Post by: olaftab on October 29, 2020, 02:51:09 PM
And is Lundstrom at Sheff United any good? BBC say he has one year left on his contract and has refused to extend it.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on October 29, 2020, 02:59:23 PM
Post by: Clampy on October 29, 2020, 03:47:29 PM
Post by: UK Redsox on October 29, 2020, 04:01:48 PM
Yeah, it's a bit early only five games in.
Justified though. The next window isn't too far away and the Villa management need time to review and act on the ideas we post ;)
Post by: richtheholtender on October 29, 2020, 04:22:04 PM
Post by: paul_e on October 29, 2020, 04:58:14 PM
Of course if we have something emerge as a problem in the squad in the next month or 2 then that needs addressing as well but that's not something we can know just yet.
Post by: Drummond on October 29, 2020, 05:03:29 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 29, 2020, 05:20:57 PM
Post by: Steve67 on October 29, 2020, 05:31:07 PM
Post by: eamonn on October 29, 2020, 05:34:35 PM
Post by: john e on October 29, 2020, 06:09:51 PM
Zaha or st Maximum would do for me
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on October 29, 2020, 06:26:17 PM
FFS, can't we leave transfers be for one sodding month ?!
I bet you're the type that wait until December to put up your Christmas tree.
Post by: Drummond on October 29, 2020, 06:29:59 PM
FFS, can't we leave transfers be for one sodding month ?!
I bet you're the type that wait until December to put up your Christmas tree.
Shudder.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 29, 2020, 07:11:08 PM
If we get the chance I’d still sign a marquee DM/number 8. Barkley is only on loan so buying his replacement now, when flying, is a good opportunity.
Post by: Fred Crump on October 29, 2020, 07:21:32 PM
Sign a central midfielder with some fecking physicality! The lack of, will be the difference between top half and bottom half.John Lundstram refusing to sign a contract at Sheffield Utd. Wilder says he’ll be sold in January .
Post by: Risso on October 29, 2020, 07:51:31 PM
If we have a spare 80-100 mil splashing about
Zaha or st Maximum would do for me
The Newcastle one has just signed a new 6 (six) year contract.
Post by: Dave on October 29, 2020, 09:03:28 PM
If we have a spare 80-100 mil splashing about
Zaha or st Maximum would do for me
The Newcastle one has just signed a new 6 (six) year contract.
And they've signed his mate from the Australian fourth division to keep him happy.
Post by: Steve67 on October 29, 2020, 10:14:11 PM
Sign a central midfielder with some fecking physicality! The lack of, will be the difference between top half and bottom half.John Lundstram refusing to sign a contract at Sheffield Utd. Wilder says he’ll be sold in January .
He's certainly a unit Fred!
Post by: brontebilly on October 30, 2020, 10:59:36 AM
Sign a central midfielder with some fecking physicality! The lack of, will be the difference between top half and bottom half.John Lundstram refusing to sign a contract at Sheffield Utd. Wilder says he’ll be sold in January .
Would be a good signing for us and let us move on someone like Nakamba. Will be plenty of interest though.
Post by: john e on October 30, 2020, 09:32:48 PM
If we have a spare 80-100 mil splashing about
Zaha or st Maximum would do for me
The Newcastle one has just signed a new 6 (six) year contract.
And they've signed his mate from the Australian fourth division to keep him happy.
So probably only a 50/50 chance he’d come then
Post by: N'ZMAV on October 31, 2020, 10:14:12 AM
Post by: Axl Rose on October 31, 2020, 11:24:28 AM
Post by: rob_bridge on October 31, 2020, 08:23:49 PM
Left back
Yes we do need left back
Post by: N'ZMAV on October 31, 2020, 08:48:58 PM
Just sign a striker, Villa. And a good one at that.But we've got Wesley coming back.....
Agreed.
Post by: mcgrath_85 on October 31, 2020, 09:25:44 PM
Just sign a striker, Villa. And a good one at that.But we've got Wesley coming back.....
Agreed.
He said a good one though.
Post by: Alex77 on October 31, 2020, 09:46:50 PM
Just sign a striker, Villa. And a good one at that.But we've got Wesley coming back.....
Agreed.
He said a good one though.
I still think he'll come good as long as the injury hasn't done long term damage.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 01, 2020, 02:15:58 PM
Just sign a striker, Villa. And a good one at that.But we've got Wesley coming back.....
Agreed.
He said a good one though.
I still think he'll come good as long as the injury hasn't done long term damage.
Kodj was on fire from Feb 2017 onwards but was never the same even at championship level when he came back after his injuries so I have my doubts.
Surely have to get one in though given Davis isn't been used in games we're losing.
Post by: paul_e on November 01, 2020, 02:18:57 PM
Just sign a striker, Villa. And a good one at that.But we've got Wesley coming back.....
Agreed.
He said a good one though.
I still think he'll come good as long as the injury hasn't done long term damage.
Kodj was on fire from Feb 2017 onwards but was never the same even at championship level when he came back after his injuries so I have my doubts.
Surely have to get one in though given Davis isn't been used in games we're losing.
Completely different circumstances really so I wouldn't look at how Kodjia recovered as any indication of what to expect with Wes.
Post by: SoccerHQ on November 01, 2020, 02:22:51 PM
Just sign a striker, Villa. And a good one at that.But we've got Wesley coming back.....
Agreed.
He said a good one though.
I still think he'll come good as long as the injury hasn't done long term damage.
Kodj was on fire from Feb 2017 onwards but was never the same even at championship level when he came back after his injuries so I have my doubts.
Surely have to get one in though given Davis isn't been used in games we're losing.
Completely different circumstances really so I wouldn't look at how Kodjia recovered as any indication of what to expect with Wes.
Kozak was another in recent times. Wasn't amazing or anything but had 4 in 7 games and then looked like a pub striker when he eventually came back.
Some would even argue Benteke was never quite the same force with his speed after he did his achilles before 2014 world cup although he still went on another good scoring run in 14/15.
Wes got a very serious injury so I think this season is just hit coming back into the fold and just slowly getting back up to speed with sub cameos and then hopefully he can get a good pre season and be credible option for 21/22.
We certainly need another striker option in January.
Post by: Small Rodent on November 04, 2020, 12:55:34 AM
Tough midfielder
Central defender
2 new trolls. One that adds a bit more than infantile lies about his knowledge and experience of every subject and the pub he owns.
And one that politically would vote for Hitler, because “it’s a great laugh to fuck off moderates”
Post by: KevinGage on November 04, 2020, 06:36:54 AM
Tough midfielder
Central defender
2 new trolls. One that adds a bit more than infantile lies about his knowledge and experience of every subject and the pub he owns.
And one that politically would vote for Hitler, because “it’s a great laugh to fuck off moderates”
Aye. Free transfer out our current pair to make room.
Post by: Fred Crump on November 04, 2020, 07:24:05 AM
Post by: thick_mike on November 04, 2020, 01:24:32 PM
Also a mysterious anonymous celebrity who can spread gossip from the arts and entertainment world.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 04, 2020, 02:53:10 PM
3 midfielders
2 strikers
and a partridge in a pear tree
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 04, 2020, 07:36:24 PM
Tough midfielder
Central defender
2 new trolls. One that adds a bit more than infantile lies about his knowledge and experience of every subject and the pub he owns.
And one that politically would vote for Hitler, because “it’s a great laugh to fuck off moderates”
Round of applause.
Post by: darren woolley on November 06, 2020, 02:48:36 PM
Post by: OCD on November 07, 2020, 11:36:38 AM
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 07, 2020, 01:48:21 PM
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 07, 2020, 01:48:53 PM
Post by: Damo70 on November 07, 2020, 03:46:17 PM
Haha, brilliant SR ! If funds would allow I think we could also strengthen by adding a versatile utility troll who can cover a variety of positions, climate change denier, anti- vaxxer, and QAnon believer. There is one available who could also help out on the playing side by being no.3 goalkeeper. Step forward David Icke ....
Fair play to David Icke. It has been proved that at least one of the royal family is a reptile. And maybe other things that end in ''phile".
I myself have purchased a Flat Earth FC club shirt. They are playing San Fernando tomorrow. But I have to admit I am more of an amused fan of the team rather than the beliefs of the club heirachy. They are in the Spanish Tercera Division (fourth level of Spanish football).
Post by: Mister E on November 08, 2020, 10:35:57 AM
Marseille have dropped out of the race for Strasbourg's £20m-rated Villa transfer target Mohamed Simakan, the 20-year-old French defender.
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 12:09:24 AM
Post by: olaftab on December 02, 2020, 12:12:18 AM
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on December 02, 2020, 12:29:08 AM
In an ideal world I'd want someone to push Watkins as well, but suspect the club will want to see what form Wesley can achieve first.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 02, 2020, 12:32:56 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 02, 2020, 01:07:24 AM
Post by: Proposition Joe on December 02, 2020, 08:38:34 AM
Post by: Dave on December 02, 2020, 08:58:37 AM
The path of least resistance would be to look at the Championship or Scotland. TBH, I have not followed these leagues at all this season so have no idea if there are any players worth bothering with.
Back to the Xi tactic of glancing at the Championship top scorers list and just chucking money at it I reckon.
Ivan Toney come on down.
Post by: Mister E on December 02, 2020, 09:02:30 AM
There isn't a single player on that list I'd be interested in or who'd improve our squad significantly, not one of them would come in as a starter for me (although in the case of Giroud that's only down to his age).I think Charlie Taylor is a decent fullback; but whether he's a significant upgrade is debatable.
Post by: eamonn on December 02, 2020, 09:25:57 AM
The path of least resistance would be to look at the Championship or Scotland. TBH, I have not followed these leagues at all this season so have no idea if there are any players worth bothering with.
Back to the Xi tactic of glancing at the Championship top scorers list and just chucking money at it I reckon.
Ivan Toney come on down.
We still kinda do it. If we offer £25m to Brentford for Toney I'll be a bit pissed off.
Post by: Proposition Joe on December 02, 2020, 10:35:59 AM
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 10:45:48 AM
There isn't a single player on that list I'd be interested in or who'd improve our squad significantly, not one of them would come in as a starter for me (although in the case of Giroud that's only down to his age).I think Charlie Taylor is a decent fullback; but whether he's a significant upgrade is debatable.
He'd be an upgrade on our own Taylor as the backup but I don't think he'd improve our 11 or put a massive amount of pressure on Targett to improve. That's my problem with the whole list, there's no one on there that I look at and think they'd come in and be a first choice, and every one of them is either at or past their prime (oh, except Gray, he's just completely failed to deliver on the promise he had as a teenager and will be lucky to get another premier league club).
Post by: sid1964 on December 02, 2020, 10:50:20 AM
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 11:01:38 AM
There isn't a single player on that list I'd be interested in or who'd improve our squad significantly, not one of them would come in as a starter for me (although in the case of Giroud that's only down to his age).I think Charlie Taylor is a decent fullback; but whether he's a significant upgrade is debatable.
He'd be an upgrade on our own Taylor as the backup but I don't think he'd improve our 11 or put a massive amount of pressure on Targett to improve. That's my problem with the whole list, there's no one on there that I look at and think they'd come in and be a first choice, and every one of them is either at or past their prime (oh, except Gray, he's just completely failed to deliver on the promise he had as a teenager and will be lucky to get another premier league club).
Not every player needs to be an immediate upgrade though. We need a back up to Watkins as I've said before. There's still no sign of Wesley being ready for a return, and Davis simply can't be relied on, either to score goals or simply stay fit.
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 11:15:22 AM
There isn't a single player on that list I'd be interested in or who'd improve our squad significantly, not one of them would come in as a starter for me (although in the case of Giroud that's only down to his age).I think Charlie Taylor is a decent fullback; but whether he's a significant upgrade is debatable.
He'd be an upgrade on our own Taylor as the backup but I don't think he'd improve our 11 or put a massive amount of pressure on Targett to improve. That's my problem with the whole list, there's no one on there that I look at and think they'd come in and be a first choice, and every one of them is either at or past their prime (oh, except Gray, he's just completely failed to deliver on the promise he had as a teenager and will be lucky to get another premier league club).
Not every player needs to be an immediate upgrade though. We need a back up to Watkins as I've said before. There's still no sign of Wesley being ready for a return, and Davis simply can't be relied on, either to score goals or simply stay it.
I agree, but what's the point of signing older players if they aren't? If you want players to create pressure from behind the current 11 then you do it by buying players who will improve quickly and that means looking at the 21-25 age range which is where you generally get those big bumps in performance. If you sign players older than that then they need to come in to compete for the shirt immediately, pushing the current starter into a rotation/cover role (like Barkley with Hourihane for example). Signing 27+ aged players to sit on the bench is the main reason MoN wasted so much money and opportunity when we could've broken into the top 4 with a better transfer policy and we definitely wouldn't have had a decade of shit trying to recover from the problems he created either.
Post by: TelfordVilla on December 02, 2020, 11:17:48 AM
Post by: robbo1874 on December 02, 2020, 11:42:00 AM
If we were looking for an upgrade on Keinan then I would look for us to sign Woodrow from Barnsley - looks like a proper centre forwardno kids we could bring through, Sid? Genuine qn
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 11:46:40 AM
I agree, but what's the point of signing older players if they aren't? If you want players to create pressure from behind the current 11 then you do it by buying players who will improve quickly and that means looking at the 21-25 age range which is where you generally get those big bumps in performance. If you sign players older than that then they need to come in to compete for the shirt immediately, pushing the current starter into a rotation/cover role (like Barkley with Hourihane for example). Signing 27+ aged players to sit on the bench is the main reason MoN wasted so much money and opportunity when we could've broken into the top 4 with a better transfer policy and we definitely wouldn't have had a decade of shit trying to recover from the problems he created either.
Agreed, but I'd take older players on loan for the rest of the season in certain circumstances.
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 11:59:13 AM
I agree, but what's the point of signing older players if they aren't? If you want players to create pressure from behind the current 11 then you do it by buying players who will improve quickly and that means looking at the 21-25 age range which is where you generally get those big bumps in performance. If you sign players older than that then they need to come in to compete for the shirt immediately, pushing the current starter into a rotation/cover role (like Barkley with Hourihane for example). Signing 27+ aged players to sit on the bench is the main reason MoN wasted so much money and opportunity when we could've broken into the top 4 with a better transfer policy and we definitely wouldn't have had a decade of shit trying to recover from the problems he created either.
Agreed, but I'd take older players on loan for the rest of the season in certain circumstances.
Absolutely, older players to come in for a specific job are definitely not something we should be against, just not signed on permanent deals as squad filler. Thankfully everything from the club suggests they have exactly the same concerns as me in that regard so I doubt we'll see those sort of signings.
If Wesley is still struggling for fitness I'd be all for a Giroud or Antonio on a short deal to fill the gap but only for half a season, longer than that and you're just kicking a problem down the road for next year which has bene our strategy far too often in the past. Martinez is the sort of signing I want us concentrating on, a player with plenty of years ahead of him who's ready to go 'out of the box' and improves our first 11. Look at Man City, the 2 big signings that built their success were Kompany and Aguero who have both given most of their career to the club, Kompany in particular came in very early and became the leader of their rise to the top.
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 12:06:54 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 12:36:07 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 12:55:56 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
He's had dozens of bad games. He must have been responsible for more soft goals conceded than anybody else. I really think he's living off his reputation from the year when we came up, because he's been mostly poor since then. If he played for one of the teams at our current level we wouldn't want him.
Post by: robbo1874 on December 02, 2020, 01:10:21 PM
konsa was quality against west hamI think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
Post by: Pat Mustard on December 02, 2020, 01:11:21 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
He's had dozens of bad games. He must have been responsible for more soft goals conceded than anybody else. I really think he's living off his reputation from the year when we came up, because he's been mostly poor since then. If he played for one of the teams at our current level we wouldn't want him.
I'm sorry but this isn't right. Mings has made mistakes at times, but he has effectively has 1 full season at centre-half in the Premier League, in a team that struggled and had injuries. He is now 9 games into a season with a new goalkeeper behind him, right back and for the first time has a settled centre-half partner. Even Virgil Van Dyke looked shite against us early in the season, it happens.
Also, where are these mythical centre-backs who are so much better than him. As far as I can see you have the likes of John Stones and Nathan Ake at Man City, Eric Dier at Spurs and Harry Maguire at Man Utd getting regular games, and yet none of them look any better than Mings to me - in fact, given the option how many would you honestly pick ahead of him for England at the moment?
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 01:20:01 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
He's had dozens of bad games. He must have been responsible for more soft goals conceded than anybody else. I really think he's living off his reputation from the year when we came up, because he's been mostly poor since then. If he played for one of the teams at our current level we wouldn't want him.
I'm sorry but this isn't right. Mings has made mistakes at times, but he has effectively has 1 full season at centre-half in the Premier League, in a team that struggled and had injuries. He is now 9 games into a season with a new goalkeeper behind him, right back and for the first time has a settled centre-half partner. Even Virgil Van Dyke looked shite against us early in the season, it happens.
Also, where are these mythical centre-backs who are so much better than him. As far as I can see you have the likes of John Stones and Nathan Ake at Man City, Eric Dier at Spurs and Harry Maguire at Man Utd getting regular games, and yet none of them look any better than Mings to me - in fact, given the option how many would you honestly pick ahead of him for England at the moment?
Sorry, wasn't aware that we had to have English centre backs. The fact that they're all mediocre doesn't excuse Mings in any case. He has all the attributes to be an amazing centre half, in strength, height and speed, but also all the failings that will stop him achieving what he should be capable of. He can't concentrate for a whole match, he loses the player he should be marking over and over again, he's rubbish at defending corners and set pieces and he tries too many daft things when in possession. You don't see Konsa making the mistakes that Mings does time and time gain, and he's much younger and has even less experience.
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 01:34:17 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
He's had dozens of bad games. He must have been responsible for more soft goals conceded than anybody else. I really think he's living off his reputation from the year when we came up, because he's been mostly poor since then. If he played for one of the teams at our current level we wouldn't want him.
I meant in the last couple of games not since we got the premier league.
I like him not because of the promotion season but because I think he's a good player that needs to work on a few things in his game. I think he's on a similar level to most central defenders in the top half of the premier league.
Post by: trinityoap on December 02, 2020, 01:35:58 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on December 02, 2020, 02:14:02 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.
I very nearly mentioned him in my post, I agree completely. I disagree with you on Mings though, I think he's good enough for where we are and want to be for the next couple of years. He's had a couple of bad games but he's still a mid-table premier league player.
He's had dozens of bad games. He must have been responsible for more soft goals conceded than anybody else. I really think he's living off his reputation from the year when we came up, because he's been mostly poor since then. If he played for one of the teams at our current level we wouldn't want him.
I'm sorry but this isn't right. Mings has made mistakes at times, but he has effectively has 1 full season at centre-half in the Premier League, in a team that struggled and had injuries. He is now 9 games into a season with a new goalkeeper behind him, right back and for the first time has a settled centre-half partner. Even Virgil Van Dyke looked shite against us early in the season, it happens.
Also, where are these mythical centre-backs who are so much better than him. As far as I can see you have the likes of John Stones and Nathan Ake at Man City, Eric Dier at Spurs and Harry Maguire at Man Utd getting regular games, and yet none of them look any better than Mings to me - in fact, given the option how many would you honestly pick ahead of him for England at the moment?
Sorry, wasn't aware that we had to have English centre backs. The fact that they're all mediocre doesn't excuse Mings in any case. He has all the attributes to be an amazing centre half, in strength, height and speed, but also all the failings that will stop him achieving what he should be capable of. He can't concentrate for a whole match, he loses the player he should be marking over and over again, he's rubbish at defending corners and set pieces and he tries too many daft things when in possession. You don't see Konsa making the mistakes that Mings does time and time gain, and he's much younger and has even less experience.
So where are the foreign centre-backs that are playing for other teams that are so much better then? Pretty much everyone is conceding a lot more goals this season, it will be interesting to see how many of these lapses in concentration reduce when there are crowds back in the stadium screaming at the centre backs.
As for losing his man, given we seem to mark zonally most of the time surely this is a collective thing - I don't see how Mings is any more culpable for the goals we've been conceding than Konsa is(or the rest of the team for that matter). Konsa has been great this season and is a real prospect, but we seem to be getting back to finding a scapegoat for all of our ills when in reality there is collective blame. Last season Targett was the main focus of everyone's ire, now he appears to be more settled we've moved onto someone else.
Post by: VinnieChase84 on December 02, 2020, 02:15:07 PM
A new left back would also be great but that can always wait till the summer
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 02:15:56 PM
Post by: VinnieChase84 on December 02, 2020, 02:16:33 PM
Players like Charlie Taylor and the rest listed on expiring contracts such as Lundstrum are players who are a decent age and deserve a big time move for being steady and effective at Premier league level.
Either of these would add the competition to places at left back and central midfield.
Ok so maybe they are the type of signings Newcastle or Palace may make rather than ourselves but its good to have a solid back up player who understands he's part of a squad
Like the gk position having someone who can do a job is important to be a solid back up in a tricky season.
We also need the added quality to improve the squad which would come with bigger signings but the out of contract players are more supplement to the squad.
Jesse Lingard and Damaru Gray would be gambles who can produce but also careers have been stitled and a change can encourage them to be better performers again
I'm not against either as in the right system and team they would be very effective.
Striker wise Giroud would be the only one for a shirt term nove as a central striker.
Lundstrom would be a very astute move. Ive heard Demari Gray is Spurs bound on a free come the summer
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 02:22:33 PM
Post by: Pat Mustard on December 02, 2020, 02:30:40 PM
Ah the old scapegoat nonsense. At that point, any further debate becomes pointless.
Why? You said Mings has had dozens of bad games for us. To date he's made 57 appearances for Villa, which means you think he's been shit in at least half of his games for us - if that was the case then how on earth did we get promoted, stay up and Mings force his way into the England squad?
Post by: PeterWithe on December 02, 2020, 02:35:39 PM
With Wes being back soon a striker not so pressing. For me a massive upgrade needed on Trez/El Ghazi and a decent CB to properly challenge Konsa and Mings. Hause not good enough and Engels made of glass.
A new left back would also be great but that can always wait till the summer
Is Engels injured or just still out of favour?
Post by: Mister E on December 02, 2020, 02:58:34 PM
....I agree with this. Against BHA, the first goal was down to the defence as a whole being AWOL. The first goal that WetSpam scored was down to a lack of collective awareness of what was going on. Perhaps Martinez ain't quite the communicator we thought he is ...
As for losing his man, given we seem to mark zonally most of the time surely this is a collective thing - I don't see how Mings is any more culpable for the goals we've been conceding than Konsa is(or the rest of the team for that matter). Konsa has been great this season and is a real prospect, but we seem to be getting back to finding a scapegoat for all of our ills when in reality there is collective blame. Last season Targett was the main focus of everyone's ire, now he appears to be more settled we've moved onto someone else.
It's corny but true: we win together / we lose together. We should be taking collective accountability for games.
Post by: olaftab on December 02, 2020, 02:58:43 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.I agree. There is something magical already about this lad.
Happy birthday by the way😊
Post by: eamonn on December 02, 2020, 03:18:52 PM
With Wes being back soon a striker not so pressing. For me a massive upgrade needed on Trez/El Ghazi and a decent CB to properly challenge Konsa and Mings. Hause not good enough and Engels made of glass.
A new left back would also be great but that can always wait till the summer
Is Engels injured or just still out of favour?
A bit of both I think.
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 03:23:53 PM
....I agree with this. Against BHA, the first goal was down to the defence as a whole being AWOL. The first goal that WetSpam scored was down to a lack of collective awareness of what was going on. Perhaps Martinez ain't quite the communicator we thought he is ...
As for losing his man, given we seem to mark zonally most of the time surely this is a collective thing - I don't see how Mings is any more culpable for the goals we've been conceding than Konsa is(or the rest of the team for that matter). Konsa has been great this season and is a real prospect, but we seem to be getting back to finding a scapegoat for all of our ills when in reality there is collective blame. Last season Targett was the main focus of everyone's ire, now he appears to be more settled we've moved onto someone else.
It's corny but true: we win together / we lose together. We should be taking collective accountability for games.
Yes they are a group, but individual mistakes can and do affect matches. An example is Trez missing that sitter. Yes other players helped in the build up, but his dreadful attempt was his mistake alone. Guilbert didn't do a lot wrong last year but the mangement decided that an upgrade was needed, and so we bought Cash. I think Mings is the next weakest link, so hopefully we're looking at central defenders for January/the summer.
Post by: Ian. on December 02, 2020, 03:28:14 PM
It's amazing to think we're saying this with an England International at the moment, but there we are, we're on the up I suppose.
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2020, 05:06:55 PM
I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.I agree. There is something magical already about this lad.
Happy birthday by the way😊
Cheer mate! It's not until Friday though.
Post by: KevinGage on December 02, 2020, 06:53:29 PM
My thinking at the time was that would be to challenge Konsa or whoever alongside Mings. But the Emperor shouldn't be a guaranteed pick either.
We're not talking about Michah Richards-level lack of concentration or positional awareness. But it's an area he needs to improve.
Post by: brontebilly on December 02, 2020, 07:35:18 PM
Post by: eamonn on December 02, 2020, 08:58:36 PM
Post by: olaftab on December 02, 2020, 09:30:35 PM
Oh no slightly misled by TV's post the other day. Well you better make it to Friday otherwise I will never forgive myself.I think Konsa could well become a Villa legend for years to come, he just needs somebody as good as he is to play next to.I agree. There is something magical already about this lad.
Happy birthday by the way😊
Cheer mate! It's not until Friday though.
Post by: paul_e on December 02, 2020, 10:19:01 PM
There isn't a single player on that list I'd be interested in or who'd improve our squad significantly, not one of them would come in as a starter for me (although in the case of Giroud that's only down to his age).
I'd have Giroud as our centre forward central striker option.
Watkins wide forward.
Giroud scored for fun tonight champions league but will he start vs Leeds home weekend ?
Needs game time let's make an 18 month deal for him.
I like Giroud but he's just too old now, I doubt he can play week in week out anymore.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 02, 2020, 11:12:03 PM
With Wes being back soon a striker not so pressing. For me a massive upgrade needed on Trez/El Ghazi and a decent CB to properly challenge Konsa and Mings. Hause not good enough and Engels made of glass.
A new left back would also be great but that can always wait till the summer
Is Engels injured or just still out of favour?
He hasn't played a game for 9 months now so you wouldn't really want to throw someone with that lack of match fitness into a game v Adama and co if Mings or Konsa picks up a knock in next week.
No idea what's going on and I get the feeling we'll see Wes play for us again before Engels. Can see him going out on loan in January.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 02, 2020, 11:16:50 PM
Could be one to come in to develop over six month period like Konsa has done.
Post by: tomd2103 on December 03, 2020, 12:47:35 AM
I still think we need a really strong midfielder to go alongside Luiz, but I think we would have to get Lansbury and possibly another off the wage bill first. We need better full back options than Taylor and Elmohamady to challenge Cash and Targett, but again probably won't see that until the former two go.
Post by: algy on December 03, 2020, 08:25:27 AM
Not sure we will see much activity in the January window unless we move some out. I think in the starting XI we need a better quality option on the right, though I doubt we will see that until one or even both of El Ghazi and Trezeguet go.I got the impression from the Wes Esens/Nas Sawaris article in the athletic (see nswe thread) that we intentionally didn't blow our budget in the summer so we'd have a little spare cash in January.
I still think we need a really strong midfielder to go alongside Luiz, but I think we would have to get Lansbury and possibly another off the wage bill first. We need better full back options than Taylor and Elmohamady to challenge Cash and Targett, but again probably won't see that until the former two go.
Lansbury, Elmo & Taylor are all (I think) out of contract in the summer anyway, so could see us potentially bringing in players to replace them in January if the price was right.
Post by: Footy-Vill on December 03, 2020, 12:28:22 PM
Gets forward well, pace just needs bit more work on final ball. Can really develop.
I think if Fulham ge relegated we should go for him
He's a USA international born and raised in England had academy upbringing at Everton.
Fulham signed him from Wigan in summer window but he was wanted by Milan last January window.
I liked what I've seen in essence as he's not afraid to come forward.
Currently been keeping Joe Bryan out of the team staring the last 7 matches, didn't play against Villa or any of the first 3 matches which were lost.
I'll be interested to see how he gets on vs Man City and Liverpool and if he has a general decent season then he's someone who could come into replace Neil Taylor as Robinson at 23 with a season experience behind him could be a decent option.
Post by: IFWaters on December 03, 2020, 12:55:21 PM
For example, up front, Watkins excellent but has his off days, Wes still out and not experienced and Keinan I dont think will make the grade. An experienced striker on an 18 month deal could help us over the line in a few games. Available now, for free Mario Mandzukic, scored in last world cup final ex-Juventus. Yes hes 34 so wont start all games at all but could give us options.
Also in defence, if Engels isnt even considered, Ezequiel Garay, 34, ex Real Madrid & Valencia.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 03, 2020, 01:43:53 PM
Available now, for free Mario Mandzukic, scored in last world cup final ex-Juventus. Yes hes 34 so wont start all games at all but could give us options.
I read somewhere thay we were one of a few clubs who made contact with his agent and he didn't fancy it.
Post by: algy on December 03, 2020, 03:14:39 PM
https://metro.co.uk/2020/12/01/new-premier-league-transfer-rules-confirmed-as-clubs-learn-post-brexit-regulations-13685621/
Quote
Premier League clubs will no longer be able to sign foreign youngsters under the age of 18 after after post-Brexit transfer rules were confirmed on Tuesday evening.
Clubs will also be restricted to just three overseas signings under the age of 21 from January onwards, and only six foreign players per season moving forwards.
Post Brexit, players from EU countries will be required to gain a GBE, like the work-permit system for other overseas players.
Post by: Londonvilla on December 03, 2020, 09:05:02 PM
Post by: sid1964 on December 04, 2020, 07:55:07 AM
Lets give the youth a chance for once.
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 04, 2020, 09:09:37 AM
Post by: OCD on December 04, 2020, 01:04:15 PM
Brandon Williams the young Man U fullback being linked with Newcastle and Tomori looking to move from Chelsea. Both of these could improve the squad and easily push for starting places, particularly Williams.
Both would be following the situation that Paul_e described of signing younger players as understudies to let them develop and potentially become better first team choices.
Post by: Mister E on December 04, 2020, 01:24:08 PM
Brandon Williams the young Man U fullback being linked with Newcastle and Tomori looking to move from Chelsea. Both of these could improve the squad and easily push for starting places, particularly Williams.Didn't rate Tomori when he was at Derby, but maybe he's improved.
Post by: paul_e on December 04, 2020, 03:33:47 PM
Brandon Williams the young Man U fullback being linked with Newcastle and Tomori looking to move from Chelsea. Both of these could improve the squad and easily push for starting places, particularly Williams.
Both would be following the situation that Paul_e described of signing younger players as understudies to let them develop and potentially become better first team choices.
Yep, they'd be exactly the sort of players I'd be looking to add, Williams in particular.
Post by: Londonvilla on December 04, 2020, 09:12:04 PM
Continuing their search for number 6, Galatasaray will transfer Nakamba, who plays in Aston Villa. Yellow and red club offered 850 thousand euro salary for the player
https://www.dirilispostasi.com/spor/galatasaraydan-nakamba-bombasi
I would keep him and review at the end of the season ......
Post by: KevinGage on December 04, 2020, 09:53:51 PM
Post by: eamonn on December 04, 2020, 10:52:26 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on December 05, 2020, 02:33:47 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on December 05, 2020, 05:53:04 PM
If we have a significant upgrade lined up - no problem at all.
Yep, would need to be someone of the quality to start alongside Luiz.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 05, 2020, 06:25:28 PM
Has anyone seen Michael Olise play? Is he the real deal?
Blimey some of those moves in tight spaces were Jack-esque
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 05, 2020, 06:36:55 PM
Another to keep off penalties but impressed by the spark he's given them in final third and he fits the profile of what we've been signing in last two years so could do much worse.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 05, 2020, 06:41:37 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 05, 2020, 06:44:57 PM
Lookman is very good indeed. And I doubt he's doing that again on his next penalty if he ever again gets the opportunity.
Just watching Leipzig v bayern Munich which is a brilliant game and he's getting nowhere near their side given the front 3 they have out and likes of Poulsen on bench ahead of Man. United game.
Think they signed him for about 20m from Everton so will probably be in 25-30m range so certainly gettable.
Post by: john e on December 05, 2020, 07:35:55 PM
Lookman is very good indeed. And I doubt he's doing that again on his next penalty if he ever again gets the opportunity.
we don’t need him to take penalties as we already have our own super heroes in that department 😀
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 05, 2020, 07:41:57 PM
Lookman is very good indeed. And I doubt he's doing that again on his next penalty if he ever again gets the opportunity.
we don’t need him to take penalties as we already have our own super heroes in that department 😀
LOL don't we just. I felt bad for Ollie the other day. He hit it well enough but just leaned back too much.
Post by: eamonn on December 05, 2020, 08:37:55 PM
Post by: OCD on December 06, 2020, 02:22:46 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on December 06, 2020, 02:58:27 PM
Wouldn't be the worse bit of business to sell Nakamba and replace him with Oliver Norwood.
Not for me. Think we need someone who is going to come into the midfield alongside Luiz and to be making real statement signings in positions where we need starters.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 06, 2020, 03:15:08 PM
Post by: Risso on December 06, 2020, 08:34:56 PM
Statement signings in January are very hard to make. Or they are very expensive. I don’t think we need a statement signing as such, more add players that mean the drop off from say a Barkley or Konsa doesn’t mean Hourihane or Elmo. We have to keep adding quality depth and one or two serious injuries we are in a pickle again.
Adding at last a couple of players shouldn't be beyond us. We're an injury or two away from getting sucked back into life at the bottom end of the table, there's no strength in depth whatsoever.
Post by: OCD on December 07, 2020, 11:02:34 AM
Has anyone seen Michael Olise play? Is he the real deal?
Have we been linked with him?
Post by: tomd2103 on December 07, 2020, 11:29:18 AM
Statement signings in January are very hard to make. Or they are very expensive. I don’t think we need a statement signing as such, more add players that mean the drop off from say a Barkley or Konsa doesn’t mean Hourihane or Elmo. We have to keep adding quality depth and one or two serious injuries we are in a pickle again.
Statement signings might be the wrong phrase I suppose TV, but I think we should be looking at bringing in players who are pretty much guaranteed starters if we are going to bring anyone in.
The two key areas I think we need to address are s physical central midfielder and a right sided attacking player. I still think, however, that we might not see anyone coming in until we shift some off the wage bill.
Post by: OCD on December 07, 2020, 11:35:47 AM
Post by: SheffieldVillain on December 07, 2020, 11:41:35 AM
Statement signings in January are very hard to make. Or they are very expensive. I don’t think we need a statement signing as such, more add players that mean the drop off from say a Barkley or Konsa doesn’t mean Hourihane or Elmo. We have to keep adding quality depth and one or two serious injuries we are in a pickle again.
Statement signings might be the wrong phrase I suppose TV, but I think we should be looking at bringing in players who are pretty much guaranteed starters if we are going to bring anyone in.
The two key areas I think we need to address are s physical central midfielder and a right sided attacking player. I still think, however, that we might not see anyone coming in until we shift some off the wage bill.
Apart from the wage bill, we have a full squad so need to move someone on just to make room in the registrations. Lansbury is already being paid without any prospect of playing him, can't be having any more added to that. I reckon at least Kalinic, Guilbert and El Ghazi will all go in January either on loan or permanantly.
Completely agree about the physical central midfielder. We have enough squad player midfielders,we need someone at least at an equivalent standard to Luiz and McGinn, not to Nakamba and Hourihane.
I wonder if we'll revisit the alleged summer interest in the striker from Celtic - Eduoard, with the likelihood they are out of Europe . It would give us the option of playing him and Watkins as a two, or playing him centrally and Watkins wider, or just switching one of them from the bench.
I think a replacement for Taylor will probably wait until the summer when he's out of contract unless there's a Matty Cash type situation where they've identified someone and need to move or lose out, and another centre half probably dependent on Hause or more likely Engels shipping out.
Post by: Risso on December 07, 2020, 11:58:46 AM
Post by: paul_e on December 07, 2020, 12:57:58 PM
I reckon FFP will be abandoned or massively watered down for the next couple of years, how can you impose a regulation like that when matchday income has been reduced to nothing?
Even if it isn't I can see any attempt to uphold it being challenged in court and I doubt anyone wants that.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 07, 2020, 01:02:35 PM
Only played his first game of season on Saturday so reckoned we enquired in the summer but were told his level of fitness and so held off.
DS's type of midfielder and worked with Shakey last season so seems a pretty obvious target in 10-15m range.
Only 25 but already played over 250 games in his career.
Post by: OCD on December 07, 2020, 01:39:08 PM
Post by: Mister E on December 07, 2020, 01:46:24 PM
Can see Will Hughes being a target in January.Good shout, that.
Only played his first game of season on Saturday so reckoned we enquired in the summer but were told his level of fitness and so held off.
DS's type of midfielder and worked with Shakey last season so seems a pretty obvious target in 10-15m range.
Only 25 but already played over 250 games in his career.
Post by: Mister E on December 07, 2020, 01:48:57 PM
The two key areas I think we need to address are s physical central midfielder and a right sided attacking player. I still think, however, that we might not see anyone coming in until we shift some off the wage bill.Don't we have options already, in front of Cash: Trez, Elmo and Guilbert.
I'd love to see Guilbert given a lash in midfield: strong, quick, sees a pass. Not going to happen, though.
Post by: Ger Regan on December 07, 2020, 02:19:31 PM
Can see Will Hughes being a target in January.Is he actually any good, though? I know there was a big fuss over him when he was breaking through, but i'll be honest, he's totally passed me by in the past few years.
Only played his first game of season on Saturday so reckoned we enquired in the summer but were told his level of fitness and so held off.
DS's type of midfielder and worked with Shakey last season so seems a pretty obvious target in 10-15m range.
Only 25 but already played over 250 games in his career.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on December 07, 2020, 02:37:16 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 07, 2020, 02:39:07 PM
Can see Will Hughes being a target in January.Is he actually any good, though? I know there was a big fuss over him when he was breaking through, but i'll be honest, he's totally passed me by in the past few years.
Only played his first game of season on Saturday so reckoned we enquired in the summer but were told his level of fitness and so held off.
DS's type of midfielder and worked with Shakey last season so seems a pretty obvious target in 10-15m range.
Only 25 but already played over 250 games in his career.
Watford fans on one of their forums had him as POTY last season....but at same time were mentioning he offered little in attacking sense with only 1 or 2 assists. He's not a DM either. Just one of those inbetween/continuity midfielders to keep the play ticking over.
Just thought I'd throw him into the mix given half of Sheffield United's midfield are being mentioned as possible signings! And the Shakespeare link.
Post by: john e on December 07, 2020, 04:17:50 PM
I’ve said before he is nailed on to play for us at some time
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 07, 2020, 04:21:50 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 07, 2020, 04:24:37 PM
has Lingard been linked yetWhY?
I’ve said before he is nailed on to play for us at some time
Post by: luke:lamf on December 07, 2020, 04:33:41 PM
I'd make CB the absolute priority. Get in a big,strapping, no-nonsense Terry-type. Shit football skills are acceptable, as long as he knows where to be at all times. Somebody similar to what Robert Huth (and Wes Morgan actually, for that matter) was for Leicester the year they won the title.
Post by: jwarry on December 07, 2020, 04:37:00 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 07, 2020, 04:46:08 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on December 07, 2020, 05:00:46 PM
The two key areas I think we need to address are s physical central midfielder and a right sided attacking player. I still think, however, that we might not see anyone coming in until we shift some off the wage bill.Don't we have options already, in front of Cash: Trez, Elmo and Guilbert.
I'd love to see Guilbert given a lash in midfield: strong, quick, sees a pass. Not going to happen, though.
We do, but in my humble opinion, I don't think any of those listed have the kind of quality we will need to move forward. Again, think some of those will have to go before anyone comes in.
Post by: john e on December 07, 2020, 05:04:12 PM
has Lingard been linked yetWhY?
I’ve said before he is nailed on to play for us at some time
Premonition
feel it in my bones
Post by: Clampy on December 07, 2020, 05:21:03 PM
Post by: john e on December 07, 2020, 05:28:49 PM
Lingard is not that bad a player really. He seems to have lost his way a bit but I don't think he's as awful as some make out. Not sure where he would fit in here though.
you might be right
if we do go for him I’d rather him on loan then we can try before we buy
Post by: paul_e on December 07, 2020, 05:36:55 PM
Post by: john e on December 07, 2020, 05:40:04 PM
Lingard is a poor player now, I'd put him in the same bracket as Drinkwater, more interested in being a footballer than in playing football.
still didn’t stop us bringing in Drinkwater though even though everyone could see it was doomed from the start
I don’t agree he is anywhere near as bad as Drinkwater though think your way off there mate
Post by: eamonn on December 07, 2020, 05:54:33 PM
Post by: Dave P on December 07, 2020, 06:08:06 PM
A thousand lashes for whoever suggests that it a "sweetener" or "makeweight" for Jack to go to Man U though!
Post by: paul_e on December 07, 2020, 07:01:18 PM
Lingard is a poor player now, I'd put him in the same bracket as Drinkwater, more interested in being a footballer than in playing football.
still didn’t stop us bringing in Drinkwater though even though everyone could see it was doomed from the start
I don’t agree he is anywhere near as bad as Drinkwater though think your way off there mate
He's not as bad but I still think he's happy living the footballer lifestyle without having to play all that often which was where Drinkwater was a couple of seasons back. Lets see if he kicks up a fuss for a move in January, if he doesn't then I see it as a pretty clear direction of where he's going.
Post by: olaftab on December 07, 2020, 08:50:24 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 07, 2020, 10:03:41 PM
A Bid for Vestergaard in January would be very nice. Even a swap with Mings plus a couple of millions?
A no from me, from what I’ve read he’s been getting loads of grief from Southampton fans so I wouldn’t say he is an upgrade, or at least not guaranteed.
Post by: eamonn on December 07, 2020, 10:52:07 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on December 11, 2020, 03:53:34 PM
It was claimed that after initially wanting to stay in the Bundesliga, the £16.2m-rated Rashica had a change of heart and was open to a move to the Premier League and join Villa
https://www.footballfancast.com/aston-villa-transfer-rumours/aston-villa-milot-rashica-werder-bremen-bayer-leverkusen-transfer-gossip-rumours-news
Get it done.............
Post by: Londonvilla on December 11, 2020, 04:00:27 PM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9029725/Ex-Porto-star-Hulk-reveals-offers-Premier-League-leaving-Shanghai-SIPG.html
Why not have 3 Brazilian in the first-team squad
Post by: pelty on December 11, 2020, 04:10:43 PM
Aston Villa handed major boost in chase for Werder Bremen’s Milot Rashica
It was claimed that after initially wanting to stay in the Bundesliga, the £16.2m-rated Rashica had a change of heart and was open to a move to the Premier League and join Villa
https://www.footballfancast.com/aston-villa-transfer-rumours/aston-villa-milot-rashica-werder-bremen-bayer-leverkusen-transfer-gossip-rumours-news
Get it done.............
He has played all of five games this year because of injury. No thanks, unless he is ready to go.
Post by: PeterWithe on December 11, 2020, 05:20:56 PM
Post by: andyh on December 11, 2020, 05:57:11 PM
There was a Bremen game on TV recently and I watched it to see what he was all about, it was some time before his name was mentioned. I know its only one game but he didn't look as good as what we've got.Serious question....he is no better than Trezeguet?
Post by: eamonn on December 11, 2020, 06:06:25 PM
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 11, 2020, 06:20:42 PM
There was a Bremen game on TV recently and I watched it to see what he was all about, it was some time before his name was mentioned. I know its only one game but he didn't look as good as what we've got.
My thoughts too when I watched Bremen after the restart during the summer.
Post by: john e on December 11, 2020, 07:29:48 PM
There was a Bremen game on TV recently and I watched it to see what he was all about, it was some time before his name was mentioned. I know its only one game but he didn't look as good as what we've got.
My thoughts too when I watched Bremen after the restart during the summer.
I’m not sure Actually watching a player is the best way of judging
there’s loads of better way like Stats for instance or Twitter, anything posted on social media is always a good guide, maybe football pundits have a view
this watching a player with your own eyes is all a bit overrated, old fashioned and downright dangerous
Post by: PeterWithe on December 11, 2020, 07:42:53 PM
There was a Bremen game on TV recently and I watched it to see what he was all about, it was some time before his name was mentioned. I know its only one game but he didn't look as good as what we've got.Serious question....he is no better than Trezeguet?
