Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 12:21:14 PM

Title: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 12:21:14 PM
Seems to be pretty close, medical this afternoon supposedly. I've gone devil-may-care about starting threads before it's official. Fuck it.

https://mobile.twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1565290120932204546?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

Anyway, I don't really know much about him. Be brilliant, please.
Title: Re: Leader Dendoncker
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 01, 2022, 12:26:03 PM
Good player. Not a massive difference maker but he will add some steel to our midfield. Plenty of PL experience so that won’t be an issue. If we can get someone like Gallagher also today I’ll be happy. But if we persist with McGinn then it doesn’t solve anything. And I’d rather we didn’t sell Luiz.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: tony scott on September 01, 2022, 12:27:11 PM
A bit more bite in midfield
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: purpletrousers on September 01, 2022, 12:27:57 PM
Beeb also says no offers for Dougie (Doggie for listeners of the Villa podcast) so he is staying put. Hope so.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: LukeJames on September 01, 2022, 12:28:11 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 01, 2022, 12:28:16 PM
Confirmed by the Beeb now. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Deano's Mullet on September 01, 2022, 12:29:04 PM
Can't get too excited whether we sign anyone or not, the manager is the problem.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Richard on September 01, 2022, 12:30:57 PM
Him and Kamara behind any 3 of Luiz Bailey Ramsey Phil Buendia is acceptable as long as its not McGinn.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: richtheholtender on September 01, 2022, 12:32:48 PM
I think this can be summed up by the opinion on the molineux mix. Theyre delighted not upset which speaks volumes.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Jon Crofts on September 01, 2022, 12:33:06 PM
If Luiz goes that leaves a midfield of McGinn and Dendoncker. I'm scared now.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Nev on September 01, 2022, 12:34:00 PM
Can't get too excited whether we sign anyone or not, the manager is the problem.

Same here, I'm pleased we've signed someone at least but considering the dip in form for so many of our players lately, I fear for this bloke as well.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: eamonn on September 01, 2022, 12:34:27 PM
Fee oddly quoted in EUR (€15m) which the Athletic are saying is £12.9m
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Clive W on September 01, 2022, 12:34:53 PM
£13m subject to medical according to Percy
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 01, 2022, 12:35:06 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

Not remotely like that
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: eamonn on September 01, 2022, 12:35:53 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

You're way off the mark. He's better than anyone we have as a midfield stopper. He also has physicality and gets the odd goal.
It's a shrewd move. Everton and West Ham were also interested.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: LukeJames on September 01, 2022, 12:37:34 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

Not remotely like that

Its exactly like that, I'm more than comfortable having this on the first page of the thread as you'll all be saying the exact same thing in a few games.

I live amongst the dingles and to a man they have all wanted him gone for the past 18 months.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Clive W on September 01, 2022, 12:38:49 PM
If he at least tackles the opposition as they slice through our midfield rather than waving a white surrender flag then it will have been a good signing
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: algy on September 01, 2022, 12:39:58 PM
Seems like a decent bit of business at the price.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Richard E on September 01, 2022, 12:40:13 PM
His name sounds worryingly similar to ‘donkey’
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 12:41:08 PM
I'd thought that, shades of poor old "Useless" De La Cruz.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Axl Rose on September 01, 2022, 12:42:19 PM
Good player, good signing. Belgian international. A bit of good news.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Risso on September 01, 2022, 12:42:21 PM
Dendoncker plays regularly for Wolves and Belgium. That is a world away from Drinkwater and not having played for Burnley for two years because he got beaten up for being a twat in a nightclub.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: olaftab on September 01, 2022, 12:42:39 PM
Underwhelming. Dropped from Wolves team after couple of horrendous games this season and now offloaded.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: AGRIPPA on September 01, 2022, 12:43:12 PM
Decent player…
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Goldenballs on September 01, 2022, 12:44:35 PM
Meh
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Axl Rose on September 01, 2022, 12:44:45 PM
Underwhelming. Dropped from Wolves team after couple of horrendous games this season and now offloaded.

Haha. Now I'm worried! Hope you're well, fella. I'm getting nicely battered on a nice bottle of warm sake with yakitori.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: rougegorge on September 01, 2022, 12:45:45 PM
Dendoncker plays regularly for Wolves and Belgium. That is a world away from Drinkwater and not having played for Burnley for two years because he got beaten up for being a twat in a nightclub.
Yes, 17 appearances for Belgium since the start of last year, so I guess he can't be so terrible; well at least before he gets here!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 12:46:49 PM
Sounds good then, thanks. 27, so should be pretty much at his peak. Covers two "need" positions.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: LeeB on September 01, 2022, 12:48:28 PM
He was ace on Football Manager when younger, so I'm positive
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: brontebilly on September 01, 2022, 12:49:21 PM
Maybe a similar player to Soucek. We also badly needed some height in the team for set pieces. Think this is a solid enough buy to partner with Kamara. He's not going to be much of a playmaker but an upgrade on Nakamba surely.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Rigadon on September 01, 2022, 12:49:29 PM
Why is he leaving Wolves? Because he can’t get a game there?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Villafirst on September 01, 2022, 12:51:10 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

You're way off the mark. He's better than anyone we have as a midfield stopper. He also has physicality and gets the odd goal.
It's a shrewd move. Everton and West Ham were also interested.

Agree, he's got presence at 6'2". Can play midfield or centre back, so he has versatility. Also capped several times by Belgium.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 01, 2022, 12:51:35 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

Not remotely like that

Its exactly like that, I'm more than comfortable having this on the first page of the thread as you'll all be saying the exact same thing in a few games.

I live amongst the dingles and to a man they have all wanted him gone for the past 18 months.

To a man, what the fuck do they know about football ?!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Dave P on September 01, 2022, 12:52:48 PM
Why is he leaving Wolves? Because he can’t get a game there?

He's a Nuno defensive style player that Lage doesn't need in his system. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 01, 2022, 12:52:49 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

Not remotely like that

Its exactly like that, I'm more than comfortable having this on the first page of the thread as you'll all be saying the exact same thing in a few games.

I live amongst the dingles and to a man they have all wanted him gone for the past 18 months.

You can say it as much as you want it doesn’t make it correct. He’s not Danny Drinkwater. Players like Drinkwater don’t play 30 times for their country. A side like Belgium who have had lots of good midfielders in the past 5/6 years to choose from. He isn’t someone to tickle your nuts but he’s better than what we have in the role we will ask him to play.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: olaftab on September 01, 2022, 12:54:40 PM
Underwhelming. Dropped from Wolves team after couple of horrendous games this season and now offloaded.

Haha. Now I'm worried! Hope you're well, fella. I'm getting nicely battered on a nice bottle of warm sake with yakitori.
Saki and Yakitori are perfect bedfellows. I am totally demoralised  with Villa's current state just like the rest of us. Why can't we ever get it right?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Towser on September 01, 2022, 12:58:20 PM
I asked the Dingles at work this morning what he was like and why they getting rid, the answer was "Never been a fan’s favourite but he’s ok and works hard and he runs like Louis Spence"
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: richtheholtender on September 01, 2022, 12:58:36 PM
Anyone who doesn't think this is a panic buy do you really think thus was the plan all along? To sign him and on deadline day?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: rob_bridge on September 01, 2022, 01:01:29 PM
Does this mean Doug is going?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: RamboandBruno on September 01, 2022, 01:02:09 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

Not remotely like that

I know stupid reference
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: KRS on September 01, 2022, 01:02:20 PM
Wasn’t he played mainly as a CB for Wolves rather than in midfield?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Goldenballs on September 01, 2022, 01:02:51 PM
Anyone who doesn't think this is a panic buy do you really think thus was the plan all along? To sign him and on deadline day?
I imagine he was pretty far down the list. Probably on the second page.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: KRS on September 01, 2022, 01:04:36 PM
Does this mean Doug is going?
Hope not. We need reinforcements in midfield and defence not replacements, but apparently Arsenal have made a £20m bid for him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on September 01, 2022, 01:04:56 PM
Does this mean Doug is going?

Nailed on I reckon
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 01, 2022, 01:05:57 PM
Yeah a couple of my Wolves mates reckon he's ok, the one comment not so good in defence.

I'm not sure Mile Jedinak got the pulses racing but we looked a lot more solid and won a lot more games with him in the team, this might be his replacement 3/4 years on.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: rob_bridge on September 01, 2022, 01:06:05 PM
Does this mean Doug is going?

Nailed on I reckon

Did sound last night in the interview that Dougie was going
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Ian. on September 01, 2022, 01:07:14 PM
Will this be a change in formation with two sitting deep midfielders?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Risso on September 01, 2022, 01:08:26 PM
Will this be a change in formation with two sitting deep midfielders?

Wouldn't be the worst idea in the world against the better sides. By better sides that's obviously every other Premier League team.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Proposition Joe on September 01, 2022, 01:10:26 PM
His name sounds worryingly similar to ‘donkey’

I always called him Clive.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Dave on September 01, 2022, 01:11:48 PM
Anyone who doesn't think this is a panic buy do you really think thus was the plan all along? To sign him and on deadline day?

There are levels of panic buy. No, he clearly wasn't the midfielder we were aiming for at the start of the window. Benteke wasn't the striker we were aiming for at the start of summer 2012 when we eventually brought him in on deadline day.

He won't be a Benteke and he won't be a Dawkins. He's a decent player to make us a bit more steady.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Axl Rose on September 01, 2022, 01:12:36 PM
Underwhelming. Dropped from Wolves team after couple of horrendous games this season and now offloaded.

Haha. Now I'm worried! Hope you're well, fella. I'm getting nicely battered on a nice bottle of warm sake with yakitori.
Saki and Yakitori are perfect bedfellows. I am totally demoralised  with Villa's current state just like the rest of us. Why can't we ever get it right?

Looking forward to you visiting Tokyo soon mate so we can have a mini rampage haha.

By that time, we'll have a new manager and will be in the top 6!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Ian. on September 01, 2022, 01:12:37 PM
Will this be a change in formation with two sitting deep midfielders?

Wouldn't be the worst idea in the world against the better sides. By better sides that's obviously every other Premier League team.

Made me chuckle.

We do need to stop losing I suppose and If we remember how to score it might be a good idea.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: London Villan on September 01, 2022, 01:12:43 PM
Where does he fit into the Scouse Sherwood system?

We don't play 3 at the back and he has never tried 4231 (despite our squad being built for it) so is this a club signing or a manager's signing?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Nev on September 01, 2022, 01:12:59 PM
Anyone who doesn't think this is a panic buy do you really think thus was the plan all along? To sign him and on deadline day?

There are levels of panic buy. No, he clearly wasn't the midfielder we were aiming for at the start of the window. Benteke wasn't the striker we were aiming for at the start of summer 2012 when we eventually brought him in on deadline day.

He won't be a Benteke and he won't be a Dawkins. He's a decent player to make us a bit more steady.

And a good replacement if Doug goes, but we still need a centre half.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Clive W on September 01, 2022, 01:14:37 PM
Anyone who doesn't think this is a panic buy do you really think thus was the plan all along? To sign him and on deadline day?



I imagine he was pretty far down the list. Probably on the second page.

I think everything changed at 2 minutes past 3 on Saturday 6 August

Up to that  point, along with many others, I was looking forward to the 2/3 signings that would push us towards Europe

I think the mindset has changed within the club and the thinking is now that we are more likely to be in a bottom 6 battle rather than a top 6 one

Hence the change of approach to looking for players more suited to that environment

I think it was an economist who, when questioned as to why he had changed his mind, responded ;

“When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do Sir?”
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Rigadon on September 01, 2022, 01:15:30 PM
It feels more like more a ‘8th choice on our original list of central midfielders but all we can realistically get now we’re right in the shit’ than ‘panic buy’.  Buy those two things aren’t potentially all that far apart in outcome.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Dave on September 01, 2022, 01:18:08 PM
I think it was an economist who, when questioned as to why he had changed his mind, responded ;

“When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do Sir?”

Usually it's misattributed to Winston Churchill or John Maynard Keynes. It was apparently Paul Samuelson who actually said it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: john e on September 01, 2022, 01:20:24 PM
Will this be a change in formation with two sitting deep midfielders?

Just get big Sam in till the end of the season and we’re sorted then
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on September 01, 2022, 01:28:47 PM
Welcome Leander. I don't know much about this player though I think he's scored against us.
For someone who recently said he doesn't like that the transfer window is open past the 1st game of the season he's certainly not averse to using it if it saves his skin. This could so easily have been a Bruce or Smith signing, so our manager's supposed profile in attracting better quality players wasn't needed on this occasion. I'm hoping this is a next manager buy rather than gerrard's.
Certainly don't want Dougie leaving if it means Leander is his replacement.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Villa Lew on September 01, 2022, 01:34:21 PM
If this does goes through, looks like Doug will be going, but if it is Arsenal, can't see him making more than a handful of starts there.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Ian. on September 01, 2022, 01:43:13 PM
Will this be a change in formation with two sitting deep midfielders?

Just get big Sam in till the end of the season and we’re sorted then

We haven't had a Big Sam, Pullis or Warnock call for a while. Nearly a year now since the last call for these heroes of football.

Oh, the hopes and dreams can fall away so quickly.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: AlexAlexCropley on September 01, 2022, 01:44:47 PM
I think he will improve us. Adds steel and energy, box to box
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Footy-Vill on September 01, 2022, 01:59:46 PM
Astute signing.
Presence.
Heading ability
Competitive.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Drummond on September 01, 2022, 02:12:14 PM
His name sounds worryingly similar to ‘donkey’

Denplonker as my son said when I told him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 01, 2022, 02:50:42 PM
I think he will improve us. Adds steel and energy, box to box

Echo this and the other positive comments. Not a 'Wow' signing but a versatile international with PL experience in an area we need.

Plus he was born in Passendale so we can adopt the Iron Maiden track as 'his song'. 8)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: ozzjim on September 01, 2022, 02:55:04 PM
Seems like sensible business. Not exciting, but could be a very important player this season.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 01, 2022, 02:55:24 PM
He'll be a decent signing that we need. He's also the type of player we should really have been signing 2 years ago to help us push on.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: KRS on September 01, 2022, 02:55:52 PM
Medical happening now apparently.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Somniloquism on September 01, 2022, 03:01:26 PM
My wolves supporting boss replied.

