot on.
I don't think anyone needs to caveat good luck wishes with 'but it he wasn't good enough and we need to move on'. I think his record speaks for itself:
-Central role in the 10 game winning streak that got us to he play offs - he was one of our best players in that period
-Sacrificed his religious beliefs so he was in the best possible condition for the play off campaign
-Scored the opener in the play off final
-Scored some important goals in our first season back despite being in and out of the side
-Set up our goal in a Wembley cup final
-Reacted to being left out of the side for the first few months of last season by hitting an incredible run of form as we played some of the best football I've seen a Villa team play in years
-Scored some important goals last season, including winners at Leeds and Wolves and the equaliser at Chelsea
-Vindicated himself at Goodison last year after the ridiculously exaggerated criticism he got at the same ground the previous year
He also started this season well before being dropped when Smudger switched formation. He's been pretty unlucky, and clearly isn't Gerrard's sort of winger.
I really like Anwar and he's proved a snip at £8 million. He's more than paid back his transfer fee.
I said to a mate a while ago that the next stage of our development would be tricky because we'll probably have to seek upgrades on some popular players who have served us well during a time when the team has been likeable and restored plenty of pride. At the time, I thought McGinn might be in that number but he's stepped up a level. So it seems Anwar is the first to fall.
I don't think anyone needs to caveat good luck wishes with 'but it he wasn't good enough and we need to move on'. I think his record speaks for itself:
-Central role in the 10 game winning streak that got us to he play offs - he was one of our best players in that period
-Sacrificed his religious beliefs so he was in the best possible condition for the play off campaign
-Scored the opener in the play off final
-Scored some important goals in our first season back despite being in and out of the side
-Set up our goal in a Wembley cup final
-Reacted to being left out of the side for the first few months of last season by hitting an incredible run of form as we played some of the best football I've seen a Villa team play in years
-Scored some important goals last season, including winners at Leeds and Wolves and the equaliser at Chelsea
-Vindicated himself at Goodison last year after the ridiculously exaggerated criticism he got at the same ground the previous year
He also started this season well before being dropped when Smudger switched formation. He's been pretty unlucky, and clearly isn't Gerrard's sort of winger.
I really like Anwar and he's proved a snip at £8 million. He's more than paid back his transfer fee.
I sometimes think it gets forgotten by those criticising him for his propensity to shoot at every opportunity that if it wasn't for that propensity then we may not have scored that second goal in the play-off final. If you don't buy a ticket and all that. A player that deserves to leave with our gratitude.
Except that wasn't a shot Dave, it was a header/shoulder effort from a great cross by Elmo. He didn't really have any other option in that instance.
Dave is talking about McGinn's goal, which came from Anwar cutting inside and having a pop.
Isn't it nice to be waving someone off with these sentiments? Rather than bemoaning their loss as another sign of lack of ambition, or cursing the day they ever walked through the door.
Isn't it nice to be waving someone off with these sentiments? Rather than bemoaning their loss as another sign of lack of ambition, or cursing the day they ever walked through the door.
Indeed. I expect Trez to be next.
I can see El Ghazi making Lingard moves and being prolific for Everton. He's better than anything they currently have and with a run of games his shooting will lead to goals. Quality player to me just needed fine tuning
Disappointed he wasn't actually given the opportunity of others and I will be watching closely how he performs .
Good luck to him as he's proven now at this level and needed a run of games which Gerrard won't give him
If El Ghazi is just a bit part player at Everton then that's scandalous as Norwich with Dean he would help the attack no end.
I think Villa I'm respect to Dean Smith should have been offered first refusal sometimes and chance on any of our players for loans as a good will gesture.
Norwich would be perfect for him Steer, Davies Targett and several of our younger players to aid them in battle to stay up.
Nakamba too if Villa brought in replacement and even Trezeguet too though he must be given a chance for me as he's earned it
Good Luck Anwar El Ghazi!
Der Mann ist gegangen.El Gonezi.Can you explain that in the Thomas Muller style?
Speaking to Elf (Eleven) magazine in his native Netherlands, El Ghazi said: "The style of play introduced by new manager Steven Gerrard leaves no room for wingers like me. That’s the moment you have to decide to try your luck elsewhere." El Ghazi will enter the final 12 months of his Villa contract at the end of the season.
I can see El Ghazi making Lingard moves and being prolific for Everton. He's better than anything they currently have and with a run of games his shooting will lead to goals. Quality player to me just needed fine tuning
Disappointed he wasn't actually given the opportunity of others and I will be watching closely how he performs .
Good luck to him as he's proven now at this level and needed a run of games which Gerrard won't give him
Why on earth did they even take him? Even under Benitez he barely featured.