No, and I think Trez should be first player in the first XI that should be replaced.
He looked physically weak and easy to disposses, and when he did have the chance to run at his marker he didnt have the pace to get away.
Could have been a bad game, everyone has them but it wasn't an impressive performance.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 11, 2020, 08:06:58 PM
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on December 11, 2020, 08:43:08 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 12, 2020, 12:13:20 AM
Very good scoring record since he went there.
Post by: Lsvilla on December 13, 2020, 08:54:44 PM
Post by: Dave on December 13, 2020, 09:16:22 PM
This might be a bit mad but I’d be going for Phil Foden - either on loan or with a serious bid.
Bring in him and play him ahead of Grealish.
(https://www.whoateallthepies.tv/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/PA-7742519-213x300.jpg)
(Yes, it's mainly Mount, I know...)
Post by: Smithy on December 14, 2020, 10:02:14 AM
Statement signings in January are very hard to make. Or they are very expensive. I don’t think we need a statement signing as such, more add players that mean the drop off from say a Barkley or Konsa doesn’t mean Hourihane or Elmo. We have to keep adding quality depth and one or two serious injuries we are in a pickle again.
Knowing how the club has prepared for best/worst case scenarios in the past, I have no doubt they have a list of targets for next summer if we over-achieve to be comfortably top-half, or even challenging for European places. It would be a huge mistake not to try and get those players in January to capitalise on our start (depending on how the next few games - we could even be in the European mix on Boxing Day).
We might struggle to get guaranteed first-11 starters in January, but it would be great to add a bit more depth and have some proper cover on the bench that doesn't bring the level down too much when some of our first-11 are out.
Post by: Risso on December 14, 2020, 10:18:15 AM
Statement signings in January are very hard to make. Or they are very expensive. I don’t think we need a statement signing as such, more add players that mean the drop off from say a Barkley or Konsa doesn’t mean Hourihane or Elmo. We have to keep adding quality depth and one or two serious injuries we are in a pickle again.
Knowing how the club has prepared for best/worst case scenarios in the past, I have no doubt they have a list of targets for next summer if we over-achieve to be comfortably top-half, or even challenging for European places. It would be a huge mistake not to try and get those players in January to capitalise on our start (depending on how the next few games - we could even be in the European mix on Boxing Day).
We might struggle to get guaranteed first-11 starters in January, but it would be great to add a bit more depth and have some proper cover on the bench that doesn't bring the level down too much when some of our first-11 are out.
A couple of signings however they're done are really needed for squad depth. As long as we don't go down the Baston (pointless) and Drinkwater (actually made us worse) road again. Hopefully they'll have learned from that but also from the period when we were playing El Ghazi as a lone striker. We're an injury to Watkins in having to do similar again.
Post by: OCD on December 14, 2020, 11:18:46 AM
Post by: Risso on December 14, 2020, 11:39:47 AM
Post by: Smithy on December 14, 2020, 11:43:49 AM
My main worry is an injury to Watkins.
Yup - Wesley could be another couple of months from full fitness, and though Traore was spoken of as a centre-forward option when he signed, I've been distinctly underwhelmed by him so far. I understand why we wouldn't want four centre forwards in the squad when we play with only one in the starting 11, but with the injuries we have the cover for Watkins is threadbare.
Post by: Mister E on December 14, 2020, 12:19:46 PM
We'll likely only be playing one game a week and numerically we already have a squad of 25 so players would have to be moved on first so I'm not sure how essential it is to be bringing players in. Quality is still what counts and over time, we should start to see 16 quality players with youth filling in the rest of the squad.Davis ought to go out on loan, making space for another striker in the squad. Obviously, he needs to get fit first!!
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 14, 2020, 02:30:12 PM
Yes, there must be a Champioship club with a spare treatment table.We'll likely only be playing one game a week and numerically we already have a squad of 25 so players would have to be moved on first so I'm not sure how essential it is to be bringing players in. Quality is still what counts and over time, we should start to see 16 quality players with youth filling in the rest of the squad.Davis ought to go out on loan, making space for another striker in the squad. Obviously, he needs to get fit first!!
Post by: Mister E on December 14, 2020, 02:39:29 PM
Hence my second sentence. And, if we can't get him fit, get him out of the 25 for the second half of the season.Yes, there must be a Champioship club with a spare treatment table.We'll likely only be playing one game a week and numerically we already have a squad of 25 so players would have to be moved on first so I'm not sure how essential it is to be bringing players in. Quality is still what counts and over time, we should start to see 16 quality players with youth filling in the rest of the squad.Davis ought to go out on loan, making space for another striker in the squad. Obviously, he needs to get fit first!!
Post by: Pat Mustard on December 14, 2020, 02:53:06 PM
By order of priority we should be looking at more competition up front (and I would still be inclined to have a go at getting Edouard from Celtic), better cover at centre-back and then maybe someone who can do a job across midfield as cover. Other than the centre-forward, however, I have no idea who the other players might be.
Post by: Drummond on December 14, 2020, 03:11:01 PM
Given our backing, given how well we've recruited and how players are performing, I'd like to think we'll be viewed as a great place to come now. Someone like Rashica will have seen Grealish and Barkley, Luiz and McGinn, along with Watkins doing well and fancy being a part of it. That and playing in front of capacity crowds every week.
Post by: john e on December 14, 2020, 03:15:13 PM
so instead of listening to where Jack Grealish might be off to all the time why don’t we put the cat amonst the pigeons if ffp is relaxed
unlikely it they would ever come off but would make headlines and if it did happen we’d be taken seriously for champs league football
100mill for Son
80 mill for Greenwood
FTF
Post by: Damo70 on December 14, 2020, 03:23:35 PM
Post by: Risso on December 14, 2020, 03:44:40 PM
Our owners are worth a combined 10billion
so instead of listening to where Jack Grealish might be off to all the time why don’t we put the cat amonst the pigeons if ffp is relaxed
unlikely it they would ever come off but would make headlines and if it did happen we’d be taken seriously for champs league football
100mill for Son
Or £3m and Henri Lansbury.
Post by: darren woolley on December 14, 2020, 03:47:19 PM
Post by: dicedlam on December 14, 2020, 04:04:57 PM
My preference would be to try and get Danny Ings who is yet to sign a new contract that has been offered to him. Failing that, a big dollop of wedge to bring back Tammy.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 14, 2020, 04:07:50 PM
Post by: TelfordVilla on December 14, 2020, 04:27:00 PM
Post by: Richard E on December 14, 2020, 04:30:53 PM
Barcelona are short of cash. Anyone there we could use?
No, we're only interested in players who would improve our squad.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 14, 2020, 05:02:37 PM
Winks looking for a move aswell.
Post by: brontebilly on December 14, 2020, 05:08:23 PM
I see Dele Ali was put in the shop window on Sunday.
Winks looking for a move aswell.
Not really in the areas of the pitch we are looking to improve. Alli's career has gone into freefall quite quickly. We desperately need cover for Watkins and a bruiser in midfield.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 14, 2020, 05:50:04 PM
He would be an upgrade on Trez but I agree we have more pressing concerns.I see Dele Ali was put in the shop window on Sunday.
Winks looking for a move aswell.
Not really in the areas of the pitch we are looking to improve. Alli's career has gone into freefall quite quickly. We desperately need cover for Watkins and a bruiser in midfield.
Post by: eamonn on December 14, 2020, 06:28:18 PM
Barcelona are short of cash. Anyone there we could use?
No, we're only interested in players who would improve our squad.
They have a chap up front called Braithwaite. Probably more our level than Griezmann.
Post by: TonyD on December 14, 2020, 10:02:31 PM
Post by: john e on December 15, 2020, 08:00:41 AM
Now we need to spend 150 mill on 2 maybe 3 players added to the present squad to move us into the next level
by next level I’m talking top 6 level
Post by: Proposition Joe on December 15, 2020, 08:42:15 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 15, 2020, 08:57:20 AM
Get this window right with 3 decent signings and we are looking at beers on the continent in August.
As Doug would say, "A manager always thinks they're a couple of players away from a great team. Now fuck off out of my office John, I'm not paying for Muzzy fucking Izzet and Andy Impey/Benji Macarthy".
Post by: London Villan on December 15, 2020, 08:59:01 AM
Post by: Dave on December 15, 2020, 09:01:25 AM
I wonder if we could make the Barkley move permanent in January, or would it be better to wait until the end of the season?
I'd wonder if you were him whether there would be any benefit in making the move in January rather than waiting.
If we completely tank in the second half of the season (which wouldn't be a completely un-Villa thing to do) then he's not committed to a side that finishes 14th, and if we carry on fine then he just joins in the summer.
Post by: jwarry on December 15, 2020, 09:41:33 AM
Barcelona are short of cash. Anyone there we could use?
No, we're only interested in players who would improve our squad.
They have a chap up front called Braithwaite. Probably more our level than Griezmann.
Think we can do better than ex Boro players now can’t we? 😄
Post by: Dick Edwards on December 15, 2020, 10:05:33 AM
Tammy or Eduard should be get able.
Tammy is still getting regular game time with Chelsea, albeit mostly off the bench. Ollie Watkins is our number one striker now so why would Tammy leave title contenders and come here to do a similar sub job?
A player I'd like to see us go for would be Ward-Prowse. Could play the Douglas Luiz holding role, with the bonus of his amazing dead ball delivery from corners and in particular free kicks around the penalty area won by Jack.
Post by: chrisw1 on December 15, 2020, 11:27:58 AM
Our owners are worth a combined 10billionI don't see them cancelling FFP or even watering it down to any great extent - they have to protect the chosen ones. There will obviously be tweaks to reflect reduced income but there's no way we're going to be allowed to go on a sweet shop spending spree. That drawbridge is well and truly up.
so instead of listening to where Jack Grealish might be off to all the time why don’t we put the cat amonst the pigeons if ffp is relaxed
unlikely it they would ever come off but would make headlines and if it did happen we’d be taken seriously for champs league football
100mill for Son
80 mill for Greenwood
FTF
Post by: Pat Mustard on December 15, 2020, 11:34:25 AM
Post by: Dave on December 15, 2020, 12:07:04 PM
The Ligue 1 TV deal has collapsed apparently, with French clubs owed millions and some saying they are potentially weeks away from going out of business. Obviously this is a bad thing, but no doubt there will be lots of vultures circling for the best players so is there anyone there we would want?
Ben Yedder to compete with Watkins. Aouar. Bring Gueye or Amavi back. Thauvin.
Or assuming it's not going to be the PSG / Monaco / Marseille / Lyon level that will struggle, Bamba from Lille. Atal at Nice. Lala from Strasbourg.
Although the last two are right-backs. And we're probably good there.
Post by: eamonn on December 15, 2020, 12:08:05 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 15, 2020, 01:03:53 PM
https://www.footballlaw.co.uk/articles/football-transfers-brexit-endorsement-criteria-eea-visa-points
What's the FA's stance on requirements come January? Who's got the time and something better than their phone to read a 36 page pdf on it?
https://www.thefa.com/football-rules-governance/policies/player-registration/points-based-system
Post by: john e on December 15, 2020, 01:17:55 PM
Our owners are worth a combined 10billionI don't see them cancelling FFP or even watering it down to any great extent - they have to protect the chosen ones. There will obviously be tweaks to reflect reduced income but there's no way we're going to be allowed to go on a sweet shop spending spree. That drawbridge is well and truly up.
so instead of listening to where Jack Grealish might be off to all the time why don’t we put the cat amonst the pigeons if ffp is relaxed
unlikely it they would ever come off but would make headlines and if it did happen we’d be taken seriously for champs league football
100mill for Son
80 mill for Greenwood
FTF
Oh Balls.... do you mean to say my Bid for Son and Greenwood is a non starter
Post by: chrisw1 on December 15, 2020, 01:54:51 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on December 15, 2020, 01:55:26 PM
Two of those for their song potential alone. Lala la Bamba!this is an excellent spot btw.
Post by: john e on December 15, 2020, 02:08:31 PM
Well yes it's obvious your comment is a joke in terms of the players mentioned, but the issue applies to all the wishlists being posted. We have fantastically wealthy owners, but they're just not going to be allowed to spend the money the way we (and hopefully they) would like. Given our summer spending it's hard to imagine we can spend much in Jan without being way of track with FFP and leavng ourselves with no room for manouvre next season.
I was actually semi serious
Man City and Chelsea are where they are because they have owners with money not because they are naturally bigger clubs than Villa
we now have owners with money
I don’t know or understand all the data with ffp and if as you say the drawbridge has been pulled up then there’s nothing we can do
but the difference in players we will need to get to the next level (top 4/6) will cost big money along with those coming through the academy and the bargain punts that turn out good from a professional scouting network
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 15, 2020, 02:20:32 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on December 15, 2020, 02:25:10 PM
The pandemic and the citeh case has blown FFP out of the water.Not really. THere are still stated limits but based on a 2 year period instead of the usual 1. Any club that deliberately goes and flouts these on a big scale will be gambling with their future in the league. No respnsible owner is going to go and do that unless and until FFP is formally scrapped.
Post by: Smithy on December 15, 2020, 02:55:09 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 03:00:41 PM
The pandemic and the citeh case has blown FFP out of the water.
FFP didn't come in until after Man City won the lottery.
Post by: TelfordVilla on December 15, 2020, 03:25:15 PM
Eduard/Tammy would replace Ollie as first choice centre forward. Ollie can move to wide left or regular sub after 60mins. Not sure Ward-Prowse would leave Saints in top 4 to join us but I wouldn't be against it. That would cost mega millions though.Tammy or Eduard should be get able.
Tammy is still getting regular game time with Chelsea, albeit mostly off the bench. Ollie Watkins is our number one striker now so why would Tammy leave title contenders and come here to do a similar sub job?
A player I'd like to see us go for would be Ward-Prowse. Could play the Douglas Luiz holding role, with the bonus of his amazing dead ball delivery from corners and in particular free kicks around the penalty area won by Jack.
Post by: Mister E on December 15, 2020, 03:33:40 PM
Eduoard is the only feasible option of those mentioned here, at this time. Summer? - different scenario.Eduard/Tammy would replace Ollie as first choice centre forward. Ollie can move to wide left or regular sub after 60mins. Not sure Ward-Prowse would leave Saints in top 4 to join us but I wouldn't be against it. That would cost mega millions though.Tammy or Eduard should be get able.Tammy is still getting regular game time with Chelsea, albeit mostly off the bench. Ollie Watkins is our number one striker now so why would Tammy leave title contenders and come here to do a similar sub job?
A player I'd like to see us go for would be Ward-Prowse. Could play the Douglas Luiz holding role, with the bonus of his amazing dead ball delivery from corners and in particular free kicks around the penalty area won by Jack.
Post by: Drummond on December 15, 2020, 04:30:46 PM
Eduard/Tammy would replace Ollie as first choice centre forward. Ollie can move to wide left or regular sub after 60mins. Not sure Ward-Prowse would leave Saints in top 4 to join us but I wouldn't be against it. That would cost mega millions though.Tammy or Eduard should be get able.
Tammy is still getting regular game time with Chelsea, albeit mostly off the bench. Ollie Watkins is our number one striker now so why would Tammy leave title contenders and come here to do a similar sub job?
A player I'd like to see us go for would be Ward-Prowse. Could play the Douglas Luiz holding role, with the bonus of his amazing dead ball delivery from corners and in particular free kicks around the penalty area won by Jack.
There's really no need to replace Watkins. Give him some competition perhaps, but he doesn't need replacing at all. The only gettable players who have more goals/assists would possibly be Ings or Zaha.
Post by: Bryan on December 15, 2020, 05:04:51 PM
Would be useful as he can play across the front, although David Brooks is the one guy I’d really want from the Championship
Post by: Drummond on December 15, 2020, 05:16:31 PM
Post by: rougegorge on December 15, 2020, 06:14:53 PM
Suspensions are already starting to bite and who knows what injuries will transpire.
If we haven't got huge amounts to spend, then going after players like King and Brooks is a decent option. They are not staple Championship players and would give us better strength in depth.
Post by: OCD on December 15, 2020, 07:02:34 PM
Post by: Dave on December 15, 2020, 07:17:48 PM
If we haven't got huge amounts to spend, then going after players like King and Brooks is a decent option.
Bournemouth were asking for £50m for Brooks in the summer.
Post by: Ads on December 15, 2020, 07:28:06 PM
The pandemic and the citeh case has blown FFP out of the water.
FFP didn't come in until after Man City won the lottery.
He means Man City winning their appeal at the CAS.
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 07:30:26 PM
Post by: Ads on December 15, 2020, 07:31:04 PM
I'd forgotten about that, tbf. Was that pre-Covid? Seems like a million years ago.
It was in July.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 15, 2020, 08:00:53 PM
If we haven't got huge amounts to spend, then going after players like King and Brooks is a decent option.
Bournemouth were asking for £50m for Brooks in the summer.
What’s his position and what players would you compare him to?
I often read how highly rated he is but I’ve rarely seen him play.
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 09:12:47 PM
I'd forgotten about that, tbf. Was that pre-Covid? Seems like a million years ago.
It was in July.
Yikes. This year has gone on like a Mrs Brown's Boys Marathon edited to include a score comprising solely Muse songs.
Post by: wozwebs on December 15, 2020, 09:18:27 PM
Post by: Dave on December 15, 2020, 09:34:17 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 09:37:03 PM
Post by: wozwebs on December 15, 2020, 09:38:23 PM
Post by: spk on December 15, 2020, 09:39:19 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 15, 2020, 09:42:54 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 09:45:12 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 15, 2020, 09:47:52 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 09:49:47 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 15, 2020, 09:53:14 PM
Isn't he rubbish?
I keep hearing this, overrated and whatnot, but every time I seem to see him he does something not rubbish.
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 09:54:16 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 15, 2020, 10:04:10 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 15, 2020, 10:08:18 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 15, 2020, 10:13:50 PM
Post by: Bryan on December 15, 2020, 10:20:05 PM
EDIT: Brooks I mean.
Post by: john e on December 15, 2020, 10:50:30 PM
Post by: curiousorange on December 15, 2020, 10:50:44 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 15, 2020, 10:53:13 PM
I'm happy to keep signing promising youngsters, but the next lot of first team players we should be looking to sign should be amazing, super dead good, brilliant types. Not so-so reasonable standard.
Richarlison would be of that standard as he pretty much starts every game for Brazil now, 8 in 23 games for them. His league record surprised me, not far off 1 in 2 at Everton in his first season there.
Really can't see him joining us though. Think Leon Bailey would be a really good signing, having a good season again for Leverkusen who are top fo Bundesliga currently.
Post by: eamonn on December 16, 2020, 12:01:15 AM
Post by: Ads on December 16, 2020, 12:02:16 AM
Post by: Matt C on December 16, 2020, 01:41:51 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 16, 2020, 08:18:33 AM
Trez/Ghazi/Traore are riddled with inconsistency but maybe that's just wingers for you.
Still, imagine having an Ashley Young in his pomp in this team... although maybe he and Jack would get in each others way (as well as testing the refs' patience).
Post by: Mister E on December 16, 2020, 10:27:12 AM
Demarai Gray possibly on his way out at Leicester. On the very few occasions I’ve seen him he looked decent but that’s probably a while back. Is he any good?Never seemed to get much gametime ... not a first choice acquisition for us unless Shakespeare has some intel on him that makes a difference.
Post by: chrisw1 on December 16, 2020, 10:54:52 AM
Post by: OCD on December 16, 2020, 11:09:00 AM
Post by: Proposition Joe on December 16, 2020, 11:30:09 AM
The pandemic and the citeh case has blown FFP out of the water.Not really. THere are still stated limits but based on a 2 year period instead of the usual 1. Any club that deliberately goes and flouts these on a big scale will be gambling with their future in the league. No respnsible owner is going to go and do that unless and until FFP is formally scrapped.
Whose FFP are we talking about: UEFA's, the Premier League's or the Championship's? Does the PL even have FFP? If it's UEFA, we could always sacrifice a year in the Europa League if it meant getting the players in to make us top 4 contenders.
Post by: chrisw1 on December 16, 2020, 11:57:12 AM
Yes the PL has FFP as does UEFA & the Championship. All can impose santions. With Covid there will be some ammending of the rules (accounting over 2 years etc) and I presume there will be some margins for error in the circumsatnces. But if a club tries to take the piss I'm pretty sure there will be sactions and responsible owners would be daft to take that risk. As such, wealthy as we are I just can't see a big spending spree in Jan and we will probably be fairly limited in what we can do in summer 21 too.The pandemic and the citeh case has blown FFP out of the water.Not really. THere are still stated limits but based on a 2 year period instead of the usual 1. Any club that deliberately goes and flouts these on a big scale will be gambling with their future in the league. No respnsible owner is going to go and do that unless and until FFP is formally scrapped.
Whose FFP are we talking about: UEFA's, the Premier League's or the Championship's? Does the PL even have FFP? If it's UEFA, we could always sacrifice a year in the Europa League if it meant getting the players in to make us top 4 contenders.
Post by: paul_e on December 16, 2020, 01:14:38 PM
That said I disagree with Chris' suggestion that we'll be 'fairly limited', certainly in the summer I can see another window of spending £100m-ish because that window will be the first where FFP isn't including a championship season, given the difference in income between the leagues that dropping off will be huge. That lines up with a comment from Purslow as well where he talked about it talking 2-3 years before the club is fully reintegrated into the premier league from a financial perspective.
Post by: Risso on December 16, 2020, 01:45:12 PM
Probably because Brentford were already pulling our pants down. How much was the Benhrama fee? Another £30m? He's hardly pulled up any trees since moving.
He got the assist for the winner against us! He's got pace and is willing to take people on, something I've yet to see Traore even attempt.
Post by: john e on December 16, 2020, 02:06:08 PM
Probably because Brentford were already pulling our pants down. How much was the Benhrama fee? Another £30m? He's hardly pulled up any trees since moving.
He got the assist for the winner against us! He's got pace and is willing to take people on, something I've yet to see Traore even attempt.
I think if Benrahma was at any other club than Brentford we'd have signed him
think we got fed up and maybe a little embarrassed just handed over multi millions of pounds to them
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 16, 2020, 03:37:23 PM
We must get a new striker in January given the latest Davis knock is predictably keeping him out for weeks on end so we don't have a plan B striker option to come off bench for last 30 minutes of games like Brighton and West Ham.
Beyond that I think we can wait for say a left back until the summer. Can see another CB in January aswell if Engels is moved out.
Post by: algy on December 16, 2020, 05:04:05 PM
Traore is work in progess just like Trez was this time last year. No guarentee he'll come good but we need to give him time, he's had flashes in games so far like so many of last year's signings.Agree on all the points there. I think Traore's being written off too early. There's flashes of brilliance there. Much like Trez, I think we'll only begin to have a good idea of how good a signing he is in 9-12 months time.
We must get a new striker in January given the latest Davis knock is predictably keeping him out for weeks on end so we don't have a plan B striker option to come off bench for last 30 minutes of games like Brighton and West Ham.
Beyond that I think we can wait for say a left back until the summer. Can see another CB in January aswell if Engels is moved out.
Post by: Risso on December 16, 2020, 05:11:07 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 16, 2020, 05:12:38 PM
Post by: Ger Regan on December 16, 2020, 05:13:41 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 16, 2020, 05:25:40 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on December 16, 2020, 05:32:51 PM
As for Trez, yes he's had some really good moments, he's likeable and his work ethic is outstanding. But I just dont think he's creative or clinical enough to be a long term solution on the right wing. I watch players like Jack Harrison at Leeds (yes I know he plays mainly on the left but he's left footed and can play on the right) and just wish we had someone direct and creative like him on the right. I don't mean we should go and buy him, I just think he's better than Trez at the moment.
Post by: DrGonzo on December 16, 2020, 05:59:38 PM
Post by: Risso on December 16, 2020, 06:00:43 PM
Yeah, I'm not sure anyone can ignore that goal as a flash of brilliance, there was a perfect first touch to open wolves up at the weekend as well.
One of his coaches did.
Post by: Clampy on December 16, 2020, 07:36:04 PM
Post by: SteveN on December 16, 2020, 07:56:22 PM
We are looking for somebody capable of playing either flank to allow Grealish to play in the middle when needed and more options up front. I'm happy to see Ramsey get the game in the middle this season, there's not too much pressure due to our excellent start and the confidence of the team around him will only help. Oh and a goalkeeper....
Zaha, I think he could be available at a decent price.
Post by: eamonn on December 16, 2020, 08:37:25 PM
Post by: Three Spires Villa on December 16, 2020, 08:40:54 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 16, 2020, 08:50:33 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on December 16, 2020, 08:54:37 PM
Zaha has quality but he comes across as a complete twat.Absolutely. He'll want huge wages and probably think he's too good for us too. It doesn't feel at all like a 'Villa' signing to me.
Post by: Richard E on December 16, 2020, 09:02:59 PM
Zaha has quality but he comes across as a complete twat.
Applying those criteria I’m halfway to being a Premier League footballer.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 16, 2020, 09:07:14 PM
Okay, deal. Villa sign him on condition that it is rigged for you to be one of the attendees "randomly drawn" at each of our games. 🙂
He's scored tonight, and I wasn't even watching!
Post by: SteveN on December 16, 2020, 09:07:59 PM
Zaha has quality but he comes across as a complete twat.
I know someone who knows him quite well. a decent humble lad who does a lot for the local community. Zaha, not the fellow I know.
Post by: OCD on December 16, 2020, 09:56:18 PM
Post by: WassallVillain on December 16, 2020, 10:00:12 PM
Post by: eamonn on December 16, 2020, 10:06:08 PM
Zaha has quality but he comes across as a complete twat.
I know someone who knows him quite well. a decent humble lad who does a lot for the local community. Zaha, not the fellow I know.
I hope the fellow you know isn't a moody twat.
Post by: brontebilly on December 16, 2020, 11:02:38 PM
We are looking for somebody capable of playing either flank to allow Grealish to play in the middle when needed and more options up front. I'm happy to see Ramsey get the game in the middle this season, there's not too much pressure due to our excellent start and the confidence of the team around him will only help. Oh and a goalkeeper....
Zaha, I think he could be available at a decent price.
Would be a real statement signing. Zaha on one wing , Grealish on the other. Would need a lot stronger midfield to cover the full backs, mind
Palace would hardly let him go in Jan surely. January tends to be a very difficult market but we can improve from our abysmal efforts last Jan with Samatta, Drinky and Baston.
Marc Albrighton might be a bit more realistic though has been getting game time at Leicester of late. An upgrade on Trez or AEG anyway and would add graft and quick crossing ability.
As a backup centre forward would someone like Rondon or even Troy Deeney do.....we need someone as cover for Watkins and even to free him up to move to the left wing if we are chasing a game. An experienced physical centre forward I think is what we need.
In terms of a mobile bruiser in midfield, Chodhury at Leicester isn't getting much game time. The likes of Delph and McCarthy can't be trusted to stay fit. Not many more obvious out of favour holding midfielders that could be available unless we could swap Hourihane for Billing or Lerma at Bournemouth.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 17, 2020, 08:23:22 PM
It would be interesting to see how well Bellingham is really settling in in Germany. Not too happy a place these days from the outside looking in. Good, talented and strong. Could be back up for Luiz and offer other options
I’d love that for the comedy value alone. I have no idea if he is good but I think we need a solid midfielder to complement Luiz.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 17, 2020, 08:28:08 PM
Flashes of brilliance? When were those exactly? Nobody's writing him off, but he's looked rubbish so far. I'd be happy with flashes of competence.
Great FK for the Konsa goal v Brighton. Beautiful goal down at Bristol. Small sample but there's two.
Anyway new striker please.
Post by: Risso on December 17, 2020, 08:44:26 PM
Post by: DB on December 17, 2020, 10:29:12 PM
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on December 17, 2020, 11:03:30 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 17, 2020, 11:06:06 PM
Always thought Deulofeu from Watford was destined to go to a big club. His injury last season was a big factor in their relegation, not sure if he's fit yet? That goal in the FA cup semi at wembley was amazing. Would be like 50m cheaper than Zaha.
He's on loan at Udinese so think Watford have just placed him there and will recall him if they come straight back up. He'd probably be 20m cheaper than Sarr aswell.
Zaha was still begging Arsenal to sign him last summer so in his mind he wants to play for a top 6 team so get the feeling he wouldn't consider joining us and he'd be a bit of N'zogbia/Ireland here e.g. just doing us a favour by signing.
Rather have Eze off them who's a wonderful player to watch.
Post by: eamonn on December 17, 2020, 11:36:34 PM
Post by: Risso on December 17, 2020, 11:40:10 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 17, 2020, 11:47:29 PM
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on December 18, 2020, 12:23:24 AM
How about a loan move for serb striker Mitrovic certainly offer robust goal threat but probably doesn't put the shift in Deano wants.
Certianly doesn't get the look in for Parkers Fulham but is a scorer of goals
I know we were a bit shit tonight but we're trying to break into the top 6 not avoid relegation.
Think big Villa!
Post by: Ads on December 18, 2020, 09:00:34 AM
Also, a really exrpeicned head to come in, like Moutinho have with Wolves, wouldn't go a miss.
Post by: OCD on December 18, 2020, 11:21:24 AM
Post by: IFWaters on December 18, 2020, 03:14:46 PM
Wouldn't mind seeing a really mobile number 8 come in to.replace Hourihane and bolster the squad, as Ramsey will be a couple of years off being a regular.
Also, a really exrpeicned head to come in, like Moutinho have with Wolves, wouldn't go a miss.
Mario Mandzukic, free agent, would fit the really experienced criteria, available immediately.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 18, 2020, 05:43:46 PM
Wouldn't mind seeing a really mobile number 8 come in to.replace Hourihane and bolster the squad, as Ramsey will be a couple of years off being a regular.
Also, a really exrpeicned head to come in, like Moutinho have with Wolves, wouldn't go a miss.
2 + 2 = Milner right?
Legs might not be what they were but as we play less than Liverpool suspect he could cope.
Post by: ktvillan on December 19, 2020, 01:08:55 PM
I thinking something like Danish striker Jonas Wind
Sounds like he'd be all fart and no shit.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on December 19, 2020, 01:18:07 PM
Post by: Des Little on December 19, 2020, 01:55:27 PM
Post by: sid1964 on December 19, 2020, 02:00:46 PM
Post by: Matt C on December 19, 2020, 03:43:35 PM
Post by: eamonn on December 19, 2020, 04:48:41 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 19, 2020, 04:54:10 PM
Post by: SheffieldVillain on December 19, 2020, 04:55:37 PM
As we’re already at the squad max 25 we’ll need to let a few go before anything is feasible I guess.
Now Heaton is almost fit again, I can't see any need to have 4 keepers in the squad in January so I reckon Kalinic will be out of the squad for a start in January, whether someone takes him off our hands or not. I also wouldn't be shocked to see one or more of Guilbert, Engels and Hourihane off in January.
Plenty of space for a new shit-hot striker to challenge/play with Ollie depending on circumstance (would still like Edouard from Celtic) and a massive but mobile defensive midfielder to challenge or cover Luiz/McGinn when needed.
Post by: Monty on December 19, 2020, 04:58:09 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 19, 2020, 05:18:05 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 19, 2020, 05:32:20 PM
Post by: Mister E on December 19, 2020, 08:34:26 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 19, 2020, 09:03:34 PM
I agree with Footy that Anthony Robinson at Fulham would be a good acquisition.
He has looked good tonight but it’s the first time I have noticed him (also first Fulham match I’ve seen).
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 19, 2020, 09:04:06 PM
I agree with Footy that Anthony Robinson at Fulham would be a good acquisition.he's only just joined them from Wigan
Post by: Sexual Ealing on December 19, 2020, 09:06:12 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 19, 2020, 09:44:52 PM
I agree with Footy that Anthony Robinson at Fulham would be a good acquisition.
He has looked good tonight but it’s the first time I have noticed him (also first Fulham match I’ve seen).
Fun fact but he nearly joined AC Milan last January but he failed a medical. They were also apparently looking at Matty Cash aswell.
United states got some of the best young players in world football currently, Pulisic, Dest, Gio Reyna, McKennie, Tyler Adams etc. Also got a young CB coming through at Bayern Munich. Reminds me of Belgium a decade ago.
Post by: JJ-AV on December 20, 2020, 09:23:48 AM
It's nice to not be in a position of desperation. The desperation that leads to you signing Drinkwater, Samatta and Baston.
Post by: Ads on December 20, 2020, 11:09:35 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 20, 2020, 11:25:11 AM
Post by: Richard E on December 20, 2020, 12:42:19 PM
Where is Leehigh now, still at Forest ?
He’s playing for a club in Turkey now.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 20, 2020, 10:18:55 PM
Where is Leehigh now, still at Forest ?
He’s playing for a club in Turkey now.
A lucrative but weird life. spend most of your youth under extreme stress for a glimpse of glory, admittedly whilst accumulating a decent wedge. Retired by 36 in a random country and no roots anywhere. Not sure if I’m jealous or pity him.
Post by: Ads on December 21, 2020, 08:53:32 AM
I'm not getting carried away and I don't think its that likely, but...
We score goals
We have the 2nd best defence in the league
We have the best attacking midfielder in the league
We are excellent away from home
We can grind it out, we can be expansive
If we could add 1 or 2 really high quality players to bolster the squad, would you bet against us? As who have you seen who is that much better?
Leicester? Spurs? Everton? Chelsea? Not for me. None of them any better.
It's not the best window to shop in, but win our two games in hand and we're 2nd. I've seen nothing about Man City or our away performances that would suggest that is so wild. Food for thought and I think time to roll the dice and FFP permitting, go again.
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 09:46:49 AM
Post by: Rudy65 on December 21, 2020, 09:57:03 AM
This is our best chance of Champions League football in over a decade.
I'm not getting carried away and I don't think its that likely, but...
We score goals
We have the 2nd best defence in the league
We have the best attacking midfielder in the league
We are excellent away from home
We can grind it out, we can be expansive
If we could add 1 or 2 really high quality players to bolster the squad, would you bet against us? As who have you seen who is that much better?
Leicester? Spurs? Everton? Chelsea? Not for me. None of them any better.
It's not the best window to shop in, but win our two games in hand and we're 2nd. I've seen nothing about Man City or our away performances that would suggest that is so wild. Food for thought and I think time to roll the dice and FFP permitting, go again.
I agree although I thought top 6 might be more realistic. I doubt we will finish above Liverpool, Man U, Man C or Chelsea or probably Spurs but 6th is probably up for grabs competing with the likes of Everton Or Leicester. We need a striker which won’t be easy in a January transfer window. Someone different to Ollie but who compliments him. Sometimes I think we try to walk the ball into the net and aren’t flexible enough to be more direct when needed.
Post by: OCD on December 21, 2020, 11:46:50 AM
Post by: Smithy on December 21, 2020, 11:51:55 AM
I'm excited to see the sort of player we go for. Will be a WORLD of difference to Baston and Drinkwater I'd imagine...
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 12:06:32 PM
We'll never know for sure but I believe the plan coming up to the window was to use the money we had on an experienced midfielder and then to loan in a striker as cover. When the money ended being needed for a first choice striker and we needed a keeper it messed us up because none of the players we'd have identified worked in the new requirements. This year we haven't cut things so tight with the finances so, worst case scenario, we should still have options for whatever business we've decided is needed but also it'd be pretty unlucky to have another game like that Burnley one.
Post by: OCD on December 21, 2020, 12:10:14 PM
Post by: john e on December 21, 2020, 12:25:48 PM
in fact we are picking more points up against those teams than ones where we have to break them down first
signings for me apart from long term prospects have to pass one test and that is are they or could they become a top 4/6 team player
that’s the kind of players we need to be signing now imo
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 21, 2020, 12:51:50 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 01:12:58 PM
Post by: jwarry on December 21, 2020, 02:05:53 PM
Post by: Clampy on December 21, 2020, 05:15:55 PM
Might have been a different story if Livermore didn't quite achieve what he set out to achieve
I stand correct on this but I'm sure he put in a tackle on him over on the other side of the pitch about 10 minutes before.
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 05:20:49 PM
Might have been a different story if Livermore didn't quite achieve what he set out to achieve
I stand correct on this but I'm sure he put in a tackle on him over on the other side of the pitch about 10 minutes before.
He'd gone in heavily on him twice before the red, the first was in the build up for our first goal and as you say the second was about 10minutes before the red where he clattered him near the centre circle. It looked like a pretty obvious plan to target him to me, it was about as subtle as when Bruce did it with Hull a few years back.
Post by: Rudy65 on December 21, 2020, 05:50:34 PM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
We didn’t beat Burnley because we hadn’t got anyone who could finish not due to a lack of an imposing MF enforcer. That said signing someone of the ilk would be good but it can probably wait until next summer. I think we need more options upfront so we change our style if needs be to suit the opposition.
Post by: john e on December 21, 2020, 06:04:53 PM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
mmm....good luck finding a Viera type midfield enforcer of top 6 standard
I’m sure there’s someone lurking in the European leagues as Viera himself was but it would be a punt as it is with most players that aren’t tried and tested in the prem league
I’m pretty happy with Luiz and McGinn in those rolls to be honest
I think the big enforcer type who will be hard but fair imposing but can play a bit is a mythical creature nowadays
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 06:15:18 PM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
mmm....good luck finding a Viera type midfield enforcer of top 6 standard
I’m sure there’s someone lurking in the European leagues as Viera himself was but it would be a punt as it is with most players that aren’t tried and tested in the prem league
I’m pretty happy with Luiz and McGinn in those rolls to be honest
I think the big enforcer type who will be hard but fair imposing but can play a bit is a mythical creature nowadays
I didn't say it was an easy player to find but it is the 1 obvious gap in the squad.
Post by: DrGonzo on December 21, 2020, 06:30:16 PM
Priority for me is a wide-right forward. But that's obvious.
How about that Traore fella?
Post by: john e on December 21, 2020, 06:38:00 PM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
mmm....good luck finding a Viera type midfield enforcer of top 6 standard
I’m sure there’s someone lurking in the European leagues as Viera himself was but it would be a punt as it is with most players that aren’t tried and tested in the prem league
I’m pretty happy with Luiz and McGinn in those rolls to be honest
I think the big enforcer type who will be hard but fair imposing but can play a bit is a mythical creature nowadays
I didn't say it was an easy player to find but it is the 1 obvious gap in the squad.
I’m not sure they even exist anymore
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 07:17:12 PM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
mmm....good luck finding a Viera type midfield enforcer of top 6 standard
I’m sure there’s someone lurking in the European leagues as Viera himself was but it would be a punt as it is with most players that aren’t tried and tested in the prem league
I’m pretty happy with Luiz and McGinn in those rolls to be honest
I think the big enforcer type who will be hard but fair imposing but can play a bit is a mythical creature nowadays
I didn't say it was an easy player to find but it is the 1 obvious gap in the squad.
I’m not sure they even exist anymore
There's a dutch guy I like the look of who isn't quite the player I mean but that I reckon could be developed into it -
- comes with the benefit of being a good free kick and penalty taker.
Post by: paul_e on December 21, 2020, 07:26:28 PM
Post by: Smirker on December 21, 2020, 08:47:19 PM
Left back and attacker, for me.
Look to promote a couple of our youth players before the end of the season.
Post by: fredm on December 21, 2020, 10:11:59 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 21, 2020, 10:18:32 PM
Also I really rate Partey that Arsenal signed in the summer, him having a few niggly injuries and not being trusted by Arteta is a big part of why they're where they are in my opinion, he'll be their best midfielder by next season.
Kondogbia would've been a good one to get given how cash strapped Valencia are but Atletico Madrid signed him as Partey's replacement for just 18m.
I like Yangel Herrera at Granada, very similar player to Luiz but a little taller. So similar that Man. City also own him and loan him out each year.
Could always get Gana back, don't think he's been playing much for PSG this season.
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on December 22, 2020, 07:34:51 AM
Also think we need another option up front to compete with Watkins, one that isn't Wesley who wasn't very good before a bad injury.
Post by: Villafirst on December 22, 2020, 07:40:12 AM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
We didn’t beat Burnley because we hadn’t got anyone who could finish not due to a lack of an imposing MF enforcer. That said signing someone of the ilk would be good but it can probably wait until next summer. I think we need more options upfront so we change our style if needs be to suit the opposition.
Agree, no need to tinker with the midfield - who would you drop anyway? Problem was lack of finishing against Burnley. A striker on loan would be more effective, we're still light in numbers up top. Lange might surprise us yet with a big money transfer....
Post by: Des Little on December 22, 2020, 09:43:54 AM
Runs for cover...
Post by: paul_e on December 22, 2020, 09:45:08 AM
The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
We didn’t beat Burnley because we hadn’t got anyone who could finish not due to a lack of an imposing MF enforcer. That said signing someone of the ilk would be good but it can probably wait until next summer. I think we need more options upfront so we change our style if needs be to suit the opposition.
Agree, no need to tinker with the midfield - who would you drop anyway? Problem was lack of finishing against Burnley. A striker on loan would be more effective, we're still light in numbers up top. Lange might surprise us yet with a big money transfer....
Changing the midfield for a game like that changes the dynamic of how the game plays out, for example I think Luiz with his extra quality compared to Nakamba might not mean more chances but may well mean 1-2 better quality chances which sees us win the game.
This isn't about tinkering with the midfield or dropping anyone, it's about using this window to get a headstart on settling someone in for next season when I think it will be an important role to fill because it's the 1 glaring gap in the squad. I want us to be a point where we look at the bench and see 5-6 players who deserve to be starting games, I want to see people posting their XI on the pre-match thread and it creating a discussion because they haven't found a place for someone, that's what happens at clubs with top 4 level squads.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on December 22, 2020, 09:47:15 AM
At the risk of getting battered, I wouldn’t mind going for Dwight Gayle. He is something different to what we have, he scores goals and he’s out of contract in the summer (I think). Good off the bench.
Runs for cover...
He is a funny one as looks a goal scorer but never seems to tie down a starting place
Post by: paul_e on December 22, 2020, 10:08:33 AM
If we're after a forward it needs to be someone on a short deal who brings experience and quality, Mandzukic is the obvious choice if he's interested and isn't asking for stupid money.
Post by: Mister E on December 22, 2020, 11:41:49 AM
Still think we need another central defender. Hause has played well, but Engels is out of favour so not much cover. Someone less error prone that relegates Mings to backup center half would be great.Same old narrative for a player whose goalscoring last season was tracking at 15 for the season.
Also think we need another option up front to compete with Watkins, one that isn't Wesley who wasn't very good before a bad injury.
I'm looking forward to seeing him and Watkins play together.
Post by: aj2k77 on December 22, 2020, 12:07:14 PM
Let's not undersell ourselves. Like hiring Mcleish after we'd just finished in the top half. We are on the up and capable of attracting much better players than a diving, Championship bully.
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on December 22, 2020, 12:52:12 PM
Still think we need another central defender. Hause has played well, but Engels is out of favour so not much cover. Someone less error prone that relegates Mings to backup center half would be great.Same old narrative for a player whose goalscoring last season was tracking at 15 for the season.
Also think we need another option up front to compete with Watkins, one that isn't Wesley who wasn't very good before a bad injury.
I'm looking forward to seeing him and Watkins play together.
I doubt we will see Wesley playing with Watkins, it will be either / or as he is not suited to playing on the wing. If we do see him it will be because Watkins is injured so lets hope we don't!
We will never know if he would have got 15 last season had he not got injured, but I doubt it. He was extremely poor for most games and has had a bad injury which oftentimes players come back from at a lower standard. Add to this that has not played for a year and will not be hitting the ground running. Whilst I have been pleasantly surprised with improvements from other players that did not play well last season (Trezeguet and Targett) I really don't think we should be risking that with Wesley who was comfortably our most lacklustre singing last season and lacked effort as well as looking devoid of any of the attributes that make for a good striker.
Post by: in exile on December 22, 2020, 12:56:15 PM
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on December 22, 2020, 01:08:26 PM
Don't like him much do you ASHTONVILLA?
I like him well enough, seems a nice lad and has a lovely backstory. I don't rate him much as a footballer though on the evidence thus far. I would be delighted to be proven wrong on it though, and have been proven wrong a lot lately on Smith (wanted him gone before our remarkable recovery), Targett (had him down as the weakest link but has been great), Trezeguet (been good this season), Konsa (didn't rate him before his post lockdown improvement in form).
Things are going really well at the moment, and a bit of backup at centre half and centre forward would help in the event of any injuries.