"he will run around like a good un but not that skillful"

So as people mentioned, might make us a bit more solid in midfield but Nakamba like when on the ball.

Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: The Edge on September 01, 2022, 03:01:53 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

Not remotely like that

Its exactly like that, I'm more than comfortable having this on the first page of the thread as you'll all be saying the exact same thing in a few games.

I live amongst the dingles and to a man they have all wanted him gone for the past 18 months.

To a man, what the fuck do they know about football ?!
Fantastic come back sir. Kudos.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 01, 2022, 03:07:15 PM
Medical happening now apparently.
At the Vets
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: paul_e on September 01, 2022, 03:12:26 PM
I'm pretty happy with this, not as exciting as some of the options we've been linked to but he's big and strong without being a donkey and should address the 'soft underbelly' issue we've had for years.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: ozzjim on September 01, 2022, 03:23:39 PM
It's just a sensible buy for the position we are in as we have no one like him really.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 01, 2022, 03:38:48 PM
Medical happening now apparently.
At the Vets

Ha ha ha, very good, made me laugh.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 03:39:25 PM
Seems sensible to me and I thought he was about 40!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: SaddVillan on September 01, 2022, 03:46:42 PM
Leander Dendoncker - Belgian International defender.
The new Bjorn Engels?

5-6 reasonably good appearances.
Training ground injury
4-5 months rehab
Comes back eventually, but has lost whatever he had.
Sold at a loss 12 months later.

Hope not.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: LeeB on September 01, 2022, 03:55:22 PM
That's pretty much the career arc of any player that joins us.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: eamonn on September 01, 2022, 03:58:39 PM
Seems sensible to me and I thought he was about 40!

Very bold of you.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: WassallVillain on September 01, 2022, 04:04:51 PM
It's just a sensible buy for the position we are in as we have no one like him really.

We’ve needed a Jedinak unspectacular type presence for some time. Hope this is it and his solidity aids the rest of the team in becoming more than the sum of it’s parts because it’s miles off at the moment.  I’m in.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Richard E on September 01, 2022, 04:54:59 PM
My Wolves supporting mate says:-

Defensive midfielder

High energy, strong in the tackle. Gets into good positions but, doesn’t convert.

Can play CB too ⚽️👍
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Richard E on September 01, 2022, 04:59:07 PM
The poor grammar and the emojis are his, obviously.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: andyh on September 01, 2022, 04:59:43 PM
I don’t mind Dendoncker, but you can’t tell me we have been pursuing him all summer and have finally landed our man.

It feels like a bit of a ‘lets buy someone……. anyone’ situation and he happened to be available.


Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Flamingo Lane on September 01, 2022, 05:00:36 PM
Along with Bednarek, this signing smacks of a pragmatic approach to get in such no- nonsense Premier league experience as may be required to help us stave off relegation this season, and with the nous to quickly adapt to the demands of whatever new manager is installed in the next week or two. If pragmatism is now the name of the game, perhaps a stop gap manager might also be in the offing.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Delboy Villan on September 01, 2022, 05:02:00 PM
Decent signing and an upgrade on Capt. McGinn
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: KevinGage on September 01, 2022, 05:06:45 PM
Welcome Leander.

And welcome Nuno Espírito Santo.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: paul_e on September 01, 2022, 05:07:35 PM
I don’t mind Dendoncker, but you can’t tell me we have been pursuing him all summer and have finally landed our man.

It feels like a bit of a ‘lets buy someone……. anyone’ situation and he happened to be available.

We obviously won't have been chasing him all summer but he does fill a gap in our squad, we've needed a bit of physicality in midfield for years, so it's not like we've gone for anyone, we've gone for someone who's available that addresses a problem. Also he's a regular in the Belgian squad, you don't get into that squad without being a decent player.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: john e on September 01, 2022, 05:13:56 PM
One of the worst things I read on this site is ‘he will fill a gap in the squad‘

I honestly couldn’t care less about players coming in to fill gaps what is the point in a player Who is nowhere near good enough filling a gap there’s  just literally no point in it

All we’ll end up with is a load of bang average players who we’ll never be able to get rid of again because they’ll be sitting there on too much money
The whole thing is doing my head in now
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 05:19:03 PM
One of the worst things I read on this site is ‘he will fill a gap in the squad‘

I honestly couldn’t care less about players coming in to fill gaps what is the point in a player Who is nowhere near good enough filling a gap there’s  just literally no point in it

All we’ll end up with is a load of bang average players who we’ll never be able to get rid of again because they’ll be sitting there on too much money
The whole thing is doing my head in now


I personally think he fills a gap in the team.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: paul_e on September 01, 2022, 05:20:01 PM
One of the worst things I read on this site is ‘he will fill a gap in the squad‘

I honestly couldn’t care less about players coming in to fill gaps what is the point in a player Who is nowhere near good enough filling a gap there’s  just literally no point in it

All we’ll end up with is a load of bang average players who we’ll never be able to get rid of again because they’ll be sitting there on too much money
The whole thing is doing my head in now


What makes you think a belgian international who has been a regular in a top half premier league team is 'nowhere near good enough'?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: astonvilla82 on September 01, 2022, 05:21:47 PM
 ::)
Decent signing and an upgrade on Capt. McGinn
the new Captain?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 05:22:19 PM
Leander Dendoncker - Belgian International defender.
The new Bjorn Engels?

5-6 reasonably good appearances.
Training ground injury
4-5 months rehab
Comes back eventually, but has lost whatever he had.
Sold at a loss 12 months later.

Hope not.

Bjorn Engels isnt a Belgium international. Dendoncker has twenty-nine caps.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Taylor on September 01, 2022, 05:23:49 PM
I don’t tend to watch many wolves matches, but he always seems to play well against us. Mind you could say that about 95% of premier league players. Maybe not those playing for Everton.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: SaddVillan on September 01, 2022, 05:39:57 PM
Leander Dendoncker - Belgian International defender.
The new Bjorn Engels?

5-6 reasonably good appearances.
Training ground injury
4-5 months rehab
Comes back eventually, but has lost whatever he had.
Sold at a loss 12 months later.

Hope not.

Bjorn Engels isnt a Belgium international. Dendoncker has twenty-nine caps.

Didn't say he was.

Just pointing out that with our luck with players recently (e,g. Wesley, Carlos) it wouldn't surprise me if after a good start he gets crocked and is never seen again.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 01, 2022, 05:42:39 PM
He is a bit shit but likes kicking people.
Totally uninspiring transfer.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 01, 2022, 05:45:51 PM
::)
Decent signing and an upgrade on Capt. McGinn

 the new Captain?

Definitely captain material, he puts the 'n' into leader.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: itmustbe_it is! on September 01, 2022, 05:48:40 PM
Hope the Dead Donkey is better than he sounds
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Jimsta on September 01, 2022, 06:01:08 PM
Talked to some Wolves Buddies and there happy his gone, Also seen him play a few times and have to say not impressed. He won't improve the Villa i rather have Winks.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: PaulTheVillan on September 01, 2022, 06:17:43 PM
I’m ok with this transfer. Wonder if we’ll see Sanson leave?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 06:18:33 PM
Talked to some Wolves Buddies and there happy his gone, Also seen him play a few times and have to say not impressed. He won't improve the Villa i rather have Winks.

He will improve Villa.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Ads on September 01, 2022, 07:59:44 PM
Wonder if it singles the double pivot and a more robust base to set our stall out. Not a high bar given the soggy wheatbix strength of our midfield.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Dazvillain on September 01, 2022, 08:00:53 PM
Signing just confirmed by the club
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: Ian. on September 01, 2022, 08:01:27 PM
Confirmed, so welcome to Villa and for goodness sake help out of this shit storm.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on September 01, 2022, 08:04:29 PM
Welcome Big Den. Be good.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: richtheholtender on September 01, 2022, 08:05:23 PM
Welcome and good luck pal. Expectation European qualification, 7 places above last years finish and you're the mam to lead us there.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 01, 2022, 08:05:27 PM
Quote
Aston Villa is pleased to announce the signing of Leander Dendoncker from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The midfielder moves across the Midlands to Villa Park for an undisclosed fee.

A Belgium international, who represented his country at the 2018 World Cup, Dendoncker started his career with Anderlecht before moving to Wolves, going on to rack up over 150 appearances at Molineux.

The 27-year-old, who stands at 6’2”, can operate in a number of positions.

Welcome, Leander!

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fbl24ByWYAAMNJM?format=jpg&name=small)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: mrfuse on September 01, 2022, 08:05:29 PM
Welcome to the Club. Just run around get stuck in and pass to a Claret shirt, thats all we ask for.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: usav on September 01, 2022, 08:05:49 PM
Don't know much about him.  However, I've heard he's tall and got some muscle on him.  If anything has been obvious from the last couple of games, it's that we are far too easily pushed off the ball.   Buendia and Watkins go down at the drop of a feather.  Kamara is lightweight, Luiz the same.  Ramsay has a bit more strength, but that's not really his game.  We need a big bastard filling up the middle - hopefully he can do that.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Joe S on September 01, 2022, 08:05:57 PM
(https://i.ibb.co/cvz8xCJ/6b07ccb0-2a10-11ed-8c66-818180ee10d2.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cvz8xCJ)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 08:05:58 PM
Welcome Den - help make our midfield a fuck load more resilient and effective.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 01, 2022, 08:06:04 PM
Welcome Leander, kick arse.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on September 01, 2022, 08:06:55 PM
Welcome big Den. If paired correctly, you'll give our midfield some real balance, height and presence.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Goldenballs on September 01, 2022, 08:07:46 PM
I like how they're emphasising his height, never noticed that in a statement before.

"Ooh look we signed someone who isn't a midget"
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Flin5tone on September 01, 2022, 08:09:45 PM
I feel these signings are cheap and will do a decent job until the new manager gets his players in January .
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Richard E on September 01, 2022, 08:09:52 PM
The only thing I know about him is that he conceded the late penalty which stopped Wolves reaching the FA Cup Final the other year, which makes him a legend in my eyes when I have to work among them.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 08:10:48 PM
I couldn't even change my own thread title. Bloody power-crazed moderators. 😕
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dogtanian on September 01, 2022, 08:11:22 PM
Welcome To the Villa Leander!

And don’t let the arseholes slagging you off already get you down.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 01, 2022, 08:12:23 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Nev on September 01, 2022, 08:12:44 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on September 01, 2022, 08:13:07 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

His English is excellent considering he's been in Wolverhampton.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dazvillain on September 01, 2022, 08:14:08 PM
Like all new signings I wish him the very best of luck, be good, and welcome.

Is he an upgrade on what we’ve got though, as I thought that’s what our strategy was ? Wolves fans are saying his replacement is an upgrade on him. Are we that far behind wolves ?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave on September 01, 2022, 08:14:44 PM
I couldn't even change my own thread title. Bloody power-crazed moderators. 😕

We run a very tight, efficient ship here. Sometimes.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 08:17:19 PM
Like all new signings I wish him the very best of luck, be good, and welcome.

Is he an upgrade on what we’ve got though, as I thought that’s what our strategy was ? Wolves fans are saying his replacement is an upgrade on him. Are we that far behind wolves ?

I’ve always thought he’s pretty good - in an efficient, makes the midfield tick and generally makes the team more structured kind of way. I think he offers us something we lack at the moment and will hopefully stop us being so easy to run through. As for the Wolves fans, who knows but they would say that.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 01, 2022, 08:17:21 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

His English is excellent considering he's been in Wolverhampton.

*snigger*
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 08:18:11 PM
Ah you can see he’s been given a script, “it’s a very good team with very good players”.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave shelley on September 01, 2022, 08:18:53 PM
Welcome, be good for us please.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Goldenballs on September 01, 2022, 08:19:06 PM
Ah you can see he’s been given a script, “it’s a very good team with very good players”.

"...very good manager"
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 01, 2022, 08:19:39 PM
Ah you can see he’s been given a script, “it’s a very good team with very good players”.

The big clue was when he said "and a very good manager".

He should be Oscasr nominated for pulling that bit of the script off while keeping a straight face.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: frankmosswasmyuncle on September 01, 2022, 08:21:11 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

His English is excellent considering he's been in Wolverhampton.
lolz
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Deano's Mullet on September 01, 2022, 08:21:58 PM
I can't help but wonder why we didn't sign him or anyone else before a ball was kicked instead of on deadline day. I think this is endorsing Gerrard  by giving him new players to work with - I'd imagine if a new manager was to come in anytime soon we wouldn't be signing players that he perhaps would'nt want? I dunno, messes up your head does the Villa .
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on September 01, 2022, 08:24:12 PM
£13m for a 27 year old International midfielder is not bad really.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on September 01, 2022, 08:25:19 PM
Don't know much about him.  However, I've heard he's tall and got some muscle on him.  If anything has been obvious from the last couple of games, it's that we are far too easily pushed off the ball.   Buendia and Watkins go down at the drop of a feather.  Kamara is lightweight, Luiz the same.  Ramsay has a bit more strength, but that's not really his game.  We need a big bastard filling up the middle - hopefully he can do that.

I disagree on Kamara but otherwise this is exactly it, he's not exciting and he's not going to be the creative influence that wins us games but he will make us tougher in midfield, he'll win the ball on the ground and in the air and he's generally pretty good at moving the ball quickly to the players that will create things. I think some on here have got it in their heads that he's a bit of a donkey but that's just not the case at all.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 01, 2022, 08:26:32 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

Jesus Christ, those fucking questions.

Do you like to kick a good goal?
Is it nice to win?
Is Canada big?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 01, 2022, 08:26:50 PM
No Kamara will be excellent but I’m hoping Dendonker will be a player to support Kamara’s attributes.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 01, 2022, 08:28:20 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

Jesus Christ, those fucking questions.

Do you like to kick a good goal?
Is it nice to win?
Is Canada big?