Anwar El Ghazi staat op de radar bij PSV. De aanvaller van Aston Villa wordt gezien als een interessante optie.
The treatment Anwar has had from the current manager is a disgrace . Not to be even included on the bench in the cup outing.
With five sub rule
AEG
Sanson
Gilbert
Nakamba
All free to go is absolutely bonkers
The treatment Anwar has had from the current manager is a disgrace . Not to be even included on the bench in the cup outing.
With five sub rule
AEG
Sanson
Gilbert
Nakamba
All free to go is absolutely bonkers
Thread title may need an update.....
Anwar El Ghazi - Sent to Coventry?
Funny player. Got the haircut, the fitness even the stupid step over but he was never a footballer to be taken seriously.
If we can get rid for the money or even half the money we should have an open top tour of the city.
I'd love to see West Brom buy him. Even then I don't see them being so stupid. Clubs' aren't so ignorant anymore. He's a reflection of everything that was wrong with English football. Buying crap rather than promoting your youth.
that's what he was paid for :)Funny player. Got the haircut, the fitness even the stupid step over but he was never a footballer to be taken seriously.
If we can get rid for the money or even half the money we should have an open top tour of the city.
I'd love to see West Brom buy him. Even then I don't see them being so stupid. Clubs' aren't so ignorant anymore. He's a reflection of everything that was wrong with English football. Buying crap rather than promoting your youth.
He was never a footballer to be taken seriously? What an awful (and absolutey ridiclous) thing to say about a player who played his part in helping us get back up.
Buying crap rather than promoting your youth.Strange comment. We were 2nd tier at the time and were not flush with players ready to step up to the mark. For what we paid for him, and his wages, we've done okay with him.
Funny player. Got the haircut, the fitness even the stupid step over but he was never a footballer to be taken seriously.
If we can get rid for the money or even half the money we should have an open top tour of the city.
I'd love to see West Brom buy him. Even then I don't see them being so stupid. Clubs' aren't so ignorant anymore. He's a reflection of everything that was wrong with English football. Buying crap rather than promoting your youth.
Funny player. Got the haircut, the fitness even the stupid step over but he was never a footballer to be taken seriously.
If we can get rid for the money or even half the money we should have an open top tour of the city.
I'd love to see West Brom buy him. Even then I don't see them being so stupid. Clubs' aren't so ignorant anymore. He's a reflection of everything that was wrong with English football. Buying crap rather than promoting your youth.
Utter cock.
Look at the time he was posting, I suspect a certain amount of alcohol may have been imbibed.
He hasn't particularly ever let us down has he? I also believe he's behaved well enough and despite his apparant surplus to requirements status hasn't thrown any toys out of the pram.That's a nice thing to say about Rudy (apart from the toys-and-prams comment)!
I'd likely wish him well, he helped us in a time of need and that shouldn't be forgotten.
Scored some massive goals for us and i’ll always have a soft spot spot for him. Seems a really decent man as well.
Scored some massive goals for us and i’ll always have a soft spot spot for him. Seems a really decent man as well.
That goal against Palace on Boxing Day during COVID wasn't particularly important but was an absolute belter!
His record for us in the league. 72 starts, 30 sub appearances, 20 goals and 11 assists.
He will always have a special part in our history. Good luck Anwar.
Good luck Anwar!
Part of the reason we got back into the Prem and always will be grateful.
His record for us in the league. 72 starts, 30 sub appearances, 20 goals and 11 assists.
Makes him sound like a really good player doesn't it?
AEG played a major role in our team. He is also in a very respectable respectable in terms of our all-time premier-league scorers chart.
AEG played a major role in our team. He is also in a very respectable respectable in terms of our all-time premier-league scorers chart.
To complete my point, he has more top flight goals for us than Tommy Johnson and as many as Jack Grealish.
I think he should have featured more and I think he should have been treated better.
£2.5m is a good deal for someone who had one year left on his contract and had a disaster of a loan at Everton.
Only surprise is he didn't go back to Ajax. Now he's at PSV he can talk us up to Sangare.
It’s time to say goodbye now. I will miss my brummies but I am proud to say that I am bringing a new brummie back home with me.
I wish nothing but the best for the club, the players and the fans.
First of all I want to say THANK YOU
@AVFCOfficial and their supporters for the amazing 4 years and the opportunity to play for this fantastic club.
I will never forget the beautiful moments I have had here. 31-05-2019 is one of them.. one of the best days of my life (1/3)
to score at Wembley and helping the club coming back to the Premier League.
I would also like to thank everyone at the club behind the scenes for taking care of me and my family. (2/3)
It’s time to say goodbye now. I will miss my brummies but I am proud to say that I am bringing a new brummie back home with me.
I wish nothing but the best for the club, the players and the fans. (3/3)
Superb Pro who unlike many footballers these days was very humble and a really nice bloke.