Post by: Eckybloke on December 22, 2020, 01:08:31 PM
I feel glass more than half full. I think coming into this team, in this form and with the multiple threats we create from the left, the right and down the middle will hopefully see him right. I think like many others from last season he feeds off the confidence of the whole team. Nobody seems nervous, nobody feels that your striker has one chance and they have to take it...we’ve shown we almost create them at will, like buses another will be along shortly.
Post by: SteveN on December 22, 2020, 01:19:49 PM
Seem a bit of him on TV looks decent has a big buy out clause but could be got on the cheap due to Valencia's financial problems.
Post by: tomd2103 on December 22, 2020, 01:59:05 PM
If he looks useful in the second half of the season then great. If not, I still think we would get a decentish fee for him from abroad.
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 22, 2020, 02:03:11 PM
Maxi Gomez from Valencia, 24 Uruguayan international striker, better than a 1in 3 strike rate in his career to date.
Seem a bit of him on TV looks decent has a big buy out clause but could be got on the cheap due to Valencia's financial problems.
That's more like it.
Fucking Dwight Gayle, honestly...
Post by: paul_e on December 22, 2020, 02:18:54 PM
Don't like him much do you ASHTONVILLA?
He's one of a number who would happily write off a 22/23 year old after 20 games because improvement can't possibly happen and anything Wesley did well was just an accident, it's beyond dull.
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 22, 2020, 02:22:02 PM
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on December 22, 2020, 02:53:10 PM
I reckon a lot would have written off Douglas based on his first 6 months. Players take time to adjust sometimes. It’s mad to write Wesley off.
I am not assuming he wont improve, he might. However it is just as likely that he wont and it's reckless to assume he will improve when he is returning from a major injury, and to have him as the only backup.
Post by: Risso on December 22, 2020, 02:55:47 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on December 22, 2020, 05:32:50 PM
Croatia international Lovre Kalinic is returning to his home club Hajduk Split. The experienced 30-year-old goalkeeper joins Hajduk on loan from Aston Villa
https://www.croatiaweek.com/lovre-kalinic-joins-hajduk-split-from-aston-villa/
The first one out the door I hope he does well and then goes on to get a permanent move. It should be a good shop window as sometime things do not work
Post by: Bryan on December 22, 2020, 06:30:55 PM
I guess left back competition? With AEG, Trez and Traore competing on the wing in less concerned. Maybe some young Barkley potential player?
On the Left back I always like Van Aarnholt at Palace but he seems to be injured a lot. Likewise Ben Davies at Spurs
Post by: pelty on December 22, 2020, 07:27:16 PM
You could see that Luiz had the talent to be a success in his position, he was just inconsistent and playing with Nakamba which didn't help him at all. I don't mind admitting that I just don't get it with Wesley. He's not very quick and not very good in the air. I hope I'm wrong and probably will be, but I don't really see what he offers. Everything you get with Ollie; in pace, ability to run the wings, being good in the box and strength in the air, you just don't get with Wesley. Like Joelinton at Newcastle, I just don't think he looks suited to the Premier League.
This is it for me, too. My issue with Wesley is that his hold-up play and ability to win balls in the air was borderline abysmal. Never mind their proficiency in front of goal, the difference in Watkins’ and Wesley’s respective ability to control the ball is significant.
Post by: clash city rocker on December 22, 2020, 08:00:23 PM
Post by: brontebilly on December 22, 2020, 08:51:53 PM
You could see that Luiz had the talent to be a success in his position, he was just inconsistent and playing with Nakamba which didn't help him at all. I don't mind admitting that I just don't get it with Wesley. He's not very quick and not very good in the air. I hope I'm wrong and probably will be, but I don't really see what he offers. Everything you get with Ollie; in pace, ability to run the wings, being good in the box and strength in the air, you just don't get with Wesley. Like Joelinton at Newcastle, I just don't think he looks suited to the Premier League.
This is it for me, too. My issue with Wesley is that his hold-up play and ability to win balls in the air was borderline abysmal. Never mind their proficiency in front of goal, the difference in Watkins’ and Wesley’s respective ability to control the ball is significant.
It is....and I think Watkins first touch isn't up to scratch either....Wesley was genuinely awful for the majority of the games he played for us. That injury is unlikely to have improved him. It was a terrible tackle on him. Trez was awful for a lot of last season too but has improved a lot. He has an uncanny ability to get into great positions though that I'm not sure Wesley has.
Luiz always had the talent but his attitude and application were badly lacking. Maybe seeing the likes of Drinky starting ahead of him were the kick up the arse he needed. I'm surprised with Konsa's progression this season I must say. He had a horrible ball watching habit that he seems to have eradicated.
Post by: john2710 on December 22, 2020, 09:02:19 PM
Games like Burnley & Brighton we had next to no attacking options on the bench. We don’t have the luxury to be able to rest players like Watkins & Grealish.
If money is to be spent it needs to be on a forward, letting Davies go out on loan.
Only if Taylor, Elmo, Guilbert or Hourihane leave do we need to buy replacements & 3 of them are out of contact in June.
Post by: brontebilly on December 22, 2020, 09:06:27 PM
If Wesley is able to play again from January onwards & it’s a big if, then he’s likely to only be an option off the bench. It’s going to take him months to get up to speed.
Games like Burnley & Brighton we had next to no attacking options on the bench. We don’t have the luxury to be able to rest players like Watkins & Grealish.
If money is to be spent it needs to be on a forward, letting Davies go out on loan.
Only if Taylor, Elmo, Guilbert or Hourihane leave do we need to buy replacements & 3 of them are out of contact in June.
I think Hourihane will be off anyway in Jan, maybe as part of a swap deal for a championship player like Kings or Billings. We don't need three right backs either so one of Elmo or Guilbert will go. Smith hasn't been rotating the squad all that much so many of the fringe players may look for moves.
Post by: pelty on December 22, 2020, 09:14:50 PM
You could see that Luiz had the talent to be a success in his position, he was just inconsistent and playing with Nakamba which didn't help him at all. I don't mind admitting that I just don't get it with Wesley. He's not very quick and not very good in the air. I hope I'm wrong and probably will be, but I don't really see what he offers. Everything you get with Ollie; in pace, ability to run the wings, being good in the box and strength in the air, you just don't get with Wesley. Like Joelinton at Newcastle, I just don't think he looks suited to the Premier League.
This is it for me, too. My issue with Wesley is that his hold-up play and ability to win balls in the air was borderline abysmal. Never mind their proficiency in front of goal, the difference in Watkins’ and Wesley’s respective ability to control the ball is significant.
It is....and I think Watkins first touch isn't up to scratch either....Wesley was genuinely awful for the majority of the games he played for us. That injury is unlikely to have improved him. It was a terrible tackle on him. Trez was awful for a lot of last season too but has improved a lot. He has an uncanny ability to get into great positions though that I'm not sure Wesley has.
Luiz always had the talent but his attitude and application were badly lacking. Maybe seeing the likes of Drinky starting ahead of him were the kick up the arse he needed. I'm surprised with Konsa's progression this season I must say. He had a horrible ball watching habit that he seems to have eradicated.
brontebilly, I am surprised you do not think much of Watkins' touch! I think it really is rather good. I am not saying he does not have the occasional touch that goes awry, but he controls the ball out of the air really well I think! Other than that, I cannot find much with which to disagree from the rest of your post.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 22, 2020, 11:08:50 PM
It's a really bad injury he had. Similar to Kodj who was never the same again and Kozak was completely done after his bad leg break. His scoring record in prem was actually better than Wes.
This season it's all about giving him sub minutes but wouldn't surprise me if we loaned him out next season to get his confidence/valuation back up again.
Maxi Gomez is a great shout, we were sort of linked with him the summer we went up.
Post by: robleflaneur on December 22, 2020, 11:29:40 PM
Agree that Ndidi was wonderful against Spurs but a physical enforcer is now also a liabilty witness ,ex England international,Livermore's fortunes against us.Mobility is very important,which has been key to Kante's success in that role,and ability to see danger and play a disciplined role .A holding midfielder by definition should not be charging upfield,there is no need to be an all round player.Full backs who are comfortable on either flank could play that role.The only major target I'd like to see in this window is a unit in the centre of midfield to bring in when we need to outmuscle teams, to help us win ugly in the games like Burnley where we dominate but are struggling to get over the line, I'm thinking more vieira big and quality though, top 6 standard enforcers rather than the Lerma and Billing style shithouses that some people have mentioned in the last few windows. Other than that quality younger players who are available cheaper than expected and maybe a short term cover option up front would be my aim.
mmm....good luck finding a Viera type midfield enforcer of top 6 standard
I’m sure there’s someone lurking in the European leagues as Viera himself was but it would be a punt as it is with most players that aren’t tried and tested in the prem league
I’m pretty happy with Luiz and McGinn in those rolls to be honest
I think the big enforcer type who will be hard but fair imposing but can play a bit is a mythical creature nowadays
I didn't say it was an easy player to find but it is the 1 obvious gap in the squad.
I’m not sure they even exist anymore
Actually they so do exist
Wilfred Ndidi plays at Leicester is the best defensive midfielder in the league.
And he's the type who is an all round holding midfielder is highly effective and important to Leicester he helped them beat Spurs the other day and has better qualities than most in that role
So of that ilk yes.
Post by: paul_e on December 22, 2020, 11:36:04 PM
Think Wes is expected back around March. We'll have another 15 or so games before then.
It's a really bad injury he had. Similar to Kodj who was never the same again and Kozak was completely done after his bad leg break. His scoring record in prem was actually better than Wes.
This season it's all about giving him sub minutes but wouldn't surprise me if we loaned him out next season to get his confidence/valuation back up again.
Maxi Gomez is a great shout, we were sort of linked with him the summer we went up.
Bold bit is wrong. Kozak got 4 in 18 (which is 1 in 4.5) where as Wesley got 5 in 21 which is 1 in 4.25.
Aside from that I think he'll be around the squad sooner than March but that it'll be a slow reintroduction. Even if he does miss another 14-15 games he'll still be back with a third of the season to play and with so many games to fit in I think he'll get plenty of game time. After that I don't think anyone will be considering loaning him out right now, that would only happen if his comeback is badly unsuccessful.
On his performances I've said many times that the biggest problem he had was how isolated he was. He was being asked to hold the ball up with 2-3 defenders against him whilst players closed a 30-40 yard gap and that's a hard job for an experienced striker who's well established in the team and league. For a young player trying to learn on the job it was too much to ask. Kodjia and Samatta faired no better than him pre-lockdown and after the restart we were playing a different way.
This season we've given Watkins much more support and I think Wesley would look a much better player in this team and I hope he'll show as much in the next 6 months.
Post by: robleflaneur on December 22, 2020, 11:51:50 PM
Otherwise he is powerful ,quite skilful and Smith must have seen strengths that he would sanction signing him over a prolific Maupay at Brentford.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 23, 2020, 01:04:16 AM
Think Wes is expected back around March. We'll have another 15 or so games before then.
It's a really bad injury he had. Similar to Kodj who was never the same again and Kozak was completely done after his bad leg break. His scoring record in prem was actually better than Wes.
This season it's all about giving him sub minutes but wouldn't surprise me if we loaned him out next season to get his confidence/valuation back up again.
Maxi Gomez is a great shout, we were sort of linked with him the summer we went up.
Bold bit is wrong. Kozak got 4 in 18 (which is 1 in 4.5) where as Wesley got 5 in 21 which is 1 in 4.25.
Aside from that I think he'll be around the squad sooner than March but that it'll be a slow reintroduction. Even if he does miss another 14-15 games he'll still be back with a third of the season to play and with so many games to fit in I think he'll get plenty of game time. After that I don't think anyone will be considering loaning him out right now, that would only happen if his comeback is badly unsuccessful.
On his performances I've said many times that the biggest problem he had was how isolated he was. He was being asked to hold the ball up with 2-3 defenders against him whilst players closed a 30-40 yard gap and that's a hard job for an experienced striker who's well established in the team and league. For a young player trying to learn on the job it was too much to ask. Kodjia and Samatta faired no better than him pre-lockdown and after the restart we were playing a different way.
This season we've given Watkins much more support and I think Wesley would look a much better player in this team and I hope he'll show as much in the next 6 months.
With Kozak you're counting his Czech republic games and also carling cup in 13/14.
In 13/14 season he scored 4 league goals in 14 games and a few of those were subs so significantly less minutes than Wes who started every game for us and was hardly subbed.
Unless you're counting the handful of games he played in 15/16 but he was completely finished as top level player by then. I hope I'm wrong but fair say will happen to Wes.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 23, 2020, 04:59:29 AM
I have gone from wanting a central midfielder, cover at centre half, striker and left back.
Now we have seen AEG Hause Traore Elmo all come in and do ok.
Left back would appear the biggest weakness beyond Target it’s Taylor or Hause.
I am not convinced that Barkley is beyond his injury problems which has plagued his career for a few years now but that is unlikely to be addressed this window.
We are in a good situation in not having to buy someone in a hurry, so I would rather we only become active for the right player. Don’t see much business this January.
Post by: Ads on December 23, 2020, 09:35:01 AM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on December 23, 2020, 09:49:07 AM
Managed to combine being about 8 ft tall and winning nothing in the air, had a head like a 50p piece, no strength on the ball, added little in terms of holding up the ball, and seemed to be one of the only two Brazilian males with no discernible ball skills (Joelinton being the other one).
However, for all that, he was much, much better than Keinan Davis.
Post by: in exile on December 23, 2020, 10:38:32 AM
Back in for Josh King?He's Norwegian you know.
Post by: Small Rodent on December 23, 2020, 02:50:24 PM
Back in for Josh King?He's Norwegian you know.
You're joshing!
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 23, 2020, 03:42:07 PM
Can afjord him?Back in for Josh King?He's Norwegian you know.
Post by: brontebilly on December 23, 2020, 04:34:26 PM
Brooks or Billings would be great signings but bound to be hard to get out of Bournemouth in January. Swap deal with Houri going the other way maybe.
Post by: Mister E on December 23, 2020, 05:36:03 PM
Think King has missed the boat for a move to a decent EPL team. He has hardly kicked a ball for Bournemouth this season so far, no goal, had covid and didn't show up in the best of condition after the summer. One to swerve now I think.Agree about Brooks. Isn't Billings a little reckless - lots of cards - or am I judging him simply on his performance at VP last season?
Brooks or Billings would be great signings but bound to be hard to get out of Bournemouth in January. Swap deal with Houri going the other way maybe.
Post by: rougegorge on December 23, 2020, 07:05:44 PM
Think King has missed the boat for a move to a decent EPL team. He has hardly kicked a ball for Bournemouth this season so far, no goal, had covid and didn't show up in the best of condition after the summer. One to swerve now I think.Agree about Brooks. Isn't Billings a little reckless - lots of cards - or am I judging him simply on his performance at VP last season?
Brooks or Billings would be great signings but bound to be hard to get out of Bournemouth in January. Swap deal with Houri going the other way maybe.
Yes Philip Billing is reckless and I don’t think he’s that good.
He’s not creative and has been relegated twice in a row. Bournemouth’s midfield was a lot poorer last season with him.
King is a proven player at Premier level, is an international and his value may well have gone down since the summer. We cannot expect Wesley to have improved without playing let alone after a bad injury, and we really need to supplement the attacking option.
Post by: N'ZMAV on December 23, 2020, 08:48:23 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 24, 2020, 08:23:32 AM
Post by: mcgrath_85 on December 24, 2020, 09:31:20 AM
Wesley to me looked pretty shit.
Managed to combine being about 8 ft tall and winning nothing in the air, had a head like a 50p piece, no strength on the ball, added little in terms of holding up the ball, and seemed to be one of the only two Brazilian males with no discernible ball skills (Joelinton being the other one).
However, for all that, he was much, much better than Keinan Davis.
This made me chuckle and it’s why we need to get a striker in.
I actually think it’s harsh on Keinan as I think he has some good attributes, like holding the ball up, bringing others into play and he’s a handful for defenders. However, I don’t know how much longer we can put up with his injuries and not just sign a replacement.
A loan spell would tell us a lot.
Post by: aj2k77 on December 24, 2020, 10:04:12 AM
Seemed really poor scouting for him, and when we went back to Samatta who we deemed not as good as Wesley the previous summer, made me think wtf is going on.
Post by: Risso on December 24, 2020, 11:05:18 AM
Post by: Ads on December 24, 2020, 11:30:49 AM
Post by: DB on December 24, 2020, 11:47:10 AM
Wesley to me looked pretty shit.
Managed to combine being about 8 ft tall and winning nothing in the air, had a head like a 50p piece, no strength on the ball, added little in terms of holding up the ball, and seemed to be one of the only two Brazilian males with no discernible ball skills (Joelinton being the other one).
However, for all that, he was much, much better than Keinan Davis.
Ageed, no way he should be our first choice striker when he is fit.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 24, 2020, 11:48:47 AM
Barkely wants to make it permanent. Rexkon he'd cost around £30m with the loan fee we've paid taken into account.
I saw that Chelsea are looking to offload seven players to fund bringing in two, him being one of them. Still early days, but if he carries on it's a no-brainer.
Post by: paul_e on December 24, 2020, 11:59:49 AM
Has anyone ever been able to come up with a list of things (football related) that Wesley is good at? I can't think of one attribute of his that makes me say ''Yeah he's really good at that''. He's alright at some things and shite at a lot of others. Looks nowhere near a £20m+ player and unless we see a major improvement, which is possible, although unlikely, will be a dud.
Seemed really poor scouting for him, and when we went back to Samatta who we deemed not as good as Wesley the previous summer, made me think wtf is going on.
Being absolutely shit at almost everything (apparently) and still scoring 1 in 4 in a new league as a 22 year old is a pretty good attribute to have I'd say.
Post by: OCD on December 24, 2020, 01:16:40 PM
Post by: Risso on December 24, 2020, 01:18:44 PM
You would think we would give the guy a chance after seeing the improvement in Luiz, Konsa, Trez, Targett, El Ghazi etc. When Wes was last fit all the aforementioned looked poor and so did we as a side. They've improved, we've improved and he would be coming back into a different team now. It was a bad injury and he's going to need time.
People are just giving their opinions. It's the only the management who can decide to give him a chance this season when he's fit. Like they didn't with Jota and Samatta.
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 24, 2020, 02:16:49 PM
I know Fabra has been there a while so not sure why he’s not moved as he’s an international.
Post by: Mister E on December 24, 2020, 02:49:23 PM
I suppose with Wes at least you can say he managed a reasonable goal return despite his limitations, so maybe he'd do even better now our overall team is much better. I can't say I fancy the idea of going back to him being our main striker though later in the season if anything happens to Ollie.Isn't that the point? - he scored despite the limitations people seem to want to highlight. And he scored for a team that was finding its way in the top tier, and without having had experience at this level.
I'm intrigued to see how he fares now that we have a better quality first XI and greater confidence running through it. I hope he gets the chance, given the apparent severity of the injury.
As an aside, the Mee tackle - which happened right in front of where I was standing at Burnley - is all the evidence needed for some sort of citation system in football.
Post by: Risso on December 24, 2020, 03:01:30 PM
I suppose with Wes at least you can say he managed a reasonable goal return despite his limitations, so maybe he'd do even better now our overall team is much better. I can't say I fancy the idea of going back to him being our main striker though later in the season if anything happens to Ollie.Isn't that the point? - he scored despite the limitations people seem to want to highlight. And he scored for a team that was finding its way in the top tier, and without having had experience at this level.
I'm intrigued to see how he fares now that we have a better quality first XI and greater confidence running through it. I hope he gets the chance, given the apparent severity of the injury.
Goals are goals I guess, but two of them were against Norwich, after which he didn't score again for 12 games, and hardly had a shot worthy of the name in that time. He will get a chance again I suppose, but hard to see him fitting into this new and improved high tempo, end-to-end style of play.
Post by: jwarry on December 24, 2020, 03:14:27 PM
I suppose with Wes at least you can say he managed a reasonable goal return despite his limitations, so maybe he'd do even better now our overall team is much better. I can't say I fancy the idea of going back to him being our main striker though later in the season if anything happens to Ollie.Isn't that the point? - he scored despite the limitations people seem to want to highlight. And he scored for a team that was finding its way in the top tier, and without having had experience at this level.
I'm intrigued to see how he fares now that we have a better quality first XI and greater confidence running through it. I hope he gets the chance, given the apparent severity of the injury.
Goals are goals I guess, but two of them were against Norwich, after which he didn't score again for 12 games, and hardly had a shot worthy of the name in that time. He will get a chance again I suppose, but hard to see him fitting into this new and improved high tempo, end-to-end style of play.
He’s Brazilian he will adapt
Post by: Mister E on December 24, 2020, 03:37:01 PM
"hard to see him fitting in... " that's why I'm intrigued. Some of his positional play and desire to move the ball first time may work well for us now. I always had the impression that the only player on his wavelength last season was Luiz: perhaps we'll see greater connection between him and the other players.Goals are goals I guess, but two of them were against Norwich, after which he didn't score again for 12 games, and hardly had a shot worthy of the name in that time. He will get a chance again I suppose, but hard to see him fitting into this new and improved high tempo, end-to-end style of play.I suppose with Wes at least you can say he managed a reasonable goal return despite his limitations, so maybe he'd do even better now our overall team is much better. I can't say I fancy the idea of going back to him being our main striker though later in the season if anything happens to Ollie.Isn't that the point? - he scored despite the limitations people seem to want to highlight. And he scored for a team that was finding its way in the top tier, and without having had experience at this level.
I'm intrigued to see how he fares now that we have a better quality first XI and greater confidence running through it. I hope he gets the chance, given the apparent severity of the injury.
Post by: paul_e on December 24, 2020, 03:45:18 PM
I suppose with Wes at least you can say he managed a reasonable goal return despite his limitations, so maybe he'd do even better now our overall team is much better. I can't say I fancy the idea of going back to him being our main striker though later in the season if anything happens to Ollie.Isn't that the point? - he scored despite the limitations people seem to want to highlight. And he scored for a team that was finding its way in the top tier, and without having had experience at this level.
I'm intrigued to see how he fares now that we have a better quality first XI and greater confidence running through it. I hope he gets the chance, given the apparent severity of the injury.
Goals are goals I guess, but two of them were against Norwich, after which he didn't score again for 12 games, and hardly had a shot worthy of the name in that time. He will get a chance again I suppose, but hard to see him fitting into this new and improved high tempo, end-to-end style of play.
I completely disagree with the last bit, I think the way we're playing now will be much better for him, last time he was spending a lot of time around halfway waiting for support and then struggling to find space in the box because he was the only Villa player in there. Most of the improvement in our general play has been fixing those 2 issues (which are largely the same anyway) and getting more people moving around the main striker in good areas.
Post by: Ads on December 24, 2020, 04:21:39 PM
Would love to see us thrash a deal out in the summer for Barkley, tie down Dougie now and pick up a bit of an all action number 8 and a forward to add cover.
Post by: paul_e on December 24, 2020, 05:02:38 PM
We've created more chances than any other side in the league. That will help Wes, as it ought to any striker.
Would love to see us thrash a deal out in the summer for Barkley, tie down Dougie now and pick up a bit of an all action number 8 and a forward to add cover.
Add a quality young left back and that's most of the shopping list for January and the summer.
Post by: algy on December 24, 2020, 07:47:34 PM
We've created more chances than any other side in the league. That will help Wes, as it ought to any striker.Yeah, for me the big 2 to get sorted out are Ross & Dougie. After that, I'd towards replacing Lansbury with someone who could provide a bit of competition to SJM, Dougie, and Marv.
Would love to see us thrash a deal out in the summer for Barkley, tie down Dougie now and pick up a bit of an all action number 8 and a forward to add cover.
Post by: charleeco7 on December 24, 2020, 08:22:24 PM
Post by: Colhint on December 24, 2020, 08:24:48 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on December 24, 2020, 09:29:32 PM
This season's Danny Drinkwater....
Delle Alli.
The lad has some talent and has shown it at the highest level. He doesn't like, respect or wish to play for Bourinho... no blame there imo... just a thought... don't crucify me at christmas, wait until easter =P
Post by: PaulWinch again on December 24, 2020, 09:39:10 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 24, 2020, 09:55:04 PM
That said, I wouldn't be particularly arsed about signing Delle Alli, certainly this upcoming transfer window. If we are unable to sign Barkley on a permanent basis, he might be worth considering in the summer.
Post by: DrGonzo on December 24, 2020, 10:03:51 PM
Post by: Risso on December 24, 2020, 10:30:51 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 24, 2020, 10:35:24 PM
Post by: LeeB on December 24, 2020, 11:06:50 PM
Post by: LukeJames on December 24, 2020, 11:26:43 PM
If we are likely to lose Dougie, go balls out now and sign Camavinga from Rennes, get him up to speed ready for next season.
I was just about to suggest that the next level of signing for us and our owners would be for us to get one of the next batch of wonderkids but surely this one is way out of our grasp, likely to be going to Madrid for £75m plus in the summer.
Post by: LeeB on December 24, 2020, 11:55:25 PM
If we are likely to lose Dougie, go balls out now and sign Camavinga from Rennes, get him up to speed ready for next season.
I was just about to suggest that the next level of signing for us and our owners would be for us to get one of the next batch of wonderkids but surely this one is way out of our grasp, likely to be going to Madrid for £75m plus in the summer.
Them and Barca are skint pricks, they can get in line.
Post by: LukeJames on December 25, 2020, 12:08:21 AM
Post by: Ads on December 25, 2020, 12:06:49 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 25, 2020, 12:31:45 PM
Dele Ali could be a great option if his head is right.
Post by: ktvillan on December 25, 2020, 01:06:44 PM
Post by: Dave on December 25, 2020, 04:46:37 PM
Alli is on a different level of talent to Drinkwater. He’s still young, he’s lost his way a bit but can find it back.
A couple of people who seem to know what is going on at Spurs have suggested that it's some sort of masterplan and he's important for their season. Mourinho spends a year riling him up, chucks him into a flagging, stale team in March and he's desperate to prove himself and gives them fresh impetus.
Could be nonsense and an attempt to ascribe any old shit to Mourinho's genius, but it's definitely something doing the rounds.
That said, PSG wanted him on loan in the summer. If he really wasn't part of the plans it's hard to see why they didn't just get the money back then.
Post by: eamonn on December 25, 2020, 08:53:22 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 25, 2020, 10:14:59 PM
Think Alli is cert to go there on loan next month as there were rumours of PSG wanting him on loan in the summer.
Post by: Risso on December 25, 2020, 11:03:57 PM
I can't see Dele Alli going to anyone outside regular CL teams, whether here or abroad.
Good opportunity for him to get ahead of the game with us early on then.
Post by: ktvillan on December 26, 2020, 12:46:14 AM
I can't see Dele Alli going to anyone outside regular CL teams, whether here or abroad.
Good opportunity for him to get ahead of the game with us early on then.
I'd like to think so Risso but can't see it. Yet.
Post by: OCD on December 26, 2020, 05:55:58 PM
Post by: nigel on December 26, 2020, 06:04:01 PM
Keep playing like this between now and the end of the season and players will be lining up to sign for us.
Agree.
I think Rashica saw where we finished last season and decided against the move.
It’s no surprise that all of a sudden (according to some) he seems interested now.
Post by: paul_e on December 27, 2020, 01:14:31 AM
Keep playing like this between now and the end of the season and players will be lining up to sign for us.
Agree.
I think Rashica saw where we finished last season and decided against the move.
It’s no surprise that all of a sudden (according to some) he seems interested now.
I don't fault him for that, he'd just come out of a season similar to ours and didn't fancy moving just to be in a battle again. That's why it's so important for us to finish top half this year and show we're moving in the right direction.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 27, 2020, 01:17:56 AM
Post by: Risso on December 27, 2020, 10:14:52 AM
Post by: saunders_heroes on December 27, 2020, 10:15:59 AM
I would certainly like to think that we're shopping in a different store to the one that has Christian Benteke in it these days.
I can’t. Especially at Christmas!
Post by: Mister E on December 27, 2020, 10:45:50 AM
Post by: LeeB on December 27, 2020, 11:02:58 AM
Get in someone like Will Hughes to cover for the risk that Dougie may be leaving at the end of the season.
I wouldn’t sign Will Hughes to chauffeur Dougie, let alone replace him in the team FFS.
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 27, 2020, 11:04:17 AM
Get in someone like Will Hughes to cover for the risk that Dougie may be leaving at the end of the season.
I was under the impression he was a different type, more box to box than a sitter and several rungs below Dougie’s level.
I’ve been thinking about Luiz’ replacement and Sander Berge was highly rated when Sheff U picked him up but again is he like for like?
Post by: Rudy65 on December 27, 2020, 11:20:11 AM
Further to both the Villa 3-0 Palace and Watkins performance. And as well the Villa 2-0 Palace both matches featuring Benteke performances and what he pitifully offered across those two games should see him never evere mentioned or enter our thought ever again in any transfer window.
Good luck to him but he's certainly no addition to the Villa squad and pleased with have Watkins when 10 men and not Benteke leading the line.
What Benteke has consistently done is be offside but his name should never be considered again, he was great back in the day but now we all move on from him
It’s unfathomable how good he was in that one season for us and how bad he has been in the last 5 seasons. Injuries, attitude or something else?
Post by: Rudy65 on December 27, 2020, 11:20:57 AM
Get in someone like Will Hughes to cover for the risk that Dougie may be leaving at the end of the season.
I wouldn’t sign Will Hughes to chauffeur Dougie, let alone replace him in the team FFS.
Agreed. Hughes isn’t the answer. Any signings must improve the squad. Hughes doesn’t
Post by: SaddVillan on December 27, 2020, 12:05:12 PM
Sign Barkley permanently - providing he maintains form and proves he is fully fit.
Deli Alli on a loan with a buy option
Defensive midfield cover for Douglas/McGinniesta
Left back to push Targett
Goal scoring forward
Suspect that Dele Alli will be one of the names at the top of Pochettino's shopping list if he takes over at PSG and wecall know that they spend silly money to sign thei targets
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 27, 2020, 03:05:32 PM
Post by: Clampy on December 27, 2020, 03:11:45 PM
We absolutely need another forward that plays in a similar fashion to Ollie but also provides genuine competition for him. The drop off in ability of the current back ups is huge and if we lost Ollie for any length of time we would be in trouble. Wes isn’t back yet for a bit and just doesn’t provide what Ollie does in terms of running and pressing. And the less said about Davis the better.
Danny Welbeck might not have been a bad back up. He's someone I've always quite liked.
Post by: KevinGage on December 27, 2020, 03:14:31 PM
Or a promising young player on perhaps a short term deal until Wes is up to speed.
Issue with the latter might be that with our stance on the five subs rule, Citeh, Liverpool and most of the other clubs who may have considered it will be less inclined to do so. Or offer it on the basis that we play ball with them on that issue.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 27, 2020, 03:36:23 PM
I'd either want to see an experienced head come in to add squad depth up top -as Big Cyrille did in 1991.what would Liverpool and Citeh have to do with our recruitment?
Or a promising young player on perhaps a short term deal until Wes is up to speed.
Issue with the latter might be that with our stance on the five subs rule, Citeh, Liverpool and most of the other clubs who may have considered it will be less inclined to do so. Or offer it on the basis that we play ball with them on that issue.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 27, 2020, 04:15:35 PM
Get in someone like Will Hughes to cover for the risk that Dougie may be leaving at the end of the season.
I was under the impression he was a different type, more box to box than a sitter and several rungs below Dougie’s level.
I’ve been thinking about Luiz’ replacement and Sander Berge was highly rated when Sheff U picked him up but again is he like for like?
Out for 4 months injured.
Post by: Dave on December 27, 2020, 04:18:41 PM
Get in someone like Will Hughes to cover for the risk that Dougie may be leaving at the end of the season.
I was under the impression he was a different type, more box to box than a sitter and several rungs below Dougie’s level.
I’ve been thinking about Luiz’ replacement and Sander Berge was highly rated when Sheff U picked him up but again is he like for like?
Out for 4 months injured.
He's definitely someone I'd be looking at in the summer though when they go down. Would be a decent upgrade on Nakamba.
Post by: frank black on December 27, 2020, 05:18:16 PM
It’s probably going to be a quiet one for us I’d imagine.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 27, 2020, 05:38:17 PM
Personally I think we would be mad to spend £30m on a back-up for Watkins when we have Wes’ potential already in the squad. At least give him a proper chance to fail before replacing him.
Post by: Smirker on December 27, 2020, 05:41:07 PM
I’d like to see us go big on a midfielder, like the Rennes player (or a realistic option) this January. Barkley isn’t ours, Luiz is barely ours. One, or both, are unlikely to be here next season so we should sign the best we can in the wonder kid, ideally a defensive midfielder, category.
Personally I think we would be mad to spend £30m on a back-up for Watkins when we have Wes’ potential already in the squad. At least give him a proper chance to fail before replacing him.
Edouardo Camavinga?
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 27, 2020, 05:49:37 PM
Similar type to Doug in that he can play DM or box to box and slightly more physical.
I mention him as he's on loan there from......Man. City.
Get the feeling if they ever activate the Doug buy back they might offer him to us as a sweetner next summer.
Good article on him from 12 months back and he's improved since....
https://talksport.com/football/623505/yangel-herrera-man-city-midfielder-laliga-granada-replace-fernandinho/
Post by: dicedlam on December 27, 2020, 06:01:56 PM
There is also Boubakary Soumare of Lille who is a good box to box midfielder. Steve Bruce is looking to bring him in for Newcastle in the January window. A big lad at 6'2'' who has been likened to Patrick Viera.
Post by: nigel on December 27, 2020, 06:02:19 PM
Yangel Herrera would be a good one to get, been a regular at Granada last two years and they're in europa league knock out rounds.
Similar type to Doug in that he can play DM or box to box and slightly more physical.
I mention him as he's on loan there from......Man. City.
Get the feeling if they ever activate the Doug buy back they might offer him to us as a sweetner next summer.
Good article on him from 12 months back and he's improved since....
https://talksport.com/football/623505/yangel-herrera-man-city-midfielder-laliga-granada-replace-fernandinho/
They might as well keep him and let us have Doug
Post by: eamonn on December 27, 2020, 06:12:26 PM
Further to both the Villa 3-0 Palace and Watkins performance. And as well the Villa 2-0 Palace both matches featuring Benteke performances and what he pitifully offered across those two games should see him never evere mentioned or enter our thought ever again in any transfer window.
Good luck to him but he's certainly no addition to the Villa squad and pleased with have Watkins when 10 men and not Benteke leading the line.
What Benteke has consistently done is be offside but his name should never be considered again, he was great back in the day but now we all move on from him
It’s unfathomable how good he was in that one season for us and how bad he has been in the last 5 seasons. Injuries, attitude or something else?
Great in his first season for us, but also pretty good for two more. That hattrick against QPR in his last season was too notch.
Post by: andyh on December 27, 2020, 06:30:02 PM
He could shine in a great team like ours.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 27, 2020, 06:46:23 PM
However in January we have the opportunity to sign a player we can integrate into the squad over the next six months, so a youngster\foreign etc so they’re better prepared for next season and will add value whether or not Doug leaves.
Absolutely no idea who this player is by the way...
Post by: Steve67 on December 28, 2020, 10:36:21 AM
If, massive if, we had to lose Dougie, I quite like Bissouma at Brighton.
He could shine in a great team like ours.
He's a good player and would be a good fit. I have been banging on about a more physical player in the centre of the park for Villa for ages but I am not sure that is how Dean sees us going. I think it gives us an option of going plan B when we are under the cosh. Bissouma ticks a lots of those boxes for me.
Post by: exigo on December 28, 2020, 10:58:32 AM
Post by: LeeB on December 28, 2020, 11:13:12 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 28, 2020, 11:22:14 AM
Post by: Mister E on December 28, 2020, 01:33:59 PM
I have to say I like the look of Gallagher on loan at the bogeyes, could see him fitting in, and from what I’ve seen of him the lad up front, Grant looks a decent player.Grant looks very Championship.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 28, 2020, 01:36:58 PM
Post by: OCD on December 28, 2020, 01:51:46 PM
What about Phil Foden?
I would sign him up on a permanent in a flash. Forget any loan deal though.
Post by: nigel on December 28, 2020, 02:49:28 PM
What about Phil Foden?
Apparently he’s frustrated at lack of game time according to a Manchester paper.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 28, 2020, 03:29:10 PM
It reminds me of Real Madrid with Martin Odegaard who joined Real Sociedad on years loan and helped them finish 6th and make the cup final.
Or we could sell him vision of playing with Grealish next 5 years for club and country and he'd come permanently and we'd then sell him back to Man. City for 150m in 2026....
Post by: algy on December 28, 2020, 04:06:23 PM
Yeah that's why I mentioned him. This year was supposed to be the time where he became undroppable first 11 player yet he's hardly started a league game in two months so can see why he's becoming frustrated at things.Yeah, I'd be going down the lines of pointing at the league table, pointing at a big pile of gold bars that NSWE own, showing a 5min Jack highlight reel, then asking him what he thinks about plying his trade in B6.
It reminds me of Real Madrid with Martin Odegaard who joined Real Sociedad on years loan and helped them finish 6th and make the cup final.
Or we could sell him vision of playing with Grealish next 5 years for club and country and he'd come permanently and we'd then sell him back to Man. City for 150m in 2026....
Post by: LeeB on December 28, 2020, 04:09:35 PM
I have to say I like the look of Gallagher on loan at the bogeyes, could see him fitting in, and from what I’ve seen of him the lad up front, Grant looks a decent player.Grant looks very Championship.
I'd written him off as such, but he's in a shit team, and when I have seen him he's very quick, has a decent touch and looks bright and strong. Not saying he's good enough for us right now but I'd keep an eye on him.
Post by: Risso on December 28, 2020, 04:10:44 PM
Post by: OCD on December 28, 2020, 04:26:00 PM
Post by: IFWaters on December 28, 2020, 06:27:22 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on December 28, 2020, 08:16:03 PM
A younger version of Elmo (although one that would be, given time could develop into the next Cafu).
A replacement for Taylor.
Maybe an attacking midfielder.
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on December 28, 2020, 08:44:06 PM
So, a replacement for Engels, preferably a youngster that'd be willing to be the long term answer but could fill in when necessary/playing The Boggies etc.
A younger version of Elmo (although one that would be, given time could develop into the next Cafu).
A replacement for Taylor.
Maybe an attacking midfielder.
Out of that list I reckon the Taylor replacement is most likely. I think he is out of contract at the end of the season, so we must be already a long way down the road of looking at a replacement. Targett has been hugely better this season, but a young talented player that can challenge him or fill in if he gets injured would be great.
We have a younger Elmo replacement already - Guilbert is a bloody good player.
For me the priority is still someone to compete with Ollie, as if he gets injured we have no similar player up front. Neither Wesley nor Keinan can fill that role without us changing the way we play to suit their (inferior) skill set.
What really excites me with our current recruitment set up is that they seem completely unafraid to go and recruit good players
in positions we are already blessed in. Cash came in when we had two decent right backs, Martinez came in when we had a great (albeit injured) GK in Heaton and umpteen backups. So I would not be surprised to see us go and get a world class player somewhere unexpected should the chance occur.
Post by: villa `cross the mersey on December 28, 2020, 08:46:02 PM
Post by: not3bad on December 28, 2020, 08:52:42 PM
So, a replacement for Engels, preferably a youngster that'd be willing to be the long term answer but could fill in when necessary/playing The Boggies etc.
A younger version of Elmo (although one that would be, given time could develop into the next Cafu).
A replacement for Taylor.
Maybe an attacking midfielder.
Is Engels sharing the same taxi as Guilbert? Didn't know that.
Post by: Steve67 on December 28, 2020, 10:49:13 PM
Test Chelsea with a bid for Tammy Abraham
Ollie Watkins works far harder across the whole width of the pitch than Abraham. Unless you mean as Ollie's back-up?
Post by: Dave on December 28, 2020, 10:55:07 PM
Test Chelsea with a bid for Tammy Abraham
Why would he swap their regular first-team for our bench?
Post by: KevinGage on December 28, 2020, 11:00:04 PM
He needs to be given at least this season leading the line before we start looking at that sort of deal.
That said, an older pro to come off the bench and give us something different would be grand. But it would need to be someone coming in who doesn't have an expectation of starting every game.
We've done well this year already. But convincing a quality player the best place for him is our bench might be a hard sell.
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 28, 2020, 11:37:58 PM
Post by: Risso on December 28, 2020, 11:46:36 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 28, 2020, 11:51:50 PM
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 29, 2020, 08:47:20 AM
Which means taking gambles on foreign players who need to hit the ground running and we all know that is not easy, especially in Jan
Post by: Jon H on December 29, 2020, 09:37:41 AM
Post by: Baldy on December 29, 2020, 10:23:42 AM
Heaton
Guilbert/Elmo Hause Engels Taylor
Trez Marvelous Hourihane Ramsay
Barklay (floating)
Davis
With Wesley to come back in a month or two.
Not a bad team of 'back ups' who may have to resign themselves to keeping the bench warm and hope for a good FA Cup run. All familiar with the Deano game plan, his demands and capable of stepping in when required.
I reckon we should save our coppers in January and push the boat out next summer to secure a permanent deal for Luiz, keep option open for Barklay (depending on fitness and form) and if finances permit, buy one or two new players who are capable for playing for the first team from day one. Not cheap, so don't waste money in January on stocking fillers.
A team is rewarded for it's collective goal tally and not the amount scored by an individual striker. If Watkins is unlucky enough to get injured. I believe we have enough goal scorers and flexibility in the current squad to compensate for his loss. Review position next summer but for now save our pennies. Just a thought. :)
Post by: JJ-AV on December 29, 2020, 10:35:52 AM
I'd like another winger too. Thauvin is on a free next Summer, he'd be a good option.
Post by: Drummond on December 29, 2020, 10:38:28 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on December 29, 2020, 10:40:44 AM
Post by: john e on December 29, 2020, 10:43:02 AM
if we want to be a mainstay top 4/6 team it’s all part and parcel of it
if they can’t take a bit of healthy competition they’re not going to make it in the big time
bring in the best players you can find
all the top teams have very strong benches that’s what we must aspire to
Post by: mcgrath_85 on December 29, 2020, 10:46:44 AM
Post by: mcgrath_85 on December 29, 2020, 10:47:48 AM
I wouldn’t worry to much about affecting players confidence by signing good players in their position
if we want to be a mainstay top 4/6 team it’s all part and parcel of it
if they can’t take a bit of healthy competition they’re not going to make it in the big time
bring in the best players you can find
all the top teams have very strong benches that’s what we must aspire to
All top teams and managers would not worry about this one bit.
Post by: enigma on December 29, 2020, 10:54:40 AM
Post by: Baldy on December 29, 2020, 10:55:20 AM
We really need a striker, we are an injury or suspension for Watkins away from being in an avoidable mess.
We have options.
Davis can hold onto the ball, bring others in to play and after lots more coaching/training might have improved his finishing. Deserves a chance.
McGinn has scored one in the last 33 games, we can play him in a more advanced midfield role and unleash his left foot.
A forward line of Trez, El Ghazi and Traore intermingling would put the shits up any defence.
Wesley on the road back. Voted young professional player of the year in Belgium in 2018, Brazilian international, not to be sniffed at.
We are better with Watkins but far from a mess without him.
Post by: algy on December 29, 2020, 11:00:40 AM
Preparing to make a bid for midfielder Matias Vecino at Inter according to reports. He's been there three years but not made much of an impact. At 29 doesn't fit the mould of young up and coming players either but would fill out the squad a bit.Are we going to use all of our war chest to get him?
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on December 29, 2020, 11:02:30 AM
Naah, Loose change ;)Preparing to make a bid for midfielder Matias Vecino at Inter according to reports. He's been there three years but not made much of an impact. At 29 doesn't fit the mould of young up and coming players either but would fill out the squad a bit.Are we going to use all of our war chest to get him?
Post by: algy on December 29, 2020, 11:08:00 AM
There's some areas we definitely need to look at in the summer (replacement for Taylor, and either a replacement or new (short) contract for Elmo at the very least), but if we're going to sign players I'd rather make it a worthwhile player (e.g. nabbing someone from a top continental side in that £20-50m bracket) than trying to spread it about too thinly on basically squad players. I don't see how we'll end up with better players than the ones we brought 2 summers ago if we spread £40m-ish* over 3 players.
* guessing we could spend about £120m total in FFP terms, as last season, and we spent about £80m in the summer ... leaving about £40m.
Post by: dicedlam on December 29, 2020, 11:28:46 AM
Post by: algy on December 29, 2020, 11:32:23 AM
We should go back to our old hunting ground and test Brentford for Toney. 16 goals in 21 appearances.If we did do that, part of the terms and conditions should be that they have to wear our third kit and call themselves "Brentford Villa" since they're quite clearly our B team / feeder club.