I sometimes wonder are footballers all compete fucking divs that they get asked those types of questions. Or is it that the journalists or interviewers are complete morons? Or maybe it’s both.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on September 01, 2022, 08:29:26 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

Jesus Christ, those fucking questions.

Do you like to kick a good goal?
Is it nice to win?
Is Canada big?


I sometimes wonder are footballers all compete fucking divs that they get asked those types of questions. Or is it that the journalists or interviewers are complete morons? Or maybe it’s both.

I think each thinks the other is due to the questions that are asked and answered.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 01, 2022, 08:38:00 PM
Welcome and best of luck Leander.

p.s.
Don't worry when you hear someone calling you a twat on Saturday, that will just be John.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeonW on September 01, 2022, 09:05:54 PM
Might not be a sexy signing but could actually be quite a good one.

Welcome.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Beard82 on September 01, 2022, 09:07:07 PM
Apparently you have never lost at Villa park, think that will last til Saturday
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villa Lew on September 01, 2022, 09:11:36 PM
Welcome Leander to the greatest club in the world, just having a minor hiccup at the moment.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Behind Bluenose Lines on September 01, 2022, 09:12:57 PM
Welcome Leander!

Be good, please!
Thanks x
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dazvillain on September 01, 2022, 09:28:39 PM
Apparently you have never lost at Villa park, think that will last til Saturday

🤣🤣🤣🤣 love it
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: SamTheMouse on September 01, 2022, 09:29:17 PM
Welcome Leander!

Cool name btw.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Lsvilla on September 01, 2022, 09:32:32 PM
I actually thought Dendonker was alright and a threat - but that was against our midfield of course.
If it signals a change in formation and a 4 2 3 1 with Kamara and Dendonker holding (ie: soucek and rice) to make us tougher to play against and some creativity (and critically pace) ahead then I'm more happy with it but I don't trust Stevie Me - he will want his man crush Phil in there and try to shoehorn Ollie and Danny in whilst pissing off Jacob and Leon.
Hope we get rid soon and the next bloke (Poch please) can get us more mobile all over the pitch.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 09:58:23 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 01, 2022, 10:03:15 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: algy on September 01, 2022, 10:05:42 PM
Bassline! Put Dendoncker on it!
Electro! Put Dendoncker on it!
Techno! Put Dendoncker on it!


One for the Wigan kids
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: darren woolley on September 01, 2022, 10:28:52 PM
Welcome to Aston Villa Leander.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave P on September 01, 2022, 10:34:10 PM
Welcome Leander!

Cool name btw.

It’s a lovely name to say.

Leander Dendonker. Leander Dendonker.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 10:34:22 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?

I didn't before I just looked it up. Deleted search history afterwards, to be on the safe.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on September 01, 2022, 10:48:50 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?

Is the answer Bernice Taupin?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Smithy on September 01, 2022, 10:50:41 PM
£13m for a 27 year old International midfielder is not bad really.

BELGIAN International.  I know very little about him apart from his performances against us, and I am hoping (like all Villa signings) that he will turn out to be really good and the only reason he's leaving Wolves is he just doesn't fit the system of the new manager.

It does, however, feel like he must have been about fourth choice in our pursuit of midfield reinforcements.  Maybe one day we'll learn who the club REALLY wanted...
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 01, 2022, 11:10:08 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?

I didn't before I just looked it up. Deleted search history afterwards, to be on the safe.

I didn't mean him, I meant the other bloke.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on September 01, 2022, 11:14:12 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?

I didn't before I just looked it up. Deleted search history afterwards, to be on the safe.

I didn't mean him, I meant the other bloke.

Mike Leander. Well I never.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 01, 2022, 11:15:16 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?

I didn't before I just looked it up. Deleted search history afterwards, to be on the safe.

I didn't mean him, I meant the other bloke.

Yeah I know. I knew the obvious one.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 01, 2022, 11:16:56 PM
He's Leander
He's Leander
He's Leander of the Gang
Woah Yeah!

This will catch on, IMO.

And you know the co-writer of that don't you?

I didn't before I just looked it up. Deleted search history afterwards, to be on the safe.

I didn't mean him, I meant the other bloke.

Yeah I know. I knew the obvious one.

Ah, I get you now.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on September 01, 2022, 11:26:47 PM
I knew it wasn't but, given it was cd, I really wanted it to be bono.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on September 01, 2022, 11:35:53 PM
Has the contract length been shared?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OzVilla on September 01, 2022, 11:44:13 PM
Start him in a 4-2-3-1 against Citeh and go from there.  I've always liked him when when I've seen him so hopefully we start to play to our squads strengths (heaven forbid).
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on September 02, 2022, 12:46:24 AM
Strange one that could turn out to be the signing of the summer. Sometimes a team just miss one player to bring the balance, no way would I trust a Dingle to judge a player. All this PL stuff is still new to them.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 02, 2022, 12:53:12 AM
Strange one that could turn out to be the signing of the summer. Sometimes a team just miss one player to bring the balance, no way would I trust a Dingle to judge a player. All this watching Wolves stuff is still new to them.

FTFY
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ozzjim on September 02, 2022, 08:45:20 AM
Weirdly as underwhelming as it is, I agree Rudy. In our current plight, he may well make the difference in the midfield.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Holte Antipode on September 02, 2022, 08:49:55 AM
Always looked handy against us, a useful addition given our trajectory right now, did somebody mention tall too…

Please be the best version of thyself (whatever the hell that means).
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 09:16:18 AM
I think he should play tomorrow. I know the argument is normally that this close to a game a player hasn’t had a chance to learn the system or train much with his teammates. But since we tend to look like we don’t have a plan and most of the players operate completely independently of one another it shouldn’t make much difference.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave P on September 02, 2022, 09:16:33 AM
If we were signing him with the same credentials but directly from Belgium for the same price, we'd be delighted.  The fact he has about 3 years premier league experience as well makes it a bit of a no brainer.  Possibly better than Sander Berge who is similar who was also linked with.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 09:21:46 AM
Strange one that could turn out to be the signing of the summer. Sometimes a team just miss one player to bring the balance, no way would I trust a Dingle to judge a player. All this PL stuff is still new to them.

If (and this is a massive if) Gerrard deploys him correctly he can help eradicate the huge gaps our full backs leave when they bomb forward. He could be really key.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave P on September 02, 2022, 09:25:42 AM
Strange one that could turn out to be the signing of the summer. Sometimes a team just miss one player to bring the balance, no way would I trust a Dingle to judge a player. All this PL stuff is still new to them.

If (and this is a massive if) Gerrard deploys him correctly he can help eradicate the huge gaps our full backs leave when they bomb forward. He could be really key.

One could argue Gerrard has set up by having a Dendonker type player without having Dendonker.  The gap between Kamara and the defenders to the attackers was huge last week which West Ham took full advantage of.  If he can plug that then its a start.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 02, 2022, 09:28:50 AM
If he can tackle and is physical and is played in a holding 2 he will be useful
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 09:31:08 AM
If he can tackle and is physical and is played in a holding 2 he will be useful

Well he can absolutely do all those things, and more.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on September 02, 2022, 09:52:21 AM
I think he should play tomorrow. I know the argument is normally that this close to a game a player hasn’t had a chance to learn the system or train much with his teammates. But since we tend to look like we don’t have a plan and most of the players operate completely independently of one another it shouldn’t make much difference.

Not just that, there's only a small window before they smash any confidence out of him and bring him down to their level. Play him immediately before that happens.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Yeltzer on September 02, 2022, 10:17:27 AM
Looks like he’ll miss the Citeh game - got a “throat issue”.

Typical Villa. Sign someone who then can’t play
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: john e on September 02, 2022, 10:23:10 AM
Your up against Haarland tomorrow
mild injury incoming
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on September 02, 2022, 10:30:46 AM
A throat issue? LMAO. Hard man midfielder.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 02, 2022, 10:33:35 AM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on September 02, 2022, 10:36:14 AM
Tonsillitis can be brutal
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Nev on September 02, 2022, 10:37:21 AM
The one miniscule bright spot about tommorrow was seeing a new player and even potentially a new formation.

Looks like I'll have even more to drink pre-match.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 10:39:25 AM
A throat issue? LMAO. Hard man midfielder.

Yawn.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Richard E on September 02, 2022, 10:43:08 AM
He was shouting for joy all night about escaping from Wolverhampton.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: boozey182 on September 02, 2022, 10:49:29 AM
A throat issue? LMAO. Hard man midfielder.

Yawn.

You don't want to be doing that with tonsillitis. Agony.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 02, 2022, 12:11:10 PM
He was shouting for joy all night about escaping from Wolverhampton.

:)

I've never been to Wolverhampton but I trust the good people of H&V.

Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Axl Rose on September 02, 2022, 12:16:14 PM
He was shouting for joy all night about escaping from Wolverhampton.

:)

I've never been to Wolverhampton but I trust the good people of H&V.



I've been a few times. Wulfran Hall mainly, and a couple of pre season games at Molineux.

It wasn't very nice.

They're a much better team than we are though, unfortunately.

Nothing a good manager won't fix.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: lovejoy on September 02, 2022, 12:17:31 PM
Welcome Clive!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 02, 2022, 12:18:31 PM
It's the only town/city centre I've been to where a nightclub had a metal detector at the entrance...

Anyway, when Leander is fit and well with no kissing-diseases, whose place is he going to take in midfield?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 02, 2022, 12:19:56 PM
It's the only town/city centre I've been to where a nightclub had a metal detector at the entrance...

Anyway, when Leander is fit and well with no kissing-diseases, whose place is he going to take in midfield?
There is plenty of space to fit him in.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on September 02, 2022, 12:22:48 PM
It's the only town/city centre I've been to where a nightclub had a metal detector at the entrance...

Anyway, when Leander is fit and well with no kissing-diseases, whose place is he going to take in midfield?

You haven't lived.

And what midfield?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 02, 2022, 12:34:29 PM
It's the only town/city centre I've been to where a nightclub had a metal detector at the entrance...

The Asylum nightclub in Kingston is the only one I recall. It was also noteworthy for the whole toilets vibrating with the excessive bass in the club.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Nev on September 02, 2022, 12:40:35 PM
There were some Wolves "fans" on my train last Sunday. Apart from the garish outfits, giving away their sudden found love for the club, they were talking about the guests on Parkinson the previous night and what happened in Starsky and Hutch so I knew they were from Wolverhampton.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on September 02, 2022, 12:41:05 PM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.

Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on September 02, 2022, 12:44:25 PM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.

Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.

Steven, is that you?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 12:54:22 PM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.

Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.

Have you ever had bad tonsillitis?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LukeJames on September 02, 2022, 12:54:36 PM
He was shouting for joy all night about escaping from Wolverhampton.

:)

I've never been to Wolverhampton but I trust the good people of H&V.



I've been a few times. Wulfran Hall mainly, and a couple of pre season games at Molineux.

It wasn't very nice.

They're a much better team than we are though, unfortunately.

Nothing a good manager won't fix.

You say that but their form is as bad as ours at the moment and Laage is under pressure from large sections of their fan base. 1 League win in 14. Guess who the win was against?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on September 02, 2022, 01:00:43 PM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.

Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.

Have you ever had bad tonsillitis?

Yes. He looked and spoke fine during his interview. I very much doubt by the sound of him during it that it is ''bad tonsillitis''.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 01:05:45 PM
That’s not the point though is it? If he’s fine then I’m sure he’s available, but getting ill does happen and in a game where you need to be at your physical it’s probably a bit stupid to include a player who’s genuinely unwell.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ian. on September 02, 2022, 01:15:47 PM
I hope he’s fit and we are looking at having him alongside Kamara as this sitting double pivot. If he can’t play we better still play system but with either Doug, Nakamba or Sanson in there.

If we just go out and play the same system (whatever you want to call it) we will get hammered.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: john e on September 02, 2022, 01:27:05 PM
I was looking forward to seeing my mate Dendonker play

Bringing that physical presence that we’ve been crying out for, adding that bite in midfield that we’ve craved for years,
Doubling up with Kamara to create that Unbreachable double pivot man wall, that Aggressive hard man midfielder that will finally turn our fortunes around and is apparently exactly what we need

But he’s got a sore throat, oh well never mind
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: WassallVillain on September 02, 2022, 01:56:43 PM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.

Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.

Have you ever had bad tonsillitis?

Yes. He looked and spoke fine during his interview. I very much doubt by the sound of him during it that it is ''bad tonsillitis''.
My guess is allergic to open countryside of BMH
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Border villan on September 02, 2022, 02:01:34 PM
He was shouting for joy all night about escaping from Wolverhampton.

That’s how he hurt his throat.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 02, 2022, 02:01:51 PM
Welcome Clive!

I saw this and it took about an hour for it to sink in why you were calling him Clive!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 02, 2022, 02:07:49 PM
Yes, because of course leg amputation is the only sufficient reason for potentially missing a game.

Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.

Perhaps it's the start of Covid. Has anyone elaborated further on the 'throat issue'?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on September 02, 2022, 02:10:34 PM
going forward a double pivot with 2 from dendoncker, Kamara and Luiz seems the best idea for me, then Ramsey or McGinn in front of them and getting into the box. I'm happy for Nakamba to be the 4th option in the defensive role and Sanson to be given a chance in front as well but that means Gerrard has to take the hit to his ego and admit he was wrong to marginalise them both.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on September 02, 2022, 02:36:32 PM
Welcome Clive!

I saw this and it took about an hour for it to sink in why you were calling him Clive!

It took me a minute or two to get it. Its marvellous and I shall be using his new name at every opportunity.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 02, 2022, 02:40:20 PM
Unless he needs a tracheostomy I expect him to be playing a game of football with a bad throat.

Perhaps it's the start of Covid. Has anyone elaborated further on the 'throat issue'?