Broke his fast at Wembley to help the team
Good Luck Anwar
I thought he meant he was the Brummie.
Does he have a child? I thought he meant that he was an honorary Brummie now.
He's definitely the best penalty taker we've had in my lifetime.
It was on a trip back to England earlier this month when all the memories started flooding back for Anwar El Ghazi.
His new club, PSV Eindhoven, were taking on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium and in the city that holds a special place in the Dutch winger’s heart.
Across London at Wembley, El Ghazi scored the first goal in Aston Villa’s 2-1 win over Derby County in the 2019 play-off final. A year later at West Ham United’s London Stadium, he was on the pitch as Villa survived on the final day of the season.
“I really loved England,” he says. “I made some great friends and when I went back… when I was on English soil again in the Europa League, it was like I was back home.
“I miss it a lot and yes, I miss Villa, but I’m glad to be here (at PSV) now.”
Since moving back to the Netherlands, El Ghazi has been in and out of Ruud van Nistelrooy’s starting line-up for reasons we’ll get into shortly.
First, though, he’s keen to explain to The Athletic what went wrong last year when he was cast aside by former Villa manager Steven Gerrard before enduring a tough loan spell at Everton.
There are two sides to the attacker who burst onto the scene at Ajax in 2014, scored in the Champions League against Barcelona at Camp Nou, then moved to Lille where he played under Marcelo Bielsa and Christophe Galtier.
On the pitch, he’s determined, focused and sometimes fiery, yet off it, he needs affection, reassurance and belief from those he’s working under.
There’s no doubting El Ghazi’s quality. Jack Grealish once described him as the best finisher at Villa and his record of four goals in the last five games for PSV shows that another hot streak is developing.
After making only four appearances for Villa under Gerrard and two appearances at Everton (all six as a substitute), this revival back in his homeland is much needed as a degree of frustration around last season still exists.
“I’m always the guy who looks at myself first, so when things go wrong I’m not blaming anyone ever,” he says. “But last season, I should have had more chances.”
It’s a year ago this week (November 5) that he last started a Premier League game, away at Southampton in Dean Smith’s final match in charge.
El Ghazi then came off the bench as a substitute in Gerrard’s first two games to make important contributions to match-winning goals.
“Against Brighton, I made a good run for Ollie Watkins and he scored, then in the next game at Crystal Palace, I assisted John McGinn, so I thought I could do it and get my opportunities but after that game, it felt like it was over.”
By “could do it” El Ghazi means playing in Gerrard’s system, which favoured two No 10s rather than wingers who retained their width.
Recalling the chain of events that sent his 2021-22 season into shutdown, he says: “In the first training session under Gerrard, he was trying to explain with his assistant manager on the pitch how he likes to play. A lot of thoughts were already in my head. I knew I had to get ready to not be wanted.
“I was trying to adapt to the way that he plays, and of course I can do it, but naturally, I am a winger. I like to stay wide, put crosses in, get into one-v-one situations and then maybe come inside. But he wanted you to start inside. It was different. That’s what I struggled with and I think Bertrand Traore and Trezeguet (other wingers Villa moved on) did, too.”
El Ghazi knew his days were limited when Carney Chukwuemeka, the youngster whom Villa sold to Chelsea for £20million ($23m), was introduced ahead of him for a run of games around the Christmas period. The arrival of Gerrard’s former Liverpool team-mate Philippe Coutinho only cemented the need to move on.
“I had a good conversation with Rafa Benitez at Everton,” El Ghazi says.
“He was playing with wingers. He said to me that he didn’t understand why I wasn’t playing at Villa and that he would love to have me with him. He told me there was competition but that I would get a chance. He said he knew I could score goals.
“I was really excited and wanted to show myself that I could do it there because Everton is a big and great club, but three days after I signed, it was unlucky because Benitez was sacked.
“Frank Lampard came and I tried to work hard and keep going and show the manager what I could do, but the system, and in his pecking order… I didn’t get a chance.”
El Ghazi was unavailable for the first two Everton games as one was against his parent club, Villa, and the other was in the FA Cup and he was cup-tied. He believes that knocked him back.
He didn’t start a game at Goodison Park as Lampard moved relegation-threatened Everton into survival mode, set up with a back five and favoured other attacking options.
“I never had a proper opportunity at Everton and I’m not going to lie, it was a really tough period for me. Really tough,” he says, opening up on that experience for the first time.
“But I have a good wife. My religion keeps me strong and my family back home helped. I could switch off when I came home. I kept working hard for myself and tried to regain my focus but it was difficult.”
El Ghazi became a father this summer. He describes his son as the “best thing”.