Don't mind if our third kit is red & white stripes in their honour as part of that tho.
Post by: WassallVillain on December 29, 2020, 11:36:09 AM
Post by: oldtimernow on December 29, 2020, 11:40:57 AM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 29, 2020, 11:49:14 AM
Rico Henry would be good as cover for the new much improved Matt Targett
Ambitious but I’d ask about the availability of sessengnon from Spurs. I read he was POTM at Hoffenheim so doing okay on loan. Scope to improve and can play AML as well as LB so could/should be involved in the squad even if he cannot replace Tragett.
Post by: Risso on December 29, 2020, 11:50:48 AM
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Tarkowski from Burnley come in. May even be able to trade 1 or 2 of the squad with them as they are a bit strapped and the takeover is dragging on.
I'd say no chance of that at all. He's Burnley's main saleable asset, and I can't see us spending the £30m+ they want for him, when Smith seems happy with Konsa/Mings/Hause.
Post by: Risso on December 29, 2020, 11:53:32 AM
We really need a striker, we are an injury or suspension for Watkins away from being in an avoidable mess.
We have options.
Davis can hold onto the ball, bring others in to play and after lots more coaching/training might have improved his finishing. Deserves a chance.
McGinn has scored one in the last 33 games, we can play him in a more advanced midfield role and unleash his left foot.
A forward line of Trez, El Ghazi and Traore intermingling would put the shits up any defence.
Wesley on the road back. Voted young professional player of the year in Belgium in 2018, Brazilian international, not to be sniffed at.
We are better with Watkins but far from a mess without him.
That's looking at things with massively rose-tinted glasses. Davis is never, ever going to be a reliable option up front. Best thing for him would be to go on loan, as others have said several times. We don't know when Wesley is going to be back, or what state he'll be in when he does. None of El Ghazi, Trez or Traore are out and out forwards. We need a back up for Watkins.
Post by: WassallVillain on December 29, 2020, 12:02:11 PM
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Tarkowski from Burnley come in. May even be able to trade 1 or 2 of the squad with them as they are a bit strapped and the takeover is dragging on.
I'd say no chance of that at all. He's Burnley's main saleable asset, and I can't see us spending the £30m+ they want for him, when Smith seems happy with Konsa/Mings/Hause.
I thought he was out of contract in the summer. If so no chance of £30m
Post by: Dante Lavelli on December 29, 2020, 12:09:14 PM
We really need a striker, we are an injury or suspension for Watkins away from being in an avoidable mess.
We have options.
Davis can hold onto the ball, bring others in to play and after lots more coaching/training might have improved his finishing. Deserves a chance.
McGinn has scored one in the last 33 games, we can play him in a more advanced midfield role and unleash his left foot.
A forward line of Trez, El Ghazi and Traore intermingling would put the shits up any defence.
Wesley on the road back. Voted young professional player of the year in Belgium in 2018, Brazilian international, not to be sniffed at.
We are better with Watkins but far from a mess without him.
That's looking at things with massively rose-tinted glasses. Davis is never, ever going to be a reliable option up front. Best thing for him would be to go on loan, as others have said several times. We don't know when Wesley is going to be back, or what state he'll be in when he does. None of El Ghazi, Trez or Traore are out and out forwards. We need a back up for Watkins.
A loan for that Jovic bloke would be ideal. Theoretically, due to his quality, should hit the ground running, allows Wesley time to recover and pisses off Wolves (as they have been linked).
Post by: KevinGage on December 29, 2020, 12:36:53 PM
Preparing to make a bid for midfielder Matias Vecino at Inter according to reports. He's been there three years but not made much of an impact. At 29 doesn't fit the mould of young up and coming players either but would fill out the squad a bit.
Sounds like an agent link, that.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 29, 2020, 01:16:41 PM
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Tarkowski from Burnley come in. May even be able to trade 1 or 2 of the squad with them as they are a bit strapped and the takeover is dragging on.
West Ham and Leicester wanted him in the summer and Burnley want over 40m IIRC.
Think I'd pass at that. He's a good backs to the wall defender but not sure how great he'd be in a higher line.
CB can wait until the summer given how well Hause has done.
Post by: OCD on December 29, 2020, 01:20:32 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 29, 2020, 01:20:44 PM
For use of a better word, our current 'B' Team:
Heaton
Guilbert/Elmo Hause Engels Taylor
Trez Marvelous Hourihane Ramsay
Barklay (floating)
Davis
With Wesley to come back in a month or two.
On that list Elmo, Taylor and Hourihane are out of contract in the summer. Elmo doesn't need to be replaced if we keep Guilbert so replacements for the other 2 are the priority over the next 6 months. If they beleive Ramsey works as a replacement for Hourihane then the spot in the squad created by Kalinic going might be best used for a left back in this window to give them a chance to settle in for a while before being they're pushing for game time.
Post by: SteveN on December 29, 2020, 01:21:13 PM
Post by: andyh on December 29, 2020, 01:24:33 PM
If you have ambitions to kick on, especially from a strong position, such as we are in now, you do not ‘make do, and hope for the best’.We really need a striker, we are an injury or suspension for Watkins away from being in an avoidable mess.
We have options.
Davis can hold onto the ball, bring others in to play and after lots more coaching/training might have improved his finishing. Deserves a chance.
McGinn has scored one in the last 33 games, we can play him in a more advanced midfield role and unleash his left foot.
A forward line of Trez, El Ghazi and Traore intermingling would put the shits up any defence.
Wesley on the road back. Voted young professional player of the year in Belgium in 2018, Brazilian international, not to be sniffed at.
We are better with Watkins but far from a mess without him.
A second ‘proven’ striker is paramount in our situation.
Post by: Drummond on December 29, 2020, 01:52:42 PM
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on December 29, 2020, 02:01:41 PM
Preparing to make a bid for midfielder Matias Vecino at Inter according to reports. He's been there three years but not made much of an impact. At 29 doesn't fit the mould of young up and coming players either but would fill out the squad a bit.
Sounds like an agent link, that.
This was on Twitter yesterday. The link I saw said it would be a 6 month loan deal. Think he was quite good for them last season, scoring a few goals but dropped out of the team this season.
Post by: LeeB on December 29, 2020, 02:07:55 PM
Diego Costa is now out of contract.
I’d take him for 6 months, if only to make heads explode in Small Heath and Tipton at our shithousery.
Post by: Monty on December 29, 2020, 02:10:21 PM
Diego Costa is now out of contract.
I’d take him for 6 months, if only to make heads explode in Small Heath and Tipton at our shithousery.
I'd love a bit of Diego Costa, teaching Watkins how to be even more of a fucking pest than he is, pissing off the defenders Jack is already pissing off so much they get themselves sent off, all the good things.
Post by: Risso on December 29, 2020, 02:11:19 PM
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Tarkowski from Burnley come in. May even be able to trade 1 or 2 of the squad with them as they are a bit strapped and the takeover is dragging on.
I'd say no chance of that at all. He's Burnley's main saleable asset, and I can't see us spending the £30m+ they want for him, when Smith seems happy with Konsa/Mings/Hause.
I thought he was out of contract in the summer. If so no chance of £30m
Nope, 2022.
Post by: oishiiniku on December 29, 2020, 02:36:58 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 29, 2020, 02:43:59 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 29, 2020, 02:50:24 PM
Post by: Small Rodent on December 29, 2020, 03:16:59 PM
Preparing to make a bid for midfielder Matias Vecino at Inter according to reports. He's been there three years but not made much of an impact. At 29 doesn't fit the mould of young up and coming players either but would fill out the squad a bit.
Sounds like an agent link, that.
This was on Twitter yesterday. The link I saw said it would be a 6 month loan deal. Think he was quite good for them last season, scoring a few goals but dropped out of the team this season.
He’s been injured since July I think.
Post by: berneboy on December 29, 2020, 04:48:58 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 29, 2020, 04:54:49 PM
Post by: berneboy on December 29, 2020, 04:56:46 PM
I take that to mean he will be back soon. As in back from injury.
Not a Dr. Tone hint then ..
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 29, 2020, 04:58:35 PM
I take that to mean he will be back soon. As in back from injury.
Not a Dr. Tone hint then ..
Nowhere near cryptic enough. 😄
Post by: TonyD on December 29, 2020, 05:21:08 PM
Post by: Big Ming on December 29, 2020, 07:58:10 PM
Do we have any solid targets?Hoping for something solid tomorrow.
The problem has been all the rich Christmas nibbles.
Post by: Drummond on December 29, 2020, 11:07:42 PM
Do we have any solid targets?
Yep, though you've not spelled his name properly.
Post by: RussellC on December 29, 2020, 11:29:41 PM
Post by: Tokyo Sexwhale on December 30, 2020, 08:55:11 AM
Do we have any solid targets?
Matt's been pretty solid at left back.
Post by: Bryan on December 30, 2020, 09:15:08 AM
- We’ve already bought our 3 overseas U21 players in Sil Swinkels, Oliwier Zych and Lamare Bogarde
- We may have had our 6 in total if Ireland is included which I think it will be with Aaron O'Reilly, Emi and Traore - providing Emi doesn’t already have UK permanent residency or other
So we could possibly buy one foreign player depending on Emi’s residency/citizenship. Otherwise we’re limited to Uk players or players with existing UK residency/status
Post by: aj2k77 on December 30, 2020, 09:35:42 AM
Post by: Hookeysmith on December 30, 2020, 09:37:24 AM
For all his attributes i think Costa could be trouble and might upset our camp. Terry could be a huge infuence in it though.
Post by: Risso on December 30, 2020, 10:07:38 AM
Post by: eamonn on December 30, 2020, 11:05:09 AM
Post by: nigel on December 30, 2020, 12:13:36 PM
If we’re thinking along the lines of Costa then he might be worth a Bid.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 30, 2020, 12:29:04 PM
It does look like we're immediately short of cover for Watkins and Luiz/McGinn, so we might go for loans or short-term deals, kind of 18 months, for experienced players, but of much, much higher standard than Drinkwater or Baston. Players of a standard where they're still good enough to play without having to wait for the incumbent to succumb to injury before they get risked. Like Costa, that level.
Post by: LeeB on December 30, 2020, 12:34:28 PM
Enda Stevens is too shuddering a reminder of the Lambert era. Not interested in bringing him back, enda story.
It was McLeish that signed him, and Lambert that bought a succession of shite left backs instead of giving him a go.
Post by: Monty on December 30, 2020, 12:44:43 PM
Aguaro is out of contract soon.
If we’re thinking along the lines of Costa then he might be worth a Bid.
Let's calm down.
Post by: Sdwbvf on December 30, 2020, 02:32:45 PM
For use of a better word, our current 'B' Team:
Heaton
Guilbert/Elmo Hause Engels Taylor
Trez Marvelous Hourihane Ramsay
Barklay (floating)
Davis
Looks like a great FA Cup team. Assuming Liverpool put out their kids. Certainly better than last year's.
Post by: nigel on December 30, 2020, 03:11:19 PM
Aguaro is out of contract soon.
If we’re thinking along the lines of Costa then he might be worth a Bid.
Let's calm down.
😂
Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to bring him off the bench for the last 15-20 mins to give Ollie a rest, though 😉
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 30, 2020, 07:00:50 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 30, 2020, 07:01:47 PM
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on December 30, 2020, 07:04:36 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on December 30, 2020, 07:09:08 PM
Have to see what happens with Ross Barclay!
You could take it to the bank he'd get hurt
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on December 30, 2020, 07:11:14 PM
Post by: not3bad on December 30, 2020, 08:00:27 PM
Aston Villa
Don't expect any big-money moves here but manager Dean Smith may look at his attack. Ollie Watkins, the £28m club-record signing from Brentford, has been outstanding but Keinan Davis has not produced enough goals when he has had a chance.
January is a fraught market, especially for acquiring the priceless commodity of goals, as Villa discovered with the failed £8.5m signing of Genk's Mbwana Samatta last year. He is already out on loan at Fenerbahce.
Villa have long been linked with Werder Bremen's Milot Rashica but at this stage there are no plans for any serious spending.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55428143
Post by: KevinGage on December 30, 2020, 08:16:52 PM
Former Citeh striker Stevan Jovetic n'all.
Marega was one of the names linked with us had we gone up in 2018. Haven't really followed his career since, TBH.
Post by: john e on December 30, 2020, 08:22:39 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 30, 2020, 08:30:32 PM
Arkadiusz Milik at Napoli and Moussa Marega at FC Porto are both out of contract this summer.
Former Citeh striker Stevan Jovetic n'all.
Marega was one of the names linked with us had we gone up in 2018. Haven't really followed his career since, TBH.
Jovetic has barely played for 3 seasons, I worry he'd be similar to Drinkwater.
Marega doesn't look good enough to me, would have been an ok signing to add a bit more experience whilst Wes settled but he's Samatta level in my opinion and we're better than that now.
Milik is a very good player, I suspect he'll have a lot of options, him in and Davis out on loan then review in the summer would be exceptional business.
Post by: KevinGage on December 30, 2020, 09:33:45 PM
Jovetic I'd consider, if the deal was right. He won't need to get around the pitch as much as Drinkwater needed to. And obviously couldn't.
Post by: paul_e on December 30, 2020, 10:10:08 PM
Aye, I'm not sure the Portuguese league is that much better than the Belgian one. Good record there won't necessarily translate here.
Jovetic I'd consider, if the deal was right. He won't need to get around the pitch as much as Drinkwater needed to. And obviously couldn't.
Maybe but Watkins work ethic is a big part of why we're playing so well. I have no idea if Jovetic is struggling for fitness but I'd rather not gamble on someone who's played so few games over such a long period (32 games and 3 goals in 3 seasons). 12 appearances this year looks better on paper but it's an average of about 20 minutes a time.
Post by: tomd2103 on December 31, 2020, 12:19:19 AM
Depending on his fitness, I would be happy enough with giving Wesley a go as second choice for the remainder of the season, with Davis as third choice.
Post by: ozzjim on December 31, 2020, 01:36:02 AM
Post by: FatSam on December 31, 2020, 01:41:43 AM
The range of potential transfer targets is very different to last year. With the team playing well, the options that would actually improve the squad are fewer, and the quality that we can attract is higher - so we should be operating in a completely different market. We aren’t really looking for short term fixes, unless a unique situation arises - like perhaps Costa. I don’t think Marega and Jovetic fit the age profile.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on December 31, 2020, 10:19:28 AM
Villa's January transfer market according to the beeb:
Aston Villa
Don't expect any big-money moves here but manager Dean Smith may look at his attack. Ollie Watkins, the £28m club-record signing from Brentford, has been outstanding but Keinan Davis has not produced enough goals when he has had a chance.
January is a fraught market, especially for acquiring the priceless commodity of goals, as Villa discovered with the failed £8.5m signing of Genk's Mbwana Samatta last year. He is already out on loan at Fenerbahce.
Villa have long been linked with Werder Bremen's Milot Rashica but at this stage there are no plans for any serious spending.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55428143
A bit of me wants to think this might be a smokescreen. The missus has just asked me if I reckon we'll get anybody in, and midway through my explaining why I thought we'd not see much movement, something dawned on me. If you're our multi-billionaire owners, do you envisage a scenario in the next few years in which we're better placed to have a proper tilt at the title than we are right now in this crazy-arse season?
Post by: Border villan on December 31, 2020, 10:57:08 AM
Post by: Mister E on December 31, 2020, 10:59:11 AM
Our bench is desparately short of forward options to either change things or rotate. If we can get a forward that will do the running and hold up that Ollie does in reserve, we should do it. Otherwise, we my well be better waiting till the summer.I take your point, Ozz, but I'd also argue that a different type of striker would be useful too; to provide something different for the opponents to deal with.
Can I give an example, you ask? - shit, no idea! ;D
Post by: richtheholtender on December 31, 2020, 11:58:10 AM
Watkins is clearly first choice at the moment, so anyone coming in is likely going to be on the bench to begin with. Just not sure how an attractive proposition that would be unless it is someone nowhere near a first team, someone from a lower division moving up, someone who has perhaps seen better days or someone from abroad who we can offer more money to.
Depending on his fitness, I would be happy enough with giving Wesley a go as second choice for the remainder of the season, with Davis as third choice.
Being in the bench for Aston Villa is like being a starter anywhere else 😊
Post by: mcgrath_85 on December 31, 2020, 12:12:53 PM
I wound try and sign someone to challenge Ollie for the starting spot. He’s been great and a wonderful improvement on Wesley last season, but he has only scored in 3 individual games so far. I know he’s been unlucky with VAR, but he does miss a fair few too.
Let’s cease the opportunity and go for it.
Post by: Aldridge Villa on December 31, 2020, 12:36:30 PM
Post by: paul_e on December 31, 2020, 12:58:01 PM
We have given ourselves our great platform with the start we’ve made this season. I think signing a striker is really important for us to keep on improving and maybe stay around that top 6.
I wound try and sign someone to challenge Ollie for the starting spot. He’s been great and a wonderful improvement on Wesley last season, but he has only scored in 3 individual games so far. I know he’s been unlucky with VAR, but he does miss a fair few too.
Let’s cease the opportunity and go for it.
As I've said many times over the last year or 2, I think the days of relying on 1 or 2 centre forwards to score a fuckload and drag you up the table are over. The trend now is to have regular goals for 3-4 players and that's where we are. If Watkins and Grealish can get 10-12 each (which is easily in reach from where they are) and a mix of AEG, Barkley, Traore and Trez can get another 20 (again well within reach) and then the rest of the team get 20 between them that'll be 60+ for the season which is usually enough for being in the mix at the top so long as the defence is competent (ours clearly is with the number of cleansheets we've kept). I've purposely gone for the lower end on all of those as well, I suspect we'll finish the season with something in the 70-80 range because we look a massive threat every game right now.
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 31, 2020, 12:58:52 PM
Arkadiusz Milik at Napoli and Moussa Marega at FC Porto are both out of contract this summer.
Former Citeh striker Stevan Jovetic n'all.
Marega was one of the names linked with us had we gone up in 2018. Haven't really followed his career since, TBH.
Jovetic has barely played for 3 seasons, I worry he'd be similar to Drinkwater.
Marega doesn't look good enough to me, would have been an ok signing to add a bit more experience whilst Wes settled but he's Samatta level in my opinion and we're better than that now.
Milik is a very good player, I suspect he'll have a lot of options, him in and Davis out on loan then review in the summer would be exceptional business.
I see a bit of Porto games on Freesports and I think he'd be o.k in premier league. Scored good number of goals and has a physical, bustling style and can work the channels so he's everything really that Watkins is and we want Davis to be.
Was racially abused in a game last season so suspect he'd want to move if premier league club came in.
Agree on Milik though, that would be statement signing like Barkley was. Seems he had some dispute with Napoli and they didn't register him this season so all he has played is 5-6 games for Poland so will surely move to get match fit for euros.
Linked to likes of Spurs and Atletico Madrid but would only be backup at those types of clubs.
Post by: john e on December 31, 2020, 01:17:49 PM
no longer are we relegation favourites but now looking to push on into the European spots
That makes a very big Difference to the players you can attract
Post by: SoccerHQ on December 31, 2020, 01:23:40 PM
When all said and done Aston Villa are a different proposition in the transfer market this time round
no longer are we relegation favourites but now looking to push on into the European spots
That makes a very big Difference to the players you can attract
Cue half of the posts suggesting championship and relegation threatened players so far (wink) like King, Connor Gallagher, Sander Berge etc.
Don't get me wrong there's a place for some of them like Watkins and Cash who've been excellent but there's also a place for Ross Barkley types so hopefully we're not far away from getting in a Milik type as signing a proven top level like Bent or Carew is something we haven't done in a long while and that sort of signing always massively excites people.
Post by: Mister E on December 31, 2020, 01:51:30 PM
I concur with your view, Paul. Any further forward signing needs to being something different and complementary to the capabilities that Watkins has: this would offer more in-game variety and tactical selections.We have given ourselves our great platform with the start we’ve made this season. I think signing a striker is really important for us to keep on improving and maybe stay around that top 6.
I wound try and sign someone to challenge Ollie for the starting spot. He’s been great and a wonderful improvement on Wesley last season, but he has only scored in 3 individual games so far. I know he’s been unlucky with VAR, but he does miss a fair few too.
Let’s cease the opportunity and go for it.
As I've said many times over the last year or 2, I think the days of relying on 1 or 2 centre forwards to score a fuckload and drag you up the table are over. The trend now is to have regular goals for 3-4 players and that's where we are. If Watkins and Grealish can get 10-12 each (which is easily in reach from where they are) and a mix of AEG, Barkley, Traore and Trez can get another 20 (again well within reach) and then the rest of the team get 20 between them that'll be 60+ for the season which is usually enough for being in the mix at the top so long as the defence is competent (ours clearly is with the number of cleansheets we've kept). I've purposely gone for the lower end on all of those as well, I suspect we'll finish the season with something in the 70-80 range because we look a massive threat every game right now.
No idea who that might be, though!.
Post by: TelfordVilla on December 31, 2020, 02:08:57 PM
Post by: mcgrath_85 on December 31, 2020, 02:12:31 PM
no reason why we couldn't sign a first choice centre forward and play Ollie off the left with JG playing 10. Plenty of flexibility up top then.
Yep. Exactly.
Post by: darren woolley on December 31, 2020, 04:23:04 PM
Post by: OCD on December 31, 2020, 04:41:29 PM
Post by: Mister E on December 31, 2020, 04:41:41 PM
I wouldn't mind David Brooks of Bournemouth.Watched him last night (well, first half) and he wasn't particularly good. But - yes - he always seemed like one to watch.
Post by: ChicagoLion on December 31, 2020, 05:32:57 PM
In the summer I was in favour of signing someone to play on the left and move Grealish to a number 10. Seeing him play as a number 10 though, I now think he's best on the left. So I think we would be better off buying Barkley and someone for him to compete against.i dont think we will buy Barkley.
Post by: TelfordVilla on December 31, 2020, 06:07:18 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on December 31, 2020, 09:24:01 PM
It is going to have to be a special signing to walk into the team this season, so I think any signings will be in terms of future development players that may also improve squad depth. Hopefully some deadwood trimming may be achieved though.
Post by: Lsvilla on December 31, 2020, 09:28:47 PM
Might be dreaming - but imagine Diego Costa coming into that set-upno reason why we couldn't sign a first choice centre forward and play Ollie off the left with JG playing 10. Plenty of flexibility up top then.
Yep. Exactly.
Post by: Dave P on December 31, 2020, 10:19:52 PM
no reason why we couldn't sign a first choice centre forward and play Ollie off the left with JG playing 10. Plenty of flexibility up top then.
I actually think Ollie will get more goals from that position.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 01, 2021, 11:16:13 AM
Villa's January transfer market according to the beeb:
Aston Villa
Don't expect any big-money moves here but manager Dean Smith may look at his attack. Ollie Watkins, the £28m club-record signing from Brentford, has been outstanding but Keinan Davis has not produced enough goals when he has had a chance.
January is a fraught market, especially for acquiring the priceless commodity of goals, as Villa discovered with the failed £8.5m signing of Genk's Mbwana Samatta last year. He is already out on loan at Fenerbahce.
Villa have long been linked with Werder Bremen's Milot Rashica but at this stage there are no plans for any serious spending.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/55428143
A bit of me wants to think this might be a smokescreen. The missus has just asked me if I reckon we'll get anybody in, and midway through my explaining why I thought we'd not see much movement, something dawned on me. If you're our multi-billionaire owners, do you envisage a scenario in the next few years in which we're better placed to have a proper tilt at the title than we are right now in this crazy-arse season?
Exactly.
Post by: Rudy65 on January 01, 2021, 11:39:34 AM
I wouldn't mind David Brooks of Bournemouth.Watched him last night (well, first half) and he wasn't particularly good. But - yes - he always seemed like one to watch.
Decent player but looks a bit lightweight. Then again I said that about Modric when he signed for Spurs!
Post by: jwarry on January 01, 2021, 12:01:09 PM
Post by: TheMalandro on January 01, 2021, 05:07:44 PM
Have we signed anybody yet?
A 13 year old lad from Peterborough, according to my Peterborough supporting friend.
Post by: paul_e on January 01, 2021, 05:25:29 PM
Have we signed anybody yet?
A 13 year old lad from Peterborough, according to my Peterborough supporting friend.
Good, if we can start hoovering up U16s from all over the midlands it will improve the academy massively.
Post by: eamonn on January 01, 2021, 07:12:00 PM
He has picked up an injury, that doesn't make him injury prone. Also he has played a few games very well and that doesn't make him a good signing. If we have the loan option for the season then there is no rush to make that decision yet.
It is going to have to be a special signing to walk into the team this season, so I think any signings will be in terms of future development players that may also improve squad depth. Hopefully some deadwood trimming may be achieved though.
He has a career history of picking-up injuries. And his hamstrings are clearly a big concern.
Post by: Small Rodent on January 01, 2021, 07:54:03 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on January 01, 2021, 10:05:54 PM
Anyway, back on topic. It is clear that we need a new Keinan Davis. I will not abuse him as he is a footballer with exactly the amount of talent he has, which isn't enough to fill our needs. An upgrade would be lovely please.
Post by: TheMalandro on January 01, 2021, 10:10:35 PM
Post by: DB on January 01, 2021, 10:12:04 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 01, 2021, 10:12:22 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on January 01, 2021, 10:16:47 PM
What’s the point in having a Jack Grealish with a strike force that couldn’t hit a barn door with a banjo.
Love Ollie, but a player that cost that amount of money should be putting some of those chances away for breakfast. Gets into good positions, and it may be a confidence thing, but currently, no matter his form, he’s undroppable. Needs quality competition.
Wes - bad injury and he’s going to take an age to get back up to speed (if ever).
Keinan - no.
Post by: Des Little on January 01, 2021, 10:18:12 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 01, 2021, 10:25:09 PM
Post by: Risso on January 01, 2021, 10:27:39 PM
We really really need another striker.
Agreed. It's so obvious, just hope that Smith and the owners can see it as well.
Post by: Rigadon on January 01, 2021, 10:29:37 PM
Over to the scouts and owners.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on January 01, 2021, 10:37:28 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 01, 2021, 10:43:31 PM
Striker is #1 priority.
What’s the point in having a Jack Grealish with a strike force that couldn’t hit a barn door with a banjo.
Love Ollie, but a player that cost that amount of money should be putting some of those chances away for breakfast. Gets into good positions, and it may be a confidence thing, but currently, no matter his form, he’s undroppable. Needs quality competition.
Wes - bad injury and he’s going to take an age to get back up to speed (if ever).
Keinan - no.
We've scored plenty this season.
What we lack though is that go to striker off the bench to make major impact in last 20 minutes when games start to get stretched or we need direct option.
Can't really remember last striker we had who actually did that. Guess you could count Carew once he became more of a bench player in O'Neill's last season but he was much better starting.
To be a top side we need one from somewhere. It's o.k to wait for Wes but there is nearly 15 more games to play before we get to mid March so practically half the season.
Post by: Small Rodent on January 01, 2021, 10:55:43 PM
He need not get upset if we get another striker because it does not mean he gets benched,
We need another to sub him/sub another player and move him left or right to keep the attacking energy going.
Post by: Nii Lamptey on January 01, 2021, 10:57:51 PM
Not denying we haven’t scored plenty, but we SHOULD have scored plenty more. That’s the difference between those top few spots and the rest. Would Leicester have won the league (or even got top 4) without Vardy.... not a chance in hell.Striker is #1 priority.
What’s the point in having a Jack Grealish with a strike force that couldn’t hit a barn door with a banjo.
Love Ollie, but a player that cost that amount of money should be putting some of those chances away for breakfast. Gets into good positions, and it may be a confidence thing, but currently, no matter his form, he’s undroppable. Needs quality competition.
Wes - bad injury and he’s going to take an age to get back up to speed (if ever).
Keinan - no.
We've scored plenty this season.
What we lack though is that go to striker off the bench to make major impact in last 20 minutes when games start to get stretched or we need direct option.
Can't really remember last striker we had who actually did that. Guess you could count Carew once he became more of a bench player in O'Neill's last season but he was much better starting.
To be a top side we need one from somewhere. It's o.k to wait for Wes but there is nearly 15 more games to play before we get to mid March so practically half the season.
Ollie shows tremendous promise - Cannot fault effort, or getting into good positions, but he’s only actually scored in 3/4 premier league games out 15. In the cold light of day, that’s not a good enough return for a 30+ million player.
He desperately needs competition/someone else to help shoulder that burden
Post by: TonyD on January 01, 2021, 11:05:31 PM
We should grab ourselves a Costa.
Post by: DrGonzo on January 01, 2021, 11:13:20 PM
Evaluate this sentence.
He needs support not replacement. Genuinely?
Post by: Stinkin_Thinkin on January 01, 2021, 11:35:11 PM
Post by: Goldie.7 on January 01, 2021, 11:59:11 PM
Watkins won't be enough firepower for our remaining 23 matches. We could be in Europe next season if we act accordingly this month.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 02, 2021, 12:23:09 AM
As I've said in another thread, our biggest issue to moving on from where we are (upper mid table) to where we belong, is that we need a top quality goal scorer. If we had one of those, I'd be pretty confident of top 4 this year. I do like Watkins, but he isn't going to score 25 goals this season and that is what we need.
Over to the scouts and owners.
The problem (and it's a nice problem) is that we've progressed so quickly this season. At the start of the season, I think most of us would have taken a 10th - 13th place finish this season and seen it as marked progression.
Don't want to get too carried away as we're less than half way through the season, but we have exceeded all expectations up to this point and deserve to be where we are.
I just think that there is s huge opportunity this season to potentially finish in a position that could change the profile of the club completely. The side we currently have got have done very well so far, but I just think the last couple of games have shown that we would just need that extra bit of quality in the final third to make that next further step up.
We've been in that position before a number of times over the years and have never taken the step.
Post by: Drummond on January 02, 2021, 12:23:13 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 02, 2021, 12:24:07 AM
Post by: TheMalandro on January 02, 2021, 12:33:05 AM
Our first 11 is as good as anyone’s. If we push the boat out in the transfer window anything is possible this season.
Agree. It certainly seems a good season to take a gamble.
Post by: Ads on January 02, 2021, 12:33:06 AM
Post by: Mister E on January 02, 2021, 09:10:10 AM
The title is there for the taking this season.As long as we buy Sheringham rather than Cantscorino this time!
We should grab ourselves a Costa.
Post by: ozzjim on January 02, 2021, 09:43:54 AM
I know he has his critics, but an in form Alli from Spurs competing with Barkley would be a great loan for me.
Striker wise, god knows, but Ollie needs a rest! He is getting in positions, and save for 2 very dubious VAR would have 8 in 15 that is top drawer striker range, so he is not really the issue. Also, he does so much running that half the goals the team has scored don't happen without him, so it is about having a different option to him, that can make that big impact. In the summer we wanted Wilson AND Watkins, watching us you can see why. Wilson would have been a really good addition to this squad.
I really, really hope we have someone lined up.
Post by: WarszaVillan on January 02, 2021, 09:49:43 AM
Post by: brontebilly on January 02, 2021, 10:01:29 AM
Post by: IFWaters on January 02, 2021, 11:34:11 AM
In the meantime I would go for Mario Mandzukic who is free at the moment. Understand he was asked to join us last summer but declined , but we're a different prospect now and I think at his age an 18 month contract with an extra year option for us on good money should be attractive enough.
Longer term I think Edouard or Tammy are good options but wouldnt bring in the experience that Mandzukic has.
Elsewhere, at left back a Mr Jordan Mavi's contract at Nice runs out this summer, although he is out with a torn muscle at the moment. Surely there must be a way to get him back ? French clubs have lost their TV contract and several are in dire straits financially and could be desperate to sell just to get wages off. I dont know Ligue 1 at all but surely there are plenty of options there for a bargain now ?
Looking at our squad now :
Goal - good cover, experience, no issues
Central defence - maybe a spot free if Engels goes but despite Mings cockups I think we are good enough here.
Left & Rightbacks - Taylor will go in 6 months, if there is a chance of someone very good, otherwise its a risk, RB is fine.
Def Midfield - as long as Dougie stays we are ok, Nakamba is ok as cover
Attacking Midfield - not a problem but would be good to get Barkley back
Wing - good in that if we add that striker I would play Watkins in one of those positions, Trez, AEG and Traore all good not great.
Striker - Watkins and Wes good and potential, but need someone experienced to make that difference.
Post by: algy on January 02, 2021, 11:35:12 AM
The title is there for the taking this season.He can't play in La Liga or for a Champions League club this season as part of the severance package. It might a unique opportunity to bring him in on a 6 month contract.
We should grab ourselves a Costa.
Post by: TonyD on January 02, 2021, 11:40:03 AM
Then it’s a no brainerThe title is there for the taking this season.He can't play in La Liga or for a Champions League club this season as part of the severance package. It might a unique opportunity to bring him in on a 6 month contract.
We should grab ourselves a Costa.
Post by: Risso on January 02, 2021, 11:46:42 AM
Post by: algy on January 02, 2021, 11:59:07 AM
I don't think anybody is seriously considering getting rid of Watkins are they? We do need back up though, for when he's out of form or injured. The centre point of the attacking three is a key one. We've got cover in the wide positions, but nobody else who can play the job properly as the number 9.I think there's space for 3 strikers. For me, two of those are Watkins (definitely good enough), Wes (big signing and shown enough promise to keep him on a bit longer), and one more.
Keinan, for me, is a great little player and could well end up making a decent career in the Premier league. But there's no way a top 6 side would buy him. Not a chance. I think it's time to sell up, and buy someone who is of that quality.
Post by: Risso on January 02, 2021, 12:02:52 PM
Post by: not3bad on January 02, 2021, 12:12:37 PM
Keinan really, really, really needs a loan spell. The only remote chance he's got of making the grade is to have a full season somewhere playing 40 games. The odd 5 minutes here and there is no good for the lad, and pointless for us.
Agreed. Definitely needs a run in a first team.
Post by: Mister E on January 02, 2021, 12:31:09 PM
Keinan really, really, really needs a loan spell. The only remote chance he's got of making the grade is to have a full season somewhere playing 40 games. The odd 5 minutes here and there is no good for the lad, and pointless for us.No question.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 02, 2021, 01:19:36 PM
Keinan really, really, really needs a loan spell. The only remote chance he's got of making the grade is to have a full season somewhere playing 40 games. The odd 5 minutes here and there is no good for the lad, and pointless for us.
Totally agree.
My priorities would be a CM and a LB. Plus an additional striker if Davis goes on loan.
A CM to push McGinn/Barkley and Luiz. Two of those three could be off next season so we should be looking to buy a replacement now imo opinion.
LB to replace Taylor. So a youngster such as Sessegnon or Saka (both are unlikely but of that ilk).
None of the above are critical so we can afford to be ambitious. We are also in a position of relative strength compared to most clubs. Our owners are minted and our league position means we can attract a higher quality of player. It would be a shame to not try and exploit our good fortune.
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 02, 2021, 03:27:40 PM
Post by: algy on January 02, 2021, 03:37:31 PM
Keinan really, really, really needs a loan spell. The only remote chance he's got of making the grade is to have a full season somewhere playing 40 games. The odd 5 minutes here and there is no good for the lad, and pointless for us.He's 23 next month. If he's going to have a loan out for a season, we're deciding on a player who's 24 going on 25, and has at best 1 year's experience in the Championship as a regular starter. Will he be ready then, say if we're in Europe (or challenging for Europe)?
I just think we either rest Ollie and play him, or we sell him and buy someone who can play there. It's too late for a loan to be any use to us, and I'd be dubious about it if I were him.
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 02, 2021, 03:53:21 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 02, 2021, 04:11:18 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 02, 2021, 04:29:52 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 02, 2021, 05:10:17 PM
Post by: OCD on January 02, 2021, 05:36:33 PM
Getting Wesley, Barkley and Trezeguet back would be like having new signings. It would be really interesting if we could add them to what we currently have.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 02, 2021, 05:53:21 PM
I really like the idea of Costa coming in on a short term contract. Still like the thought of Eduard or Abraham coming in too, on a longer term contract. Not sure any other additions required.
I just don't think we will make many if any signings in this window, though agree that bringing in a big name striker like Costa or Mandzukic to the end of the season would create a bit of a buzz.
Think we will see a busier summer though, as a number of players are out of contract and the squad will need strengthening.
Post by: nigel on January 02, 2021, 08:12:52 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 02, 2021, 08:56:01 PM
He only had a few minutes yesterday but looked good in that time. I would love to have seen where his injury time shot was going before it was blocked by Bailly. A fair few of the current squad have been written off and come good so it wouldn't be a total shock if he came good.
Getting Wesley, Barkley and Trezeguet back would be like having new signings. It would be really interesting if we could add them to what we currently have.
it is a fine line; add players and Trez/El Ghazi/Davis become largely redundant and they lose interest/value. Ironically it might be a good opportunity to sell one of el ghazi/Trez as their value is likely to be near its ceiling. Then add real quality to replace them.
Getting the sequence right would be crucial and something I’d like to think they could get right.
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 02, 2021, 09:05:21 PM
Post by: Neil Hawkes on January 03, 2021, 09:42:58 AM
IF (and a big if), Wesley regains the form he had just before his injury, it would be a grand combination.
Post by: Risso on January 03, 2021, 10:48:04 AM
I'm still waiting to see Olly & Wesley playing together.
IF (and a big if), Wesley regains the form he had just before his injury, it would be a grand combination.
One goal in 13 games?
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 03, 2021, 11:07:30 AM
I'm still waiting to see Olly & Wesley playing together.
IF (and a big if), Wesley regains the form he had just before his injury, it would be a grand combination.
One goal in 13 games?
The preceding 44 minutes.
Post by: Risso on January 03, 2021, 11:28:06 AM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 03, 2021, 11:49:34 AM
Post by: olaftab on January 03, 2021, 11:51:44 AM
44 minutes isn't really 'form' though is it?Jack Wilshere nearly made a career playing that much football.
Post by: OCD on January 03, 2021, 12:11:32 PM
I want Tammy back.
He would be the ideal striker to add to the squad if we could take our pick. He can play wide, start the press in the way that Watkins does and has an affinity with the club and many of the players. It's just hoping that Chelsea get bored and want a new toy to play with.
Post by: nigel on January 03, 2021, 12:28:03 PM
There’s writing off and writing off. I agree writing Wesley off is far too soon, but Davis has what 2 league goals in his career for us? He shouldn’t be in a Premier League squad. He should get a shot at a loan in the Championship and hopefully it kick starts his career and you never know. But he just doesn’t really look to have what he needs.
The thing is, for me anyway, he does seem to have what it takes, he just can’t seem to score.
Which, for a striker, is a huge thing.
I do think he would benefit a season at a top half championship club, or even a top 6 league one club.
Somewhere where there is an air of confidence about the place
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 03, 2021, 01:17:26 PM
There’s writing off and writing off. I agree writing Wesley off is far too soon, but Davis has what 2 league goals in his career for us? He shouldn’t be in a Premier League squad. He should get a shot at a loan in the Championship and hopefully it kick starts his career and you never know. But he just doesn’t really look to have what he needs.
The thing is, for me anyway, he does seem to have what it takes, he just can’t seem to score.
Which, for a striker, is a huge thing.
I do think he would benefit a season at a top half championship club, or even a top 6 league one club.
Somewhere where there is an air of confidence about the place
See I think one of his major flaws, which impacts his goal scoring, is he just doesn’t have the instincts/movement of a striker. He ends up in very strange positions and always appears to be on his heels.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 03, 2021, 01:31:36 PM
Samatta was rubbish aswell in his post lockdown games but in his early ones I thought he showed a bit of potential and might've been another who could've contributed a bit as back up this season in a more confident team.
Davis certainly needed a loan but he was always going to be kept once we didn't sign two strikers in the summer. Not really sure what our long term plan is really, probably don't have one with him.
Post by: WALTERS WARRIORS on January 04, 2021, 03:50:49 AM
Post by: robbo1874 on January 04, 2021, 04:18:50 AM
It’s shite. But we need to persevere with him I reckon
Post by: Luke8 on January 04, 2021, 08:07:06 AM
I would rather of kept Samatta than Davis. He was much more likely to score goals. January 2017 Davis debuted and has never scored a premiership goal. Thats shocking .......
I mean, he didn’t played a premier league game until two and a half years after his debut. And must have played the equivalent of about six whole games in total I would guess, mostly as a sub. We all know his finishing needs to improve but it seems a bit harsh to judge him on not scoring a Premier League goal.
Post by: Risso on January 04, 2021, 01:14:37 PM
I would rather of kept Samatta than Davis. He was much more likely to score goals. January 2017 Davis debuted and has never scored a premiership goal. Thats shocking .......
I mean, he didn’t played a premier league game until two and a half years after his debut. And must have played the equivalent of about six whole games in total I would guess, mostly as a sub. We all know his finishing needs to improve but it seems a bit harsh to judge him on not scoring a Premier League goal.
Take out the words "Premier League" then and the same more or less still applies. He isn't going to get anywhere if he doesn't play regularly, so either sell him or loan him out somewhere.
Post by: Dave on January 04, 2021, 01:32:17 PM
Maybe Ross Barkley will go back to Chelsea
And Tammy Abraham comes in on loan instead
Suits both parties i would say.
Given Chelsea's two main problems are mis-firing strikers and trying to work out how they fit their half dozen attacking midfielders into their team, how does it help them?
Post by: DB on January 04, 2021, 01:47:59 PM
I would prefer Barkley (if he can stay fit) and go for another striker
Post by: Dave on January 04, 2021, 02:19:24 PM
Certainly Barkley would be in Chelsea team in midfield and should be on recent showing as Abraham would be striker for Villa in recent showing.
If Abraham were outperforming Watkins to the extent that he's keeping Watkins out of the Villa side and starting for Villa, he'd be starting for Chelsea anyway.
And if Chelsea are playing with one central attacking midfielder, I don't really see them writing off Ziyech, Havertz AND Mount (or shunting one of the first two out wide) just to squeeze Barkley back in.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 04, 2021, 02:25:51 PM
Think striker on loan for six months makes sense this window.
Post by: paul_e on January 04, 2021, 02:31:32 PM
Certainly Barkley would be in Chelsea team in midfield and should be on recent showing as Abraham would be striker for Villa in recent showing.
If Abraham were outperforming Watkins to the extent that he's keeping Watkins out of the Villa side and starting for Villa, he'd be starting for Chelsea anyway.
And if Chelsea are playing with one central attacking midfielder, I don't really see them writing off Ziyech, Havertz AND Mount (or shunting one of the first two out wide) just to squeeze Barkley back in.
Ziyech is the best player in that group by a very wide margin so anyone playing attacking midfield for Chelsea is behind him once he can get properly fit.
Post by: Dave on January 04, 2021, 02:59:33 PM
Certainly Barkley would be in Chelsea team in midfield and should be on recent showing as Abraham would be striker for Villa in recent showing.
If Abraham were outperforming Watkins to the extent that he's keeping Watkins out of the Villa side and starting for Villa, he'd be starting for Chelsea anyway.
And if Chelsea are playing with one central attacking midfielder, I don't really see them writing off Ziyech, Havertz AND Mount (or shunting one of the first two out wide) just to squeeze Barkley back in.
Ziyech is the best player in that group by a very wide margin so anyone playing attacking midfield for Chelsea is behind him once he can get properly fit.
Certainly on what he's shown so far. And also while Havertz has looked a bit lost, they are not going to write off a 21 year old who cost them £70m after half a season just to put Barkley back in.
Post by: paul_e on January 04, 2021, 03:15:07 PM
Certainly Barkley would be in Chelsea team in midfield and should be on recent showing as Abraham would be striker for Villa in recent showing.
If Abraham were outperforming Watkins to the extent that he's keeping Watkins out of the Villa side and starting for Villa, he'd be starting for Chelsea anyway.
And if Chelsea are playing with one central attacking midfielder, I don't really see them writing off Ziyech, Havertz AND Mount (or shunting one of the first two out wide) just to squeeze Barkley back in.
Ziyech is the best player in that group by a very wide margin so anyone playing attacking midfield for Chelsea is behind him once he can get properly fit.
Certainly on what he's shown so far. And also while Havertz has looked a bit lost, they are not going to write off a 21 year old who cost them £70m after half a season just to put Barkley back in.
Agreed, I doubt Barkley will play for them again and think everyone knows that
Post by: OCD on January 04, 2021, 08:30:32 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 04, 2021, 08:33:32 PM
Havertz has been suffering with long covid and struggled to get back to full fitness.
Yup good luck to him.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 05, 2021, 12:01:48 PM
Surely we'd get in a new striker in that case as our bench options would be even less if Traore is also starting.