No, they've been asked to keep it quiet.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on September 02, 2022, 02:40:39 PM
All things considered this is a good move, a player with the kind of skill set we're well short of, with pedigree and experience in the league we operate for a relatively modest fee.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 02:44:19 PM
I was looking forward to seeing my mate Dendonker play

Bringing that physical presence that we’ve been crying out for, adding that bite in midfield that we’ve craved for years,
Doubling up with Kamara to create that Unbreachable double pivot man wall, that Aggressive hard man midfielder that will finally turn our fortunes around and is apparently exactly what we need

But he’s got a sore throat, oh well never mind

Sore throat stuff aside John you seem quite anti this signing. Genuine question where do you see the issue?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 02:44:49 PM
All things considered this is a good move, a player with the kind of skill set we're well short of, with pedigree and experience in the league we operate for a relatively modest fee.

Yep that’s how I see it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on September 02, 2022, 03:06:31 PM
All things considered this is a good move, a player with the kind of skill set we're well short of, with pedigree and experience in the league we operate for a relatively modest fee.

and at 27 young enough to be with us for 2-3 seasons and still be possible to sell for profit.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Flin5tone on September 02, 2022, 03:10:02 PM
Out with a bad throat. Only at Villa could a new signing be out with a bad throat
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on September 02, 2022, 03:11:10 PM
He hasn't even got to move house, he should be able to settle in easy enough.

Just made me think though, who was the last player signed from one of our nearest and dearest? Chester from the bog-eyes?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Goldenballs on September 02, 2022, 03:16:18 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: maidstonevillain on September 02, 2022, 03:17:40 PM
He hasn't even got to move house, he should be able to settle in easy enough.

Just made me think though, who was the last player signed from one of our nearest and dearest? Chester from the bog-eyes?
Hause?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on September 02, 2022, 03:19:32 PM
He hasn't even got to move house, he should be able to settle in easy enough.

Just made me think though, who was the last player signed from one of our nearest and dearest? Chester from the bog-eyes?
Hause?

Sorry, the lady in the green shellsuit shouted it first
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave shelley on September 02, 2022, 03:31:21 PM
Jota from the Rags?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 03:33:59 PM
Out with a bad throat. Only at Villa could a new signing be out with a bad throat

Is he out of the game? I haven’t seen that confirmed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on September 02, 2022, 03:36:57 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?

Probably not, but it's the easiest way to share an idea that almost everyone on here will understand.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Richard E on September 02, 2022, 03:44:44 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?

Probably not, but it's the easiest way to share an idea that almost everyone on here will understand.

I don’t <hangs head in shame>
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OCD on September 02, 2022, 04:02:49 PM
2 holding midfielders or 2 6's.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brend'Watkins on September 02, 2022, 04:12:59 PM
Halfbacks in old money.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on September 02, 2022, 04:15:32 PM
Like what Southgate does with England with Rice and Phillips. Except Southgate's full backs actually defend.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 02, 2022, 04:23:18 PM
Welcome Clive!

I saw this and it took about an hour for it to sink in why you were calling him Clive!

It took me a minute or two to get it. Its marvellous and I shall be using his new name at every opportunity.

Mendonca?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ventnorVillain on September 02, 2022, 04:23:37 PM
He hasn't even got to move house, he should be able to settle in easy enough.

Just made me think though, who was the last player signed from one of our nearest and dearest? Chester from the bog-eyes?
Hause?

Sorry, the lady in the green shellsuit shouted it first

Round of applause emoji
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: oldtimernow on September 02, 2022, 04:25:29 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?

Probably not, but it's the easiest way to share an idea that almost everyone on here will understand.

I don’t <hangs head in shame>

Me too, does it have anything to do with " Have it!!"?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ian. on September 02, 2022, 04:25:45 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?

Probably not, but it's the easiest way to share an idea that almost everyone on here will understand.

Could rename it the ‘Southgate’
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 02, 2022, 04:28:35 PM
2 holding midfielders or 2 6's.

Surely you're not allowed to pick two players with the same number?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Border villan on September 02, 2022, 04:38:39 PM
Jota from the Rags?

Big Tim?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Goldenballs on September 02, 2022, 06:23:07 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?

Probably not, but it's the easiest way to share an idea that almost everyone on here will understand.

Could rename it the ‘Southgate’

Only if you add in 5 defenders. Then it's the Southgate.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 02, 2022, 06:27:08 PM
2 holding midfielders or 2 6's.

Surely you're not allowed to pick two players with the same number?

Picking three 6's would be numerically beastly
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on September 02, 2022, 06:29:24 PM
Like what Southgate does with England with Rice and Phillips. Except Southgate's full backs actually defend.

Difference is, Fraudgate has two full backs and three central defenders behind his two holding midfielders. We have two full backs who bomb on and two centre backs desperately out of form.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 02, 2022, 06:38:48 PM
Am I the only one who hates the term 'Double pivot'?

Probably not, but it's the easiest way to share an idea that almost everyone on here will understand.

Helps me but then I still shout "Mind Yer House" at football. Don't mind the term even if it puts me in mind of pivot tables.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Small Rodent on September 02, 2022, 06:39:06 PM
going forward a double pivot with 2 from dendoncker, Kamara and Luiz seems the best idea for me, then Ramsey or McGinn in front of them and getting into the box. I'm happy for Nakamba to be the 4th option in the defensive role and Sanson to be given a chance in front as well but that means Gerrard has to take the hit to his ego and admit he was wrong to marginalise them both.

He has to take the hit and change tactics first!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on September 02, 2022, 08:08:09 PM
Bloody typical, might be injured already, due to a sore throat.  I am looking forward to seeing what he can do and hope he sits in next to Kamara.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 02, 2022, 08:16:40 PM
He was training though wasn’t he? So might be fine.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 02, 2022, 08:53:15 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 02, 2022, 08:57:10 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

No.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 02, 2022, 08:57:46 PM
Interview

https://twitter.com/AVFCOfficial/status/1565416827529871361

His English is excellent considering he's been in Wolverhampton.
the poor bastard
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ldavfc4eva on September 02, 2022, 08:59:39 PM
Totally forgot that Jota played for us! Had to Google him, went to Alaves and hasn’t had a club since 2021…
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 02, 2022, 09:06:23 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 02, 2022, 09:08:31 PM
We belong to Steven Gerrard.  Don’t you know.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave on September 02, 2022, 09:10:18 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

Indeed. I mean, that's literally the joke.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 02, 2022, 09:17:55 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

Indeed. I mean, that's literally the joke.

I was just going to say that. Basil Fawlty clearly doesn't understand that Hampshire in this case is the county cricket team, and instead mistakenly refers to it as a single geographical place.

I do realise that jokes are never funny when you have to explain them, but needs must.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on September 02, 2022, 09:18:54 PM
Please understand before one of us dies
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on September 02, 2022, 09:25:16 PM
Please understand before one of us dies

Is that a death threat?

I'm genuinely worried and am going to contact the appropriate authorities as I have to take that threat seriously.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave on September 02, 2022, 09:25:27 PM
Please understand before one of us dies

I know that Risso gets grumpy with too much embedded stuff, but otherwise I'd put that Simpsons meme of the class all cheering when Bart says that thing that they all want him to say.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on September 02, 2022, 09:31:11 PM
Do the meme!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 02, 2022, 09:32:47 PM
I like this site just as it is thankyowverymuch, Youtube videos in the music section, that's all the embedding we need!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on September 02, 2022, 09:34:39 PM
Come on its Friday, memeeeeee
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 02, 2022, 09:39:26 PM
https://youtu.be/KJBZkfDHqJA

Dendonker in action.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 02, 2022, 09:43:20 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

As somebody who is on the wrong side of this argument, shouldn’t you have written ‘Aston Villa ARE a group of people’?

Or have you just defeated your own argument?

But anyway, Aston Villa is a football club. A single football club. And it is delighted to announce the signing of a new player.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 02, 2022, 09:46:22 PM
That was "Aston Villa" as a semantic clause for the sake of an argunent, not as a football club.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dave on September 02, 2022, 09:48:55 PM
Come on its Friday, memeeeeee

No. This isn't VillaTalk's transfer thread.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on September 02, 2022, 09:57:46 PM
Top bantz tbf.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 02, 2022, 10:00:15 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

Indeed. I mean, that's literally the joke.

My wife and I always see that as an acknowledgement of Basil’s sublime command of the language, the joke being that people who don’t get it will foolishly laugh, unaware of their own mistake.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on September 02, 2022, 10:21:51 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

UNinterested. Argghhh 😉

Definitely plural in my book.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 02, 2022, 11:04:04 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

UNinterested. Argghhh 😉

Definitely plural in my book.

One Aston Villa,

There are only one Aston Villa.

Sorry, doesn’t quite scan for me.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on September 02, 2022, 11:10:40 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

UNinterested. Argghhh 😉

Definitely plural in my book.

One Aston Villa,

There are only one Aston Villa.

Sorry, doesn’t quite scan for me.

Granted, but I always try to think what would best apply to first and third person. The singular works in the third person ('Aston Villa is-') but not in the first person ('I am-'). Whereas 'Aston Villa are-' and 'we are-' works.

Not that I'm especially concerned. Language is flexible and ever-changing.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Smithy on September 02, 2022, 11:35:09 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

UNinterested. Argghhh 😉

Definitely plural in my book.

One Aston Villa,

There are only one Aston Villa.

Sorry, doesn’t quite scan for me.

Granted, but I always try to think what would best apply to first and third person. The singular works in the third person ('Aston Villa is-') but not in the first person ('I am-'). Whereas 'Aston Villa are-' and 'we are-' works.

Not that I'm especially concerned. Language is flexible and ever-changing.

I've always thought of "Aston Villa" as a plural noun when discussing the players, or the team on the pitch ("Villa are winning/losing etc"), and singular when referring to the business entity or the club as a whole ("Aston Villa is planning to appoint a new manager"). 

It's entirely possible I'm wrong on both counts, obviously.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on September 02, 2022, 11:43:39 PM
Aston Villa ARE pleased, not is! For fucks sake.

Can we sink any lower??

‘Is’ for me. Aston Villa is a single entity. See Fawlty Towers:

Major: Hampshire won again Fawlty.

Basil: Did it? Jolly good.

Basil is clearly disinterested/not paying attention in that scene. Aston Villa is a group of people.

UNinterested. Argghhh 😉

Definitely plural in my book.

One Aston Villa,

There are only one Aston Villa.

Sorry, doesn’t quite scan for me.

Granted, but I always try to think what would best apply to first and third person. The singular works in the third person ('Aston Villa is-') but not in the first person ('I am-'). Whereas 'Aston Villa are-' and 'we are-' works.

Not that I'm especially concerned. Language is flexible and ever-changing.

I've always thought of "Aston Villa" as a plural noun when discussing the players, or the team on the pitch ("Villa are winning/losing etc"), and singular when referring to the business entity or the club as a whole ("Aston Villa is planning to appoint a new manager"). 

It's entirely possible I'm wrong on both counts, obviously.

I think that's fair. I use plural for both but don't have a problem with anyone doing differently. Certainly not when most people (not on H&V, I hasten to add, where the standard of literacy is incredibly high) don't know the difference between loose/lose and there/their/they're.

But y'know, life's too short. I was told by an English teacher in year 7 that 'there is no such thing as the possessive apostrophe', and so up to the age of 19 I stuck to that, and was wrong. So I'm in no position to judge!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 03, 2022, 02:32:14 AM
It just sounds too American as "is". Which in turn reminds one of the Randy Lerner era and no one wants that.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 03, 2022, 03:38:49 AM
From one of my three books.*

“Aston Villa is the biggest club in the Midlands, of that there is no doubt. Once it was the biggest in the world, and up until the 1930s there was no doubt about that either. It attracts supporters from around the globe to its palatial Villa Park home. But when you are born and bred in the shadow of its towering stands; when you share the same B6 postcode and the stadium itself doubles as your place of worship and your adventure playground, then the club seeps into your soul and becomes part of your DNA. ”

Excerpt From
Gangsters, Geezers & Mods
Stephen Pennell
This material may be protected by copyright.

*Haha, just showing off in an arrogant ‘I’ve had three books published’ kind of way, hoping that wins me the argument, which of course it doesn’t or shouldn’t. My point is the esteemed and extremely talented proof reader, Simon Page of this parish, didn’t change it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on September 03, 2022, 06:20:24 AM
From one of my three books.*

“Aston Villa is the biggest club in the Midlands, of that there is no doubt. Once it was the biggest in the world, and up until the 1930s there was no doubt about that either. It attracts supporters from around the globe to its palatial Villa Park home. But when you are born and bred in the shadow of its towering stands; when you share the same B6 postcode and the stadium itself doubles as your place of worship and your adventure playground, then the club seeps into your soul and becomes part of your DNA. ”

Excerpt From
Gangsters, Geezers & Mods
Stephen Pennell
This material may be protected by copyright.

*Haha, just showing off in an arrogant ‘I’ve had three books published’ kind of way, hoping that wins me the argument, which of course it doesn’t or shouldn’t. My point is the esteemed and extremely talented proof reader, Simon Page of this parish, didn’t change it.

Yeah, you do win there tbf, Percy. Bravo.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulTheVillan on September 03, 2022, 07:47:37 AM
A throat issue? LMAO. Hard man midfielder.

Yawn.

You don't want to be doing that with tonsillitis. Agony.

I’ll agree with this. Had it 3 times in a year once so had my tonsils out at 31. That was even worse. Horrid.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Scratchins on September 03, 2022, 08:38:22 AM
One of my earliest memories was of having my tonsils out. The nurse put a bowl of blood that I had coughed up at the foot of the bed and it overturned.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave shelley on September 03, 2022, 09:05:06 AM
Quinsy is what a real sore throat is all about.  I had it once as a kid and the agony is unbelievable.  It's an abscess that forms between the tonsil and the wall of the throat which in turn infects the surrounding area.  I wouldn't want it again.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 03, 2022, 09:16:51 AM
One of my earliest memories was of having my tonsils out. The nurse put a bowl of blood that I had coughed up at the foot of the bed and it overturned.

Holy phuck, that's right put me off my three-Weetabix breakfast.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 03, 2022, 09:36:28 AM
Quinsy is what a real sore throat is all about.  I had it once as a kid and the agony is unbelievable.  It's an abscess that forms between the tonsil and the wall of the throat which in turn infects the surrounding area.  I wouldn't want it again.