The birth coincided with his return back to Villa during pre-season. It was decided that rather than going to Australia for the summer trip, he could stay at Bodymoor Heath to train with the under-21s and wait for his wife to deliver their first child.
The situation, after missing so much football the previous season, “wasn’t ideal”. He missed pre-season games and the training wasn’t as sharp or competitive. Without any assurances from Gerrard, and with just one year remaining on his contract, he was open to a move away.
“I had a really good conversation with the PSV director of football Marcel Brands and the manager (Ruud van Nistelrooy) and I felt loved again,” he says.
“It was really important for me and I made a decision on the back of how much the club really wanted me. On the other side, I didn’t want to leave. I really wanted to stick with Villa.
“But I had one year left only, a manager who really didn’t want me there and had I stayed there… (he pauses)… well, it was just so difficult.”
It’s only when speaking to El Ghazi that it becomes clear just how much he appreciated playing in claret and blue.
Footballers come and go, and at Villa, supporters have seen their fair share of players over recent years. The turnover is high and only Tyrone Mings, John McGinn and Jed Steer remain from the promotion-winning side three years ago.
El Ghazi knows he had his ups and downs. “I didn’t always play well but I always scored goals,” he said of his 26 strikes in 119 games in all competitions.
His goal in the Championship play-off final was perhaps the most important of the lot and regardless of how the last season ended, he left a lasting legacy at Villa and contributed towards the transformation of the club during a difficult time.
At PSV, he’s working closely with Van Nistelrooy, the former Manchester United striker, to sharpen up his game and show those back in England what they are missing.
“We had a great conversation when I joined and he said I really want to work with you because you’re a great player,” El Ghazi says. “He’s told me that together, we are going to make me more consistent and that he’s looking forward to this particular challenge.”
It’s not a straightforward transition though.
Different players deal with a lack of game time in varying ways. Some are able to switch on and off easier than others.
“Not me,” El Ghazi says. “Unfortunately, I’m paying the price of not playing for a year. We have so many games. and I need to manage my minutes. I’m not ready to play a full 90 minutes until January. It’s just about training up and surviving until the World Cup break because I missed a lot of pre-season as well. It’s hard to get the confidence back and play like I used to. I have little pains in my groin and hamstring, which I never used to have. Fortunately, they are going away and I’m getting more minutes, but it’s going to take time. I’ve had a really unlucky year.”
That El Ghazi is still contributing with goals from wide positions despite not playing a full 90 minutes over his 10 appearances is a good sign.
His biggest quality is that he’s always a goal threat and PSV are finding that out as part of a talented front line that includes Cody Gakpo and Luuk de Jong.
This weekend they take on Ajax in a top-of-the-table clash. Beating Arsenal last week also means they stand a chance of progressing to the knockout stages of the Europa League. El Ghazi says the opportunity to win trophies is exciting.
Before the interview ends, the 27-year-old wants to switch the focus back to Villa.
“If Villa fans are reading this then I would like to tell them to keep getting behind the team. When Villa Park is really behind the players, we really felt like they are the 12th man on the pitch.
“People don’t understand, they always think that you should run harder or do everything better, but also, if Villa Park is behind you, the noise really helps. It’s the little things like when you win a corner or a throw-in and the energy builds. That makes a difference for us as players.
“Even in hard times, like before the 4-0 win over Brentford, the supporters need to keep cheering the players on. I know that for Villa, football is their religion, so I get that when it goes backwards they are frustrated. It’s also our job as players to help make them feel better, but their support makes a huge difference and the chance of winning is much higher.”
He misses Villa, clearly, even if it’s refreshing to have old friends and family around him again in the Netherlands.
Returning to play in England is still a future ambition, though.
“I’d love to. I would definitely do it. That’s no secret.”
Infuriatingly inconsistent, but he contributed as much as anyone to our survival so wish him well in the rest of his career.
Funnily enough, I always got the feeling that you'd know early on whether he would be firing on all cylinders or next to useless in any given match. He really seemed to need a good start to be effective.Infuriatingly inconsistent, but he contributed as much as anyone to our survival so wish him well in the rest of his career.
The thing with him is that there was always hope that something would happen when he came on.
I'll oblige (premier league only):
AEG 71 appearences, 15 goals, 5 assists. So 1 invovlement every 3.5 matches.
Buendia 48apps, 5g, 6a. 1/4.3
Coutinho 31apps, 5g, 3a. 1/3.9
Bailey 30apps, 3g, 4a. 1/4.2
So better goalscoring than all of them but not enough assists really. Also 6 penalties in that 15 makes a big difference.
He was ok, and was a really important player for us in the promotion season and the first year back but his very best is fairly similar to those 3 when most agree they've all been below par. If we can get them organised and playing to their strengths I suspect the stats will look very different once they each get to the 71 appearance mark.