Potentially 7 more games before Jan 31st aswell so not sure we can wait until last minute. Samatta came in around the 25th last January IIRC.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 05, 2021, 12:35:39 PM
Post by: Mister E on January 05, 2021, 12:40:09 PM
Kienan Davis to Stoke link looks strong as they've lost Tyrese Campbell with season ending injury and Fletcher is also regularly injured....They've got to do this. He needs to be given the chance to prove himself with a run of games. Excellent opportunity for him.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 05, 2021, 12:57:06 PM
I think that would be an excellent move for Kienan, but surely it would be absolutely madness for us to let him go before we've signed another striker? I presume the decision has probably already been made that Traore is our back up to Watkins, but I don't see why we would reduce are already limited options right now.
Hopefully we're putting feelers out for targets and can get something wrapped up early next week. The Samatta move actually happened pretty quickly as I doubt we'd have even signed a striker if Wesley hadn't got the injury.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 05, 2021, 01:00:11 PM
Post by: oldtimernow on January 05, 2021, 01:52:56 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 05, 2021, 02:00:20 PM
Christian Erickson available on a loan to buy basis wouldn't be too shabby,
A poor man's Jota :)
No, a quality player but I'd don't think he's got the physicality to play the way we do now, we need hard-as-nails workhorses with a velvet touch.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 05, 2021, 02:16:11 PM
Christian Erickson available on a loan to buy basis wouldn't be too shabby,An excellent player but it shows the grass isn't always greener. He was trying to get away from Spurs for ages but has flopped at Inter. I'd have thought there would be plenty of takers if he comes back, but not a Villa type signing at all.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 05, 2021, 02:44:31 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 05, 2021, 02:46:52 PM
I see there's a link for our local rag claiming "Aston Villa fans tell Dean Smith to move for Jordan Amavi", which I suspect the correct wording for would be "A solitary Aston Villa fan is shouted down after suggesting in a comments section somewhere that Dean Smith should move for Jordan Amavi".
Amavi would be great in this setup but I'm more than happy with Targett which is certainly not something I thought I'd be typing a few months ago!
We'll get another LB in next 6 months but waiting for Taylor to move on and he might just see out his contract.
Post by: algy on January 05, 2021, 03:33:53 PM
Personally, for left back I'd be happy letting Neil Taylor see out his contract, then seeing who was available in the summer. If we have a top half finish (or better still, qualify for Europe) I think we'll have better options available than anyone we might bring in during this window.I see there's a link for our local rag claiming "Aston Villa fans tell Dean Smith to move for Jordan Amavi", which I suspect the correct wording for would be "A solitary Aston Villa fan is shouted down after suggesting in a comments section somewhere that Dean Smith should move for Jordan Amavi".
Amavi would be great in this setup but I'm more than happy with Targett which is certainly not something I thought I'd be typing a few months ago!
We'll get another LB in next 6 months but waiting for Taylor to move on and he might just see out his contract.
Post by: paul_e on January 05, 2021, 03:42:10 PM
an older striker on a 6month loan/contract so we can let Davis out on loan and let Wes ease back in would be perfect in the same way Reina was last year.
Post by: KevinGage on January 05, 2021, 04:02:32 PM
I see there's a link for our local rag claiming "Aston Villa fans tell Dean Smith to move for Jordan Amavi", which I suspect the correct wording for would be "A solitary Aston Villa fan is shouted down after suggesting in a comments section somewhere that Dean Smith should move for Jordan Amavi".
Amavi would be great in this setup but I'm more than happy with Targett which is certainly not something I thought I'd be typing a few months ago!
We'll get another LB in next 6 months but waiting for Taylor to move on and he might just see out his contract.
Amavi seemed to have a good connection with the supporters - unlike some of our other signings around that period.
But his time with us prob doesn't stand out as a career highlight and I can't see him desperate to get back here.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 05, 2021, 04:27:15 PM
Agree that we probably won't bring another left-back until Taylor's contract is up in the summer.
Post by: KevinGage on January 05, 2021, 05:18:21 PM
But Brentford would no doubt make us pay through the nose once again for the actual Rico Henry.
Post by: LukeJames on January 05, 2021, 05:44:34 PM
A Rico Henry-style full back who we can develop gradually would be ideal.
But Brentford would no doubt make us pay through the nose once again for the actual Rico Henry.
£3m Antonee Robinson was that man in the Summer.
Post by: Gareth on January 05, 2021, 06:28:31 PM
Personally I would like us to sign Dwight McNeill
Post by: LukeJames on January 05, 2021, 06:34:29 PM
Actually James Justin was that man the summer before.
Personally I would like us to sign Dwight McNeill
Were as I like inverted wingers, I hugely dislike Justin (or any right footer) at left back.
I like McNeil aswell, got a bit of old school winger about him, very direct.
Post by: Gareth on January 05, 2021, 06:40:17 PM
I was thinking Justin more from the point of view that he can anywhere across the back line
Post by: brontebilly on January 05, 2021, 06:45:42 PM
Actually James Justin was that man the summer before.
Personally I would like us to sign Dwight McNeill
Were as I like inverted wingers, I hugely dislike Justin (or any right footer) at left back.
I like McNeil aswell, got a bit of old school winger about him, very direct.
Denis Irwin did ok
Post by: LukeJames on January 05, 2021, 06:53:16 PM
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 05, 2021, 07:21:57 PM
Amavi would be a great signing, his pace a attacking intent mean he'd fit really well in how we're playing now and he had a fantastic cross on him but I doubt it would happen.
I believe Amavi is out of contract at the end of this season, so would make sense then to replace the out of contract Taylor.
Post by: brontebilly on January 05, 2021, 08:13:37 PM
He did indeed, that you had to go back 20 years to find a good example is probably why I prefer my Left back to be Left footed though.
Philip Lahm?
Post by: dicedlam on January 05, 2021, 08:57:58 PM
He did indeed, that you had to go back 20 years to find a good example is probably why I prefer my Left back to be Left footed though.
Philip Lahm?
Probably the best left back of all time was right footed. Paolo Maldini.
Post by: OCD on January 05, 2021, 09:01:32 PM
Post by: Steve67 on January 05, 2021, 11:14:17 PM
Christian Erickson available on a loan to buy basis wouldn't be too shabby,
A poor man's Jota :)
No, a quality player but I'd don't think he's got the physicality to play the way we do now, we need hard-as-nails workhorses with a velvet touch.
I've been saying the same for a while as I think additional physicality is something we lack. I am not sure that this is the way that Dean wants us to play through and I wonder if her already thinks that Luiz and SJM are physical enough. Most tops teams have at least a couple of players who can mix it with tactical fouls and a bit of the rough stuff.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 05, 2021, 11:30:08 PM
He did indeed, that you had to go back 20 years to find a good example is probably why I prefer my Left back to be Left footed though.
Philip Lahm?
Probably the best left back of all time was right footed. Paolo Maldini.
Somewhat confused by the random mention of Maldini at the end there when I would have preferred you to continue writing about George Cummings.
Post by: Hillbilly on January 06, 2021, 01:26:29 AM
Christian Erickson available on a loan to buy basis wouldn't be too shabby,There was a rumour that Inter wanted to swap Eriksen to Roma in exchange for one M. Jordan Veretout. And Roma have told them to do one.
Post by: sid1964 on January 06, 2021, 06:39:52 AM
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
Post by: LukeJames on January 06, 2021, 07:17:04 AM
Post by: Ian. on January 06, 2021, 07:48:31 AM
Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)I remember it the other way, I thought the general consensus on here was we could see potential in both those players and was frustrated with our management.
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
Post by: chrisw1 on January 06, 2021, 09:04:51 AM
Very much so. There may have been some questioning of his attitude and positional sense towards the end but I'm sure the general consensus was it was a shame to lose him.Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)I remember it the other way, I thought the general consensus on here was we could see potential in both those players and was frustrated with our management.
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
With all this said, I can't see him being particulaly keen to come back as I doubt he enjoyed his time with us and his image of the club is surely tarnished by the shit-show we were at the time.
Post by: nigel on January 06, 2021, 09:46:03 AM
Very much so. There may have been some questioning of his attitude and positional sense towards the end but I'm sure the general consensus was it was a shame to lose him.Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)I remember it the other way, I thought the general consensus on here was we could see potential in both those players and was frustrated with our management.
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
With all this said, I can't see him being particulaly keen to come back as I doubt he enjoyed his time with us and his image of the club is surely tarnished by the shit-show we were at the time.
He also had a horrendous injury, too, which I’m sure wouldn’t have helped
Post by: brontebilly on January 06, 2021, 09:51:33 AM
Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
Veretout seems to be flying this season for Roma, 8 goals in 16 appearances. No idea why they would be looking to leave him go but Italian clubs tend to swap players around quite regularly.
He was certainly talented, had a very good game up at Newcastle one night when I was there. Amavi, Gueye, Traore, even Ayew....maybe we let Paddy Reilly leave a bit quickly!
Post by: john e on January 06, 2021, 10:17:06 AM
we have bought are fair share of numty players but then it’s management that oversee that anyway
then when we have got some decent prospects we don’t have the necessary manager and coaching skills to know how to get the best from them and develop them
Hopefully until now
still think we might make the same mistake with Guilbert mind or even Engels
you can’t have to many good players
Post by: Small Rodent on January 06, 2021, 10:27:26 AM
Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)I remember it the other way, I thought the general consensus on here was we could see potential in both those players and was frustrated with our management.
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
And there was the rumoured English speakers v foreigners split.
Post by: GordonCowansisthegreatest on January 06, 2021, 10:42:34 AM
And Bruce in neither camp!
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2021, 11:49:48 AM
Post by: PeterWithe on January 06, 2021, 11:54:20 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 06, 2021, 12:00:17 PM
I thought Amavi was a great prospect but was in the minority.I honestly don't think you were.
Post by: Risso on January 06, 2021, 12:01:16 PM
I thought Amavi was a great prospect but was in the minority.
I seem to recall most people rated him, but thought that the shitstorm around him had made his head drop. He definitely had talent, certainly compared to the never ending tsunami of shite left backs we've had over the years.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 06, 2021, 12:05:46 PM
Maybe the against voices were more vociferous :)I thought Amavi was a great prospect but was in the minority.I honestly don't think you were.
Post by: Somniloquism on January 06, 2021, 12:06:04 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 06, 2021, 12:23:15 PM
Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)
His form was patchy after his injury but def not shit.
Our best outfield player in the Prem in 15/16 until his injury. Veretout was being compared to Glen Hoddle by no less than Sid Cowans, so there was always ability there.
He just needed a more stable work environment and more time to settle in. Once we got relegated he - like Guaye and Traore - made it clear he didn't want to hang around so that didn't enamour him (or them) to the support base.
Ayew did stay on and probably would have given us at least until the end of 16/17 had Bruce not started to bench him for no obvious reason. What a great swap deal with Taylor that wasn't. Amavi gave us that first year slumming it in the depths as well. And seemed like a good character generally.
Post by: mr underhill on January 06, 2021, 01:48:26 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on January 06, 2021, 01:58:26 PM
Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)I remember it the other way, I thought the general consensus on here was we could see potential in both those players and was frustrated with our management.
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
Yeah, you could see the potential, but could also see quite quickly that it wasn't going to work for them at the club at that time.
Amavi looked good going forward, but defensively suspect, which wasn't great in a struggling side. Probably understandable given what was going on, but neither really looked like they wanted to be here.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2021, 01:58:27 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on January 06, 2021, 01:58:56 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 06, 2021, 01:59:07 PM
Or was vaguely professional. Which set him apart from most of the others in 15/16.
There was a stat kicking around in the first part of 16/17 which showed Ayew had created more goalscoring opportunities than any other player in the Championship at that stage.
No surprise that he ended up back in the Prem. And that Amavi had the likes of Seville and Marseille coming in for him.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2021, 01:59:53 PM
At West Ham maybe?
Post by: KevinGage on January 06, 2021, 02:03:46 PM
Whilst club captain Gabby just stood there with that stupid shit eating grin on his kisser.
I'd forgive Ayew one brainfreeze in that total dogs dinner of a team.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 06, 2021, 02:06:13 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2021, 02:10:39 PM
Ayew, Veretout, Amavi, Adama and Gueye have all gone to have very good post Villa careers. I would absolutely conclude it was us and the fucking gong show we were as a club and not any of them.
I still think Adama is shit - one trick pony, and not a very good trick, either.
Post by: KevinGage on January 06, 2021, 02:10:53 PM
It was the leadership group of Gabby, Richards, Lescott and Guzan combined with Sherwood's tactical aptitude that sunk our boat.
If that's your leadership group what chance do you have. Any kid breaking through at that time must have thought the path of least effort was the way to go.
Post by: Risso on January 06, 2021, 02:13:15 PM
Ayew, Veretout, Amavi, Adama and Gueye have all gone to have very good post Villa careers. I would absolutely conclude it was us and the fucking gong show we were as a club and not any of them.
I still think Adama is shit - one trick pony, and not a very good trick, either.
Me too. He's been absolutely piss poor every time I've seen the Dogheads this season. Stands around, sprints once every five minutes or so, then stands around some more. Maybe tries a stepover every now and again.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2021, 02:18:23 PM
Ayew, Veretout, Amavi, Adama and Gueye have all gone to have very good post Villa careers. I would absolutely conclude it was us and the fucking gong show we were as a club and not any of them.
I still think Adama is shit - one trick pony, and not a very good trick, either.
Me too. He's been absolutely piss poor every time I've seen the Dogheads this season. Stands around, sprints once every five minutes or so, then stands around some more. Maybe tries a stepover every now and again.
Occasionally runs really fast in a straight line, invariably out of play. Looks increasingly like Genny from the later series of Gomorrah.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 06, 2021, 02:21:43 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2021, 02:24:15 PM
That stuff trickles down. As a club we had no sense of vision beyond empty slogans, no thinking any. more long term than the next match, an ambition (17th) which was the lowest setting of the bar it is possible to have as a PL club and morons in charge of achieving that.
The problem of the 'young and hungry' era was that it was based entirely on wishful fantasy, and a misplaced belief that if you wanted something to work out, it magically somehow would.
This was then compounded by the fact that the imbalance between experienced proven quality and children was so bad, we relied on them all delivering, which was nuts.
Same thing with the young foreign players mentioned. The level of expectation that they'd save us whilst being managed by utter clownshoes was insane.
Thank God those days are over.
Post by: Risso on January 06, 2021, 02:28:29 PM
The problem with that team was the leadership vacuum right at the top of the club, the effects of which manifested themselves as really bad appointments to run the club.
That stuff trickles down. As a club we had no sense of vision beyond empty slogans, no thinking any. more long term than the next match, an ambition (17th) which was the lowest setting of the bar it is possible to have as a PL club and morons in charge of achieving that.
The problem of the 'young and hungry' era was that it was based entirely on wishful fantasy, and a misplaced belief that if you wanted something to work out, it magically somehow would.
This was then compounded by the fact that the imbalance between experienced proven quality and children was so bad, we relied on them all delivering, which was nuts.
Same thing with the young foreign players mentioned. The level of expectation that they'd save us whilst being managed by utter clownshoes was insane.
Thank God those days are over.
Yep. It was just a perfect storm of idiots being in charge all over the club, and then being more than the sum of their parts in idiocy. "We want to be in the Deloitte list of the 20 richest clubs in football." That might be a valid business strategy, but it's not the sort of thing most football fans need to hear about when they can see the team nosediving.
Post by: brian green on January 06, 2021, 02:31:46 PM
Post by: Dave on January 06, 2021, 02:42:42 PM
They were good players, you just couldn't expect to be able to throw half a dozen of them in a new team at once with Lescott, Gabby and a moron for a manager and assume it would all just click.
Post by: OCD on January 06, 2021, 03:02:36 PM
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 06, 2021, 03:57:04 PM
The type of player being discussed is exactly the type of player than O'Neill should have been buying and introducing to the team to supplement Barry, Carew et al - rather than Heskey and endless new defenders.
They were good players, you just couldn't expect to be able to throw half a dozen of them in a new team at once with Lescott, Gabby and a moron for a manager and assume it would all just click.
That's exactly it.
So often in recent years our main problem has been a lack of joined-up, long term thinking.
It's why so frequently we'd fail to sell players we didn't want to hold on to, we'd just watch contracts run down at huge expense. We also never had any continuity in playing style (Houllier to failing to get Martinez to getting McLeish instead, for example). Then remember the brainlessness of the Bomb Squad? Every manager change meant burning it down and starting again because the people at the very top were so utterly clueless.
When I think back over the last ten years, there has been so much horribleness and ineptitude, I'd forgotten much of it. Remember the period of about 25 minutes which involved Mervyn King and David Bernstein, for example?
Over an entire decade of absolute fucking cluelessness.
Pretty sure we also, during the real boom years of the premier league, and even the first four years of Lerner, seemed to find a way not to grow commercial revenue at all.
We were basically inside a Money Printing Plant, with access to a printing press, and with a permit to print money, yet STILL unable to do it. Pathetic.
Post by: KevinGage on January 06, 2021, 04:40:56 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 06, 2021, 05:04:07 PM
The type of player being discussed is exactly the type of player than O'Neill should have been buying and introducing to the team to supplement Barry, Carew et al - rather than Heskey and endless new defenders.So true. MONs lack of imagination in the transfer market was an absolute joke.
They were good players, you just couldn't expect to be able to throw half a dozen of them in a new team at once with Lescott, Gabby and a moron for a manager and assume it would all just click.
Post by: eamonn on January 06, 2021, 05:07:44 PM
In other news, looks like Snodgrass is set to retire. Shame.
Decent signing for the Baggies if it happens.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 06, 2021, 05:20:52 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 06, 2021, 06:51:24 PM
Ayew, Veretout, Amavi, Adama and Gueye have all gone to have very good post Villa careers. I would absolutely conclude it was us and the fucking gong show we were as a club and not any of them.
I still think Adama is shit - one trick pony, and not a very good trick, either.
Me too. He's been absolutely piss poor every time I've seen the Dogheads this season. Stands around, sprints once every five minutes or so, then stands around some more. Maybe tries a stepover every now and again.
Occasionally runs really fast in a straight line, invariably out of play. Looks increasingly like Genny from the later series of Gomorrah.
I think he’s regressed this season and he also looks a lot less effective without Raul in the middle. You can make the case of he list I presented he’s been the one who has progressed the least but last season he was being heralded and being considered for a national team call up.
Post by: OCD on January 06, 2021, 09:26:02 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 06, 2021, 11:22:51 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 06, 2021, 11:28:12 PM
Amavi - I seem to remember that 90% on here said he was shit when he played for us? (now some want him back, if he will goes it will be to Palace to be with his mate)
Also Jordan Veretout another one most on here could not wait to leave us!
Veretout seems to be flying this season for Roma, 8 goals in 16 appearances. No idea why they would be looking to leave him go but Italian clubs tend to swap players around quite regularly.
He was certainly talented, had a very good game up at Newcastle one night when I was there. Amavi, Gueye, Traore, even Ayew....maybe we let Paddy Reilly leave a bit quickly!
We lost too many experienced players all in one go. Vlaar, Delph, Benteke who were also our three best players aswell.
Leave a huge void in the dressing room of experienced players who actually wanted to do a bit better than fight relegation battles every season.
If those three had stayed and we'd added some of Gana, Amavi, Veretout then we'd have climbed up to mid table I reckon whoever the manager was.
It's a bit like signing all the good players we did last summer....but at the same time selling Jack, McGinn and Luiz all in one go. I doubt we'd be anywhere near our current position in that scenario.
In more stable environments pretty much all of our 2015 intake have done pretty well elsewhere. You could see some of them had huge promise when they played for us.
Post by: KevinGage on January 06, 2021, 11:31:42 PM
I actually it is an excellent deal for them. They’re still going down but he has precisely the right attitude and ability to give them some chance or hope.
Hopefully he leads them up the garden path and flicks the V's at the very last minute.
He can do better than that shower o' shite.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 06, 2021, 11:36:11 PM
The problem with that team was the leadership vacuum right at the top of the club, the effects of which manifested themselves as really bad appointments to run the club.
That stuff trickles down. As a club we had no sense of vision beyond empty slogans, no thinking any. more long term than the next match, an ambition (17th) which was the lowest setting of the bar it is possible to have as a PL club and morons in charge of achieving that.
The problem of the 'young and hungry' era was that it was based entirely on wishful fantasy, and a misplaced belief that if you wanted something to work out, it magically somehow would.
This was then compounded by the fact that the imbalance between experienced proven quality and children was so bad, we relied on them all delivering, which was nuts.
Same thing with the young foreign players mentioned. The level of expectation that they'd save us whilst being managed by utter clownshoes was insane.
Thank God those days are over.
Shows the difference as we signed young and hungry this summer but two were best young players in their positions in the championship (Cash and Ollie) and the other was quality backup keeper desperate to be a number one somewhere.
Compare that to summer 2012 when we were signing players from Crewe, Chesterfield and Sheffield united (then league 1) and expecting them to instantly step up and be good premier leagues. Bizarre approach.
I'm actually surprised in 12-13 at least Weswood and Lowton did actually o.k and played decent parts in us staying up given how bad we were for most of that season particularly around this time of the year.
Post by: Big Ming on January 07, 2021, 09:25:40 AM
He's over bulked-up.Ayew, Veretout, Amavi, Adama and Gueye have all gone to have very good post Villa careers. I would absolutely conclude it was us and the fucking gong show we were as a club and not any of them.
I still think Adama is shit - one trick pony, and not a very good trick, either.
Me too. He's been absolutely piss poor every time I've seen the Dogheads this season. Stands around, sprints once every five minutes or so, then stands around some more. Maybe tries a stepover every now and again.
Occasionally runs really fast in a straight line, invariably out of play. Looks increasingly like Genny from the later series of Gomorrah.
I think he’s regressed this season and he also looks a lot less effective without Raul in the middle. You can make the case of he list I presented he’s been the one who has progressed the least but last season he was being heralded and being considered for a national team call up.
Reminds me of how we ruined Agbonlahor.
Post by: markeeeebeeee2005 on January 07, 2021, 10:39:14 AM
They were skilled young footballers and from what I could tell they came into a dressing room of thickos that had no leadership. Pretty shameful really.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 07, 2021, 11:14:26 AM
The way the French players in particular were treated at that time seemed to me like petty racism from the thick British ladz. With Gabby and Micah Leading the way with the bigoted bantz in that pathetic Santa video.
They were skilled young footballers and from what I could tell they came into a dressing room of thickos that had no leadership. Pretty shameful really.
Just watched that again , wow forgot how cringeworthy it was
What an insult
Post by: Risso on January 07, 2021, 11:33:49 AM
Post by: Ian. on January 07, 2021, 12:03:16 PM
Post by: exigo on January 07, 2021, 12:33:29 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 07, 2021, 01:22:15 PM
Post by: mrfuse on January 07, 2021, 03:02:43 PM
Post by: markeeeebeeee2005 on January 07, 2021, 03:26:44 PM
Can we forget the Bad Santa episode ? Brian Green has brought it up enough as a bugbear in recent years.
Course you can 🙂. I only saw it for the first time at the end of last year so pretty fresh in my mind. If that’s what they were doing on film. I dread to think how the forrin lads were being treated on a day to day basis. Really pretty awful.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 07, 2021, 03:31:47 PM
If Man Utd were willing to sell, Id love to buy VAR off them.
I'd love to take Penalty off them.
Post by: KevinGage on January 07, 2021, 04:43:28 PM
I think that's partly why I haven't taken to Richards as a pundit. His laugh brings back memories of that absolute car crash of a video.
The reason I haven't taken to Richards as a pundit is he seems to speak in permanent non sequiturs.
He's as good in his current job as he was in a Villa shirt.
He's being paid a small fortune again, mind. So maybe he's not as daft as he sounds.
Post by: DrGonzo on January 08, 2021, 12:44:29 PM
Post by: Tokyo Sexwhale on January 08, 2021, 10:26:03 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 09, 2021, 10:52:26 PM
EXCLUSIVE: Villa's boss fixes Bournemouth playmaker and Reading teen Michael Olise in his sights as he plots further additions to his side's attacking ranks
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-brooks-23289534
Good news if we do this we could be a top-four team
The bad news its from the Mirror Neil Moxley@Neil_Moxley Chief sports' writer of the Sunday People.
Post by: KevinGage on January 09, 2021, 10:55:58 PM
But they look a solid bet for promotion. Why jeopardise all that filthy premier league lucre for a quick fix now.
I don't see us doing much business this Jan, but if we are looking at anyone I'd assume it will be cover for Ollie.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 09, 2021, 11:22:08 PM
The goal at 1:30s is pure Grealish
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 10, 2021, 12:35:47 AM
If Bournemouth were struggling this year, maybe.
But they look a solid bet for promotion. Why jeopardise all that filthy premier league lucre for a quick fix now.
I don't see us doing much business this Jan, but if we are looking at anyone I'd assume it will be cover for Ollie.
They might be skint. They had one of the highest wages/turnover ratio (over 100%) when they were in the PL so relegation can't have helped.
Post by: Drummond on January 10, 2021, 08:23:18 AM
Precisely what fans of clubs regularly in the Champions League will think of players they like of ours...
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 10, 2021, 09:44:07 AM
Of course Barkley himself is in the box seat but the games he’s missed so far, and his injury record in general, can’t be helping his cause.
Post by: Marlon From Bearwood on January 10, 2021, 10:39:58 AM
Post by: andyh on January 10, 2021, 11:26:10 AM
Neil Moxley in the Mirror linking us with Brooks from Bournemouth and Olise from Reading.I wish it were Joao.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2021, 11:28:19 AM
Post by: brontebilly on January 10, 2021, 11:38:18 AM
How come Allardyce mouths off about other teams players?
Deflection from the appalling results they have got since he took charge.
Post by: dicedlam on January 10, 2021, 01:04:21 PM
Neil Moxley in the Mirror linking us with Brooks from Bournemouth and Olise from Reading.
I hope the rumour for Olise is true. He is a cracking player.
Post by: OCD on January 10, 2021, 01:05:49 PM
David Brooks high on Aston Villa's wish-list as Dean Smith gets transfer green light
EXCLUSIVE: Villa's boss fixes Bournemouth playmaker and Reading teen Michael Olise in his sights as he plots further additions to his side's attacking ranks
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-brooks-23289534
Good news if we do this we could be a top-four team
The bad news its from the Mirror Neil Moxley@Neil_Moxley Chief sports' writer of the Sunday People.
I don't see us having an interest in Brooks because we don't need to strengthen in the wide areas. It wouldn't surprise me if we had an interest in Olise though.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 10, 2021, 02:49:23 PM
David Brooks high on Aston Villa's wish-list as Dean Smith gets transfer green light
EXCLUSIVE: Villa's boss fixes Bournemouth playmaker and Reading teen Michael Olise in his sights as he plots further additions to his side's attacking ranks
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-brooks-23289534
Good news if we do this we could be a top-four team
The bad news its from the Mirror Neil Moxley@Neil_Moxley Chief sports' writer of the Sunday People.
I don't see us having an interest in Brooks because we don't need to strengthen in the wide areas. It wouldn't surprise me if we had an interest in Olise though.
We have players who have been out for some time....... could it be Long Covid?
Remember Newcastle Allan Saint-Maximin and Jamaal Lascelles have been suffering the long-term effects from coronavirus for more than 6 weeks.
So we may need numbers
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2021, 04:11:28 PM
we have players wit long Covid, where are you getting this rubbish from?David Brooks high on Aston Villa's wish-list as Dean Smith gets transfer green light
EXCLUSIVE: Villa's boss fixes Bournemouth playmaker and Reading teen Michael Olise in his sights as he plots further additions to his side's attacking ranks
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-brooks-23289534
Good news if we do this we could be a top-four team
The bad news its from the Mirror Neil Moxley@Neil_Moxley Chief sports' writer of the Sunday People.
I don't see us having an interest in Brooks because we don't need to strengthen in the wide areas. It wouldn't surprise me if we had an interest in Olise though.
We have players who have been out for some time....... could it be Long Covid?
Remember Newcastle Allan Saint-Maximin and Jamaal Lascelles have been suffering the long-term effects from coronavirus for more than 6 weeks.
So we may need numbers
Post by: LeeB on January 10, 2021, 04:12:40 PM
David Brooks high on Aston Villa's wish-list as Dean Smith gets transfer green light
EXCLUSIVE: Villa's boss fixes Bournemouth playmaker and Reading teen Michael Olise in his sights as he plots further additions to his side's attacking ranks
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-brooks-23289534
Good news if we do this we could be a top-four team
The bad news its from the Mirror Neil Moxley@Neil_Moxley Chief sports' writer of the Sunday People.
I don't see us having an interest in Brooks because we don't need to strengthen in the wide areas. It wouldn't surprise me if we had an interest in Olise though.
Thought Brooks plays more through the middle anyway? I'd think we'd look more for the kind of player that play across the middle and wide, give us cover in lots of areas, and our form probably gives us a wider pool to choose from.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 10, 2021, 04:27:15 PM
we have players wit long Covid, where are you getting this rubbish from?David Brooks high on Aston Villa's wish-list as Dean Smith gets transfer green light
EXCLUSIVE: Villa's boss fixes Bournemouth playmaker and Reading teen Michael Olise in his sights as he plots further additions to his side's attacking ranks
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-brooks-23289534
Good news if we do this we could be a top-four team
The bad news its from the Mirror Neil Moxley@Neil_Moxley Chief sports' writer of the Sunday People.
I don't see us having an interest in Brooks because we don't need to strengthen in the wide areas. It wouldn't surprise me if we had an interest in Olise though.
We have players who have been out for some time....... could it be Long Covid?
Remember Newcastle Allan Saint-Maximin and Jamaal Lascelles have been suffering the long-term effects from coronavirus for more than 6 weeks.
So we may need numbers
Read a post before commenting I said Could it be......Trézéguet and Ross Barkley have been out for some time and we know the Newcastle players have had Covid and been out for a long time.
Plus we have now been linked with players who play in Trézéguet and Ross positions
Post by: aj2k77 on January 10, 2021, 04:46:26 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 10, 2021, 04:54:36 PM
They've both had hamstring injuries. Why are you saying they've had covid and possibly long covid effects?
I did not say that they had covid read the post......I said could
Aston Villa confirm 10 first-team players have tested positive for COVID-19
https://talksport.com/football/efl/814742/aston-villa-10-players-coronavirus-efl-latest/
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2021, 05:32:22 PM
Post by: Drummond on January 10, 2021, 05:34:28 PM
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 10, 2021, 05:37:30 PM
You made it up.oh no I didn’t
Post by: Ian. on January 10, 2021, 05:50:49 PM
Post by: Risso on January 10, 2021, 06:03:56 PM
Isn’t Long Covid something you’ve had after recovering from the first symptoms of Covid and not something you get while the rest of the squad get regular Covid?
Yes, exactly. You surely only know you have "long covid" at least two weeks after initial diagnosis, if you've still got ongoing symptoms and problems that should have cleared up in the normal scheme of things.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on January 10, 2021, 06:30:01 PM
I don't see us having an interest in Brooks because we don't need to strengthen in the wide areas.
I'd say that's exactly where we need to strengthen. A powerful defensive midfielder wouldn't go a miss either.
Post by: OCD on January 10, 2021, 07:02:58 PM
Post by: darren woolley on January 10, 2021, 07:11:41 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 10, 2021, 08:32:53 PM
An ideal signing as he could be developed slowly considering the options we already have out wide.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 10, 2021, 09:41:44 PM
But that is not saying they have long covid, why don’t you just say I made it up,
Lol.....sad ...... go out for a walk and think about you life
Post by: tomd2103 on January 11, 2021, 11:25:16 AM
Maybe he's been moved to the middle but when I last saw Brooks he played out on the right. I don't know whether he's got back to the form that h had before his injury and if he has, they would want £50m for him. His price tag likely rules him out. None of this is true about Olise though, who of the 2 names seems the more likely.
Seen him play for Wales quite a bit and he can play on either wing or as a 'number 10'. Does seem to pick up quite a lot of injuries though which would be a bit of a concern.
Post by: algy on January 11, 2021, 12:09:57 PM
That Olise looks incredible (on YouTube admittedly). Rumours of an £8m release clause too.If the release clause stuff is true, it's a no-brainer for me. Looks a great player.
An ideal signing as he could be developed slowly considering the options we already have out wide.
Post by: LukeJames on January 11, 2021, 12:17:47 PM
Post by: aj2k77 on January 11, 2021, 12:32:31 PM
But that is not saying they have long covid, why don’t you just say I made it up,
Lol.....sad ...... go out for a walk and think about you life
He could have long covid.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 11, 2021, 12:37:36 PM
Yes I caught it from someones imagination ;)But that is not saying they have long covid, why don’t you just say I made it up,
Lol.....sad ...... go out for a walk and think about you life
He could have long covid.
Post by: Mister E on January 11, 2021, 01:26:12 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 11, 2021, 01:27:42 PM
He does look good, maybe buy him and loan him back to Reading for the rest of the season.
Yes we never do stuff like that
Post by: Exeter 77 on January 11, 2021, 01:32:17 PM
I think we did with Freddie Guilbert.He does look good, maybe buy him and loan him back to Reading for the rest of the season.
Yes we never do stuff like that
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 11, 2021, 01:38:00 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 11, 2021, 01:38:48 PM
I think we did with Freddie Guilbert.He does look good, maybe buy him and loan him back to Reading for the rest of the season.
Yes we never do stuff like that
Oh yes 😳 sorry 😀
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 11, 2021, 02:17:28 PM
Sky sports transfer show , now comparing when the money is spent in the window , desperate to talk about something much 🤔
What instead of padding the crap show thing out talking about Manchestercuntsandwankersarrogantpricks United
Well blow me
Post by: exigo on January 11, 2021, 04:03:09 PM
Sky sports transfer show , now comparing when the money is spent in the window , desperate to talk about something much 🤔
No-one will spend anything until the fax machine has been deep-cleaned.
Post by: mr underhill on January 11, 2021, 05:06:29 PM
Post by: villabear on January 11, 2021, 07:36:44 PM
Post by: UK Redsox on January 12, 2021, 11:38:03 AM
That Sky Sports transfer show is hilarious. When the presenter talks and they’re about to go to a break the two ‘transfer experts’ stare at the camera. Oh and those white soled black trainers are obligatory.
They creep me out. It's all a bit..........
(https://media1.giphy.com/media/RdYsOsy3S0rte/200.gif)
Post by: in exile on January 12, 2021, 12:04:52 PM
Maybe it was a dream?
Post by: Risso on January 12, 2021, 12:08:17 PM
Oh and those white soled black trainers are obligatory.
I think Sky must have bought a 1,000 pairs of them. They can't all choose to wear those of their own free will, surely. They don't look like the sort of footwear that someone like Souness would naturally gravitate to.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 12, 2021, 09:40:59 PM
They've both had hamstring injuries. Why are you saying they've had covid and possibly long covid effects?
I did not say that they had covid read the post......I said could
Aston Villa confirm 10 first-team players have tested positive for COVID-19
https://talksport.com/football/efl/814742/aston-villa-10-players-coronavirus-efl-latest/
Mahmoud Trezeguet tests positive for COVID-19
https://www.kingfut.com/2021/01/12/trezeguet-tests-positive-coronavirus/
Post by: DrGonzo on January 12, 2021, 11:58:34 PM
Post by: Nii Lamptey on January 13, 2021, 09:51:47 AM
This completely passed me by, so sharing in case others weren't aware. Oversaw the signings of players such as Vardy, Mahrez, Kante, Alderweireld and Heung-min Son - That's quite an impressive portfolio!
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/meet-aston-villas-ambitious-transfer-19610707
Post by: Dave on January 13, 2021, 10:03:37 AM
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 13, 2021, 12:41:10 PM
Apologies for the link to this rag - It's an article about Rob Mackenzie, the new 'Head of recruitment' brought in during the summer at the same time as Shakespeare.
This completely passed me by, so sharing in case others weren't aware. Oversaw the signings of players such as Vardy, Mahrez, Kante, Alderweireld and Heung-min Son - That's quite an impressive portfolio!
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/meet-aston-villas-ambitious-transfer-19610707
I always thought Steve walsh had alot to do with those transfers especially Kante . .
Post by: mr underhill on January 13, 2021, 12:50:31 PM
Post by: aj2k77 on January 13, 2021, 01:23:37 PM
They've both had hamstring injuries. Why are you saying they've had covid and possibly long covid effects?
I did not say that they had covid read the post......I said could
Aston Villa confirm 10 first-team players have tested positive for COVID-19
https://talksport.com/football/efl/814742/aston-villa-10-players-coronavirus-efl-latest/
Mahmoud Trezeguet tests positive for COVID-19
https://www.kingfut.com/2021/01/12/trezeguet-tests-positive-coronavirus/
You said we had players that had been out for a long time, referring to Barkley and Trezeguet. Could it be long covid?
Trezeguet testing positive on the 8th January after being injured for more than a month doesn't change what you were saying made no sense. Just as if Wesley tests positive now it doesn't mean he's had long covid for 13 months. Come on man.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 13, 2021, 02:42:53 PM
He made a suggestion speculating why some players have been out for ages, not stating it as fact. It's obviously wrong, but can't people just leave it at that?
Post by: Londonvilla on January 13, 2021, 06:28:34 PM
Aston Villa and Ireland U19 winger embarks on League Two loan move
Good luck Tyreik Wright I hope you get some game time
https://www.the42.ie/tyreik-wright-loan-move-to-walsall-5324186-Jan2021/
Post by: Londonvilla on January 13, 2021, 06:42:42 PM
https://www.sporx.com/futbol/ekstra/galatasarayda-trezeguet-operasyonuSXGLQ49744SXQ?sira=2
Fatih Terim, once again put Mahmoud Trezeguet on the agenda
A meeting will be held with the English club this week on the rental of the Egyptian star who has been out of the squad for weeks at his club Aston Villa.
Aston Villa squad man tempted by offer as meeting scheduled for exit
https://www.kingfut.com/2021/01/13/galatasaray-meet-aston-villa-trezeguet/
Galatasaray boss Fatih Terim is a long-term admirer of the player and even tried to sign him before his move to Villa. Now, he could finally get the chance to work with him.
The 26-year-old would apparently be open to the move, because it would allow him to reunite with Mbaye Diagne, with whom he starred for Kasimpasa. He also knows he would get more regular game-time than at Villa.
Should he stay or should he go..........no goals this season but his work rate is 10 out of 10
I say upgrade at the end of the season
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 13, 2021, 06:47:02 PM
Buy the new player, embed them in the first team and then if the person they replaced isn't happy/needed then that's the time to let them go, same as we've done with Matty Cash coming in over Freddie and AEH. We certainly have no need to be selling players before buying replacements.
As for 'out of the squad for weeks' and 'squad player', well yes, since he's been injured. He played most matches before that. Yet more outstanding journalism.
Post by: Dave on January 13, 2021, 06:51:08 PM
If they want to make us a decent offer in the summer then he'd go with my thanks while we bring in a superior replacement. Otherwise he's extremely useful to have around the place.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 13, 2021, 06:57:44 PM
Unless he's desperate to leave, I can't think of any reason why we would want anybody to ever "rent" him from us.
If they want to make us a decent offer in the summer then he'd go with my thanks while we bring in a superior replacement. Otherwise he's extremely useful to have around the place.
If they want to make us a decent offer
How much would it take to let him go?
Post by: Dave on January 13, 2021, 07:04:46 PM
Start the bidding at £15m? He's certainly been good enough for us that his value has gone up, not down.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 13, 2021, 07:13:35 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 13, 2021, 07:18:30 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 13, 2021, 07:37:13 PM
When everyone is fit its Jack on the left and 3 for the right side,
For me, he is the first choice in away games and Bertrand Traoré would be the first choice at home when we need to break down defences, with El Ghazi coming on in the 70 minutes.
Post by: Dave on January 13, 2021, 07:46:00 PM
The problem is if Trezeguet walks into Smith office and ask if he is the first choice on the right what does Smith say to him?
Is that more of a problem in this case than any other player at Villa or at any other club?
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 13, 2021, 07:49:19 PM
The problem is if Trezeguet walks into Smith office and ask if he is the first choice on the right what does Smith say to him?
When everyone is fit its Jack on the left and 3 for the right side,
For me, he is the first choice in away games and Bertrand Traoré would be the first choice at home when we need to break down defences, with El Ghazi coming on in the 70 minutes.
A very simple answer I would think. "You've been injured so I couldn't pick you. Win the shirt back from El Goalzi."
Which is exactly what he did by working his balls off last time he wasn't first choice so I doubt his attitude would be in question.
I'm not sure how having more than one good player for each position is a problem to be honest, especially since we've had years not even having one good player for each position.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 13, 2021, 07:57:24 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 13, 2021, 09:04:53 PM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9138169/The-goalkeepers-Arsenal-sign-Alex-Runarssons-dreadful-start-club.html
Just paper talk but I would let him go for £5 to 7 million
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 13, 2021, 09:21:24 PM
Post by: algy on January 14, 2021, 10:29:35 AM
Apparently Freddie rejected a loan move to Besiktas, but instead might go to Bristol City, Middlesbrough, or Cardiff for the rest of the season.
They're reporting that it's so that he can come back as 2nd choice right back for next season. I'm not sure - maybe, but in that case why is he behind Elmo in the pecking order now?
Post by: algy on January 14, 2021, 11:18:41 AM
Because elmo is here where as he'll be either a coach or moved on in summer as out of contract. Or Bruce will sign him perhaps!No, that's what I'm saying. If he's already behind Elmo, I can't imagine he's got much of a future at the club. It's not as if he's a 20/21 year old who's likely to become drastically better as a result of a 6 month loan in the Championship.
For me I can't do no wrong for elmo and I don't see Guilbert as part of Smith plans as he's part of old regime signed by Suso.
Villa tried to move him on in summer but a deal collapsed. He was told he was 3rd choice.
Good luck to him but he clearly in no plans and don't see him doing an Alan Hutton
Post by: darren woolley on January 14, 2021, 11:45:47 AM
Post by: eamonn on January 14, 2021, 11:49:27 AM
Beyond that are players who are half-decent but will feel they deserve or need more game time. If we were in the Europa League/one of the domestic cups and Dean was more of a rotater, there'd probably be enough games to keep a squad happy and on their toes. But we're not and he sees a core of 15 or 16 only that should be in or around the team.
Post by: WassallVillain on January 14, 2021, 11:52:02 AM
I would love it if we kept Guilbert.
He should be IMO
Post by: JJ-AV on January 14, 2021, 12:56:03 PM
Upgrades to the likes of Engels, Taylor, Nakamba, Conor and Davis that will put pressure on the first teamers. Particularly if we're in Europe.
Particularly at fullback, in our system the fullbacks are asked to support high up in attacks and tuck narrow when we're defending. We need 2 for each of those spots IMO. The options Spurs and Leicester have at fullback are what we should strive for.
Post by: paul_e on January 14, 2021, 01:48:13 PM
I wouldn't be keeping any back up players that we can shift. We're in a position where we have a very strong 11 and not much beyond that. The next stage of development is slowly signing players who can put genuine pressure on our first teamers. Guilbert is a fine back up for a midtable side but to be top 8 or beyond we need a genuine alternative to Cash.
Upgrades to the likes of Engels, Taylor, Nakamba, Conor and Davis that will put pressure on the first teamers. Particularly if we're in Europe.
Particularly at fullback, in our system the fullbacks are asked to support high up in attacks and tuck narrow when we're defending. We need 2 for each of those spots IMO. The options Spurs and Leicester have at fullback are what we should strive for.
Of the people you've named I'd keep Nakamba, he's done a good job when he's had to come in. I like Engels and Conor but I think both can be replaced fairly easily so if there's offers I'd let them leave to get the game time they want, Conor in particular is out of contract soon anyway (as far as I can tell) so thank him for everything he's done and wish him well. I'd do the same with Taylor but look for a replacement.
Right back is the bigger one, if the plan is to let Guilbert out on loan whilst Elmo is around and then review it in the summer I can sort of understand that if they see a future with us for Guilbert (which I hope they do, he had more good games for us than bad last season and seems to have a good attitude from what I can see). If they don't want Guilbert then there's no value in loaning him out. My opinion is that Smith really rates Kesler-Hayden and wants to get him involved before long and therefore doesn't see room for Guilbert in the squad. Keeping Elmo as cover this year, given he's nearing the end of his contract, makes sense in that case but it relies on K-H being ready to join the first team squad in the summer. If we're now wanting to loan Guilbert I'd suggest it's because they think it might take a little longer so we need cover for another 6-12months.