My wife's had that more than once, it's really awful.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: WarszaVillan on September 03, 2022, 09:54:22 AM
Quinsy is what a real sore throat is all about.  I had it once as a kid and the agony is unbelievable.  It's an abscess that forms between the tonsil and the wall of the throat which in turn infects the surrounding area.  I wouldn't want it again.


My wife's had that more than once, it's really awful.


I had it as a kid. Got taken to Selly Oak hospital as I couldn't swallow and was injected with antibiotics. My Grandad had it at the end of the war coming back from North Africa on a boat, the abscess burst and he swallowed it and was ill for weeks. Welcome Leander.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: nigel on September 03, 2022, 10:07:45 AM
Like what Southgate does with England with Rice and Phillips. Except Southgate's full backs actually defend.

Difference is, Fraudgate has two full backs and three central defenders behind his two holding midfielders. We have two full backs who bomb on and two centre backs desperately out of form.

Maybe we should use the 3 centre backs.
The way our full backs get exposed at the back when they push forward, it makes perfect sense
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 03, 2022, 10:08:43 AM
GET OUT.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: nigel on September 03, 2022, 10:11:59 AM
GET OUT.

😂
That was especially for you, mate

You must have a spider sense for when some writes ‘3 at the back’ 😂
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on September 03, 2022, 10:19:26 AM
I'm disappointed it took me a whole minute to spot it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on September 03, 2022, 10:28:51 AM
A throat issue? LMAO. Hard man midfielder.

Yawn.

You don't want to be doing that with tonsillitis. Agony.

I’ll agree with this. Had it 3 times in a year once so had my tonsils out at 31. That was even worse. Horrid.

I missed about a third of the school year with it in the mid 80's and had to be put up the waiting list to get them out, only to then find the promise of jelly and ice cream post op gone as they didn't do that anymore and you just got the normal crap hospital food.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave.woodhall on September 03, 2022, 10:34:00 AM
From one of my three books.*

“Aston Villa is the biggest club in the Midlands, of that there is no doubt. Once it was the biggest in the world, and up until the 1930s there was no doubt about that either. It attracts supporters from around the globe to its palatial Villa Park home. But when you are born and bred in the shadow of its towering stands; when you share the same B6 postcode and the stadium itself doubles as your place of worship and your adventure playground, then the club seeps into your soul and becomes part of your DNA. ”

Excerpt From
Gangsters, Geezers & Mods
Stephen Pennell
This material may be protected by copyright.

*Haha, just showing off in an arrogant ‘I’ve had three books published’ kind of way, hoping that wins me the argument, which of course it doesn’t or shouldn’t. My point is the esteemed and extremely talented proof reader, Simon Page of this parish, didn’t change it.

Are.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 03, 2022, 11:05:20 AM
"They" instead of "it"?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on September 03, 2022, 12:00:56 PM
If you're discussing the business then it would be 'is' or 'it', but as we're all supporters of the club and the football team, then we should be correct and it's 'are' and 'they/we'.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on September 03, 2022, 12:13:55 PM
I used to love Quinsy starring Jack Klugman.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 03, 2022, 01:07:22 PM
How’s his throat today ?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: WarszaVillan on September 03, 2022, 02:28:10 PM
How’s his throat today ?

They are still hurting
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on September 03, 2022, 02:41:12 PM
How’s his throat today ?

They are still hurting

Dem throats dem throats
Dem dry throats
Oh, hear the word of the Lord!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OCD on September 03, 2022, 02:45:36 PM
Where's BE when there's a discussion about grammar?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Bad English on September 03, 2022, 03:32:57 PM
Can't be arsed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Bad English on September 03, 2022, 03:40:37 PM
In most cases I prefer my collective nouns to be plural, unlike our backward cousins in the USA. I tend not to distinguish between the club or the team either. When the Villa social media YTS lad writes Aston Villa IS doing this or Aston Villa HAS signed a new manager it annoys me and I would prefer to read the 3rd person plural forms. But if you want to be prescriptive grammarians then fill your boots!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: maidstonevillain on September 03, 2022, 04:33:46 PM
From one of my three books.*

“Aston Villa is the biggest club in the Midlands, of that there is no doubt. Once it was the biggest in the world, and up until the 1930s there was no doubt about that either. It attracts supporters from around the globe to its palatial Villa Park home. But when you are born and bred in the shadow of its towering stands; when you share the same B6 postcode and the stadium itself doubles as your place of worship and your adventure playground, then the club seeps into your soul and becomes part of your DNA. ”

Excerpt From
Gangsters, Geezers & Mods
Stephen Pennell
This material may be protected by copyright.

*Haha, just showing off in an arrogant ‘I’ve had three books published’ kind of way, hoping that wins me the argument, which of course it doesn’t or shouldn’t. My point is the esteemed and extremely talented proof reader, Simon Page of this parish, didn’t change it.

Are.

Is.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: frank black on September 17, 2022, 06:40:15 AM
Let’s bump this guy up the thread. Had his debut last night, peoples thoughts?



Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 17, 2022, 06:40:55 AM
Let’s bump this guy up the thread. Had his debut last night, peoples thoughts?
Crap.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Richard E on September 17, 2022, 06:52:44 AM
I didn’t think he really had enough to do to make any judgement of him, against really limited opposition.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Vegas on September 17, 2022, 06:54:30 AM
The least memorable debut I’ve ever seen.  I definitely saw him come on, but genuinely can’t remember a single thing other than that.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Aldridge Villa on September 17, 2022, 07:20:37 AM
Doesn’t look the most fleet of foot and that’s putting it mildly.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Meanwood Villa on September 17, 2022, 07:27:52 AM
I'm not going to knock him after 20 odd minutes
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithe on September 17, 2022, 07:44:05 AM
The least memorable debut I’ve ever seen.  I definitely saw him come on, but genuinely can’t remember a single thing other than that.

He won a defensive header in front of the dug out, didnt jump mind. Not a lot to make a judgement on but he didnt look the most mobile midfielder we have.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on September 17, 2022, 07:51:49 AM
I'm not going to knock him after 20 odd minutes

Some already have sadly.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Lastfootstamper on September 17, 2022, 07:56:35 AM
The least memorable debut I’ve ever seen.  I definitely saw him come on, but genuinely can’t remember a single thing other than that.

He won a defensive header in front of the dug out, didnt jump mind. Not a lot to make a judgement on but he didnt look the most mobile midfielder we have.

I know I shouldn't prejudge a player by the sound of their surname, there's really no basis for it whatsoever, but sometimes I find I just can't help myself.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Axl Rose on September 17, 2022, 08:39:22 AM
Let’s bump this guy up the thread. Had his debut last night, peoples thoughts?
Crap.

Haha. I'm trying hard not to laugh, but I thought exactly the same. We are so impatient, mate. How can we be more understanding?? Haha

Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 17, 2022, 10:14:17 AM
Let’s bump this guy up the thread. Had his debut last night, peoples thoughts?
Crap.

Haha. I'm trying hard not to laugh, but I thought exactly the same. We are so impatient, mate. How can we be more understanding?? Haha
Maybe don’t sign crap players ;)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Axl Rose on September 17, 2022, 10:24:45 AM
Haha. I'm in complete agreement, fella.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 17, 2022, 10:33:02 AM
He’s huge. I’m sure he’ll come good when he’s trained a bit more but he looked a bit off the pace when he came on, to put it politely.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on September 17, 2022, 11:40:45 AM
Yeah he did  look noticeably bigger than the usual Hobbits we have in midfield. Didn't notice him do a great deal, but would prefer him in a screening role.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Smithy on September 17, 2022, 11:45:10 AM
It felt like he was playing to instruction last night when came on, quite regularly found himself close to Ashley Young as if his job was to help shore up that side after the Southampton subs came on.  He does look a big unit for a midfielder, so certainly gives us a bit more physicality.

He's not a bad player, but I'm not sure he's good enough to be a regular in our eleven when everyone is fit.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Exeter 77 on September 17, 2022, 11:56:09 AM
I wasn't sure he was completely match fit last night and barely touched the ball. I think it us fair to say he has a higher ceiling for improvement.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 17, 2022, 06:35:48 PM
I'm not going to knock him after 20 odd minutes

Some already have sadly.

Chicago was already cursing him that fateful deadline day when the player made a first-class train journey from Wolverhampton to New Street.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 17, 2022, 07:12:03 PM
I'm not going to knock him after 20 odd minutes

Some already have sadly.

Chicago was already cursing him that fateful deadline day when the player made a first-class train journey from Wolverhampton to New Street.
Yes I was.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 17, 2022, 08:32:23 PM
Gizza chance Guv, Leandro would most likely say to you in Portugese.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 17, 2022, 08:34:17 PM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on September 17, 2022, 08:44:10 PM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.

Although Drinkwater and Barkley came from Stamford Bridge and they weren't much cop.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: rougegorge on September 17, 2022, 09:20:18 PM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.

Although Drinkwater and Barkley came from Stamford Bridge and they weren't much cop.
Very good 😊
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on September 17, 2022, 09:37:23 PM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.

The siege of Chadderton? The battle of West Cornforth?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 17, 2022, 10:24:34 PM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.

Sorry, yes, forgot that Wolves are more than Portugal B!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on September 17, 2022, 10:50:01 PM
If Kamara is out for a long time, I hope this bloke is up to it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on September 17, 2022, 10:56:07 PM
If Kamara is out for a long time, I hope this bloke is up to it.

He is, but he’s quite different to Kamara I’d say. Kamara will also be well above where we are at the moment.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 17, 2022, 11:44:23 PM
Maybe by reputation but it's not as if Kamara has been particularly great so far.

Early days obviously and he probably needed a season to bed-in. A shame if he's gonna miss a lot of that now.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 18, 2022, 04:09:05 AM
Maybe by reputation but it's not as if Kamara has been particularly great so far.

Early days obviously and he probably needed a season to bed-in. A shame if he's gonna miss a lot of that now.
I think he has been one of our best players.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: frank black on September 18, 2022, 08:52:42 AM
He has been our best midfielder IMO. The one key position we desperately needed to fill and finally we adequately did the job. It’s all a bit sh@t isn’t it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on September 18, 2022, 09:28:07 AM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.

The siege of Chadderton? The battle of West Cornforth?

Gareth Barry. Although as you all know the Battle was a few miles from Hastings itself.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Pete3206 on September 18, 2022, 09:40:10 AM
Maybe by reputation but it's not as if Kamara has been particularly great so far.

Early days obviously and he probably needed a season to bed-in. A shame if he's gonna miss a lot of that now.

He's been our best player by quite some distance.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on September 18, 2022, 09:46:00 AM
He was born in Passchendaele.
We actually have a good track record with midfielders whose birthplace was the site of famous historic battles.

Ah, that’ll be why he looked like he was running through mud when he came on then.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 18, 2022, 10:56:52 AM
Maybe by reputation but it's not as if Kamara has been particularly great so far.

Early days obviously and he probably needed a season to bed-in. A shame if he's gonna miss a lot of that now.

He's been our best player by quite some distance.

Has he? Midfield has been a major problem for us this season, and he's been an ever-present in it. I know McGinn has been awful but apart from looking pretty comfortable with the ball and recycling it, I haven't noticed anything particularly great about Kamara to date. He's committed too many fouls (understandable as he's getting used to the pace) but I don't think he's the enforcer type many have thought we lack.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 18, 2022, 11:11:38 AM

Has he? Midfield has been a major problem for us this season, and he's been an ever-present in it. I know McGinn has been awful but apart from looking pretty comfortable with the ball and recycling it, I haven't noticed anything particularly great about Kamara to date. He's committed too many fouls (understandable as he's getting used to the pace) but I don't think he's the enforcer type many have thought we lack.






(https://i.ibb.co/mRyXFbf/Screenshot-2022-09-18-at-11-09-35.png) (https://ibb.co/mRyXFbf)



Click to expand. Pretty well the stats you'd want from a DM I'd have thought.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 18, 2022, 12:31:30 PM
Better than I thought then, in fairness. If he's tackling more, he's more likely to foul more which those stats seems to bear out. I hope his interceptions and tackles lead us to retaining possession.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on September 18, 2022, 12:39:26 PM
Better than I thought then, in fairness. If he's tackling more, he's more likely to foul more which those stats seems to bear out. I hope his interceptions and tackles lead us to retaining possession.

At this moment I'm just hoping he plays again this season.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 18, 2022, 12:47:18 PM
From Kamara to Dendocker.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Mister E on September 18, 2022, 06:33:59 PM
... apart from looking pretty comfortable with the ball and recycling it, I haven't noticed anything particularly great about Kamara to date.
... a massive improvement on what we have sadly become used to, then.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: RiderJake on September 20, 2022, 08:39:32 AM
Maybe by reputation but it's not as if Kamara has been particularly great so far.

Early days obviously and he probably needed a season to bed-in. A shame if he's gonna miss a lot of that now.

He's been our best player by quite some distance.

Has he? Midfield has been a major problem for us this season, and he's been an ever-present in it (https://betpokies.co.nz/pay-by-phone-casinos). I know McGinn has been awful but apart from looking pretty comfortable with the ball and recycling it, I haven't noticed anything particularly great about Kamara to date. He's committed too many fouls (understandable as he's getting used to the pace) but I don't think he's the enforcer type many have thought we lack.

Kamara will commit more fouls, that's his style of play, it seems to me. But maybe the yellow and red cards will change that. That is, there will be fewer fouls, because he will be on the field less often :)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on September 20, 2022, 09:10:56 AM
Kamara has been excellent.  I'd say our best player this season.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 20, 2022, 10:04:51 AM
Kamara has been excellent.  I'd say our best player this season.
agree
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on September 21, 2022, 01:27:45 AM
Kamara has been excellent.  I'd say our best player this season.

It’s out of him and Mings.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on September 25, 2022, 10:52:37 PM
Let’s hope it’s nothing but Dendoncker wasn’t in the Belgium match day squad today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on September 29, 2022, 12:58:14 AM
Kamara has been excellent.  I'd say our best player this season.

It’s out of him and Mings.

I'd say Luiz has a shout, and I have been a big critic of him previously. Been excellent thus far this season.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: sid1964 on September 29, 2022, 06:38:17 AM
Luiz has not been excellent all season, most of the team have been poor so far, that is why we are towards the bottom of the table

If we had a lot of excellent players we would be towards the top of the table, we do seem to over rate our players - most would not get a game in a team that is challenging on a regular basis for a top 6 finish.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on September 29, 2022, 08:23:45 AM
Luiz has not been excellent all season, most of the team have been poor so far, that is why we are towards the bottom of the table

If we had a lot of excellent players we would be towards the top of the table, we do seem to over rate our players - most would not get a game in a team that is challenging on a regular basis for a top 6 finish.
Luiz has looked like our best No8 this season, unfortunately he hasn't had as much gametime as he should have done.  I think it's fair to say he's looked like one of our best 2-3 players when he's played. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on September 29, 2022, 10:10:40 AM
Luiz has not been excellent all season, most of the team have been poor so far, that is why we are towards the bottom of the table

If we had a lot of excellent players we would be towards the top of the table, we do seem to over rate our players - most would not get a game in a team that is challenging on a regular basis for a top 6 finish.
Luiz has looked like our best No8 this season, unfortunately he hasn't had as much gametime as he should have done.  I think it's fair to say he's looked like one of our best 2-3 players when he's played. 

Also just because we've started the season poorly it doesn't mean that we can't say players have been excellent. Personally I think Mings has been excellent and Kamara and Luiz have bene very good when playing together. We're down where we are because most of the rest of the team has been poor (although Ramsey has looked very good when playing his natural role and being allowed to attack).
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on September 29, 2022, 10:29:32 AM
Agreed Paul
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on September 29, 2022, 10:44:38 AM
Count me in too
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on September 29, 2022, 01:30:43 PM
Luiz had a great game against Citeh and then got dropped.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on September 29, 2022, 02:37:07 PM
He only plays well against the top teams. Funny fella, even takes corners differently to everyone else who ever lived apart from Stephen Staunton.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: N'ZMAV on September 29, 2022, 08:40:04 PM
you don't really have to be good to be Villa's best no 8.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on September 30, 2022, 08:20:25 AM
you don't really have to be good to be Villa's best no 8.
I get this is mostly a dig at mostly at McGinn, but Champions League player Sanson never managed it.  Ramsey was exciting last season, so it's a bit harsh on him too.  Luiz is a very good player, as we will see next season when he's in the top 4 with Arsenal. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: JD on September 30, 2022, 10:16:48 AM
you don't really have to be good to be Villa's best no 8.

Say that to he who walks on water :)

(I do know what you mean though).
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: coreyfeldman on September 30, 2022, 10:57:50 AM
you don't really have to be good to be Villa's best no 8.

Say that to he who walks on water
:)

(I do know what you mean though).

Mark Draper?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Martyn Smith on October 03, 2022, 08:07:21 PM
He and Bednarek both looked like last minute panic buys to me
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 03, 2022, 08:14:56 PM
He and Bednarek both looked like last minute panic buys to me
yep
Players that could not get into Wolves and Southampton teams.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on October 03, 2022, 08:23:01 PM
He and Bednarek both looked like last minute panic buys to me
yep
Players that could not get into Wolves and Southampton teams.

Coady couldn't get in Wolves team but has improved Everton a lot. Granted a short cameo but considering the ease Bamford ran past him I wouldn't like to see Bednarek up against a quick forward. Eventually when we switch to 4231 Dendonker will become an option.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on October 03, 2022, 08:28:20 PM
He and Bednarek both looked like last minute panic buys to me

Don't think there is any doubt on that. We were linked with good midfielders all summer and most of the previous transfer window as well. Bissouma, the Italian that ended up at Spurs, etc etc. Gerrard himself repeatedly stated we were after another midfielder as well. I can't believe that man was Dedoncker, we must have missed out on our targets and decided we needed a body in case of injuries.

Bednerek was only signed due to Hause being sold and needing a new 4th choice centre back.

Not that I think Dedoncker can't be an asset. Indeed I am somewhat perplexed that neither he, Nakamba or Sanson have any game time yet despite Kamara being injured.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on October 03, 2022, 08:34:37 PM
I'm not sure about panic buys. Bederak is only a loan and we may well need Dendoncker at some point. It would have been chaos on here had we signed nobody.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 03, 2022, 08:53:31 PM
Neither is a panic buy, I’d say they’re more pragmatic.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dante Lavelli on October 03, 2022, 09:28:04 PM
The biggest problem with Dendonker type signings is the wages they eat up and congestion they cause to youth players coming through. They’re kinda justified in a “what if” scenarios but personally I’d have sweated the assets we already have (Sanson and Nakamba) and leave space for a £50m player in one of the next windows.

Arguably we’ve taken the sweating the asset approach to strikers so fingers crossed the £50m player is incoming soon.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on October 03, 2022, 09:32:17 PM
The worry for me is that both Dendoncker and Bednarek look like plodders. In a team that's never going to win the 4 x 400m relay race any time soon, that's a bit of a concern.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 03, 2022, 09:35:38 PM
It’s just squad filling when we allready have or had players in those positions.
The philosophy of buying players that improve the team has been chucked out the window along with other ideas like youth development.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on October 03, 2022, 10:02:07 PM
Shit Gerrard signing.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 04, 2022, 03:11:45 PM
He and Bednarek both looked like last minute panic buys to me
yep
Players that could not get into Wolves and Southampton teams.

Coady couldn't get in Wolves team but has improved Everton a lot. Granted a short cameo but considering the ease Bamford ran past him I wouldn't like to see Bednarek up against a quick forward. Eventually when we switch to 4231 Dendonker will become an option.
Coady was an ever present until very recently.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Astnor on October 04, 2022, 06:28:37 PM
It’s just squad filling when we allready have or had players in those positions.
The philosophy of buying players that improve the team has been chucked out the window along with other ideas like youth development.
As long as his better than Marvelous he improves the team/ squad. If his not better than Marvelous its badder than bad.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 04, 2022, 06:51:32 PM
Shit Gerrard signing.

Nothing like going early, the important thing is you have him about 25 mins.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: tomd2103 on October 04, 2022, 07:20:14 PM
He and Bednarek both looked like last minute panic buys to me
yep
Players that could not get into Wolves and Southampton teams.

Coady couldn't get in Wolves team but has improved Everton a lot. Granted a short cameo but considering the ease Bamford ran past him I wouldn't like to see Bednarek up against a quick forward. Eventually when we switch to 4231 Dendonker will become an option.

Thought Bednarek did pretty well overall, but getting badly outpaced by Bamford set off some alarm bells. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 04, 2022, 08:49:34 PM
Shit Gerrard signing.

Nothing like going early, the important thing is you have him about 25 mins.
I watched him play for Wolves quite a few times and he was pretty shit.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 06, 2022, 01:46:15 AM
I always thought he was pretty good for Wolves. Point is judging him as a “shit signing” already is bonkers.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on October 06, 2022, 09:08:15 AM
I thought they were both pretty unispiring.  The type of players we're usually trying to get off the wage bill with no success, not signing up on 4 year deals.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on October 06, 2022, 09:46:16 AM
Bednarek is just a loan isn't he?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on October 06, 2022, 10:48:48 AM
Bednarek is just a loan isn't he?
Yes, you're right.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: frank black on October 06, 2022, 12:25:41 PM
Shit Gerrard signing.

Nothing like going early, the important thing is you have him about 25 mins.

Cuts out all that unnecessary middle ground and hope.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Richard E on October 16, 2022, 06:18:43 PM
He has a very peculiar gait.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave shelley on October 16, 2022, 06:22:49 PM
He has a very peculiar gait.

I thought that was Ross McCormack.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: john e on October 16, 2022, 07:28:27 PM
Ha ha honestly when he came on he looked like Bernard Bresslaw wobbling about in midfield
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on October 16, 2022, 07:29:31 PM
He did look like someone who needed a massive poo.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 17, 2022, 12:04:48 PM
He has a very peculiar gait.

That's the type of passing-remark a female friend says when she's swiping through profiles on Bumble.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on October 18, 2022, 09:36:39 PM
Is he the worst signing since Jermaine Jenas (insert any of the many other names)?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 18, 2022, 09:42:26 PM
No, he’s not.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 18, 2022, 09:46:13 PM
Give him a chance. Give him a ball and a yard of grass, he'll give you a move with a perfect pass.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on October 18, 2022, 09:46:26 PM
Is he the worst signing since Jermaine Jenas (insert any of the many other names)?

No.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on October 18, 2022, 10:06:33 PM
Is he the worst signing since Jermaine Jenas (insert any of the many other names)?

No.
OK, Grant Holt?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LukeJames on October 18, 2022, 10:58:04 PM
The only positive anybody has managed to come up with is 'hes big'. It was an absolute naff signing.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 19, 2022, 09:09:52 AM
Whatever you think of him as a player, it is ludicrous to say he’s a rubbish signing. He might turn out to be terrible, he might turn out to be amazing, he might turn out to be somewhere in between.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 19, 2022, 09:19:30 AM
It’s not like there isn’t already a body of work to judge him by.
If you think he is going to evolve from a Wolves clogger who could not get into their team, (that are that shit they are even below us ) into Pele then fine.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 19, 2022, 09:23:38 AM
An uninspiring signing, but a bit unfair to say it's an awful one.

He's done nothing of note, but then again, he's barely featured.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on October 19, 2022, 09:59:41 AM
Does he offer anything that Tim or Marv or Sanson wouldn't have?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 19, 2022, 10:02:47 AM
Physicality and "profile" as Gerrard puts it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 19, 2022, 10:35:28 AM
It’s not like there isn’t already a body of work to judge him by.
If you think he is going to evolve from a Wolves clogger who could not get into their team, (that are that shit they are even below us ) into Pele then fine.

He got in their team all the time up until recently didn’t he?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on October 19, 2022, 11:28:38 AM
He's a poor signing in that we seemed to have more pressing problems than signing another bench warmer for upwards of £30+ million when all's taken account for. It's signings like that that drain the resources of the club whilst adding very very little and we end up with poor value for money and wondering how we have such a high wage bill when so many are contributing so little.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on October 19, 2022, 11:39:49 AM
Whatever you think of him as a player, it is ludicrous to say he’s a rubbish signing. He might turn out to be terrible, he might turn out to be amazing, he might turn out to be somewhere in between.
We have signed him from another PL team. He was or may be still is Belgian international. How long does he needs to "turn out"? So far on any outings he has been absolutely awful.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on October 19, 2022, 11:45:35 AM
I don't think he's been awful, but then my definition of awful is at Danny Drinkwater level so it's a very low bar.

But it does feel a bit Habib Beye. These kind of signings when the sun is shining ultimately leads to us having to sell someone useful further down the line to balance the books.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on October 19, 2022, 11:51:59 AM
The thing is, if he's any good then surely he should have slotted straight in at 6 when Kamara got injured, allowing us to play Luiz at 8?  (of course these relies on Gerrard 'resting' McGinn or Ramsey)

Even though he's an international, it just feels like the type of signing we pay £15m for, but when we're trying to get rid the best we can do is a few loans while we fund the rest of their contract.

I can't say I've seen a huge amount of him, but so far to me he looks slow and cumbersome with the turning circle of an oil tanker.  But he does have 30 or so caps for Belgium, so surely there's something there to work with?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: john e on October 19, 2022, 12:09:12 PM
It’s One of those signings I thought we’d finished with
He won’t improve us and will add very little imo

I’ve never been one for the ‘he’ll do a job’ or ‘he fills space’ ‘he’s A useful back up player’
Our squads down the years have always been full of the this sort it never works out, I really don’t know why we signed him,  but hey he has got international caps
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 19, 2022, 01:05:11 PM
Gerrard will seemingly always start JJ and Meatball whenever possible, so this guy is going to struggle for game-time with Luiz back in favour now. And with Nakamba - limited but a lynchpin in Gerrard's best spell of results with us, and Sanson - technically probably the best of the lot but less likely than you and I to play for the Villa; maybe this was a bit of a panic-signing by the club.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on October 19, 2022, 01:52:30 PM
The thing is, if he's any good then surely he should have slotted straight in at 6 when Kamara got injured, allowing us to play Luiz at 8?  (of course these relies on Gerrard 'resting' McGinn or Ramsey)

Even though he's an international, it just feels like the type of signing we pay £15m for, but when we're trying to get rid the best we can do is a few loans while we fund the rest of their contract.

I can't say I've seen a huge amount of him, but so far to me he looks slow and cumbersome with the turning circle of an oil tanker.  But he does have 30 or so caps for Belgium, so surely there's something there to work with?

Luiz has been playing pretty well at 6 since Kamara got injured. Very good v Leeds and Chelsea anyway so there hasn't been a need to make a change. Dendoncker would be worth trying sitting next to Luiz in a 4231. We do lack height and presence in the team generally and I thought he showed v Forest he would have his uses. If we stick to 433 then it's an odd signing. Luiz, Sanson, Ramsey etc all seem better suited to one of the 8s.

Perhaps when he signed there was an expectation that one or both of Sanson and Nakamba would move on. Now all three of them stuck on the bench seems a bit strange, that's with Kamara out injured too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 23, 2022, 02:52:52 PM
And another example of why you don’t write off a player when he’s played less than 90 minutes for your club.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ozzjim on October 23, 2022, 02:57:57 PM
Can people stop writing him off now. Outstanding 45 minutes and shows how much use he could be.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: coreyfeldman on October 23, 2022, 04:05:31 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

*Clears thoat*
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: N'ZMAV on October 23, 2022, 04:09:51 PM
played a crucial role today to allow Luiz more freedom. He's clearly very physical too. Makes sense to have him involved.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker
Post by: LukeJames on October 23, 2022, 04:10:04 PM
The very definition of a panic buy. He's absolutely shite. A Belgian Danny Drinkwater.

*Clears thoat*
Haha I know right.

Anyway there's people on here that think Bailey is slow so I'll hide behind them 😁
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: SoccerHQ on October 23, 2022, 04:26:56 PM
He was great. Pressed very well all match.