Davis is frustrating, I said a week or so back that he's the sort of striker you'd want in a front 2 with someone like Watkins next to him and I stand by that, he does a lot of things that I really like to see in a striker but even with my opinion that 20 a season strikers are a dying breed you need them to be a threat and to be looking at scoring 10-15 and I just don't know if he'll become that. I think he can, watching him reminds me of calvert-lewin a couple of years back where he did everything right until he got in the box and we can all see what happened there. The difference is Davis just isn't getting enough games to try to find that confidence. I'd keep him but loan him out to a championship side and see if he can get a run of 15-20games in the 2nd half of the season.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 14, 2021, 04:51:06 PM
Post by: Astnor on January 14, 2021, 05:07:20 PM
He seems to have something. Music as bad as ever.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 14, 2021, 05:13:45 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 14, 2021, 05:21:15 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 14, 2021, 05:27:05 PM
He likes a trick that's for sure. Never seems to be much end product though, but looks a decent prospect.
He is 19 and playing with Reading. We don't need the finished article. He has a lot of natural ability. We would be the perfect environment to develop him.
Post by: OCD on January 14, 2021, 05:29:09 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 14, 2021, 05:37:54 PM
I would imagine playing regularly in the Championship rather than our u23's with an occaisional sub appearance would be the perfect way for him to develop. But even so, yes he looks a very good prospect and for the right price I'd be keen to see what he can do with us.He likes a trick that's for sure. Never seems to be much end product though, but looks a decent prospect.
He is 19 and playing with Reading. We don't need the finished article. He has a lot of natural ability. We would be the perfect environment to develop him.
Post by: LeeB on January 14, 2021, 05:39:08 PM
I would imagine playing regularly in the Championship rather than our u23's with an occaisional sub appearance would be the perfect way for him to develop. But even so, yes he looks a very good prospect and for the right price I'd be keen to see what he can do with us.He likes a trick that's for sure. Never seems to be much end product though, but looks a decent prospect.
He is 19 and playing with Reading. We don't need the finished article. He has a lot of natural ability. We would be the perfect environment to develop him.
£8m these days is buttons, I'd be all over that.
Post by: Gareth on January 14, 2021, 06:18:11 PM
I would imagine playing regularly in the Championship rather than our u23's with an occaisional sub appearance would be the perfect way for him to develop. But even so, yes he looks a very good prospect and for the right price I'd be keen to see what he can do with us.He likes a trick that's for sure. Never seems to be much end product though, but looks a decent prospect.
He is 19 and playing with Reading. We don't need the finished article. He has a lot of natural ability. We would be the perfect environment to develop him.
£8m these days is buttons, I'd be all over that.
If his agent has negotiated a 8m release clause you can guarantee said agent will be starting a wages auction and expecting 70/80k a week no doubt. Very talented lad though
Post by: paul_e on January 14, 2021, 06:47:51 PM
He's exactly the sort of signing I like though, if he's not quite ready loans are easy to set up if he is ready it gives us a 'free' spot in the 25 man squad for a couple of years.
Post by: dicedlam on January 14, 2021, 06:55:44 PM
Post by: Ads on January 14, 2021, 07:06:10 PM
Post by: Fasth56 on January 14, 2021, 09:14:24 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 14, 2021, 09:22:24 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 14, 2021, 09:47:19 PM
https://tbrfootball.com/report-everton-and-aston-villa-want-christian-luyindama/
Every transfer window we are linked to this guy........so I think it is just paper talk
Post by: Londonvilla on January 14, 2021, 09:50:33 PM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-9148569/Aston-Villa-face-battle-England-17-international-midfielder-Aaron-Ramsey.html
No way this is happening with his other brothers still at the club
Post by: PeterWithe on January 14, 2021, 09:53:08 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 14, 2021, 09:59:10 PM
https://twitter.com/SportsPeteO/status/1349644213382770689
From Pete O'Rourke who is a Freelance Sports Journalist
I can see why clubs would want Conor but I would only let him go if we replace him
Post by: tomd2103 on January 14, 2021, 10:14:15 PM
Aston Villa are considering letting Conor Hourihane leave on loan this month amid interest from a number of clubs.
https://twitter.com/SportsPeteO/status/1349644213382770689
From Pete O'Rourke who is a Freelance Sports Journalist
I can see why clubs would want Conor but I would only let him go if we replace him
Could argue that Ramsey has moved ahead of him now. Any news of Lansbury going?
Post by: Londonvilla on January 14, 2021, 11:10:52 PM
Aston Villa are considering letting Conor Hourihane leave on loan this month amid interest from a number of clubs.
https://twitter.com/SportsPeteO/status/1349644213382770689
From Pete O'Rourke who is a Freelance Sports Journalist
I can see why clubs would want Conor but I would only let him go if we replace him
Could argue that Ramsey has moved ahead of him now. Any news of Lansbury going?
The last real Lansbury news
ZEROES & VILLANS Henri Lansbury rejects Aston Villa pay-out on reduced terms as Dean Smith looks to end midfielder’s contract early
https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/13026618/henri-lansbury-aston-villa/
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 14, 2021, 11:56:11 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 15, 2021, 12:56:01 AM
Post by: Drummond on January 15, 2021, 01:22:36 AM
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 15, 2021, 08:17:52 AM
I've put the relevant part on the Youth and Reserves thread.
Oh right, would have paid me to look there first I suppose! Thanks
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 15, 2021, 09:09:12 AM
There’s an article on The Athletic saying that Blose are having a shake up of their youth system and releasing most of their top talent. Apparently Villa are naturally taking note. I can copy and paste the article if anyone is interested?is that the first time that Blose and 'top talent' have been used in the same sentence.
Post by: algy on January 15, 2021, 09:20:43 AM
My boss (a top doctor) in work once told me "In the real world, everything is relative". Always taken that as being sage philosophical advice - good/bad, healthy/ill, rich/poor, ...There’s an article on The Athletic saying that Blose are having a shake up of their youth system and releasing most of their top talent. Apparently Villa are naturally taking note. I can copy and paste the article if anyone is interested?is that the first time that Blose and 'top talent' have been used in the same sentence.
It's their top talent. All relative. Their definition of a "good" stand is one that's not been condemned, after all.
Post by: PeterWithe on January 15, 2021, 09:22:19 AM
Post by: eamonn on January 15, 2021, 09:31:07 AM
Post by: Chris Smith on January 15, 2021, 09:51:23 AM
Blues have a long and admirable history of bringing through talent, before he wanted to leave for Dortmund after about 6 games.
That’s a little unfair, he’s in a long line stretching back to Trevor Francis in the 70s. Admittedly there was nothing in between but if they’re still in existence in another 50 years there might be another.
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 15, 2021, 10:11:44 AM
The midfield especially you have to be so mobile and physically fit and strong that if you are not the game passes you by
This has been evident each time Conor has played
I wish him well
Freddie - i liked but Cash is clearly the better player and has the shirt - i think it is only fair that he gets a chance elsewhere
I think next season when it is assumed Elmo leaves that one of the youth players can make the step up as Cash's understudy
Post by: Dave on January 15, 2021, 10:13:01 AM
Blues have a long and admirable history of bringing through talent, before he wanted to leave for Dortmund after about 6 games.
That’s a little unfair, he’s in a long line stretching back to Trevor Francis in the 70s. Admittedly there was nothing in between but if they’re still in existence in another 50 years there might be another.
Has everyone forgotten Darren Carter already?
For shame.
Post by: eamonn on January 15, 2021, 10:39:39 AM
Post by: OCD on January 15, 2021, 11:31:52 AM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 15, 2021, 12:12:55 PM
Blues have a long and admirable history of bringing through talent, before he wanted to leave for Dortmund after about 6 games.
That’s a little unfair, he’s in a long line stretching back to Trevor Francis in the 70s. Admittedly there was nothing in between but if they’re still in existence in another 50 years there might be another.
Have to chuckle given their financial issues the ones they've produced in last decade will hardly bring in anything for thme now given Butland is stuck on Palace subs bench and seems Demiairi Gray is leaving Leicester on a free.
I bet they were gambling a few years back that at least one would be sold for 15m + and they'd get a nice sell on fee especially as Butland was being linked to us for that sort of fee two summers back.
Post by: paul_e on January 15, 2021, 12:29:02 PM
Rivalry aside, if Birmingham do have one or more promising kids coming through then we should be all over it like we should be with any promising local talent. I've read that article in the Athletic and apparently Liverpool have already snapped up one promising kid.
I've heard that the lad who's gone to Liverpool is pretty special but that there's 2 others that are a little younger but just as well rated and we're looking at them closely.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 15, 2021, 05:33:42 PM
https://uptheterras.co.uk/2021/01/15/revan-joins-from-aston-villa/
Hopefully, he will be in the first-team squad next season
But does this mean Björn Engels stays as our number 4 centre back?
Post by: Londonvilla on January 15, 2021, 06:02:24 PM
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/swansea-city-transfer-headlines-stance-19632302
Nooooooooooo.........still think he has a part to play this season
Post by: Billy Walker on January 16, 2021, 06:00:56 PM
Post by: Dave on January 16, 2021, 06:09:15 PM
Post by: Ads on January 16, 2021, 06:28:56 PM
26, 1 in 6 goal record, playing for a big club in France. Looks decent from the YouTube highlights reel. Quick feet, turn of pace, bit of a French McGinn?
Post by: Scovilla on January 16, 2021, 06:40:09 PM
Post by: Ads on January 16, 2021, 06:43:40 PM
Following Marseille for quite a while i can guarantee that Samson is a very good player.
How would you describe his playing style?
Post by: eamonn on January 16, 2021, 06:47:00 PM
Post by: Scovilla on January 16, 2021, 06:48:54 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 16, 2021, 07:10:42 PM
Certainly an energetic upgrade to Hourihane . Will offer a great option to press in final third
A technical upgrade to Nakamba.
Direct running with the ball puts him in a McGinn mode with touch more flair and grace that the bustling SJM but will carry the ball better than Nakamba and Hourihane and plays off both feet.
As say he could play alongside and deep like Douglas Luiz but like Dougie he can be played higher up and thus be a goal threat a ball-winner and can offer creativity
Would be a great signing providing he settles certainly a quality addition to the midfield engine room
Offers plenty.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 16, 2021, 07:42:46 PM
But does this mean Björn Engels stays as our number 4 centre back?That role should be for Tyrone Mings
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 16, 2021, 07:52:57 PM
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 16, 2021, 08:11:14 PM
Post by: Scovilla on January 16, 2021, 08:13:41 PM
Post by: Dave on January 16, 2021, 08:16:23 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 16, 2021, 10:00:33 PM
Following Marseille for quite a while i can guarantee that Samson is a very good player.
Especially at the moment when haircuts are banned.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 16, 2021, 10:04:02 PM
As has been alluded to earlier in this thread, given the issues around their TV money we should be looking to rinse Ligue 1 for all its worth.
Profit at others misfortune you mean? I would like us to give a fair price for any player or players that we see could be developed. If we were skint I might think differently but we’re not. I know it’s a cold hard business but still, as Aston Villa we’re more than a business looking to exploit opportunities.
Post by: LukeJames on January 16, 2021, 10:09:28 PM
Post by: Dave on January 16, 2021, 10:15:10 PM
As has been alluded to earlier in this thread, given the issues around their TV money we should be looking to rinse Ligue 1 for all its worth.
Profit at others misfortune you mean?
I'd go with "buy good players that their current clubs want to keep".
Like I'd hope most of the signings that we make are.
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 16, 2021, 10:21:42 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 16, 2021, 10:32:29 PM
We are signing Kenny Sanson. Apparently.
Good left back.cover
Post by: Ads on January 16, 2021, 11:33:48 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 17, 2021, 12:25:05 AM
Naaa fuck that, its a dog eat dog business. Hence why Levy offered us £3m plus Onomah for Grealish when we were scraping about for pennies. Thankfully a couple of days later we were taken over by 2 rich bastards.
That’s Tottenham who i’d expect that sort of behaviour from. League 1 sides are a different case. An extra £50,000 or additional fee for first team appearances could be enough to keep a league 1 side in business for longer in the current situation. That’s not saying we become a benevolent club but that we don’t become one who exploits clubs who are on their knees.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 17, 2021, 12:59:44 AM
Naaa fuck that, its a dog eat dog business. Hence why Levy offered us £3m plus Onomah for Grealish when we were scraping about for pennies. Thankfully a couple of days later we were taken over by 2 rich bastards.
That’s Tottenham who i’d expect that sort of behaviour from. League 1 sides are a different case. An extra £50,000 or additional fee for first team appearances could be enough to keep a league 1 side in business for longer in the current situation. That’s not saying we become a benevolent club but that we don’t become one who exploits clubs who are on their knees.
Dave said Ligue 1, not League 1. Them Frenchies.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 17, 2021, 05:01:04 AM
Naaa fuck that, its a dog eat dog business. Hence why Levy offered us £3m plus Onomah for Grealish when we were scraping about for pennies. Thankfully a couple of days later we were taken over by 2 rich bastards.
That’s Tottenham who i’d expect that sort of behaviour from. League 1 sides are a different case. An extra £50,000 or additional fee for first team appearances could be enough to keep a league 1 side in business for longer in the current situation. That’s not saying we become a benevolent club but that we don’t become one who exploits clubs who are on their knees.
He plays for Marseille.
Edit: sorry, hadn't seen LFS's comment above.
Post by: Villan For Life on January 17, 2021, 07:36:49 AM
Following Marseille for quite a while i can guarantee that Samson is a very good player.
Especially at the moment when haircuts are banned.
***applause thingy***
Post by: PeterWithe on January 17, 2021, 09:58:43 AM
Julien Maynard saying Villa are after Morgan Sanson of OM. Looks a strong rumour. Fabrizio Romano confirms Villa's interest, too, on Twitter.
Why, why, why sign him?
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 17, 2021, 10:00:36 AM
As has been alluded to earlier in this thread, given the issues around their TV money we should be looking to rinse Ligue 1 for all its worth.
Profit at others misfortune you mean? I would like us to give a fair price for any player or players that we see could be developed. If we were skint I might think differently but we’re not. I know it’s a cold hard business but still, as Aston Villa we’re more than a business looking to exploit opportunities.
Good point, particularly as Marseille are renowned for their ethics.
Post by: Mister E on January 17, 2021, 10:33:29 AM
;D ;D ;DFollowing Marseille for quite a while i can guarantee that Samson is a very good player.Especially at the moment when haircuts are banned.
Very good!
Post by: OCD on January 17, 2021, 12:47:38 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 17, 2021, 02:40:56 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 17, 2021, 02:45:40 PM
How much is he likely to cost? The type of player we'd miss out on signing to West Ham (still sore over Bowen - he would be great in this Villa team).
25m mentioned in the papers saying West Ham are after him (as are Newcastle but they want to wait till the summer).
Post by: Steve67 on January 17, 2021, 04:17:40 PM
Post by: OCD on January 17, 2021, 07:14:27 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 17, 2021, 07:34:02 PM
Aren’t West Ham struggling for cash? And they need a forward
They’ve sold Haller to Ajax so could have some cash.
Post by: Dave on January 17, 2021, 07:41:39 PM
Aren’t West Ham struggling for cash? And they need a forward
They’ve sold Haller to Ajax so could have some cash.
Albeit for a third of the money they paid Frankfurt for him 18 months ago.
They probably still owe more than they got for him.
Post by: Risso on January 17, 2021, 07:44:02 PM
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 17, 2021, 07:44:45 PM
Aren’t West Ham struggling for cash? And they need a forward
They’ve sold Haller to Ajax so could have some cash.
Albeit for a third of the money they paid Frankfurt for him 18 months ago.
They probably still owe more than they got for him.
Made me laugh the other day when some bullshit football rumours site was saying that they were in for Moussa Dembele to replace Haller and that he was deciding between them or Atletico Madrid. Must have taken him a really long time to make that decision.
Post by: Des Little on January 17, 2021, 08:50:34 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 17, 2021, 11:25:47 PM
How much is he likely to cost? The type of player we'd miss out on signing to West Ham (still sore over Bowen - he would be great in this Villa team).
I saw 20m but he's in last 18 months of his contract there so reckon we can get him for less.
His name was linked to us last summer so think we've been watching him for a while and the sort we should be signing to try to take the next step, mid 20s, regular for a good level team in other league (was regular for them in CL) and looking at his goal record he's not just a DM, tends to score at least five a season so this is why you upgrade the squad. Sign him and move on Hourihane and Nakamba in next 6 months.
Post by: OCD on January 18, 2021, 11:18:54 AM
If West Ham have any money to spend, I would think they'd prioritise the defence to be honest.
I think Antonio is their only striker isn't he? A striker will be high in their priorities.
The London media are so short-sighted. Just look at how many players Arsenal are being linked to this window. Anyone would think they have a fortune available to spend when clearly they don't. There's probably never been a bigger divide between the 'haves' and 'have nots' in football than there is right now.
Post by: Ads on January 18, 2021, 11:26:16 AM
Post by: Gareth on January 18, 2021, 11:26:38 AM
Post by: Ian. on January 18, 2021, 11:39:18 AM
If West Ham have any money to spend, I would think they'd prioritise the defence to be honest.They have just recorded their 4th clean sheet in a row. What makes you think that?
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 18, 2021, 01:12:36 PM
If West Ham have any money to spend, I would think they'd prioritise the defence to be honest.They have just recorded their 4th clean sheet in a row. What makes you think that?
Diop was being quoted at 40m a season back and he can't even get in at CB at all this season so they have much better depth at CB than us considering they've been tucking Cresswell in as third CB for many games this season.
Post by: Drummond on January 18, 2021, 04:25:30 PM
If West Ham have any money to spend, I would think they'd prioritise the defence to be honest.They have just recorded their 4th clean sheet in a row. What makes you think that?
Diop was being quoted at 40m a season back and he can't even get in at CB at all this season so they have much better depth at CB than us considering they've been tucking Cresswell in as third CB for many games this season.
Though they've been chasing Tarkowski haven't they?
Post by: LeeB on January 18, 2021, 04:29:00 PM
If West Ham have any money to spend, I would think they'd prioritise the defence to be honest.They have just recorded their 4th clean sheet in a row. What makes you think that?
Diop was being quoted at 40m a season back and he can't even get in at CB at all this season so they have much better depth at CB than us considering they've been tucking Cresswell in as third CB for many games this season.
Though they've been chasing Tarkowski haven't they?
Yeah, but they just wanted to 'tax' his tie and take his dinner money, not sign him.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 18, 2021, 05:47:51 PM
https://twitter.com/alexisbernard10/status/1351222233058992129?s=21
Post by: Dave on January 18, 2021, 05:54:32 PM
Some suggestion the Morgan Sanson deal may be edging closer and also would explain why Conor maybe heading out to make room in the squad.
https://twitter.com/alexisbernard10/status/1351222233058992129?s=21
Reporting a fee of 15-20m, allowing them to go and buy Milik from Napoli.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 18, 2021, 06:02:49 PM
Some suggestion the Morgan Sanson deal may be edging closer and also would explain why Conor maybe heading out to make room in the squad.
https://twitter.com/alexisbernard10/status/1351222233058992129?s=21
Reporting a fee of 15-20m, allowing them to go and buy Milik from Napoli.
Surely buying milk locally would be cheaper and not piss off the French dairy farmers?
*I’ll get me coat
Post by: exigo on January 18, 2021, 06:09:25 PM
Post by: Gerrin on January 18, 2021, 06:19:48 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Post by: Hairbandinho on January 18, 2021, 06:26:19 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Hourihane? Competition for McGinn?
Post by: LukeJames on January 18, 2021, 06:41:17 PM
Post by: algy on January 18, 2021, 06:41:56 PM
For me, you'd pick 2 from 3 of McGinn, Dougie, and Sanson. I'd guess if you had a Dougie/Sanson pairing then SJM would be an option as an attacking central midfielder.I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Post by: exigo on January 18, 2021, 06:44:14 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Here's Villa Analytics answering that exact question:
Twitter thread (https://twitter.com/VillaAnalytics/status/1350536516498558982)
In short, he's versatile enough to come in for Luiz, McGinn or Barkley.
Post by: Risso on January 18, 2021, 06:44:36 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Hourihane? Competition for McGinn?
Indeed. We've all really got to get out of the mindset that we can only have one good player per position.
Post by: Gerrin on January 18, 2021, 06:48:11 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Hourihane? Competition for McGinn?
I don't think he'd get in our best 11, so would be as back up. I guess we will need better back players, if we're going to progress. Best 11 for me would bring Berkley back when fit, leave out El Ghaz and put Jack back on the left.
Post by: Matt C on January 18, 2021, 06:59:13 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 18, 2021, 07:00:44 PM
Which needs to be the absolute minimum position we need to be in if we want to move forward. Picking 2 from McGinn and Luiz is great when they are both fit and firing. Nosomuch when they are injured, tired suspended, out of form or sold back to Man City. I don't really see Nakamba as a viable alternative.For me, you'd pick 2 from 3 of McGinn, Dougie, and Sanson. I'd guess if you had a Dougie/Sanson pairing then SJM would be an option as an attacking central midfielder.I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Post by: paul_e on January 18, 2021, 07:05:32 PM
That said this guy looks a great player who will be a big upgradecto the squad.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 18, 2021, 07:09:16 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
I hadn't either, but having now watched a highlights reel, I concur fully with your assessment.
Post by: IFWaters on January 18, 2021, 07:22:18 PM
And another thing, re Guilbert, I dont understand it. With Cash and him we have excellent cover in that position, so why let him go. Cash is a 9/10 and Freddie a 7 and thats where we need to be. Same with goalie now, Martinez but with excellent cover in Heaton.
Post by: Risso on January 18, 2021, 07:25:31 PM
That said this guy looks a great player who will be a big upgradecto the squad.
Is that a bit like a Galactico?!
Post by: Ads on January 18, 2021, 07:28:28 PM
Hopefully McGinn and Dougie take it as a good kick to the rear and if worse comes to worse in the summer, as stated, at least Dougie's replacement is already here.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 18, 2021, 07:34:57 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 18, 2021, 07:36:55 PM
Post by: Dave on January 18, 2021, 07:37:06 PM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.
Is this a pun I'm missing?
If not, he moved to Kasimpasa in Turkey this morning.
Post by: Ads on January 18, 2021, 07:37:19 PM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.
He's gone to a Turkish side today.
Post by: eamonn on January 18, 2021, 07:38:55 PM
Some suggestion the Morgan Sanson deal may be edging closer and also would explain why Conor maybe heading out to make room in the squad.
https://twitter.com/alexisbernard10/status/1351222233058992129?s=21
Reporting a fee of 15-20m, allowing them to go and buy Milik from Napoli.
Is his next tweet saying that West Ham offered a lot more last year? Has his value dropped cos his contract is nearly up? Doesn't seem like his form has dropped.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 18, 2021, 07:40:39 PM
https://tbrfootball.com/report-milot-rashica-could-move-in-next-few-days-linked-with-aston-villa-last-month/
New movement at Rashica?
https://www.kicker.de/neue-bewegung-bei-rashica-4000000036424/transfermeldung
He's coming
Fingers cross
Post by: Dave on January 18, 2021, 07:42:42 PM
Some suggestion the Morgan Sanson deal may be edging closer and also would explain why Conor maybe heading out to make room in the squad.
https://twitter.com/alexisbernard10/status/1351222233058992129?s=21
Reporting a fee of 15-20m, allowing them to go and buy Milik from Napoli.
Is his next tweet saying that West Ham offered a lot more last year? Has his value dropped cos his contract is nearly up? Doesn't seem like his form has dropped.
Presumably the previously-mentioned French TV deal screw up.
Anyone who isn't PSG now has a big financial hole to fill somehow.
Post by: Risso on January 18, 2021, 07:45:37 PM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.
The trolling is weak in this one!
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 18, 2021, 07:48:59 PM
Milot Rashica could move in next few days
https://tbrfootball.com/report-milot-rashica-could-move-in-next-few-days-linked-with-aston-villa-last-month/
New movement at Rashica?
https://www.kicker.de/neue-bewegung-bei-rashica-4000000036424/transfermeldung
He's coming
Fingers cross
So bored of that fella.
Post by: rougegorge on January 18, 2021, 07:56:33 PM
Some are quite happy for him to leave and say he hasn't really progressed, others are thankful for what he's contributed.
So judging from the comments, he's been neither terrible nor amazing, but there is a consensus that he has a lot of energy.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 18, 2021, 08:32:25 PM
Checking out a cross section of Marseille fans on Twitter and their forums, the imminent departure of Sanson doesn't seem to be creating too much of a stir.an upgrade on Hourihane?
Some are quite happy for him to leave and say he hasn't really progressed, others are thankful for what he's contributed.
So judging from the comments, he's been neither terrible nor amazing, but there is a consensus that he has a lot of energy.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 18, 2021, 08:32:50 PM
he's gone to TurkeyRumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.
The trolling is weak in this one!
Post by: Ian. on January 18, 2021, 08:36:04 PM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.I’ve heard perms are back in fashion at the moment.
Post by: Eckybloke on January 18, 2021, 08:42:53 PM
https://youtu.be/9tSmKGAUsfg
Post by: olaftab on January 18, 2021, 08:55:34 PM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.Great news and Smith has also agreed to give McCormack anther run in the first team squad.
Post by: Risso on January 18, 2021, 08:59:30 PM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.Great news and Smith has also agreed to give McCormack anther run in the first team squad.
I'm not sure I saw him run the first time to be honest.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 18, 2021, 08:59:56 PM
Checking out a cross section of Marseille fans on Twitter and their forums, the imminent departure of Sanson doesn't seem to be creating too much of a stir.
Some are quite happy for him to leave and say he hasn't really progressed, others are thankful for what he's contributed.
So judging from the comments, he's been neither terrible nor amazing, but there is a consensus that he has a lot of energy.
That’s all very well but what are the real experts saying over on SHA?
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on January 18, 2021, 09:47:11 PM
Checking out a cross section of Marseille fans on Twitter and their forums, the imminent departure of Sanson doesn't seem to be creating too much of a stir.
Some are quite happy for him to leave and say he hasn't really progressed, others are thankful for what he's contributed.
So judging from the comments, he's been neither terrible nor amazing, but there is a consensus that he has a lot of energy.
That’s all very well but what are the real experts saying over on SHA?
Just checked. They are talking about peaky blinders and the dimensions of their pitch. The Vile aren't even being discussed, if this Sanson move happens I'm sure they will be all over it.
Post by: Dave on January 18, 2021, 09:51:24 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 18, 2021, 09:54:00 PM
I'd never heard of him three days ago and now he's definitely the midfield missing link in our title tilt.
Who does he come in for?
Hourihane? Competition for McGinn?
I don't think he'd get in our best 11, so would be as back up. I guess we will need better back players, if we're going to progress. Best 11 for me would bring Berkley back when fit, leave out El Ghaz and put Jack back on the left.
We simply can't be 100% Doug will still be here in August so think it's smart to bed Sanson in for next 6 months and let him adapt slowly and then if he's needed as the DM so be it.
From what I've seen though he's more a box to box player so think we can rest McGinn more now and this allows us to move on Hourihane and Nakamba in next six months to balance things out.
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 18, 2021, 09:59:18 PM
Post by: Steve67 on January 18, 2021, 10:08:24 PM
Post by: Clive W on January 18, 2021, 10:40:33 PM
Also Hourihane out on loan possibly to Swansea or Bournemouth
Post by: Clive W on January 18, 2021, 10:41:59 PM
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 18, 2021, 10:43:06 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 18, 2021, 11:02:40 PM
Jon Percy in the DT now reporting the Samson deal looking likely at around £15mThanks Clive for more confirmed info. Done deal then on the transfer incoming and outgoing
Also Hourihane out on loan possibly to Swansea or Bournemouth
What I would say is that's Villa with Sanson! And Villa SansHourihane.
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on January 18, 2021, 11:36:40 PM
No need to write Nakamba off, he did well covering last month.
That said this guy looks a great player who will be a big upgradecto the squad.
Nakamba was getting compared to Kante when he first broke into the team. He went off the boil, but like El Ghazi and Trezeguet he has shown enough in some games to have real potential if he starts hitting form more regularly. Too early to write off yet.
Like the look of Sanson, but will be sad to see Hourihane go. He has been one of our best value signings in recent years and has not looked out of place in the premier league.
Post by: LukeJames on January 19, 2021, 01:17:47 AM
Some great goals along the way and a couple of hugely important goals in our recent history, Albion in the Play offs and Norwich 1-0 Last season. Without both goals we probably wouldnt be were we are now.
You can tell hes brought into the club and has loved it here aswelI. I hope he goes on to have a brilliant last 4 or 5 years were ever he ends up.
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 19, 2021, 07:36:44 AM
Rumours of Drinkwater coming back on a perm.Great news and Smith has also agreed to give McCormack anther run in the first team squad.
I'm not sure I saw him run the first time to be honest.
If ever there was a case for the grass isn’t always greener, then Danny is the bright shining example.
Post by: Big Ming on January 19, 2021, 08:54:59 AM
Post by: algy on January 19, 2021, 09:21:32 AM
Saka and Smith Rowe kept William Pepe out of the team.Personally, I'm not too fussed if a player goes on loan to a non-league side initially. Seems to have done Tyrone Mings and Ollie Watkins no harm at all to have some experience from even further down the pyramid. I'd suspect, at that age, playing regular, competitive, senior football is really the key to them developing.
I want Villa to eventually have that opportunity afforded to some of our young and up and coming players.
The fullbacks in the summer has to be a position we could look to promote from within as back up to Cash and Targett.
Though I'm ultimately all for having a strong squad as possible I think Villa will look to develop academy players into first team villa players over coming seasons so be interesting to see which moves are made in the transfer windows for every player signed means less opportunity for a young player.
On outgoings the loan system should be used wisely and maybe have some decent contacts with Walsall locally but also say a few other league clubs.
Dominic Revan who I found most excellent vs Liverpool in Cup and captained team , has been afforded bench and squad selection in past I was intrigued to see him go out on loan to a non league team Weymouth
I hoping especially at this time can get our academy players who do go on loan into league football
With due respect to Weymouth would want at least league 2 high end for Revan and if clubs struggling to buy players in efl leagues hoped for a higher or more established football club to aid his development
Post by: Duncan Shaw on January 19, 2021, 09:33:23 AM
Post by: OCD on January 19, 2021, 10:17:58 AM
They obviously appreciate they need a bit more depth, especially if we have ambitions of being in Europe next season. And now is a good time to be adding to the squad. We'll be playing twice a week most weeks now, we will be an attractive prospect now to players and Covid has left many clubs in a weakened position.
Post by: Eckybloke on January 19, 2021, 10:20:58 AM
So maybe the level is ideal because it might be more physical for Revan him and that’s what has been earmarked for development.
Post by: paul_e on January 19, 2021, 11:28:10 AM
Saka and Smith Rowe kept William Pepe out of the team.
I want Villa to eventually have that opportunity afforded to some of our young and up and coming players.
The fullbacks in the summer has to be a position we could look to promote from within as back up to Cash and Targett.
Saka and Smith-Rowe got in because Willian is in semi-retirement and Pepe is fucking shit (and probably the worst signing in history). We're not in the same position.
On full backs I suspect that's exactly what's happening at right-back, by all accounts Kesler-Hayden is seen as a top prospect. On the left we don't really have many options, Callum Rowe did well against Liverpool so maybe he's worth a look but Seb Revan has been playing at left back ahead of him so maybe even though he looked decent the club don't see much in him.
Post by: Ads on January 19, 2021, 11:35:24 AM
Post by: billhicks on January 19, 2021, 12:12:36 PM
Post by: Big Ming on January 19, 2021, 12:16:54 PM
He is primarily a ball winner.
Post by: darren woolley on January 19, 2021, 12:44:48 PM
Post by: Jockey Randall on January 19, 2021, 01:07:03 PM
Thinking that Villa are expecting Citeh to trigger the buy-back for Douglas Luis and the move for Sanson is to get ahead of the game.
He is primarily a ball winner.
Is this the case? Villa Analytics seemed to suggest he compares more to John McGinn as a good ball carrying, box to box midfielder who can also play a bit further forward. Either way he sounds like a decent signing and will add much needed depth in there.
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 19, 2021, 01:16:16 PM
To repeat myself.Thinking that Villa are expecting Citeh to trigger the buy-back for Douglas Luis and the move for Sanson is to get ahead of the game.
He is primarily a ball winner.
Is this the case? Villa Analytics seemed to suggest he compares more to John McGinn as a good ball carrying, box to box midfielder who can also play a bit further forward. Either way he sounds like a decent signing and will add much needed depth in there.
A total all round midfielder. Box to box. Offers a competition to several positions and can play Douglas Luiz role alongside deep lying or further up. And can get up and down the pitch no problem.
Certainly an energetic upgrade to Hourihane . Will offer a great option to press in final third
A technical upgrade to Nakamba.
Direct running with the ball puts him in a McGinn mode with touch more flair and grace that the bustling SJM but will carry the ball better than Nakamba and Hourihane and plays off both feet.
As say he could play alongside and deep like Douglas Luiz but like Dougie he can be played higher up and thus be a goal threat a ball-winner and can offer creativity
Would be a great signing providing he settles certainly a quality addition to the midfield engine room
Offers plenty.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 19, 2021, 01:58:09 PM
It feels like an excellent additon to the squad, but yes getting someone who can back Doug up if City do the inevitable seems very sensible.Thinking that Villa are expecting Citeh to trigger the buy-back for Douglas Luis and the move for Sanson is to get ahead of the game.
He is primarily a ball winner.
Is this the case? Villa Analytics seemed to suggest he compares more to John McGinn as a good ball carrying, box to box midfielder who can also play a bit further forward. Either way he sounds like a decent signing and will add much needed depth in there.
Post by: LukeJames on January 19, 2021, 02:30:32 PM
"He’s definitely an exciting player on his day, action-packed, and he’s better further up the pitch than defensively. He’s more end-to-end, and has a good shot from range on him. Similar to John McGinn, I would say."
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 19, 2021, 02:34:54 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on January 19, 2021, 02:35:40 PM
Post by: algy on January 19, 2021, 02:45:26 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 19, 2021, 03:00:06 PM
Really quite excited by the Sanson stuff. Sounds like a few other PL teams have asked about him in the past, but Marseille have been asking for the big bucks. Now they need the cash, we've popped in and potentially got him for (relatively) some money we found down the back of the sofa.
This, the Martinez deal and Doug the summer before point towards a club that's got it's finger on the pulse when it comes to recruitment, being inventive and taking advantage of problems that arise for other teams.
I still find it hard to believe it's us operating this way, but there you go.
Post by: sid1964 on January 19, 2021, 04:22:55 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 19, 2021, 05:21:56 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 19, 2021, 05:25:31 PM
i have never heard of him so will wait to see him play for us before getting too excited at this signing
Seems to me that Smith invariably improves players (polar opposite of our last few managers) so even if your excited when you see him play, you will probably be even more excited in a few months.
Post by: Ads on January 19, 2021, 05:28:43 PM
Post by: darren woolley on January 19, 2021, 05:57:50 PM
Post by: Ian. on January 19, 2021, 05:58:06 PM
Quite, it is hard to believe afters years of chaos with one clusterfuck to another. While watching with envy models like Swansea (a few years ago), Southampton and of course Leicester City. When a club is run well they can play attractive and competitive football and also seem to face set-backs without too much fuss. I know Swansea are now back in the Championship, but a club of their size to come up like they did and for a while they held their heads up well in the Premier League.Really quite excited by the Sanson stuff. Sounds like a few other PL teams have asked about him in the past, but Marseille have been asking for the big bucks. Now they need the cash, we've popped in and potentially got him for (relatively) some money we found down the back of the sofa.
This, the Martinez deal and Doug the summer before point towards a club that's got it's finger on the pulse when it comes to recruitment, being inventive and taking advantage of problems that arise for other teams.
I still find it hard to believe it's us operating this way, but there you go.
We now have a plan with lots of people hand picked to fulfil it and hopefully build upon it. It's all very exciting.
Post by: DrGonzo on January 19, 2021, 06:00:39 PM
€18m offer submitted according to a local journalist, Mohamed Bouhsfsi.
Bouhfasi?
Bouhafsi?
Yeah Bouhafsi, did you mean?
Post by: aev on January 19, 2021, 07:09:33 PM
Post by: Risso on January 19, 2021, 08:47:05 PM
The kinda signings I would have expected from Monsieur Houllier.
Christ, I hope he's not as bad as most of Houllier's signings.
Post by: eamonn on January 19, 2021, 10:09:16 PM
Post by: Dave on January 19, 2021, 10:12:52 PM
Ha, well the type he had lined-up for summer '11 (Cabaye, Fofana, someone else fancy sounding and possibly French).
Gervinho was one that Houllier had said was going to sign.
Post by: eamonn on January 19, 2021, 10:14:04 PM
Post by: Dave on January 19, 2021, 10:16:40 PM
Yes, forgot about him. Actually have forgotten about him full stop since he left Arsenal.
Doing okayish for Parma. Scored a blinding goal for them last season.
That's all I got.
Post by: villabear on January 19, 2021, 10:34:40 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 19, 2021, 10:57:03 PM
If it’s true about Sanson I hope he keeps up the tradition of French midfielders arriving at the training ground to sign adorned in hideous knitwear a la Berson and Makoun.
Is this what you have in mind? http://threebackpockets.com/portfolio/sansoncampagnolo-longsleeve-vintage-cycling-jersey/
Post by: Risso on January 19, 2021, 11:25:22 PM
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on January 19, 2021, 11:40:04 PM
France hasn't exactly been a hotbed of Villa legends for us over the years, let's hope this chap puts that right.
Ginola was the most disappointing. World class at Newcastle and Spurs, flabby and disinterested for us.
Don't think Berson had a fair run at. Veretout sulked and didn't fancy the second division, Gana was OK and went on to be better, amarvi was average, and Ayew did OK. Not a great record, but look at how many great French players other teams have found. It's about time we found a Vieira, Pires. Ginola or Cantona!
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 20, 2021, 12:18:29 AM
Not a great record, but look at how many great French players other teams have found. It's about time we found a Vieira, Pires. Ginola or Cantona!
I'm not greedy, an Henry would do for me.
Post by: FatSam on January 20, 2021, 01:15:44 AM
France hasn't exactly been a hotbed of Villa legends for us over the years, let's hope this chap puts that right.Ginola was the most disappointing. World class at Newcastle and Spurs, flabby and disinterested for us.
Don't think Berson had a fair run at. Veretout sulked and didn't fancy the second division, Gana was OK and went on to be better, amarvi was average, and Ayew did OK. Not a great record, but look at how many great French players other teams have found. It's about time we found a Vieira, Pires. Ginola or Cantona!
Ginola was already 33 when he arrived, so was always going to be past his best. I was frustrated with the transfer at the time, as we were taking a player off Spurs' hands, after they and Newcastle had already got the best out of him.
Gana and Ayew aren't French, but were obviously bought from the French market. I agree that we haven't had much luck with this generally. Paddy Riley was clearly onto something with Gana, Amavi, Veretout and to a certain extent Ayew. We were also linked with some good players when Houllier was in charge - Adil Rami amongst others from memory. Steve Mandanda had an unsuccessful trial under O'Neill before he joined Marseille. It would be good to have some of the success that clubs like Newcastle and Leicester have had and pick-up a Sissoko or Kante.
Post by: villabear on January 20, 2021, 07:07:54 AM
If it’s true about Sanson I hope he keeps up the tradition of French midfielders arriving at the training ground to sign adorned in hideous knitwear a la Berson and Makoun.
Is this what you have in mind? http://threebackpockets.com/portfolio/sansoncampagnolo-longsleeve-vintage-cycling-jersey/
I was more remembering this
(https://i.ibb.co/jD0xRM4/BIRMINGHAM-ENGLAND-JANUARY-15-Jean-Makoun-holds-up-his-shirt-after-announcing-signing-with-Aston-Vil.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jD0xRM4)
Post by: manic-road on January 20, 2021, 07:29:09 AM
France hasn't exactly been a hotbed of Villa legends for us over the years, let's hope this chap puts that right.
Ginola was the most disappointing. World class at Newcastle and Spurs, flabby and disinterested for us.
Don't think Berson had a fair run at. Veretout sulked and didn't fancy the second division, Gana was OK and went on to be better, amarvi was average, and Ayew did OK. Not a great record, but look at how many great French players other teams have found. It's about time we found a Vieira, Pires. Ginola or Cantona!
Can't recall Ginola being flabby to be honest.
Post by: eamonn on January 20, 2021, 08:06:42 AM
Post by: Dave on January 20, 2021, 08:16:19 AM
It would be good to have some of the success that clubs like Newcastle and Leicester have had and pick-up a Sissoko or Kante.
It was supposedly us or Newcastle for Sissokho but we would pay the wages he was looking for.
Post by: The Edge on January 20, 2021, 08:57:34 AM
We wasn't a media favourite like Newcastle or Spurs were back then so Ginola probably saw us as a bit of a meh move but no doubt the money was good. In fact we've never been a media favourite or sexy club have we? Nowadays Leeds are the media darlings. For some inexplicable reason commentators can't wait to cream themselves over them because they don't stop running about a lot. I think that media perception of us is changing now thanks to to our recent exploits and the fact that love him or hate him you can't ignore Jack Grealish.France hasn't exactly been a hotbed of Villa legends for us over the years, let's hope this chap puts that right.
Ginola was the most disappointing. World class at Newcastle and Spurs, flabby and disinterested for us.
Don't think Berson had a fair run at. Veretout sulked and didn't fancy the second division, Gana was OK and went on to be better, amarvi was average, and Ayew did OK. Not a great record, but look at how many great French players other teams have found. It's about time we found a Vieira, Pires. Ginola or Cantona!
Post by: ktvillan on January 20, 2021, 10:26:53 AM
Post by: OCD on January 20, 2021, 10:41:38 AM
Post by: Risso on January 20, 2021, 10:43:13 AM
I quite enjoyed watching Ginola for us past his best and not massively effective but some of his touches were sublime. As for him "carrying a bit of timber" that was a nonsensical dig by Gregory who seemed miffed that Ginola had been signed by Doug rather than him, and disproved when Ginola took his shirt off after scoring. It seems to have become accepted truth for some though.
Didn't Ginola set Cherie Blair on Gregory for that?
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 20, 2021, 10:55:27 AM
I quite enjoyed watching Ginola for us past his best and not massively effective but some of his touches were sublime. As for him "carrying a bit of timber" that was a nonsensical dig by Gregory who seemed miffed that Ginola had been signed by Doug rather than him, and disproved when Ginola took his shirt off after scoring. It seems to have become accepted truth for some though.
Didn't Ginola set Cherie Blair on Gregory for that?
What an image!
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 20, 2021, 11:01:03 AM
Cherie, that would be frightening.I quite enjoyed watching Ginola for us past his best and not massively effective but some of his touches were sublime. As for him "carrying a bit of timber" that was a nonsensical dig by Gregory who seemed miffed that Ginola had been signed by Doug rather than him, and disproved when Ginola took his shirt off after scoring. It seems to have become accepted truth for some though.
Didn't Ginola set Cherie Blair on Gregory for that?
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 20, 2021, 12:35:57 PM
BBC rumours page has Guardiola not interested in taking Luiz back to Man City
Post by: eamonn on January 20, 2021, 02:25:58 PM
Post by: Risso on January 20, 2021, 03:05:32 PM
Odergaard signing would surely bring John Blackwell back to the H&V fold.
And his totally non made up sex therapist wife.
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on January 20, 2021, 03:35:35 PM
How's the staff member you know doing?
As some non playing staff have had covid-19
Around 35 in total staff and players
I’m not sure as I’ve not seen him since well before Christmas. Hopefully I’ll bump into him over the next week or so.
Post by: Ads on January 20, 2021, 03:53:37 PM
Odergaard signing would surely bring John Blackwell back to the H&V fold.
And his totally non made up sex therapist wife.
Nailed on 14 year old who spent way too much time on Championship Manager.
Post by: LukeJames on January 20, 2021, 10:08:25 PM
Post by: Ads on January 20, 2021, 10:10:56 PM
Post by: Steve67 on January 20, 2021, 10:11:06 PM
Sanson wasn't in the Marseille squad tonight.
Good stuff. Hopefully get it sorted for Saturday, we could do with him!
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 20, 2021, 10:12:10 PM
Sanson wasn't in the Marseille squad tonight.
He was playing.
That said expect us to sign him at some point in next week and he can be involved straight away.
Post by: Ads on January 20, 2021, 10:16:15 PM
Sanson wasn't in the Marseille squad tonight.
He was playing.