Keep him in next weekend please as we'll certainly need that at Newcastle.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on October 23, 2022, 04:27:41 PM
You can see Wolves missed someone with his calm presence today. And positionally he was very good
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on October 23, 2022, 04:29:52 PM
played a crucial role today to allow Luiz more freedom. He's clearly very physical too. Makes sense to have him involved.

Yes, I thought he made a huge difference today, esp for Luiz as you said.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on October 23, 2022, 04:51:53 PM
He suits a 4-2-3-1. Not sure why Gerrard never tried it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on October 23, 2022, 04:53:49 PM
Gerrard being a bit shit would be my guess.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: gpbarr on October 23, 2022, 04:54:52 PM
A great example of what happens when you actually play someone to their strengths. A rock today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: john e on October 23, 2022, 05:09:34 PM
ha ha he’s had a half decent 45 mins he’s not turned into Johan Neeskens
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Paul.S on October 23, 2022, 05:28:55 PM
If we can get him fit he could be a big plus for us.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on October 23, 2022, 05:31:27 PM
Justified his starting role today! Played very well alongside Dougie. Well done Leander!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Lastfootstamper on October 23, 2022, 05:39:58 PM
Mick Quinn-like over two yards all day today. So many times I thought he's not going to get there, alright he's got there but he won't win it, et voila he emerges with the ball, plays it simple, on the floor, perfectly weighted. And an extra special mention for him popping up ahead of the forwards on occasion. His performance was, for me, the biggest single factor in the change we witnessed today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on October 23, 2022, 05:41:30 PM
Mick Quinn-like over two yards all day today. So many times I thought he's not going to get there, alright he's got there but he won't win it, et voila he emerges with the ball, plays it simple, on the floor, perfectly weighted. And an extra special mention for him popping up ahead of the forwards on occasion. His performance was, for me, the biggest single factor in the change we witnessed today.

And it was such a simple, unfussy display. I loved it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Bent Neilsens Screamer on October 23, 2022, 05:47:03 PM
Mick Quinn-like over two yards all day today. So many times I thought he's not going to get there, alright he's got there but he won't win it, et voila he emerges with the ball, plays it simple, on the floor, perfectly weighted. And an extra special mention for him popping up ahead of the forwards on occasion. His performance was, for me, the biggest single factor in the change we witnessed today.

And it was such a simple, unfussy display. I loved it.

Hear hear. Did his unspectacular job allowing others to flourish. Great 1st half performance.

Title: Re: Leander Dendocker - signed
Post by: not3bad on October 23, 2022, 05:57:24 PM
When we signed Dendocker it seemed like a panic buy to me but great to see it working out like this!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Nii Lamptey on October 23, 2022, 06:07:10 PM
Went about his work relatively unnoticed until he was replaced by McGinn and missed pretty much instantly!

Superb performance, and definitely earned his place against the Geordies surely?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 23, 2022, 08:32:50 PM
He is a good player. I also thought he’d be a valuable asset if we got the team structure right. Some of the times he dropped back into the back line today were excellent judgement.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Bad English on October 23, 2022, 08:39:30 PM
ha ha he’s had a half decent 45 mins he’s not turned into Johan Neeskens

Marvellous Brummie misery-arseing! Ace our kid!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Beard82 on October 23, 2022, 08:41:18 PM
He was great today - really balanced the midfield and gave lion a bit more freedom which I think lead to one of dougs best performances to date
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on October 23, 2022, 08:55:50 PM
Hands up, I thought he was great today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on October 23, 2022, 08:59:27 PM
Handy player to have in the air too. Fulham bullied us in both boxes earlier in the week but this guy gives us another option that we badly needed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendocker - signed
Post by: Somniloquism on October 23, 2022, 09:56:58 PM
When we signed Dendocker it seemed like a panic buy to me but great to see it working out like this!

It was as we needed to replace Kamara. No injury to him, no Leander signed. However it shocked me that Gerrard decided to leave him out mostly. I suspect it wasn't his signing.

When I asked a Wolves fan at work when he first signed, he mentioned he would do the simple stuff and give the ball to Coutinho to play. Does seem that Wolves are missing that exact element in their game at the moment.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on October 23, 2022, 09:59:22 PM
I'd be happy to see Dendonker next to Kamara if we persist with the 4231 formation.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on October 23, 2022, 10:02:44 PM
I'd be happy to see Dendonker next to Kamara if we persist with the 4231 formation.

I would see him as a very able back up to Kamara. It should be Kamara and Doug at the base of midfield.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: rooboy316 on October 24, 2022, 03:27:34 AM
I'd be happy to see Dendonker next to Kamara if we persist with the 4231 formation.

I would see him as a very able back up to Kamara. It should be Kamara and Doug at the base of midfield.
Unless Kamara plays the Luiz role in the 2.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 24, 2022, 09:48:54 AM
Hands up, I thought he was great today.

Good man, you slagged him to death!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 24, 2022, 09:49:43 AM
ha ha he’s had a half decent 45 mins he’s not turned into Johan Neeskens

You'd have preferred McGinnagain to start?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OCD on October 24, 2022, 11:14:07 AM
When we signed Dendocker it seemed like a panic buy to me but great to see it working out like this!

It was as we needed to replace Kamara. No injury to him, no Leander signed. However it shocked me that Gerrard decided to leave him out mostly. I suspect it wasn't his signing. 

Add what happened with Sarr and it would seem that Gerrard and Lange weren't exactly on the same wavelength.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Chris Smith on October 24, 2022, 11:16:10 AM
He played well yesterday and did the basics to allow the others to shine. He still runs like he’s constipated though.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brend'Watkins on October 24, 2022, 11:22:49 AM
He did keep it simple which is exactly what we needed in the middle. His presence benefited Luiz.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on October 24, 2022, 11:25:06 AM
He tackles and keeps it simple and does not give the ball away alot .  I did see him venture forward a few times which worried me  :D
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on October 24, 2022, 11:29:20 AM
He tackles and keeps it simple and does not give the ball away alot .  I did see him venture forward a few times which worried me  :D

He scored the winner against us a couple of years back IIRC
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 24, 2022, 11:32:06 AM
Yep, with a daisy-cutter during lockdown. 0-1. We were so poor, couldn't lay a glove on the Wulvs.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on October 24, 2022, 11:51:37 AM
Yep, with a daisy-cutter during lockdown. 0-1. We were so poor, couldn't lay a glove on the Wulvs.



gosh I had forgotten that
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on October 24, 2022, 12:11:30 PM
It was a really solid display.  He looks slow, but seems to have very good timing.  Won loads of ball and very rarely wasted it.  He made a big difference.  Fair play to him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on October 24, 2022, 12:22:32 PM
When we signed Dendocker it seemed like a panic buy to me but great to see it working out like this!

It was as we needed to replace Kamara. No injury to him, no Leander signed. However it shocked me that Gerrard decided to leave him out mostly. I suspect it wasn't his signing.

When I asked a Wolves fan at work when he first signed, he mentioned he would do the simple stuff and give the ball to Coutinho to play. Does seem that Wolves are missing that exact element in their game at the moment.

Not really given he signed a month before Kamara got injured. As I've said a number of times, Bournemouth, Palace and to a lesser extent West Ham (and Everton when they made subs) bullied us in midfield by getting big strong guys in there and relying of the physicality to control the game. As a club we pretty clearly saw that we needed someone who could muscle it out in those sort of games and, because we decided to do it late in the window, he was the best option we could get that stood a chance of adapting quickly.

I think I spent most of the summer and fair bit of the end of last season saying we needed someone to add that so I always saw him a good addition to the squad and I was pretty surprised by how negative most of the forum were towards him. I'm really glad he's had a chance to show what he can contribute now and it should mean people give him a lot more credit now.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: coreyfeldman on October 24, 2022, 12:59:32 PM
Both him and Doug were great, but what made their performances so good was the communication between them - they both seem to instinctively know when to go and when to cover each other. Very impressive - we've been desperate for this kind of midfield pairing for a long time.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on October 24, 2022, 01:25:44 PM
I think we signed him because we thought Luiz was off, and also because someone finally realised that we don't have enough/any midfielders that are useful when we haven't got the ball. Maybe the idea was to play him alongside Kamara, or if it wasn't then hopefully a new manager with half a brain will do so. Whilst Kamara is injured and Luiz is going nowhere, Luiz plays instead. When Kamara comes back, maybe Luiz can play a bit further forward. Or maybe we just play the 2 out of the 3 that are most in form / compliment each other the most. The thing that Dendonker has over the other two though is height.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on October 24, 2022, 01:32:37 PM
I think we signed him because we thought Luiz was off, and also because someone finally realised that we don't have enough/any midfielders that are useful when we haven't got the ball. Maybe the idea was to play him alongside Kamara, or if it wasn't then hopefully a new manager with half a brain will do so. Whilst Kamara is injured and Luiz is going nowhere, Luiz plays instead. When Kamara comes back, maybe Luiz can play a bit further forward. Or maybe we just play the 2 out of the 3 that are most in form / compliment each other the most. The thing that Dendonker has over the other two though is height.

I don't think he'll ever be the most dynamic midfielder we have, but I enjoyed his dedication to not giving the ball away yesterday.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on October 24, 2022, 01:42:30 PM
Every good team needs a couple of players like that. I must admit I thought it looked a bit too attacking yesterday but it worked. I was thinking Nakamba where Luiz was playing and Luiz where Buendia was playing might have been safer but after that who cares !

2 players putting a foot in a wining the ball back before giving it simple to one of your dynamic 4 players to do their thing is how it should be. Luiz for me has not always been a putting your foot in player but has been more so lately. From what I saw of Kamara though he’s ideal for that as is Dendonkar. If one has that bit of height it can be useful in both penalty areas too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Mister E on October 24, 2022, 01:55:45 PM
I think we signed him because we thought Luiz was off, and also because someone finally realised that we don't have enough/any midfielders that are useful when we haven't got the ball. Maybe the idea was to play him alongside Kamara, or if it wasn't then hopefully a new manager with half a brain will do so. Whilst Kamara is injured and Luiz is going nowhere, Luiz plays instead. When Kamara comes back, maybe Luiz can play a bit further forward. Or maybe we just play the 2 out of the 3 that are most in form / compliment each other the most. The thing that Dendonker has over the other two though is height.
I don't think he'll ever be the most dynamic midfielder we have, but I enjoyed his dedication to not giving the ball away yesterday.
Both him and Luiz did really well at supporting attacks as well, in the confidence that the other was backing up. A very good duo-performance.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on October 24, 2022, 02:30:44 PM
He needs to have a good game against Newcastle where he will be under pressure, a bit more that he was against Brentford.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on October 24, 2022, 02:33:05 PM
He played well yesterday and did the basics to allow the others to shine. He still runs like he’s constipated though.
A very languid style I thought.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: darren woolley on October 24, 2022, 03:10:27 PM
He played well yesterday and did the basics to allow the others to shine. He still runs like he’s constipated though.

I agree
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on October 24, 2022, 06:13:01 PM
Dendonx has more in his wheelhouse than Nakamba who I'd let leave in January. I still think Sanson offers something a bit different to most of the others in CM though and hopefully a new manager will give him a lash.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on October 24, 2022, 07:33:13 PM
Dendonx has more in his wheelhouse than Nakamba who I'd let leave in January. I still think Sanson offers something a bit different to most of the others in CM though and hopefully a new manager will give him a lash.

He was sat in his Range Rover on Whitehead Rd in the traffic straight after the game, we walked past him. He obviously wasn't hanging around.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on October 24, 2022, 07:39:35 PM
He's a Belgian international with 29 caps.  He can't be a donkey playing for them.  I really hope he grows into things at villa and plays next to Kamara when fit.  Understated player.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on October 29, 2022, 07:03:29 PM
Needs a run of games and I would keep him in the dohbel pivot for next week against Man Utd maybe rest and rotate him in the league cup match.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on October 29, 2022, 07:55:28 PM
*pulls out the spider*
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on November 04, 2022, 06:38:43 PM
Interview on Aston Villa Website

Asked about Emery:
"Quite famous and managed big clubs before he came here and brought a lot of new people with him, all Spanish
I guess new manager , new philosophy, new way of playing everything is new so we will have to see what he will bring to us"

Has there been a buzz and bit of positivity around the squad with a new start here?

"Obviously the previous manager had a way of thinking then Arraon had his way of thinking and seeing things and for us as a group have to accommodate and adapt to what they (new manager/coaches) want for a new start hopefully achieve good things together"

Dendocker is likely still adjusting to life at the club and getting to know everyone, but as it seems to have all changed, he seems a little weary of it all as he's understated and has now got to know a whole new set of coaches and ways of thinking as he puts it.



Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on November 04, 2022, 07:31:04 PM
I'm sure Leander will wrap his brain around it, we only pay him £50k or whaever a week to carry out instructions.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: N'ZMAV on November 04, 2022, 07:32:10 PM
Dendonx has more in his wheelhouse than Nakamba who I'd let leave in January. I still think Sanson offers something a bit different to most of the others in CM though and hopefully a new manager will give him a lash.

He was sat in his Range Rover on Whitehead Rd in the traffic straight after the game, we walked past him. He obviously wasn't hanging around.
Neither do I after I finish my shift - straight out the door and into the car. Fucking off home ASAP.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 04, 2022, 08:36:37 PM
I'm sure Leander will wrap his brain around it, we only pay him £50k or whaever a week to carry out instructions.

He's played six games for us, I'm not sure he's out the 'world weary' old pro stage quite yet.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on November 04, 2022, 10:39:53 PM
He was sat in his Range Rover on Whitehead Rd in the traffic straight after the game, we walked past him. He obviously wasn't hanging around.
Neither do I after I finish my shift - straight out the door and into the car. Fucking off home ASAP.