That said expect us to sign him at some point in next week and he can be involved straight away.
Not according to the teams on Sky Sports he wasn't.
Post by: Steve67 on January 20, 2021, 10:17:04 PM
Post by: Ads on January 20, 2021, 10:18:18 PM
Post by: HoratioHornblower on January 20, 2021, 10:22:47 PM
Post by: Steve67 on January 20, 2021, 10:25:32 PM
Sky Sports (https://www.skysports.com/football/marseille-vs-rc-lens/teams/431444) says not in the squad?
Ads, I don't even think the date is correct on Sky Sports. They are absolute shite.
Post by: Dave on January 20, 2021, 10:52:19 PM
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 20, 2021, 10:55:45 PM
Villas-Boas has said that we made a "weak offer" which they've rejected.
Well I guess you start somewhere and do the dance
Post by: richtheholtender on January 20, 2021, 11:00:17 PM
Sky Sports (https://www.skysports.com/football/marseille-vs-rc-lens/teams/431444) says not in the squad?
Ads, I don't even think the date is correct on Sky Sports. They are absolute shite.
Yep, talking about sky sports here who had Ross Barkley as captain for the game tonight
Post by: Ads on January 20, 2021, 11:01:19 PM
Villas-Boas has said that we made a "weak offer" which they've rejected.
"It was pathetic". Suck it up, skint prick.
Post by: Dave on January 20, 2021, 11:49:17 PM
Post by: Ads on January 20, 2021, 11:50:46 PM
Post by: OCD on January 20, 2021, 11:54:55 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 21, 2021, 12:01:24 AM
Post by: aev on January 21, 2021, 07:59:11 AM
Post by: LukeJames on January 21, 2021, 08:04:20 AM
Did he play tonight then? Hope this becomes the new "Why didn't Barry take the penalty?", I'm sick to death of that one.
Apparantly so, Looks like I jumped the gun by paying attention to the Sky line ups.
Post by: ADVILLAFAN on January 21, 2021, 08:28:24 AM
According to France Football we offered €7m
Sounds like a Tottingham Hotspurs type offer.
If only we had Onomah to tempt them with.
Post by: Drummond on January 21, 2021, 09:52:02 AM
According to France Football we offered €7m
Sounds like a Tottingham Hotspurs type offer.
If only we had Onomah to tempt them with.
We've got Lansbury.
Post by: Mister E on January 21, 2021, 10:24:00 AM
;D ;D ;DWe've got Lansbury.According to France Football we offered €7mSounds like a Tottingham Hotspurs type offer.
If only we had Onomah to tempt them with.
Post by: Risso on January 21, 2021, 10:56:15 AM
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 21, 2021, 11:05:48 AM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 21, 2021, 01:26:43 PM
Post by: mr underhill on January 21, 2021, 02:30:28 PM
Post by: Ads on January 21, 2021, 02:52:49 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on January 21, 2021, 02:58:34 PM
According to France Football we offered €7m
Sounds like a Tottingham Hotspurs type offer.
If only we had Onomah to tempt them with.
We've got Lansbury.
Can't really blame him, but I bet Lansbury can't believe his luck. Was at a middling Championship club and is now probably a multi millionaire for life on the back of playing a handful of games in four years.
Post by: not3bad on January 21, 2021, 03:23:49 PM
Post by: godzvilla on January 21, 2021, 03:40:04 PM
when Arsenal were recently connected with
Morgan Sansom,who, allegedly,,we are in talks with,
an article appeared in the Arse Fanzine 'Arsenal Core', entitled "why arsenal should not sign , Morgan Sansom, part of which which did not make encouraging reading:
He is a very intelligent midfielder but he tries to dribble a lot and thus loses possession of the ball too often. Morgan tries to keep the ball with him as much as he can and this attracts fouls which makes him more vulnerable to injuries. Standing 180 cm tall he does not hold a good record in aerial duels and his passing skills are not exceptionally good.
Arsenal intend to sign more midfielders this season as they believe a creative midfield would help them a lot in retaining back their status and top spot, and that’s completely true!
the price of the right footed midfielder ( Sansom ) is way too much to ask for and that is a big reason why Arsenal should not sign him.
He is a very intelligent midfielder but he tries to dribble a lot and thus loses possession of the ball too often. Morgan tries to keep the ball with him as much as he can and this attracts fouls which makes him more vulnerable to injuries. Standing 180 cm( about 5ft 10in) tall he does not hold a good record in aerial duels and his passing skills are not exceptionally good.
morgansanson
Although his defensive contribution is excellent but many a times he gets so aggressive that he commits fouls when they are not needed (Yes, like Xhaka
He is a very intelligent midfielder but he tries to dribble a lot and thus loses possession of the ball too often. Morgan tries to keep the ball with him as much as he can and this attracts fouls which makes him more vulnerable to injuries. Standing 180 cm tall he does not hold a good record in aerial duels and his passing skills are not exceptionally good.
Post by: OCD on January 21, 2021, 04:20:53 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 21, 2021, 04:38:09 PM
Post by: LukeJames on January 21, 2021, 04:50:36 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on January 21, 2021, 05:02:45 PM
He does 1 phenominally good thing a game were you think fucking hell. His tracking back was very poor last night though, Foden snd Cancelo/Zinchenko were doubling up on Cash all game.
It has been in a number of recent games. Think it will certainly be an area that teams will look to exploit.
Post by: Risso on January 21, 2021, 05:09:57 PM
Post by: TonyD on January 21, 2021, 06:18:47 PM
We can see how quickly he learns. It ain’t rocket science.
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 21, 2021, 06:30:02 PM
We finally have a recruitment and coaching team that I have confidence in. If there's areas to his game that need improvement, I've got faith that our people will make him a better player. It's been quite the opposite in the past.
Yes, but if 'Arsenal Core' said have said it three times then it can't be denied that he isn't much cop.
Post by: kipeye on January 22, 2021, 09:38:43 AM
He does 1 phenominally good thing a game were you think fucking hell. His tracking back was very poor last night though, Foden snd Cancelo/Zinchenko were doubling up on Cash all game.This has been evident in a number of games and a predictable tactic. Same happened with Anwar and Trez for a good while and they have only this season developed that part of their game.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 22, 2021, 09:41:04 AM
We finally have a recruitment and coaching team that I have confidence in. If there's areas to his game that need improvement, I've got faith that our people will make him a better player. It's been quite the opposite in the past.
Yes, but if 'Arsenal Core' said have said it three times then it can't be denied that he isn't much cop.
Yeah also worth remembering, Arsenal paid almost 60m for that waste of space Pepe, so not too sure I'd use their recruitment standards for us.
Post by: algy on January 22, 2021, 11:31:29 AM
Suspect that might be an ongoing thing for us with transfers. We've got a particular way we play, seemingly one which requires players to have both their attacking and defensive heads on at all times pretty much across the board. They might look on paper to be, say, a winger - but in reality they're 60% winger, 40% fullback and they're expected to flip between one mode and the other at the drop of a hat.He does 1 phenominally good thing a game were you think fucking hell. His tracking back was very poor last night though, Foden snd Cancelo/Zinchenko were doubling up on Cash all game.This has been evident in a number of games and a predictable tactic. Same happened with Anwar and Trez for a good while and they have only this season developed that part of their game.
Taking a wild stab, perhaps that's why Elmo's preferred over Freddy at RB? Elmo's just better and switching from defence to attack and back again, whereas Freddy is struggling with that a bit.
Think Bertie will come good given time. It's his first season, and he's not had much of a preseason to get himself in the right frame of mind
Post by: LeeB on January 22, 2021, 11:47:21 AM
Post by: tomd2103 on January 22, 2021, 02:15:10 PM
Suspect that might be an ongoing thing for us with transfers. We've got a particular way we play, seemingly one which requires players to have both their attacking and defensive heads on at all times pretty much across the board. They might look on paper to be, say, a winger - but in reality they're 60% winger, 40% fullback and they're expected to flip between one mode and the other at the drop of a hat.He does 1 phenominally good thing a game were you think fucking hell. His tracking back was very poor last night though, Foden snd Cancelo/Zinchenko were doubling up on Cash all game.This has been evident in a number of games and a predictable tactic. Same happened with Anwar and Trez for a good while and they have only this season developed that part of their game.
Taking a wild stab, perhaps that's why Elmo's preferred over Freddy at RB? Elmo's just better and switching from defence to attack and back again, whereas Freddy is struggling with that a bit.
Think Bertie will come good given time. It's his first season, and he's not had much of a preseason to get himself in the right frame of mind
Agree with this. In the current side, I think a traditional sort of right midfielder would be the best option at the moment. Someone solid defensively, who has got the pace to transition defence into attack and can get at the back post.
Watching Leicester the other night, I thought Barnes and Albrighton did it very well.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on January 22, 2021, 02:18:13 PM
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 22, 2021, 02:54:53 PM
Post by: Mister E on January 22, 2021, 04:26:00 PM
I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?
Post by: eamonn on January 22, 2021, 04:39:15 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 22, 2021, 04:43:39 PM
I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?
Maybe we’re gambling on the benefits to our counter-attacking outweighing the negatives to our defending?
Post by: Mister E on January 22, 2021, 04:46:54 PM
Maybe; didn't work on Wednesday ...Maybe we’re gambling on the benefits to our counter-attacking outweighing the negatives to our defending?I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?
... not that I'm being over-critical about our performance; just think that the game demands both defence- and attack-mindedness.
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 22, 2021, 04:54:34 PM
Post by: paul_e on January 22, 2021, 05:18:53 PM
I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?
Given we play a 4231 what we seem to be doing is one of the 2 goes out to help the full back and 1/2 of the 3 tuck inside (and sometimes even Watkins) to make midfield really compact. The other wide player or the 10 tries to stay a bit further up field for the counter-attack so we usually have someone near to Watkins when we break.
Post by: Mister E on January 22, 2021, 05:23:48 PM
Yeah, get that. I wonder why opponents seem to target our right-side defence?Given we play a 4231 what we seem to be doing is one of the 2 goes out to help the full back and 1/2 of the 3 tuck inside (and sometimes even Watkins) to make midfield really compact. The other wide player or the 10 tries to stay a bit further up field for the counter-attack so we usually have someone near to Watkins when we break.I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?
It worked to an extent both on wednesday and at Wembley. The tactic of giving up the spaces wide left and right for foden and Stirling to dance around a bit but ultimately produce bugger all. Both games were lost due to incompetent officials not our tactics.Ha; I suppose so!
Post by: paul_e on January 22, 2021, 05:37:15 PM
Yeah, get that. I wonder why opponents seem to target our right-side defence?Given we play a 4231 what we seem to be doing is one of the 2 goes out to help the full back and 1/2 of the 3 tuck inside (and sometimes even Watkins) to make midfield really compact. The other wide player or the 10 tries to stay a bit further up field for the counter-attack so we usually have someone near to Watkins when we break.I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?It worked to an extent both on wednesday and at Wembley. The tactic of giving up the spaces wide left and right for foden and Stirling to dance around a bit but ultimately produce bugger all. Both games were lost due to incompetent officials not our tactics.Ha; I suppose so!
I'm not sure it's targeting as such.
Man City attacked there a lot but then Foden is in far better form than Stirling.
Leeds got a lot of joy on that side but then Harrison is a more effective player than Helder Costa.
I just think this season there are more in form left wingers than right wingers, there's stats to back that up as well, can't remember where I saw it but attacks down the left are 2-3% more common that the right this season.
Post by: Ads on January 22, 2021, 11:01:08 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 22, 2021, 11:34:56 PM
I suspect that Traore is being told not to get bogged down in defensive work by the coaching staff so that we have a threat on the break, similarly to what we know they've told Grealish.If that's the case, who is being nominated to support Cash?
The Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a scheme that gives Cash support
Post by: olaftab on January 22, 2021, 11:50:39 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 22, 2021, 11:59:55 PM
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 23, 2021, 12:53:02 AM
Yep, poster of the week, without question. I even listened to Celine Dion today on Spotify and I would never have done that previously.
Don't say what you're about to say
I had to think twice about using Celine Dion lyrics in posts
Post by: andyh on January 23, 2021, 10:47:30 AM
10:43
VILLA AGREE £14M SANSON FEE
Aston Villa have agreed a fee with Marseille for Morgan Sanson.
Villa will pay £14m, with the fee potentially rising to £15.5m with add ons.
The France midfielder is expected to arrive in Birmingham next week.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 23, 2021, 10:48:56 AM
Post by: OCD on January 23, 2021, 11:08:33 AM
From sky sports
10:43
VILLA AGREE £14M SANSON FEE
Aston Villa have agreed a fee with Marseille for Morgan Sanson.
Villa will pay £14m, with the fee potentially rising to £15.5m with add ons.
The France midfielder is expected to arrive in Birmingham next week.
That evolved quickly. Does he get his own thread now?
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 23, 2021, 11:16:23 AM
is he an improvement on Hourihane? can't say I watch French football.
I posted this yesterday....
From my French, Villa and Marseille supporting friend on the French lad we’ve been linked with....Samson is an upgrade on Connor. Not a stand out player though. Gets a few goals and assists.
Post by: Ads on January 23, 2021, 11:32:41 AM
Post by: OCD on January 23, 2021, 11:35:26 AM
Post by: villabear on January 23, 2021, 11:37:44 AM
Sky Sports
Aston Villa have agreed a fee with Marseille for midfielder Morgan Sanson.
Villa will pay £14m with the fee potentially rising to £15.5m with add ons.
The French midfielder is expected to arrive in Birmingham next week.
Post by: OCD on January 23, 2021, 12:00:27 PM
Post by: KevinGage on January 23, 2021, 12:28:56 PM
Usually more reliable than Sky Fi.
Post by: Dave P on January 23, 2021, 12:50:14 PM
is he an improvement on Hourihane? can't say I watch French football.
Nobody does. Not even the French. Hence why we got him so cheap.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 23, 2021, 01:22:39 PM
Not sure how involved he will be from the start though. It's probably more with the view of letting him settle in during the second half of the season and having him fully involved next season.
I actually think that's one of the advantages of getting someone in January as you can ease them in while they get used to things off the field and hopefully they can kick on from start of next season.
We have a very settled and pretty good central midfield so no pressure to start him right away unless we get loads of injuries in that area.
I also remember signing Young in January 2007 and he showed flashes but wasn't that amazing which got people nervous we'd overpaid at the time but he was right on it from start of the next season and quickly made the England squad.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 23, 2021, 01:34:49 PM
Post by: Clampy on January 23, 2021, 01:37:18 PM
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 23, 2021, 01:48:57 PM
As we have done with Conor it seems to make room for another signing we will need to let one out.
We already have a space in the 25 anyway as Kalinic has gone on loan. Unless we're saving it for Lansbury.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 23, 2021, 04:33:03 PM
Post by: Dick Edwards on January 24, 2021, 01:21:56 PM
It would be interesting to see to Bert could play up front. He has before apparently. Maybe something we could try in a game we are winning comfortably.
He doesn't look physically strong enough to play the Watkins role to me.
Post by: Mister E on January 24, 2021, 01:36:25 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 24, 2021, 01:40:08 PM
Post by: Mister E on January 24, 2021, 04:41:58 PM
Eloise, isn't she the girl in HR ?Olise!!
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 24, 2021, 05:20:15 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 24, 2021, 05:30:29 PM
Post by: TelfordVilla on January 24, 2021, 05:39:01 PM
Post by: Ads on January 24, 2021, 05:58:36 PM
Post by: Dave on January 24, 2021, 06:04:00 PM
The hugh press would disrupt it.
Could be our nemesis.
Post by: cdbearsfan on January 24, 2021, 06:08:06 PM
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 24, 2021, 06:39:13 PM
The hugh press would disrupt it.
Could be our nemesis.
A collective effort wouldn't be futile.
Post by: john2710 on January 24, 2021, 07:00:32 PM
Wesley is not going to be ready anytime soon, so an alternative to Davies would be the priority now. Allowing Davies out on loan.
With time we'll have better defensive options to Engels, Hause, Elmo, Guilbert & Taylor.
Post by: OCD on January 24, 2021, 07:08:04 PM
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 24, 2021, 07:27:46 PM
It's about having premier league quality options that keeps everybody on their toes. Sanson does this with McGinn & Barkley.
Wesley is not going to be ready anytime soon, so an alternative to Davies would be the priority now. Allowing Davies out on loan.
With time we'll have better defensive options to Engels, Hause, Elmo, Guilbert & Taylor.
The first four could well be adequate slotting in one or two at a time into the much better team we have now. Not so confident about Taylor but maybe him too.
Post by: robbo1874 on January 24, 2021, 09:17:44 PM
Post by: SaddVillan on January 24, 2021, 09:45:56 PM
Not sure if this has already been posted from around a week ago, but Callum Rowe is off to Hereford on loan and Dominic Revan has been loaned to Weymouth.
They both played a full 90 minutes yesterday.
Which is why they went out - to get minutes playing against grown ups.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 25, 2021, 12:22:47 AM
Eloise, isn't she the girl in HR ?Olise!!
Watched a bit of the Reading game today, Olise was unused sub so not sure what's happened there. About to be sold or coming back from an injury?
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 25, 2021, 12:25:46 AM
So we think Barkley is for the chop? I thought he was more a McGinn/Luiz sort of player.
Luiz might not be here in six months so think it's insurance for that.
It's nice to sign a good player without throwing him straight into the team and hailing him as a saviour e.g. Drinkwater last January who constantly started despite being useless.
He can learn the language and contribute with sub cameos and odd starts if say McGinn gets to 10 yellows and then be really raring to go from August. Hopefully Doug will still be here to make that area even stronger.
I think if Barkley isn't signed full time it's more likely you'd see Sanson sit in the middle two and we push SJM more forward to break into the box as he was doing when we first came up.
Post by: OCD on January 25, 2021, 11:37:19 AM
Eloise, isn't she the girl in HR ?Olise!!
Watched a bit of the Reading game today, Olise was unused sub so not sure what's happened there. About to be sold or coming back from an injury?
Shoulder injury.
Post by: Ads on January 25, 2021, 11:15:35 PM
Post by: CT Villan on January 26, 2021, 12:18:32 AM
Seeing as Barca are going bust, should we put a Bid in for Messi?
Straight swap for Lansbury :)
Post by: Ads on January 26, 2021, 12:43:18 AM
€1.3bn in debt and with €700m needed to be paid back pronto.
Post by: KevinGage on January 26, 2021, 08:26:16 AM
But in the current climate, that's prob expecting a lot. With the Sanson deal alone we'll have done more business than most other PL clubs.
John Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play wide and through the centre, so that's prob our contingency if anything happens to Ollie. It's not ideal, but since Jan 2019, these owners have got the bulk of our transfer business right.
Post by: London Villan on January 26, 2021, 08:41:08 AM
Post by: Risso on January 26, 2021, 09:03:45 AM
Would still like to see another forward come in.
But in the current climate, that's prob expecting a lot. With the Sanson deal alone we'll have done more business than most other PL clubs.
John Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play wide and through the centre, so that's prob our contingency if anything happens to Ollie. It's not ideal, but since Jan 2019, these owners have got the bulk of our transfer business right.
The very much didn't last January!
Post by: KevinGage on January 26, 2021, 09:25:27 AM
The Norwegian lad instead of Reina in those last few games and we'd have probably been down even before Watford went mad and potted Nigel Pearson.
Post by: Risso on January 26, 2021, 09:30:47 AM
Reina played a big part in keeping us up, IMO. Even if the reflexes were clearly on the wane.
The Norwegian lad instead of Reina in those last few games and we'd have probably been down even before Watford went mad and potted Nigel Pearson.
Reina was awful at times as well. I think he just about ended his time with us in credit, but it wasn't an unqualified success by any means.
Post by: eamonn on January 26, 2021, 09:31:53 AM
Would still like to see another forward come in.
But in the current climate, that's prob expecting a lot. With the Sanson deal alone we'll have done more business than most other PL clubs.
John Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play wide and through the centre, so that's prob our contingency if anything happens to Ollie. It's not ideal, but since Jan 2019, these owners have got the bulk of our transfer business right.
The very much didn't last January!
And Suso paid the price.
Post by: paul_e on January 26, 2021, 09:44:17 AM
Seeing as Barca are going bust, should we put a Bid in for Messi?
If we're dreaming of signing players from Barca I want Fati not Messi.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 26, 2021, 10:50:58 AM
Post by: OCD on January 26, 2021, 10:53:23 AM
Post by: purpletrousers on January 26, 2021, 11:05:10 AM
Like many of our players, Reina was terrible before lockdown but an important player after lockdown.Presence is such a big thing for a goalie, defenders feeling there is confident instruction barked at them from behind keeps them on their toes, attackers however unconciously knowing they’ve got to beat someone that has excelled at the highest levels, I think as above on balance he was in credit.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 26, 2021, 11:29:13 AM
Would still like to see another forward come in.
But in the current climate, that's prob expecting a lot. With the Sanson deal alone we'll have done more business than most other PL clubs.
John Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play wide and through the centre, so that's prob our contingency if anything happens to Ollie. It's not ideal, but since Jan 2019, these owners have got the bulk of our transfer business right.
The very much didn't last January!
And Suso paid the price.
And his summer deals have since been vindicated.
Post by: algy on January 26, 2021, 11:42:39 AM
https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/aston-villa-benfica-target-jiangsu-suning-star-alex-teixeira-4356636
Jiangsu Suning paid €50m for him a few years back, so presumably he looked pretty good at some point. Got a 1 in 2 scoring record in China, although not sure how good/bad that makes him.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 26, 2021, 11:46:11 AM
Post by: Mister E on January 26, 2021, 11:46:22 AM
Supposedly offered a short term deal to Brazilian centre forward Alex Teixeira, who was playing in China up until last month.Might be an interesting link, but the credibility of the site is somewhat undermined by the headline below the artcile on Teixeira:
https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/aston-villa-benfica-target-jiangsu-suning-star-alex-teixeira-4356636 (https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/aston-villa-benfica-target-jiangsu-suning-star-alex-teixeira-4356636)
"Guardiola hails West Brom boss Allardyce'a genius'
;D ;D
Post by: algy on January 26, 2021, 11:46:33 AM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 26, 2021, 11:47:45 AM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
Ah, ok. Good, I think we’re well stocked for midfielders.
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 26, 2021, 11:48:45 AM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
His goal scoring record seems to fit a forward more, albeit in Brazil, Ukraine and China not really any major leagues.
I'm well up for another bit of Brazilian skill in the squad.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 26, 2021, 11:51:23 AM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
His goal scoring record seems to fit a forward more, albeit in Brazil, Ukraine and China not really any major leagues.
I'm well up for another bit of Brazilian skill in the squad.
Has he played in England? The name rings a bell.
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 26, 2021, 11:54:32 AM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
His goal scoring record seems to fit a forward more, albeit in Brazil, Ukraine and China not really any major leagues.
I'm well up for another bit of Brazilian skill in the squad.
Has he played in England? The name rings a bell.
Not according to Wiki, but Liverpool were allegedly after him at one stage. That might be where you heard the name?
Post by: Risso on January 26, 2021, 11:55:40 AM
Would still like to see another forward come in.
But in the current climate, that's prob expecting a lot. With the Sanson deal alone we'll have done more business than most other PL clubs.
John Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play wide and through the centre, so that's prob our contingency if anything happens to Ollie. It's not ideal, but since Jan 2019, these owners have got the bulk of our transfer business right.
The very much didn't last January!
And Suso paid the price.
And his summer deals have since been vindicated.
Some of them have, some of them not so much.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 26, 2021, 12:01:56 PM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
His goal scoring record seems to fit a forward more, albeit in Brazil, Ukraine and China not really any major leagues.
I'm well up for another bit of Brazilian skill in the squad.
Has he played in England? The name rings a bell.
Not according to Wiki, but Liverpool were allegedly after him at one stage. That might be where you heard the name?
Maybe. Looks useful (I know, I know):
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ecBnHbx7X1k
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 26, 2021, 12:09:49 PM
Post by: maidstonevillain on January 26, 2021, 12:22:53 PM
Is he a centre-forward? Says midfielder in the article.Says forward on wikipedia so I was going with that ...
His goal scoring record seems to fit a forward more, albeit in Brazil, Ukraine and China not really any major leagues.
I'm well up for another bit of Brazilian skill in the squad.
Has he played in England? The name rings a bell.
Not according to Wiki, but Liverpool were allegedly after him at one stage. That might be where you heard the name?
Maybe. Looks useful (I know, I know):
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ecBnHbx7X1k
Looking at those defences I think you are a few "I knows" short.
Post by: sid1964 on January 26, 2021, 12:37:49 PM
Post by: FatSam on January 26, 2021, 12:44:19 PM
Supposedly offered a short term deal to Brazilian centre forward Alex Teixeira, who was playing in China up until last month.
https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/aston-villa-benfica-target-jiangsu-suning-star-alex-teixeira-4356636
Jiangsu Suning paid €50m for him a few years back, so presumably he looked pretty good at some point. Got a 1 in 2 scoring record in China, although not sure how good/bad that makes him.
The only reason I've heard of him is because I was looking at this list of free agents (https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/transfers/vertragslosespieler/statistik) literally yesterday.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 26, 2021, 12:49:42 PM
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Post by: Dave on January 26, 2021, 12:53:46 PM
Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
Post by: AndyP on January 26, 2021, 12:55:55 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 26, 2021, 12:57:07 PM
Reina played a big part in keeping us up, IMO. Even if the reflexes were clearly on the wane.
The Norwegian lad instead of Reina in those last few games and we'd have probably been down even before Watford went mad and potted Nigel Pearson.
Reina was awful at times as well. I think he just about ended his time with us in credit, but it wasn't an unqualified success by any means.
What he did offer at least was a bit of vocal leadership and organisation at the back. Ontop of how rubbish Nyland generally was, never seemed he'd communicate much with defence either so they simply have no faith in him at all.
Interesting that Reina has gone to Lazio and actually become first choice for them as they had a decent number one already.
Post by: walsall villain on January 26, 2021, 01:31:06 PM
It would go against everything the club has said in the last 2 years about transfer policy. We won’t be looking at 34 year old outfield players unless there is a unexpected complete policy change.Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 26, 2021, 01:38:23 PM
It would go against everything the club has said in the last 2 years about transfer policy. We won’t be looking at 34 year old outfield players unless there is a unexpected complete policy change.Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
I would hope that any policy we have is flexible enough to deal with changes in circumstances, such as the possibility of a Champions League place at least two years ahead of schedule.
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 26, 2021, 01:42:59 PM
It would go against everything the club has said in the last 2 years about transfer policy. We won’t be looking at 34 year old outfield players unless there is a unexpected complete policy change.Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
I would hope that any policy we have is flexible enough to deal with changes in circumstances, such as the possibility of a Champions League place at least two years ahead of schedule.
Seconded.
Post by: walsall villain on January 26, 2021, 01:53:22 PM
I’m guessing they wouldn’t. Whose to say that sort of gamble would work? I’m patient, I can wait at bit longer for our younger players to get us there. Less financial risk, I don’t won’t to see us throwing money at ageing players with no resale value.It would go against everything the club has said in the last 2 years about transfer policy. We won’t be looking at 34 year old outfield players unless there is a unexpected complete policy change.Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
I would hope that any policy we have is flexible enough to deal with changes in circumstances, such as the possibility of a Champions League place at least two years ahead of schedule.
Seconded.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 26, 2021, 01:56:47 PM
Post by: Dave on January 26, 2021, 01:57:24 PM
It would go against everything the club has said in the last 2 years about transfer policy. We won’t be looking at 34 year old outfield players unless there is a unexpected complete policy change.Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
As Dave said, it would be a bit daft to pigeonhole what we are looking for rather than judging each case on its merits.
We play a formation with a single striker, so any striker we bring in is going to be replacing Watkins or playing second-fiddle to Watkins.
I'd have said an experienced striker who isn't able to play every game but those he does play he's really good in, while helping bring along Watkins and the (seemingly) high-quality teenagers behind him is precisely what we need right now.
Another £25m 24 year old striker would risk hugely upsetting things, an older striker wouldn't.
Not all "old player" transfers are the same - there's a world of difference between bringing in Paul Merson and handing 35 year old Shay Given a five year contract.
Edit - as a case in point, Liverpool signed Gary McAllister when he was 35 and Steven Gerrard was 20. Our policy would have pointed to that being a bad idea and that it would hinder Gerrard's development and game time. As it, Gerrard improved massively and Liverpool won four trophies in the season that he signed. With Houllier and Gerrard crediting McAllister's influence as the reason for both.
Edit - my edit probably removed the context from Risso's subsequent one. Which I assume was a reaction to being reminded of Kieron Richardson.
Post by: Risso on January 26, 2021, 01:58:45 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 26, 2021, 01:59:59 PM
Post by: walsall villain on January 26, 2021, 02:13:06 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 26, 2021, 02:14:35 PM
Watkins equipped with an experienced partner on the training ground and one who can compete with him for a spot/ help gee him up on the pitch when he's in need of a boost would be fantastic for him and for us.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 26, 2021, 02:22:37 PM
Would say it's similar to Man. United getting in Cavani.
Start of season people thought it was a bad deal given he was apparently washed up and they had Martial, Rashford and Greenwood as options for a team that only plays one upfront.
However Martial has hardly scored a league goal this season (typically he did score v us) and Greenwood has largely been poor since his Iceland adventure.
Cavani been really good in last few weeks and imagine he's excellent on the training pitch and dressing room aswell.
AC Milan who are still top of Serie A recently signed Mandzukic who's 35 to add to 39 year old Zlatan so seems to be working o.k for them.
Atletico Madrid signing 33 year old Suarez and miles clear at top of La Liga is another.
Seems Ollie's fitness record is fantastic given he hardly seemed to miss a game at Brentford last season but all it takes is one bad tackle (given who we're playing next) and that could send the plans back into havoc given it would be Davis to come in.
Would rather have a Dzeko type lurking on the bench just in case. Could just be a case of taking over the rest of his Roma contract although I don't know if he has 6 or 18 months left.
Post by: dave.woodhall on January 26, 2021, 02:22:50 PM
I’m guessing they wouldn’t. Whose to say that sort of gamble would work? I’m patient, I can wait at bit longer for our younger players to get us there. Less financial risk, I don’t won’t to see us throwing money at ageing players with no resale value.It would go against everything the club has said in the last 2 years about transfer policy. We won’t be looking at 34 year old outfield players unless there is a unexpected complete policy change.Dzeko being linked to West Ham, would love that type as a signing for rest of the season. His goal record been brilliant last few years in Serie A and did well when he was over here for Man. City.
Sort of short term boost that could nudge us into top 6 I reckon.
Yup. Would be ideal on an 18 month contract.
I would hope that any policy we have is flexible enough to deal with changes in circumstances, such as the possibility of a Champions League place at least two years ahead of schedule.
Seconded.
Every transfer is a gamble, but buying/loaning an older player now would cost us maybe £8 million in wages over the next eighteen months, which is the equivalent of two places higher in the table over the two seasons he'd be with us. Get into the Champions League and he'd be a Dwight Yorke-level bargain. As I said earlier, we're maybe two years ahead of schedule at the moment so whereas we'd have been looking last summer to sign a player who would be at his peak in 2023, perhaps we're thinking of getting the finished article in now.
Post by: LeeB on January 26, 2021, 03:09:25 PM
There's always a balance particularly the higher you go up the football ladder.
Would say it's similar to Man. United getting in Cavani.
Start of season people thought it was a bad deal given he was apparently washed up and they had Martial, Rashford and Greenwood as options for a team that only plays one upfront.
However Martial has hardly scored a league goal this season (typically he did score v us) and Greenwood has largely been poor since his Iceland adventure.
Cavani been really good in last few weeks and imagine he's excellent on the training pitch and dressing room aswell.
AC Milan who are still top of Serie A recently signed Mandzukic who's 35 to add to 39 year old Zlatan so seems to be working o.k for them.
Atletico Madrid signing 33 year old Suarez and miles clear at top of La Liga is another.
Seems Ollie's fitness record is fantastic given he hardly seemed to miss a game at Brentford last season but all it takes is one bad tackle (given who we're playing next) and that could send the plans back into havoc given it would be Davis to come in.
Would rather have a Dzeko type lurking on the bench just in case. Could just be a case of taking over the rest of his Roma contract although I don't know if he has 6 or 18 months left.
Man Utd have done the 'ageing superstar forward' thing well down the years, Cavani, Imbrahmovic and Larsson have all been really good for them
Post by: Smithy on January 26, 2021, 03:45:40 PM
He might offer something in a two maybe, and it might be someone like him gives us tactical flexibility from the bench, but I'm not sure we could play the same way with someone like him upfront?
Post by: algy on January 26, 2021, 03:51:43 PM
Of course a short term deal as a one off can work, absolutely no guarantees but I’d be very surprised to hear that we have signed any 30 year old (+) outfield player. But maybe the ‘get added value’ policy by buying young and improving players isn’t a long term philosophy?In the past at Copenhagen, Johan Lange seems to have mostly brought in promising youngsters who add value, but not been against bringing in the odd player who doesn't fit that particular type. Same goes with the data analyst fellow we appointed during the summer - mostly youngsters, but he also recommended Cambiasso on a free to Leicester the summer before they won the league.
Don't think there's anything at all contradictory about doing that. You're just buying players who represent good value for money, be it that players who're likely to increase in value or at much lower cost than you'd expect for a player of that quality (and who'll improve the squad).
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 26, 2021, 03:59:13 PM
Dzeko is a very good player, though perhaps at the very tail end of his ability to play at the top level. My concern with him isn't his age, but the "type" of forward he is - have we not developed a style of play that wouldn't necessarily work with him as a one-up-front?Danny Ings.
He might offer something in a two maybe, and it might be someone like him gives us tactical flexibility from the bench, but I'm not sure we could play the same way with someone like him upfront?
Really if made a big move for him now we would be close to champions league finish. Same if we took on Abraham.
If Villa finish top 4 or even i can see us signing Danny ings. There has been with indicators saying he wants to play champions league football.
He would be a revelation and exactly type of goal scorer welcomed. Has high work rate too.
Post by: Dr Butler on January 26, 2021, 04:07:06 PM
UTV
The Doc
Post by: ChicagoLion on January 26, 2021, 04:08:40 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 26, 2021, 04:17:30 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 26, 2021, 05:12:00 PM
what about Dirty Diego Costa ? what's he up to these days ?
UTV
The Doc
I want Costa, not for his undoubted ability as much as the fact he is the King Shithouse, and it would lead to numerous spontaneous combustion throughout the Black Country, West Yorkshire and a very small corridor along the A45.
Post by: Dr Butler on January 26, 2021, 05:18:12 PM
UTV
The Doc
Post by: Drummond on January 26, 2021, 05:22:16 PM
what about Dirty Diego Costa ? what's he up to these days ?
UTV
The Doc
I want Costa, not for his undoubted ability as much as the fact he is the King Shithouse, and it would lead to numerous spontaneous combustion throughout the Black Country, West Yorkshire and a very small corridor along the A45.
Agreed.
Post by: London Villan on January 26, 2021, 05:25:45 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 26, 2021, 06:25:38 PM
what about Dirty Diego Costa ? what's he up to these days ?
UTV
The Doc
I want Costa, not for his undoubted ability as much as the fact he is the King Shithouse, and it would lead to numerous spontaneous combustion throughout the Black Country, West Yorkshire and a very small corridor along the A45.
Doc, I believe he's working as an anger management counsellor atm.
I agree with Lee, I've always enjoyed watching Costa. Just think of all the shithousery he could teach Wesley and Doug.
Post by: IFWaters on January 26, 2021, 07:02:20 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 26, 2021, 08:10:07 PM
Dzeko is a very good player, though perhaps at the very tail end of his ability to play at the top level. My concern with him isn't his age, but the "type" of forward he is - have we not developed a style of play that wouldn't necessarily work with him as a one-up-front?
He might offer something in a two maybe, and it might be someone like him gives us tactical flexibility from the bench, but I'm not sure we could play the same way with someone like him upfront?
Roma played a 3-4-2-1 all season. Until the fall out it was Dzeko upfront with Mikitayran and Pedro drifting inside so not too much different to what we do with Jack and Traore.
Post by: Smithy on January 27, 2021, 05:20:24 PM
Dzeko is a very good player, though perhaps at the very tail end of his ability to play at the top level. My concern with him isn't his age, but the "type" of forward he is - have we not developed a style of play that wouldn't necessarily work with him as a one-up-front?
He might offer something in a two maybe, and it might be someone like him gives us tactical flexibility from the bench, but I'm not sure we could play the same way with someone like him upfront?
Roma played a 3-4-2-1 all season. Until the fall out it was Dzeko upfront with Mikitayran and Pedro drifting inside so not too much different to what we do with Jack and Traore.
I meant more what is required of the lone forward in our current system, rather than the fact he can play AS a lone forward. Our pressing game has been transformed with Ollie up front, and his runs into the channels regularly get us possession in the final third. It feels like the way we play right now requires a mobile and relatively pacey frontman - and I'm not sure Dzeko is that sort of player (good as he is at everything else). As I said, he'd be a great option if we're looking to change the way we play, or to have that option available on the bench, but I'm not convinced he'd fit seamlessly into the way the 2021 version of Aston Villa plays?
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 27, 2021, 07:04:15 PM
Dzeko is a very good player, though perhaps at the very tail end of his ability to play at the top level. My concern with him isn't his age, but the "type" of forward he is - have we not developed a style of play that wouldn't necessarily work with him as a one-up-front?
He might offer something in a two maybe, and it might be someone like him gives us tactical flexibility from the bench, but I'm not sure we could play the same way with someone like him upfront?
Roma played a 3-4-2-1 all season. Until the fall out it was Dzeko upfront with Mikitayran and Pedro drifting inside so not too much different to what we do with Jack and Traore.
I meant more what is required of the lone forward in our current system, rather than the fact he can play AS a lone forward. Our pressing game has been transformed with Ollie up front, and his runs into the channels regularly get us possession in the final third. It feels like the way we play right now requires a mobile and relatively pacey frontman - and I'm not sure Dzeko is that sort of player (good as he is at everything else). As I said, he'd be a great option if we're looking to change the way we play, or to have that option available on the bench, but I'm not convinced he'd fit seamlessly into the way the 2021 version of Aston Villa plays?
More a bench option for me and someone who could come in for starts here and there. Davis can't press that well either and I presume he's in if Ollie pulled up.
I remember weeks ago the debate about 5 subs and people whining about Man. United and Chelsea putting on likes of Cavani and Giroud to win them the game in last 20 minutes.
Wouldn't it be wonderful to have that option for last 4 months of the season. As much as our first 11 are excellent now we still lack a match winner or two off the bench, someone we can throw on when we're 1-1 with two minutes left v a Spurs say and instantly get them on the back foot and win us the game rather than us clinging on for the point due to limited options.
Can't really remember the last forward player we had who did have that ability, perhaps Carew but thought he was far more effective starting for us.
That sort of signing could well be difference now between top 6 or not or even a little bit higher.
Post by: IFWaters on January 27, 2021, 07:30:24 PM
Post by: brontebilly on January 27, 2021, 07:58:00 PM
I think we need an option to protect or support Ollie. Granted hopefully Wes is back soon but Davis isnt that option. If Watkings gets clogged we are without a prem quality striker and all the progress could go to waste.
Agreed but whoever that player is, Smith needs to learn how to use his squad and subs. AEG and Trez should have been on at least 10 mins earlier from a position of strength. Not chasing a lead on 82mins.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 27, 2021, 08:08:51 PM
Vydra made a real difference for Burnley second half chasing lost causes and all that. They are many better strikers than him in world football not playing so up to us to get one of them in next 5 days.
Would've been good if getting back to 2-2 Burnley look over and see us about to bring on said forward so they know it's going to be incredibly difficult 15 minutes to hold onto the point but instead little confidence in bench options and the game frustratingly slipped away from us.
Post by: baddowvillans on January 27, 2021, 08:11:04 PM
Post by: wolfman999 on January 27, 2021, 08:12:00 PM
Post by: Mister E on January 27, 2021, 08:46:15 PM
You're right about Smith and substitutions ....I think we need an option to protect or support Ollie. Granted hopefully Wes is back soon but Davis isnt that option. If Watkings gets clogged we are without a prem quality striker and all the progress could go to waste.Agreed but whoever that player is, Smith needs to learn how to use his squad and subs. AEG and Trez should have been on at least 10 mins earlier from a position of strength. Not chasing a lead on 82mins.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 27, 2021, 08:47:14 PM
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 28, 2021, 12:00:19 PM
Barkley and Traore needed taking off 10-15 mins earlier.
soon as we went 2 1 up . nakamba should have been on for Barkley.
Post by: Gareth on January 28, 2021, 02:31:21 PM
Would be ideal if they wanted to take & actually play Keinan for rest of season.
Post by: Chris Smith on January 28, 2021, 02:47:04 PM
Barkley and Traore needed taking off 10-15 mins earlier.
soon as we went 2 1 up . nakamba should have been on for Barkley.
Not convinced that would have helped. We conceded three goals with balls in from wide positions but our biggest failing was not making the most of periods of possession and taking the chances created.
Post by: eamonn on January 28, 2021, 02:53:38 PM
Post by: algy on January 28, 2021, 03:44:59 PM
We needed someone on McNeill, Burnley's one creative player. Cash relying on Traore again is a weakness for us.The problem is that the obvious person there, Trez, is just coming back from a long while out.
Post by: LeeB on January 28, 2021, 03:52:32 PM
We needed someone on McNeill, Burnley's one creative player. Cash relying on Traore again is a weakness for us.The problem is that the obvious person there, Trez, is just coming back from a long while out.
If he's up to it I'd certainly start him against Southampton. If there's one thing about them, and I may be wrong, but they seem to go hard early in the game and are a bit more vulnerable in the latter part of games, so let him blow out for an hour then bring on Traore to funeral the tired full back.
Post by: Drummond on January 28, 2021, 04:26:38 PM
We needed someone on McNeill, Burnley's one creative player. Cash relying on Traore again is a weakness for us.The problem is that the obvious person there, Trez, is just coming back from a long while out.
If he's up to it I'd certainly start him against Southampton. If there's one thing about them, and I may be wrong, but they seem to go hard early in the game and are a bit more vulnerable in the latter part of games, so let him blow out for an hour then bring on Traore to funeral the tired full back.
I'd be tempted to start Ramsay over Barkley for the same reason. Bring on Traore and Barkley for the last 30 mins....
Post by: DrGonzo on January 28, 2021, 05:00:46 PM
So let's not kid ourselves any longer. We NEED another striker NOW!
Oooh caps!! I think they mean it! Let's not kid ourselves we aren't chasing another player in this window.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 28, 2021, 06:14:38 PM
Is Josh King out of contract in the summer?? presuming he isn’t gonna sign a new deal at Bournemouth you wouldn’t be surprised if he is loaned out on deadline day for as much of a loan fee as Bournemouth can get....guess it depends if he is just sitting out his deal for a big contract elsewhere or whether he wants to play game
Would be ideal if they wanted to take & actually play Keinan for rest of season.
Been the obvious option for a while now. Similar sort of style to Watkins and probably wouldn't be too put off by starting on the bench. Gambling on one striker staying fit for the second season in a row seems unnecessary.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 28, 2021, 06:54:08 PM
I know we didn't go 2-1 up very often, but this was the sort of change people used to crucify Bruce for. Sitting back and trying to hold what you have got isn't always the right answer, particulalry when we had been so dominant in the game.Barkley and Traore needed taking off 10-15 mins earlier.
soon as we went 2 1 up . nakamba should have been on for Barkley.
Post by: Clampy on January 28, 2021, 07:03:10 PM
I know we didn't go 2-1 up very often, but this was the sort of change people used to crucify Bruce for. Sitting back and trying to hold what you have got isn't always the right answer, particulalry when we had been so dominant in the game.Barkley and Traore needed taking off 10-15 mins earlier.
soon as we went 2 1 up . nakamba should have been on for Barkley.
The difference is this team would not sit back even if you did that. You'd still have Grealish, Watkins and Trez/El Goalzi on the pitch with McGinn possibly pushed further forward.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 28, 2021, 09:58:46 PM
Is Josh King out of contract in the summer?? presuming he isn’t gonna sign a new deal at Bournemouth you wouldn’t be surprised if he is loaned out on deadline day for as much of a loan fee as Bournemouth can get....guess it depends if he is just sitting out his deal for a big contract elsewhere or whether he wants to play game
Would be ideal if they wanted to take & actually play Keinan for rest of season.
Been the obvious option for a while now. Similar sort of style to Watkins and probably wouldn't be too put off by starting on the bench. Gambling on one striker staying fit for the second season in a row seems unnecessary.
I read he was asking for £100k a week. That’s a lot of money sat on the bench.
Post by: brontebilly on January 28, 2021, 11:18:57 PM
We needed someone on McNeill, Burnley's one creative player. Cash relying on Traore again is a weakness for us.
It's a bit easy to pin it on Traore. Burnleys left back Pieters? hardly passed the half way line so it certainly wasn't overlaps that caused the three goals. Luiz also needs to do a lot more in sensing danger and addressing it on that flank. But Cash defensively has a lot to improve upon. All three goals came from that side last night and he was nowhere for any of them. Was it v Leeds that we had Trez on the right and Cash still got torched? Traore can do more for sure but we are clutching at straws to blame him for our defensive woes last night.
Post by: ktvillan on January 28, 2021, 11:43:37 PM
I love Traore's skill but he does leave our right flank very very exposed.
Post by: Londonvilla on January 29, 2021, 01:04:30 AM
Bristol City are attempting to sign Aston Villa midfielder Henri Lansbury before the transfer window closes next Monday.
The former Nottingham Forest midfielder was left out of the club's Premier League squad and is now tipped to return to the Championship as he looks to reignite his career
Nooooooooooo Henri must stay let start a campaign to keep him. Words that have been said by nobody
Post by: robbo1874 on January 29, 2021, 03:03:51 AM
Post by: OzVilla on January 29, 2021, 05:48:32 AM
Got that feeling of a quiet window for us. The Sanson signing looks quality. I reckon they’ll probably gamble that Watkins will mostly stay fit and Wes to come back for the run in as cover. If there’s no good value strikers available, I’ll accept that, but we’ll probably need to upgrade a few positions in the summer window.
Tammy might become available then.
Post by: sid1964 on January 29, 2021, 07:28:33 AM
With the way that Dean sets up his team can't see us spending £50 million + £100k a week in salary on a centre forward to sit on the bench
Post by: Clampy on January 29, 2021, 07:49:44 AM
I don't get this obsession with trying to sign Tammy - did well for us in the Championship - surely we are now looking at other forwards
With the way that Dean sets up his team can't see us spending £50 million + £100k a week in salary on a centre forward to sit on the bench
It's probbaly because he's proved he can score goals in the Premier League as well as the Championship.
Post by: sid1964 on January 29, 2021, 08:07:20 AM
Post by: Gareth on January 29, 2021, 08:45:17 AM
But would Tammy sign to sit on our bench - he can stop at Chelsea and sit on theirs?
Depends-if in the next 3/4 months he doesn’t get much game time he will have to do the Chelsea thing of gambling how long Tuchel gets...if he plays a part in most games he will stay out.
We have to get out of this mindset of striker for the bench....if we bring one in it is to heap pressure on Ollie and the wide players as don’t forget Ollie can play wide also
Post by: OCD on January 29, 2021, 11:32:31 AM
Post by: curiousorange on January 29, 2021, 11:50:26 AM
Point is, if we can't do better than Davis as a forward option by 11pm Monday, I think it'll be a huge opportunity to kick on missed.
Post by: j66acd on January 29, 2021, 12:02:25 PM
Post by: ROBBO on January 29, 2021, 12:08:57 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 29, 2021, 12:14:01 PM
But would Tammy sign to sit on our bench - he can stop at Chelsea and sit on theirs?
Since leaving us Tammy scored about 30 odd goals in premier league, the odd goal for England and 3-4 in CL against likes of Bayern Munich. Albeit v Luton but scored a nice hat trick the other day
I've enjoyed watching Ollie so far this season and he's scored some lovely goals but I'm not sure he'll ever develop into the ruthless finisher we want to fire us eventually int top 6.
Probably the other night a good example, scored a typical box striker goal in anticipating the cross. The best then go on to score at least another in that type of game but the chance he was through on goal he couldn't get the right sort of touch when running and so Pope came out to smother it.
If we signed a Tammy type there's then good potential to shift Ollie a little wider so he then becomes a Son, Mane or Rashford type e.g. can do a job no problem centrally but also very effective out wide with more space to run into.
Half this forum probably still want Jack to play in number 10 position but his productivity has probably been even better since we permanently moved him to the left so sometimes you have to think outside the box a little with players.
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 29, 2021, 12:16:21 PM
I must say that the noises around Davis not going out on loan don't fill me with any kind of confidence that there's much of a desire to find a backup striker. Davis seems, in some ways, to be a footballer's footballer. Fans can't see the point but players and managers love him. But I think Watkins exposes that theory - he may not be on for the Golden Boot but his work rate and intelligence is vital to our way of playing. Davis is just a bloke who comes on when somebody's knackered.
Point is, if we can't do better than Davis as a forward option by 11pm Monday, I think it'll be a huge opportunity to kick on missed.
Also based on his current rate of scoring it’d take Davis about 15 years to get the number of goals Ollie has scored this year.
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 29, 2021, 12:18:26 PM
I must say that the noises around Davis not going out on loan don't fill me with any kind of confidence that there's much of a desire to find a backup striker. Davis seems, in some ways, to be a footballer's footballer. Fans can't see the point but players and managers love him. But I think Watkins exposes that theory - he may not be on for the Golden Boot but his work rate and intelligence is vital to our way of playing. Davis is just a bloke who comes on when somebody's knackered.
Point is, if we can't do better than Davis as a forward option by 11pm Monday, I think it'll be a huge opportunity to kick on missed.
Have to question Davis mentality a bit aswell. I thought given he'd done the non league route he'd be like a Vardy or Kane knocking on DS door every transfer window and demanding to go out on loan to start games every week which ain't happening anytime soon here.
It would do his career some good but seems it's a bit too comfortable here, getting contract extensions every other year when he strings 5 games together. Perhaps he thinks this is as good as his career will get (backup at top 10 club) so perhaps you don't blame him for hanging on a bit longer.
Going a decade back and the Fonz was never loaned out and looked a bit out of his depth when we started giving him starts in 10-11 period while someone like Weimann did get loans to Watford and he at least hit the ground running when he broke into the team at end of 11-12 and quickly surpassed Fonz.
Post by: Mister E on January 29, 2021, 12:32:03 PM
As has been said, on Wednesday he looked unfit and sluggish.I must say that the noises around Davis not going out on loan don't fill me with any kind of confidence that there's much of a desire to find a backup striker. Davis seems, in some ways, to be a footballer's footballer. Fans can't see the point but players and managers love him. But I think Watkins exposes that theory - he may not be on for the Golden Boot but his work rate and intelligence is vital to our way of playing. Davis is just a bloke who comes on when somebody's knackered.
Point is, if we can't do better than Davis as a forward option by 11pm Monday, I think it'll be a huge opportunity to kick on missed.
Have to question Davis mentality a bit aswell. I thought given he'd done the non league route he'd be like a Vardy or Kane knocking on DS door every transfer window and demanding to go out on loan to start games every week which ain't happening anytime soon here.
It would do his career some good but seems it's a bit too comfortable here, getting contract extensions every other year when he strings 5 games together. Perhaps he thinks this is as good as his career will get (backup at top 10 club) so perhaps you don't blame him for hanging on a bit longer.
Going a decade back and the Fonz was never loaned out and looked a bit out of his depth when we started giving him starts in 10-11 period while someone like Weimann did get loans to Watford and he at least hit the ground running when he broke into the team at end of 11-12 and quickly surpassed Fonz.
Post by: OCD on January 29, 2021, 12:38:01 PM
I was one who thought Jack's best position would be as a 10 but seeing him play there when Barkley was out injured, I've gone away from that. I think he looked good there Wednesday but that was after having had a great first half starting on the left. I would keep him on the left and have Barkley or another proven 10 playing alongside him.
Post by: tomd2103 on January 29, 2021, 12:53:48 PM
Is Josh King out of contract in the summer?? presuming he isn’t gonna sign a new deal at Bournemouth you wouldn’t be surprised if he is loaned out on deadline day for as much of a loan fee as Bournemouth can get....guess it depends if he is just sitting out his deal for a big contract elsewhere or whether he wants to play game
Would be ideal if they wanted to take & actually play Keinan for rest of season.
Been the obvious option for a while now. Similar sort of style to Watkins and probably wouldn't be too put off by starting on the bench. Gambling on one striker staying fit for the second season in a row seems unnecessary.
I read he was asking for £100k a week. That’s a lot of money sat on the bench.
Well yes and think he will have a long wait if that is the case. Can't imagine he would be on anywhere near that at Bournemouth though?
Post by: DrGonzo on January 29, 2021, 01:51:33 PM
On the whole I agree. Window over, move along folks, nothing more to see here!
Post by: PeterWithe on January 29, 2021, 01:57:08 PM
Post by: London Villan on January 29, 2021, 02:00:17 PM
Post by: brian green on January 29, 2021, 02:07:17 PM
Post by: LeeB on January 29, 2021, 02:09:47 PM
I'm one of the seemingly few people who like Davis and think he has a future here but he didn't do himself any favours at Burnley. I know it was only a few minutes but I would have expected his concentration levels to be right and they weren't.
I am too, but I'm a bit concerned that he has looked sluggish as that was something that wasn't the case previously, he always seemed bright when coming on, usually in stark contrast to the player he'd replaced.
Post by: LeeB on January 29, 2021, 02:11:35 PM
I agree with you Peter. Davis is a hard working journeyman player we paid half a million quid for. He owes us nothing.
I thought it was one zero less than that Brian, which only further underlines your point.
Post by: brian green on January 29, 2021, 02:17:30 PM
Post by: curiousorange on January 29, 2021, 02:22:39 PM
Post by: Duncan Shaw on January 29, 2021, 04:11:57 PM
Any promising 21/22 year old strikers in the championship we should be looking at?Well we could/should have cut out the middleman and bought Ivan Toney from Peterborough and the LOANED him to Brentford!
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on January 29, 2021, 04:35:17 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 29, 2021, 05:09:03 PM
Post by: OCD on January 29, 2021, 05:23:07 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 29, 2021, 05:41:50 PM
Watford, Reading, Bristol City and Stoke City are all looking to sign Henri Lansbury from Aston Villa before the transfer window shuts.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 29, 2021, 05:44:12 PM
STOKE & WATFORD JOIN CHAMPIONSHIP RIVALS IN RACE FOR MIDFIELDER
Watford, Reading, Bristol City and Stoke City are all looking to sign Henri Lansbury from Aston Villa before the transfer window shuts.
I'll start the car
Post by: PhilVill on January 29, 2021, 05:54:54 PM
Post by: curiousorange on January 29, 2021, 06:03:56 PM
I’m not sure Davis fits in the “journeyman” bracket now - although he may be that by the end of his career. I do think it is a flaw to have him as our second choice striker, he definitely isn’t good enough now and may never be. I could accept a journeyman as a short term solution for the next 6 months.
I just don't see how Davis can be described as a striker, given he never scores. He's, at most, a forward. People want him to work there but he hasn't shown anybody that he can fill in as a supplementary goalscorer, let alone a main one. He had half a season in the top flight as the focal point and isn't up to it.
In reference to journeymen, you have to be a bit careful. Sometimes you get a Dugarry, most times it's Grant Holt.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 29, 2021, 06:08:30 PM
I'll bung you a fiver for fuel.STOKE & WATFORD JOIN CHAMPIONSHIP RIVALS IN RACE FOR MIDFIELDER
Watford, Reading, Bristol City and Stoke City are all looking to sign Henri Lansbury from Aston Villa before the transfer window shuts.
I'll start the car
Post by: Clampy on January 29, 2021, 06:10:03 PM
It is the sum we could have/should have bought Watkins for from Exeter City.
Maybe Brian but nobody else other than Brentford took a chance on him either. Besides, those couple of years in the championship will have developed him as a player.
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 29, 2021, 06:25:46 PM
I'll bung you a fiver for fuel.STOKE & WATFORD JOIN CHAMPIONSHIP RIVALS IN RACE FOR MIDFIELDER
Watford, Reading, Bristol City and Stoke City are all looking to sign Henri Lansbury from Aston Villa before the transfer window shuts.
I'll start the car
Apparently joining on a permanent deal so we will only need one way. We'll get hammered once we get to Bristol celebrating and hitch hike back.
Post by: brian green on January 29, 2021, 06:51:07 PM
Post by: Dave on January 29, 2021, 07:00:35 PM
Harry Kane could be described as a journeyman, I wouldn't mind having the option of him up front.
Not really. It's nothing to do with the number of clubs you have.
It's an old term from medieval guilds for someone qualified in a trade but not skilled enough to be permanently employed, so they were paid by the day.
You can be a journeyman and stay at the same club your whole career. It just so happens that the type of player described might end up with shorter contracts and therefore go from club to club.
Post by: brian green on January 29, 2021, 07:06:42 PM
Post by: OCD on January 29, 2021, 07:07:36 PM
Post by: Dave on January 29, 2021, 07:18:21 PM
Rightly or wrongly, the term is still applied to a player who's got through a lot of clubs.
Sure. That doesn't mean that they shouldn't be told what the word they are using actually means.
Edit - I only know it because I pompously used it incorrectly on here about a decade ago and (I think) gregnash pulled me up on it. The world gets better by learning things...
Post by: john e on January 29, 2021, 07:19:11 PM
Harry Kane could be described as a journeyman, I wouldn't mind having the option of him up front.
Not really. It's nothing to do with the number of clubs you have.
It's an old term from medieval guilds for someone qualified in a trade but not skilled enough to be permanently employed, so they were paid by the day.
You can be a journeyman and stay at the same club your whole career. It just so happens that the type of player described might end up with shorter contracts and therefore go from club to club.
I did not know that
Post by: brian green on January 29, 2021, 07:26:44 PM
Post by: dave shelley on January 29, 2021, 07:44:58 PM
Post by: Londonvilla on January 29, 2021, 07:54:27 PM
Aston Villa midfielder Henri Lansbury has reportedly agreed to move to Bristol City.
The Athletic report that Lansbury is exiting Villa Park on a permanent deal and that a medical examination is booked in for Friday night.
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-agreed-medical-19732025
They Think It's All Over
Post by: Londonvilla on January 29, 2021, 08:00:06 PM
Latest Aston Villa news from BirminghamLive brings news of Indiana Vassilev's move to Cheltenham Town on loan after his spell at Burton Albion was ended on Thursday
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-confirmed-sanctioned-19731743
Has a contract until June 2022 the next pre-season will be big for him
Post by: Londonvilla on January 29, 2021, 08:02:30 PM
The French defender has been linked with several clubs in the transfer window with Cardiff having been among those keen to land the defender who is now set for Strasbourg
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/frederic-guilbert-set-leave-aston-19732336
Why is this happening, someone please explain
Post by: Dave on January 29, 2021, 08:09:49 PM
Frederic Guilbert set to leave Aston Villa after loan move 'agreed'
The French defender has been linked with several clubs in the transfer window with Cardiff having been among those keen to land the defender who is now set for Strasbourg
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/frederic-guilbert-set-leave-aston-19732336
Why is this happening, someone please explain
Because he probably wants to play football and Elmohamady is preferred as back-up to Cash, who is going to play whenever he's fit?
I mean, if Cash weren't here and pretty good then I'd start Guilbert over Elmo. But as Cash is, and is - Elmo sitting on the bench or Guilbert sitting on the bench isn't really much of an issue is it?
Post by: Richard E on January 29, 2021, 08:12:12 PM
Post by: Dave on January 29, 2021, 08:21:33 PM
Of the two options for the bench Elmo is the better because of his delivery into the box.
That, and his experience. In the context of right-back substitutions, If you're trying to close a game out, you'd stick Elmo or Trezeguet in, in front of Cash. If you're chasing the game, you'd stick Elmo in to replace Cash to swing a few crosses in.
Guilbert's decent and seems like a good bloke, but this broadly makes sense.
Post by: Risso on January 29, 2021, 08:26:23 PM
Rightly or wrongly, the term is still applied to a player who's got through a lot of clubs.
Sure. That doesn't mean that they shouldn't be told what the word they are using actually means.
Edit - I only know it because I pompously used it incorrectly on here about a decade ago and (I think) gregnash pulled me up on it. The world gets better by learning things...
#facepalm
Post by: Dave on January 29, 2021, 08:33:23 PM
Rightly or wrongly, the term is still applied to a player who's got through a lot of clubs.
Sure. That doesn't mean that they shouldn't be told what the word they are using actually means.
Edit - I only know it because I pompously used it incorrectly on here about a decade ago and (I think) gregnash pulled me up on it. The world gets better by learning things...
#facepalm
Larf!
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 29, 2021, 09:17:42 PM
Frederic Guilbert set to leave Aston Villa after loan move 'agreed'
The French defender has been linked with several clubs in the transfer window with Cardiff having been among those keen to land the defender who is now set for Strasbourg
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/frederic-guilbert-set-leave-aston-19732336
Why is this happening, someone please explain
He was a suso signing not a Dean Smith signing .
Part of the old regime. Good luck to him on his loan
Post by: villa `cross the mersey on January 29, 2021, 09:21:49 PM
Post by: eamonn on January 29, 2021, 09:24:22 PM
Rightly or wrongly, the term is still applied to a player who's got through a lot of clubs.
Sure. That doesn't mean that they shouldn't be told what the word they are using actually means.
Edit - I only know it because I pompously used it incorrectly on here about a decade ago and (I think) gregnash pulled me up on it. The world gets better by learning things...
#facepalm
Larf!
heh
Japes aside, I hope Greg is enjoying watching us play these days. I saw another old H&V name, Karl Bridges post something Villa-related on Twitter the other day.
And it would be nice if Brian had a word and got Damon back "on board" (litrilly).
Post by: john2710 on January 29, 2021, 09:27:23 PM
We’ll only bring in players the add quality or potential to the squad. For the first time in 5 or 6 years we’re recruiting from a position of strength & stability rather than desperation.
Post by: villa `cross the mersey on January 29, 2021, 09:35:39 PM
Post by: brontebilly on January 29, 2021, 10:22:24 PM
Of the two options for the bench Elmo is the better because of his delivery into the box.
Love Elmo but he isn't top division standard now nor has he ever been. Clearly Smith didn't rate Guilbert which to be honest I don't really understand. Defensively I don't think Cash is all that better than him though Cash is certainly better with the ball. Elmo is out of contract in the summer so it's a surprising one all round.
Post by: Drummond on January 29, 2021, 11:25:27 PM
As for strikers, Davis, Traore, Wesley on a few weeks suggests we have options. And given the focus of our play is not to get the ball to a centre forward, I reckon there is no hurry.
Post by: Lastfootstamper on January 30, 2021, 07:43:50 AM
Guilbert hasn't played in the league this season, he'll go on loan, Elmo will leave on the summer and he'll be back for next season.
As for strikers, Davis, Traore, Wesley on a few weeks suggests we have options. And given the focus of our play is not to get the ball to a centre forward, I reckon there is no hurry.
I'm a bit like this. If we can get in a triffic number 9, then great. If not, meh, we'll adapt if we have to. Centre-forwards are soooo last century.
Post by: JD on January 30, 2021, 07:56:52 AM
I would rather persevere with the squad we currently have than panic buy a player we don't want or wont play, like Baston.
Post by: Drummond on January 30, 2021, 08:24:02 AM
Maybe we can't sign the forward we want for the right money/wages at the moment and prefer to wait until we can get the right player next season. Given the club keep their cards pretty close to their chest who knows.
I would rather persevere with the squad we currently have than panic buy a player we don't want or wont play, like Baston.
Baston and Samatta.....
We're not desperate any more.
Post by: N'ZMAV on January 30, 2021, 08:33:57 AM
Interesting Jesse Lingard has moved on loan to West Ham.I'd rather see what Ramsey can do for us than sign Lingard.
He would have been a useful attacking addition to our squad. As would have Bowen and Benraham.
We'll see next Wednesday if we missed out when Villa entertain West ham
Post by: Drummond on January 30, 2021, 09:07:37 AM
Interesting Jesse Lingard has moved on loan to West Ham.I'd rather see what Ramsey can do for us than sign Lingard.
He would have been a useful attacking addition to our squad. As would have Bowen and Benraham.
We'll see next Wednesday if we missed out when Villa entertain West ham
Definitely. Lingard wouldn't improve us.
Post by: Three Spires Villa on January 30, 2021, 09:35:06 AM
Post by: algy on January 30, 2021, 09:36:56 AM
Interesting that we now have 2 spare places in the squad (Hourihane, Kalinic, Guilbert out, just Sanson in - excluding Lansbury as he wasn't part of the squad). Maybe there's still some business to be done ...
Post by: Gareth on January 30, 2021, 09:40:49 AM
Just agreeing with a few folk on here - Wes is presumably close to a return, and we have 20 games remaining - 18 of which are at the weekend (currently). I don't think we'll be struggling from fixture congestion as much as some others might.
I think that is a massive point, after next weekend we are off the weekend/midweek train so key players get more downtime & coaches get time to work with them again
Post by: eamonn on January 30, 2021, 11:25:54 AM
Post by: OCD on January 30, 2021, 12:08:13 PM
Post by: Matt C on January 30, 2021, 01:41:29 PM
I understand the predicament - I’m sure Smith would like the back-up of another another option but we’ve got 50-60m of forwards in Watkins & Wesley plus Davis and I guess Traore as an option. Watkins is very clearly first choice so we need someone who is good, probably not long-term, that is willing to sit on the bench. Probably not many choices around.
Post by: nigel on January 30, 2021, 01:49:42 PM
The thing that pisses me off Clampy is that I took the trouble to write to Villa Park about Ollie Watkins when he was at Exeter and I did not get an answer. There I have said it.
Who was our manager at the time?
If we’re honest, though, the way we were we would more than likely have ruined him.
So probably best for Ollie we didn’t
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 30, 2021, 02:54:27 PM
With how much Wesley cost in terms of transfer fee and wages, that he looked like he was improving just when he got injured when we were playing poorly and how much the other signings have improved, we can't just be writing him off. If we spent big on another striker, we would effectively be doing that and the fee and wages of that new striker would likely be very expensive. Plus you don't really want to make that signing in January if you don't need to. It would be good to get Wesley fit and start seeing him involved and seeing what he can do in this team.
With 9 subs you can still have two strikers on the bench. I mean if Davis stays he'll be named on the bench once Wes is fit again as it's not a case of either given we put 4-5 defenders on the bench most games due to lack of attacking options.
The problem for me is even when Wes gets back he'll be only getting 5-10 minute cameos for first month to build things up. I really can't see a situation anytime soon where Ollie has to go off after 10 minutes and we'd just throw him on straight away as no way would he be ready for that after more than a year out, would probably have to shift Traore up there and see how it goes.
Post by: Risso on January 30, 2021, 05:56:26 PM
I think the days of us blindly spending a load of money on a player only to quickly discard him like an unwanted Christmas toy are gone so they’ll be patient with Wesley. I expect he’ll be assessed between now and the end of the season and if Smith & Co don’t think he’s up to it he’ll be moved on and we’ll upgrade - we are ruthless operators are these days.
I understand the predicament - I’m sure Smith would like the back-up of another another option but we’ve got 50-60m of forwards in Watkins & Wesley plus Davis and I guess Traore as an option. Watkins is very clearly first choice so we need someone who is good, probably not long-term, that is willing to sit on the bench. Probably not many choices around.
They didn't mess around with Samatta.
Post by: steamer on January 30, 2021, 06:09:48 PM
I hazard a guess we have not been swamped with offers for Davis.
Post by: Steve67 on January 30, 2021, 07:37:46 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on January 30, 2021, 07:43:13 PM
Post by: SoccerHQ on January 30, 2021, 08:52:52 PM
Anybody that is writing Wesley off also wrote off Trez, El Ghazi, Luiz, Nakamba, Targett and probably Watkins when he hadn't scored after 6 matches.... you see?
None of them had an injury that kept them out for over 12 months.
Kodjia was never the same after his two bad injuries around 2017 and Kozak was pretty much done after his leg break so I'm not expecting much from Wes tbh.
And he certainly isn't going to be impacting games in the run in, will be more easing him back in with 5-10 minute cameos for first six weeks he's on the bench.
Post by: KevinGage on January 30, 2021, 09:29:15 PM
Post by: DrGonzo on January 30, 2021, 09:57:21 PM
Anybody that is writing Wesley off also wrote off Trez, El Ghazi, Luiz, Nakamba, Targett and probably Watkins when he hadn't scored after 6 matches.... you see?
None of them had an injury that kept them out for over 12 months.
Kodjia was never the same after his two bad injuries around 2017 and Kozak was pretty much done after his leg break so I'm not expecting much from Wes tbh.
And he certainly isn't going to be impacting games in the run in, will be more easing him back in with 5-10 minute cameos for first six weeks he's on the bench.
He was written off before his injury.
Post by: mr underhill on January 31, 2021, 08:06:26 AM
Post by: brian green on January 31, 2021, 08:56:25 AM
Post by: aj2k77 on January 31, 2021, 10:19:54 AM
Post by: Ads on January 31, 2021, 10:43:28 AM
Post by: Mister E on January 31, 2021, 11:07:15 AM
See Benteke is retiring.Has he signed for them? - also linked with Parma and Fiorentina.
Now, let me just think: Smethwick ... Florence .. Smeth; fuck it! Florence!
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 31, 2021, 11:13:10 AM
See Benteke is retiring.Has he signed for them? - also linked with Parma and Fiorentina.
Now, let me just think: Smethwick ... Florence .. Smeth; fuck it! Florence!
Disagree, but each to their own I suppose.
Post by: nodge on January 31, 2021, 12:03:57 PM
Post by: robleflaneur on January 31, 2021, 12:24:54 PM
Post by: chrisw1 on January 31, 2021, 12:56:02 PM
Post by: wittonwarrior on January 31, 2021, 12:59:32 PM
Post by: SheffieldVillain on January 31, 2021, 01:10:08 PM
Who is this Wes that everyone seems to think is the next superstar?
I don't think anyone, let alone everyone, has said Wesley's the next superstar.
Just that it might be worth seeing what a £20m+ Brazilian international striker can do in a good team with a bit more Premier League experience under his belt before discarding him. Not that unreasonable really.
Post by: placeforparks on January 31, 2021, 02:00:34 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 31, 2021, 02:11:41 PM
Who is this Wes that everyone seems to think is the next superstar?
Wes Hoolahan, scored yesterday but think he's a bit past it myself.
Post by: Goldenballs on January 31, 2021, 02:14:15 PM
Unless like has been said, Ollie moves out wide. But if he does then we're probably overstocked in that position.
Post by: Mister E on January 31, 2021, 06:45:25 PM
Assuming Wes recovers completely from his injury I’d like to see how he gets on in a team creating 15-20 chances in a game. Could be another player who we bought last season who flourishes in a better team as a few others have.Agreed - I think the one-touch football will suit Wes. The big challenge for him might be the pressing game that we've adopted: will he be athletic and mobile enough to do the hard yards?
I suspect they will bring him back very carefully; could be a while before we see his full potential.
Post by: chrisw1 on January 31, 2021, 07:15:53 PM
wesley to fire us to top 6 and ram it up the doubters on here.I hope so but fear not.
Post by: eamonn on January 31, 2021, 08:16:25 PM
Who is this Wes that everyone seems to think is the next superstar?
Wes Hoolahan, scored yesterday but think he's a bit past it myself.
Is he still playing? Back at Tolka Park where his hear is I hope.
Post by: dave shelley on January 31, 2021, 08:37:32 PM
Who is this Wes that everyone seems to think is the next superstar?
Wes Hoolahan, scored yesterday but think he's a bit past it myself.
Is he still playing? Back at Tolka Park where his hear is I hope.
He's currently playing for Cambridge United. He scored yesterday in a 3-1 win. I watched it on Quest this morning. He's 38 now.
Post by: Gareth on February 01, 2021, 11:08:06 AM
Post by: brontebilly on February 01, 2021, 11:16:01 AM
Surprised Engels hasn't moved on.
Post by: Clampy on February 01, 2021, 11:16:47 AM
Post by: KRS on February 01, 2021, 11:19:37 AM
Post by: chrisw1 on February 01, 2021, 11:23:57 AM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.Nor me. I can't see Wesley won't play any major part this season and we'll regret it massivly if Watkins picks up an injury. It seems a crazy risk given the opportunity we have this season.
I guess FFP is still an issue.
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 01, 2021, 12:17:51 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.Nor me. I can't see Wesley won't play any major part this season and we'll regret it massivly if Watkins picks up an injury. It seems a crazy risk given the opportunity we have this season.
I guess FFP is still an issue.
I suspect it’s more likely that the player(s) we want aren’t available. Centre mid wasn’t an essential position, but an opportunity presented itself and we spent some money. I doubt that would have happened had FFP been a problem.
Post by: Footy-Vill on February 01, 2021, 12:21:23 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.Nor me. I can't see Wesley won't play any major part this season and we'll regret it massivly if Watkins picks up an injury. It seems a crazy risk given the opportunity we have this season.
I guess FFP is still an issue.
I think Villa will get a loan in today. And that being a forward attacking player
Going on what trusted source Fabrizio Romano said other day we could well do some business
"Yes I think some opportunities could arrive in the coming days, when I mention an opportunity I mean like loan deals with a buy option, this opportunity they will go for, just because they spent money on Sanson, so it won’t be easy to go for another top deal this January, just because as we mentioned in this transfer window it is really complicated,”
Post by: simboy on February 01, 2021, 12:24:06 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.
Perhaps we are and perhaps there's no one that fits the bill? Traore is the "fill in" if Watkins gets injured/loses form I suspect.
I quite like that we do our business properly, without too much of a fanfare beforehand. So much better than Dr Tony and the twatter rubbish ...
Post by: Gareth on February 01, 2021, 12:51:08 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.Nor me. I can't see Wesley won't play any major part this season and we'll regret it massivly if Watkins picks up an injury. It seems a crazy risk given the opportunity we have this season.
I guess FFP is still an issue.
I think Villa will get a loan in today. And that being a forward attacking player
Going on what trusted source Fabrizio Romano said other day we could well do some business
"Yes I think some opportunities could arrive in the coming days, when I mention an opportunity I mean like loan deals with a buy option, this opportunity they will go for, just because they spent money on Sanson, so it won’t be easy to go for another top deal this January, just because as we mentioned in this transfer window it is really complicated,”
I’d be very, very surprised if we do (not unhappy either way), we certainly aren’t in a place where we need to do Baston style panic loans....if a striker that fits profile they want becomes available maybe but even then I’d expect Keinan would then be allowed to go get games somewhere as a result.
Ideal would be Josh King / Keinan loan swap for rest of season :-)
Post by: tomd2103 on February 01, 2021, 01:55:57 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.Nor me. I can't see Wesley won't play any major part this season and we'll regret it massivly if Watkins picks up an injury. It seems a crazy risk given the opportunity we have this season.
I guess FFP is still an issue.
I suspect it’s more likely that the player(s) we want aren’t available. Centre mid wasn’t an essential position, but an opportunity presented itself and we spent some money. I doubt that would have happened had FFP been a problem.
Either that or Hourihane and Lansbury going out on loan with the probability of them both leaving in the summer.
The forward area is a bit of as concern, especially as there doesn't seem to be any news on Wesley's return. They obviously rate and have faith in Davis, but relying on him or Traore filling in there in the absence of Watkins doesn't fill me with confidence.
Post by: sid1964 on February 01, 2021, 02:12:38 PM
Post by: paul_e on February 01, 2021, 02:15:04 PM
Post by: Gerrin on February 01, 2021, 02:43:25 PM
I question what level of striker we will attract at the moment. Watkins is first choice every time for Dean, so whoever it might be is just a back up.
Post by: frank black on February 01, 2021, 02:51:18 PM
Is Louie Barry going to be in the 1st team squad next season? He's 18 in June, so surely can't be far off, I can't see him being loaned out.
I question what level of striker we will attract at the moment. Watkins is first choice every time for Dean, so whoever it might be is just a back up.
The Jamie Vardy conundrum. My mates a Leista fan and I always ask him why they’ve never successfully (IMO) got a ready made replacement in. He always says, it’s because they play with one up front and who would join knowing they are second choice. Personally that’s a bollocks excuse because good players back themselves.
Post by: OCD on February 01, 2021, 02:52:32 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on February 01, 2021, 02:55:45 PM
Yep Lansbury is gone, contract would've been up in the summer and it was ended early so he could leave.
Ah right. That would have definitely freed.up some funds then.
Post by: tomd2103 on February 01, 2021, 02:57:52 PM
Is Louie Barry going to be in the 1st team squad next season? He's 18 in June, so surely can't be far off, I can't see him being loaned out.
I question what level of striker we will attract at the moment. Watkins is first choice every time for Dean, so whoever it might be is just a back up.
The Jamie Vardy conundrum. My mates a Leista fan and I always ask him why they’ve never successfully (IMO) got a ready made replacement in. He always says, it’s because they play with one up front and who would join knowing they are second choice. Personally that’s a bollocks excuse because good players back themselves.
Suppose your mate does have a point though. Same situation at Spurs with Kane.
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 01, 2021, 03:16:44 PM
Post by: brian green on February 01, 2021, 03:26:11 PM
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on February 01, 2021, 03:28:55 PM
Post by: KevinGage on February 01, 2021, 03:30:12 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.
I felt we were short of midfield options when the Leroy Fer deal (whatever happened to him BTW) died a death at the end of the Jan transfer window in 2019.
Felt we were short of forward options by the close of the summer window in 2019 and Jan 2020.
Yet we've had enough (sometimes just about) on each occasion.
Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play out wide and through the middle. So that looks like our contingency should something happen to Ollie.
Post by: Brend'Watkins on February 01, 2021, 03:39:14 PM
I don’t understand why we haven’t or don’t appear to be in the market for another striker. Davis clearly doesn’t cut it in the PL, so if Ollie gets injured then we’re pretty screwed for forward options.
I felt we were short of midfield options when the Leroy Fer deal (whatever happened to him BTW) died a death at the end of the Jan transfer window in 2019.
Felt we were short of forward options by the close of the summer window in 2019 and Jan 2020.
Yet we've had enough (sometimes just about) on each occasion.
Terry mentioned when we signed Traore that he can play out wide and through the middle. So that looks like our contingency should something happen to Ollie.
On paper maybe. Can you honestly see him putting in the work rate Ollie does for a full 90 minutes?
Post by: eamonn on February 01, 2021, 03:40:56 PM
Benteke is staying at Palace. Christian you’re still a hero.
A real human being and a real hero.
Post by: Meanwood Villa on February 01, 2021, 03:52:45 PM
Post by: Meanwood Villa on February 01, 2021, 03:53:04 PM
Post by: Risso on February 01, 2021, 04:08:43 PM
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 01, 2021, 04:15:06 PM
SSN are so busy today that they're talking about Veganism.
That's strange, they normally milk transfer deadline day for all it's worth.
Post by: WassallVillain on February 01, 2021, 04:18:21 PM
I would also have liked to see a striker signed this window. I assume contingency if Ollie gets injured is a combination of Davis/Bert/El Ghazi.I think AEG could do the job too.
Post by: LeeB on February 01, 2021, 04:23:09 PM
Benteke is staying at Palace. Christian you’re still a hero.
A real human being and a real hero.
With tiny ears.
Post by: LeeB on February 01, 2021, 04:25:57 PM
If Ollie gets an injury I think we'd have to accept our chances of a top 10 finish would be as good as over. None of the suggested replacements are anywhere near as good as him, either at goal scoring or any other area of forward play. I suppose we just have to trust the management team, but it seems a strange gamble to take when the same bet almost put paid to our Premier League status last season.
I thought El Ghazi played well up on his own away at Leicester in the league cup semi. Granted I can't see him holding off a centre half too often but I think the new and improved version could do a job, he gets into good positions and isn't afraid to have a go.
Post by: brian green on February 01, 2021, 04:57:25 PM
Post by: eamonn on February 01, 2021, 05:25:16 PM
Benteke is staying at Palace. Christian you’re still a hero.
A real human being and a real hero.
With tiny ears.
Remix version ?
Post by: Clampy on February 01, 2021, 05:29:39 PM
Post by: wince on February 01, 2021, 06:11:58 PM
Post by: Dante Lavelli on February 01, 2021, 06:18:03 PM
Someone on Twitter posted up Bert's goalscoring record elsewhere when he played as a striker and it wasn't bad.
Looking at the obligatory YouTube videos before he signed and he looked a lot better player whilst at Ajax, playing as a striker, than the compilation from his days on the wing at Lyon.
Post by: rougegorge on February 01, 2021, 06:45:09 PM
If Ollie gets an injury I think we'd have to accept our chances of a top 10 finish would be as good as over. None of the suggested replacements are anywhere near as good as him, either at goal scoring or any other area of forward play. I suppose we just have to trust the management team, but it seems a strange gamble to take when the same bet almost put paid to our Premier League status last season.Totally agree with this, although we should have addressed this before the season, as in January everyone is scrabbling around.
Wolves have shown what can happen with the total reliance on one player in a chosen formation. They've really struggled since Jimenez got injured and they had no proper contingency in place having sold Jota.
We currently have nobody who can adequately replace Watkins in Smith's formation.
Post by: eamonn on February 01, 2021, 07:31:09 PM
Jan deadline day is like Christmas Eve for blokes who have left it too late to buy the missus a present. Enjoying the quiet but when is grealish going to Man U? Or spurs?
Jim White sweating buckets inside House of Fraser at 17:52 on 24/12 looking to find Nicko Kranjcar on the shelves to surprise his missus, only to find Nicko's Uncle 'Arry there instead.
Post by: dave.woodhall on February 01, 2021, 07:41:36 PM
Post by: cdbearsfan on February 01, 2021, 07:45:18 PM
If Ollie gets an injury I think we'd have to accept our chances of a top 10 finish would be as good as over. None of the suggested replacements are anywhere near as good as him, either at goal scoring or any other area of forward play. I suppose we just have to trust the management team, but it seems a strange gamble to take when the same bet almost put paid to our Premier League status last season.
Yeah, it's madness. Hopefully it doesn't cost us.
Post by: VILLA MOLE on February 01, 2021, 07:54:29 PM
The last two hours is like Asda when the yellow stickers are out.
They are desperate, earlier they had a filler where you had to guess the transfer from yester years that Harry redknapp was crabbing on about 😀
Post by: villabear on February 01, 2021, 08:32:41 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on February 01, 2021, 08:50:15 PM
I like quiet transfer deadline days
[/quote
I love how visibly irritated the clowns at Sky Sports News get when there is next to nothing happening.
Post by: Clampy on February 01, 2021, 09:10:06 PM
Oh the irony of the Stripeys signing someone called Okay. Bet he’s good 😁
They have Okay, we have Marvellous. We're better than them in every way.
Post by: OCD on February 01, 2021, 09:19:12 PM
Post by: Legion on February 01, 2021, 09:21:46 PM
Post by: PaulWinch again on February 01, 2021, 09:56:11 PM
Post by: tomd2103 on February 01, 2021, 10:16:21 PM
Joshua King probably going to Everton unless he chooses Fulham over them.
Sky Sports News reporting that Everton are only offering a six month contract until the end of the season and will make a decision at the end of that as whether to offer him a new one.
Post by: Villa Lew on February 01, 2021, 10:27:48 PM
Post by: Legion on February 01, 2021, 10:28:56 PM
Last January transfer deadline day we signed the never to be forgotten Borja Baston.
Was Samatta signed then as well?
Post by: Legion on February 01, 2021, 10:29:30 PM
I really hope this the end of the ridiculous “deadline day” stuff. It’s laughable.
Big thumbs up.
Post by: Villa Lew on February 01, 2021, 10:51:17 PM
Last January transfer deadline day we signed the never to be forgotten Borja Baston.
Was Samatta signed then as well?
Yes
Post by: olaftab on February 01, 2021, 10:57:50 PM
Post by: PeterWithe on February 02, 2021, 09:59:15 AM
'Being a #BCFC fan on transfer deadline day is like checking your pants after a big fart, you dont expect anything to be there but if there is, its shit'
Post by: Toronto Villa on February 02, 2021, 01:08:55 PM
Post by: OCD on February 02, 2021, 01:43:33 PM
Post by: Legion on February 02, 2021, 02:25:37 PM
Post by: eamonn on February 02, 2021, 02:30:41 PM
£11m I think was speculated at the time, which isn't far off Sanson for four years!
Post by: chrisw1 on February 02, 2021, 02:42:26 PM
I really wish we had got a back-up striker this time as Smith clearly has no interest in bringing Archer or Vassilev through as fringe players at the moment, Barry is out for a couple of months, Wes is still not back and Davis has the goal-scoring potential of a drowned rat.Yep. It does seem short sighted. Everton have DCL & Richarlison and still chose to bring in King.
I appreciate they're ahead of us in terms of squad building, but it seems to me we do like to gamble on key positions.
Post by: KevinGage on February 02, 2021, 06:30:37 PM
Not on a player with his recent injury record anyroad. A top drawer player, maybe.
Post by: Goldenballs on February 02, 2021, 07:06:40 PM
He probably only needs to earn them 3 points and he's pretty much paid for himself.
Post by: eamonn on February 02, 2021, 07:14:47 PM
How much do you get extra for each position you finish higher in the league?
He probably only needs to earn them 3 points and he's pretty much paid for himself.
Dunno about that. Think it's more like £2m per position. And his salary at an estimate of £75k a week for four months is about 1.25m. So, three match winners from the King and they can call it quits. Otherwise, fcuk him off to the Albion in the summer.
Post by: N'ZMAV on February 02, 2021, 07:18:36 PM
I really wish we had got a back-up striker this time as Smith clearly has no interest in bringing Archer or Vassilev through as fringe players at the moment, Barry is out for a couple of months, Wes is still not back and Davis has the goal-scoring potential of a drowned rat.Wonder if Smith think El Ghazi or Traore could do a job up front if Watkins gets injured
Post by: Goldenballs on February 02, 2021, 07:24:57 PM
Post by: KevinGage on February 02, 2021, 09:21:45 PM
Jack is widely reported to be our highest earner on £120k per week after the new deal he signed in the summer. Mings' new deal was mentioned in the £65k region. McGinn's new deal in 2019 was listed as £50k plus.
Between ourselves and Chelsea, Barkley won't be earning less than he was there.
All that is broadly in line with their importance to us.
So a Josh King (or any other reserve striker) coming in at £75k per week throws that out of kilter. It's often been commented on that part of the appeal this season is this is a likeable bunch of players who seem to have a good team spirit. Doing deals like the above is a good way to nobble that.
Should we get a second forward in in the summer, I expect it will be following the Bert or Sanson template; that is a player with good pedigree at one of the bigger European clubs. Not a houselhold name necessarily (and wages to match). But with the ability and desire to develop with us.
Post by: OCD on February 02, 2021, 09:51:36 PM
Post by: FatSam on February 02, 2021, 10:15:05 PM
I think Barkley is getting about £125k/week too.
According to this (https://www.spotrac.com/epl/chelsea-fc/payroll/) he’s on £96k/ week.
Also, Drinkwater is on £100k/ week, Hudson-Odoi is on £120k/ week, and Chilwell is on £190k/ week!
Understandable that Tomori has left for Milan when he was the lowest paid squad member.
Mendy is on £75k/ week whilst Kepa is on £150k/ week.
According to this (https://www.spotrac.com/epl/aston-villa-fc/payroll/) the big anomalies in the Villa squad are Engels on £55k/ week and Davis on £45k/ week.
Post by: Sexual Ealing on February 02, 2021, 10:19:20 PM
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on February 02, 2021, 10:57:12 PM
Post by: KevinGage on February 02, 2021, 10:59:22 PM
Don't think Watkins and Cash coming in from the Championship will be on anywhere near that. The Engles and Davis valuations look mental.
Post by: Legion on February 02, 2021, 11:00:18 PM
Davis on £45k a week, well bugger me with a fish fork!! He must have some agent.
That is seriously taking the piss if true.
Post by: Ads on February 02, 2021, 11:15:54 PM
Post by: Scott Nielsen on February 03, 2021, 03:55:20 AM
Davis on £45k a week, well bugger me with a fish fork!! He must have some agent.
That is seriously taking the piss if true.
Well, if someone likes Victor Lindelof makes £120,000/week then, surely, anything at all is possible. I doubt the validity of the information on that site.
Post by: andyh on February 03, 2021, 07:41:44 AM
Post by: Ads on February 03, 2021, 08:10:57 AM
Post by: Mister E on February 03, 2021, 08:23:36 AM
If Davis is on more than £20k I'd be amazed.
Post by: OCD on February 03, 2021, 11:43:05 AM
Post by: danno on February 03, 2021, 11:55:11 AM
Post by: Dave P on February 03, 2021, 12:18:30 PM
Post by: eamonn on February 03, 2021, 02:26:17 PM