I've been meaning to ask whether players hang around at Villa Park after a game. My impression (maybe mistaken) was that back in the day they'd have a few drinks in the directors/players lounge after the game. Does that still happen at all or does it depend on the player?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 06, 2022, 03:49:57 PM
Another incredibly assured display today. Long term he might lose his spot to Kamara but he’s been very good in doing the simple stuff well
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on November 06, 2022, 04:05:31 PM
Another incredibly assured display today. Long term he might lose his spot to Kamara but he’s been very good in doing the simple stuff well


Be great see see him and Kamara play together and push Douglas further forward.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 06, 2022, 07:49:39 PM
According to Whoscored, 100% pass completion today. Didn't give the ball away once. Bravo, if you don't give it away, you don't have to win it back.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithe on November 06, 2022, 07:51:52 PM
He did well but I its an adventurous formation to have him as an outside right, as we saw just before he came off.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on November 06, 2022, 07:52:50 PM
According to Whoscored, 100% pass completion today. Didn't give the ball away once. Bravo, if you don't give it away, you don't have to win it back.

How's the humble pie going down?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Tayls_7 on November 06, 2022, 07:53:14 PM
According to Whoscored, 100% pass completion today. Didn't give the ball away once. Bravo, if you don't give it away, you don't have to win it back.

I love the way he surges into the opposition box on occasion.  His decision making is excellent.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 06, 2022, 07:55:08 PM
Seems to do his job with the minimum of fuss. Can't ask for more really.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 06, 2022, 07:58:51 PM
Solid performance. Knows his role and executes it without fuss.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulTheVillan on November 06, 2022, 07:59:33 PM
According to Whoscored, 100% pass completion today. Didn't give the ball away once. Bravo, if you don't give it away, you don't have to win it back.
the new Makoun
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 06, 2022, 08:00:56 PM
He did very well again.

Great to have Kamara back but Dendoncker made himself look undroppable today.

As others have said, maybe play him and Kamara together, push Luiz forward and drop Buendia, who I thought gave the ball away too much today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: RamboandBruno on November 06, 2022, 08:04:11 PM
No one played badly today at all, but id agree that Beundia was slightly the weak link, gave the ball away too much and struggled to contain Dalit in the first half, still put in a shift though.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Jon Crofts on November 06, 2022, 08:06:47 PM
Cup tied for Thursday
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on November 06, 2022, 08:31:36 PM
He did very well again.

Great to have Kamara back but Dendoncker made himself look undroppable today.

As others have said, maybe play him and Kamara together, push Luiz forward and drop Buendia, who I thought gave the ball away too much today.

He’s very good at what he does. I thought he was a decent signing when we bought him and he’s demonstrated that since.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: tomd2103 on November 07, 2022, 01:14:39 AM
Another incredibly assured display today. Long term he might lose his spot to Kamara but he’s been very good in doing the simple stuff well

Brings extra height and physicality at set pieces as well.  Agree that he will probably be back up when Kamara is back to full fitness, but a good option to have in the squad.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: coreyfeldman on November 07, 2022, 01:27:01 AM
Is he the worst signing since Jermaine Jenas (insert any of the many other names)?

Bon jour to u
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on November 07, 2022, 09:09:53 AM
I've been very impressed with Dendonker.  Hands up I thought it was a pretty meh signing and he looks like he's running through treacle, but he gets there and does the job.  He now seems like a good addition to the squad. 

With that said, Kamara and Luiz have the makings of a superb partnership.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on November 07, 2022, 09:27:35 AM
No one played badly today at all, but id agree that Beundia was slightly the weak link, gave the ball away too much and struggled to contain Dalit in the first half, still put in a shift though.
Strange.  Buendia was instrumental in how we played, shifting the shape between 4-3-3 to 4-4-2, which I understand is exactly what Emery used to do at Villareal, asymetrical with one winger playing deeper and cutting in.  He can get knocked off the ball, but mostly I thought he was pretty effective.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 07, 2022, 10:24:57 AM
The key for them all now is to replicate the home form in away games. We played really well against Chelsea then followed it up by getting destroyed at Fulham. We were excellent against Brentford, then utterly woeful at Newcastle. I'd really like to see a big improvement this week away at Man U and Brighton.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on November 07, 2022, 10:26:27 AM
The key for them all now is to replicate the home form in away games. We played really well against Chelsea then followed it up by getting destroyed at Fulham. We were excellent against Brentford, then utterly woeful at Newcastle. I'd really like to see a big improvement this week away at Man U and Brighton.


Yep we need to show some consistency and some away form 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Monty on November 07, 2022, 10:42:47 AM
One of the crazier things about yesterday was how often Dendoncker actually found himself the furthest player forwards when we were pressing their defenders. A great example of the kind-of post-formations tactical mindset that Balagué and others were talking about.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: tomd2103 on November 07, 2022, 10:44:10 AM
No one played badly today at all, but id agree that Beundia was slightly the weak link, gave the ball away too much and struggled to contain Dalit in the first half, still put in a shift though.
Strange.  Buendia was instrumental in how we played, shifting the shape between 4-3-3 to 4-4-2, which I understand is exactly what Emery used to do at Villareal, asymetrical with one winger playing deeper and cutting in.  He can get knocked off the ball, but mostly I thought he was pretty effective.

He was a bit of a mixed bag yesterday, which he has been for most of his time with us when he has started games.  It was definitely more good than bad yesterday, but he did lose the ball far too easily at times and struggled a bit defensively. 

Some of his touches and passes were quality though and the ball he played through for Watkins with the outside of his foot late in the 2nd half was sublime.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brend'Watkins on November 07, 2022, 10:49:14 AM
No one played badly today at all, but id agree that Beundia was slightly the weak link, gave the ball away too much and struggled to contain Dalit in the first half, still put in a shift though.
Strange.  Buendia was instrumental in how we played, shifting the shape between 4-3-3 to 4-4-2, which I understand is exactly what Emery used to do at Villareal, asymetrical with one winger playing deeper and cutting in.  He can get knocked off the ball, but mostly I thought he was pretty effective.

He was a bit of a mixed bag yesterday, which he has been for most of his time with us when he has started games.  It was definitely more good than bad yesterday, but he did lose the ball far too easily at times and struggled a bit defensively. 

Some of his touches and passes were quality though and the ball he played through for Watkins with the outside of his foot late in the 2nd half was sublime.

A mixed bag is about right.  Even so, his overall contribution was excellent and he seemed to improve as the game went on.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on November 07, 2022, 10:54:48 AM
He is an OK squad player that brings some useful attributes to the table. He has suffered from not being the £50m Bissouma type player we expected, but for a cheap (if you can call >£10m cheap!) deadline day signing he has strengthed the squad and helped us not miss Kamara too much.

Thought he played well yesterday, and had generally had more good games than bad thus far. Pleasantly surprised with his passing too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on November 07, 2022, 11:47:49 AM
He's much better than what Nakamba can offer. Also a badly needed physical presence at set piece time. A decent signing at short notice, capable of playing in a 2 or 3. Bit of competition for Luiz and Kamara is no harm. Luiz is playing very well, best midfielder on park by a distance yesterday, but don't underestimate the influence of Dendocker on him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on November 07, 2022, 11:54:50 AM
Dendoncker gives us a bit of an 'enforcer' in there. There were a few times yesterday where they were getting a bit aggressive and next chance he threw his weight around a bit and took back control of the midfield. I suspect Casemiro was desperate to go through a few players but was put off by our big man.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on November 07, 2022, 12:20:30 PM
He just gets stuck in, unsung hero for me.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: WassallVillain on November 07, 2022, 03:24:45 PM
I like him. He is everything I expected him to be. Let’s face it we did need some height in that area and he brings that. He is a steady player who gives others the platform to perform. I can definitely see him cementing a role alongside Kamarra giving him as a more creative force bit of licence to roam and pushing Luiz  a little further forward as competition for McGinn.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on November 07, 2022, 03:27:52 PM
I don't think he was "a mixed bag" at all. I thought he played really well.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 07, 2022, 03:31:01 PM
I don't think he was "a mixed bag" at all. I thought he played really well.

I think they were talking about Buendia then. Unless that's who you meant as well.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Monty on November 07, 2022, 03:32:04 PM
Yeah Mini Emi gave the ball away a few times but he also made some good incisive stuff, not least with his running off the ball. The Donck, however, was everything we wanted him to be yesterday.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on November 07, 2022, 03:42:01 PM
I don't think he was "a mixed bag" at all. I thought he played really well.

I think they were talking about Buendia then. Unless that's who you meant as well.

Oh, okay, apologies then. Mixed bag probably fair enough for Emi, but still played a vital part in the killer goal.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on November 07, 2022, 03:45:10 PM
At times players can easily outrun Dendocker that would be my concern.
Offers solidarity and some ability so useful at this present time but maybe not one for when we get to the great heights for me.
I trust Emery view of how he wants to use him and play him
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on November 07, 2022, 04:03:13 PM
It's still very early days, he's only made a few starts but my initial thoughts are that we definately haven't overpaid for him, in fact in today's market at £13m it looks very shrewd. Height and physical presence is what we've been crying out for. Luiz, who a couple of months ago most were still saying shouldn't be starting for us, looks the best he's ever looked whilst being paired with Leandor.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dcdavecollett on November 09, 2022, 02:05:36 AM
Yes, they work very well together -and we still have Bouba to come back in!

And Tim will be back next season!

The future's claret and blue, I tell you...
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 02:17:45 AM
Is he the worst signing since Jermaine Jenas (insert any of the many other names)?

I have two words for you, Aftab.

Mc. Cormack.

I have never seen anybody less interested in playing for us. A 24-karat cvnt, and probably the worst signing in our history.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 09, 2022, 02:33:44 AM
Bosko Balaban. £6m in 2001, 11 appearances, 2 starts, 0 goals. Looked like he'd never even seen a football before.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 02:42:29 AM
Bosko Balaban. £6m in 2001, 11 appearances, 2 starts, 0 goals. Looked like he'd never even seen a football before.

I always thought that was a misunderstanding of some sort. A very costly one, but I never thought of him as a Villa player.

A bit like Berson or Boulding. Just one of those guys we dropped a bollock on.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on November 09, 2022, 02:44:57 AM
Bosko Balaban. £6m in 2001, 11 appearances, 2 starts, 0 goals. Looked like he'd never even seen a football before.

2 things I remember about Bosko.

We were playing away against Arsenal, and DoL had been critical about Doug's financial support. In an interview on Sky TV, Doug said DoL had been "economical with the truth" and pointed out that £6 million "Balapan"  was sitting in the stands.

A training ground routine where DoL was trying to get Bosko to cross the ball on the run from the wing and it didn't go well: "You've got to better than that Bosko".

Second attempt with the same result: "You're shit, Bosko".
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 02:46:55 AM
Bosko Balaban. £6m in 2001, 11 appearances, 2 starts, 0 goals. Looked like he'd never even seen a football before.

2 things I remember about Bosko.

We were playing away against Arsenal, and DoL had been critical about Doug's financial support. In an interview on Sky TV, Doug said DoL had been "economical with the truth" and pointed out that £6 million "Balapan"  was sitting in the stands.

A training ground routine where DoL was trying to get Bosko to cross the ball on the run from the wing and it didn't go well: "You've got to better than that Bosko".

Second attempt with the same result: "You're shit, Bosko".

Your memory is better than mine. All I remember is that he wore a woolly hat.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 09, 2022, 04:39:49 AM
Bosko Balaban. £6m in 2001, 11 appearances, 2 starts, 0 goals. Looked like he'd never even seen a football before.

Alex Tonev enters the chat
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 04:43:04 AM
Cost vs reward, though. Not sure any of us took Tonev seriously.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on November 09, 2022, 04:55:39 AM
Tonev cost less than half what Balaban did, and was probably paid less as well. Despite being signed over a decade later.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 09, 2022, 05:48:29 AM
Micah Richards. Case closed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ian. on November 09, 2022, 07:02:14 AM
Is he the worst signing since Jermaine Jenas (insert any of the many other names)?

I have two words for you, Aftab.

Mc. Cormack.

I have never seen anybody less interested in playing for us. A 24-karat cvnt, and probably the worst signing in our history.
That’s a very early call to put someone in the bracket of Bosko, McCormack and Micah.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 09, 2022, 09:50:42 AM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: WarszaVillan on November 09, 2022, 09:53:18 AM
David Hunt was the worst I've seen, he couldn't play football.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on November 09, 2022, 09:58:26 AM
Anyway, Dendoncker clearly doesn't belong anywhere near this discussion.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 09, 2022, 09:59:15 AM
Danny Drinkwater is the worst I've seen in 30 years.

I remember some dross in the mid to late 80s too, but too much to identify any one in particular.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on November 09, 2022, 09:59:52 AM
Bosko Balaban. £6m in 2001, 11 appearances, 2 starts, 0 goals. Looked like he'd never even seen a football before.

2 things I remember about Bosko.

We were playing away against Arsenal, and DoL had been critical about Doug's financial support. In an interview on Sky TV, Doug said DoL had been "economical with the truth" and pointed out that £6 million "Balapan"  was sitting in the stands.

A training ground routine where DoL was trying to get Bosko to cross the ball on the run from the wing and it didn't go well: "You've got to better than that Bosko".

Second attempt with the same result: "You're shit, Bosko".

I don't remember those two tales but do recall the one where Balaban turned-up for pre-season training to be met by Doug and the exchange apparently went something like:

- "Welcome back Mr Balaban"

- "I'm surprised you know my name, Mr Chairman"

- "The money I paid for you, I won't forget your name in a hurry...You seem to have put on weight over the summer"

- "So do you..."
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on November 09, 2022, 10:00:03 AM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on November 09, 2022, 10:03:33 AM
Yeah Mini Emi gave the ball away a few times but he also made some good incisive stuff, not least with his running off the ball. The Donck, however, was everything we wanted him to be yesterday.

Every time I see Dendoncker's name mentioned, I think of the Radcliffe and Maconie radio "jingle" - "You know what you wanna do with that, right? You wanna put a bangin' donk on it".
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Chris Smith on November 09, 2022, 10:12:46 AM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.

Agree on Hogan for us but somehow he’s started scoring for Small Heath this season, 9 in 20 is pretty decent.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 09, 2022, 10:24:17 AM
Yeah Mini Emi gave the ball away a few times but he also made some good incisive stuff, not least with his running off the ball. The Donck, however, was everything we wanted him to be yesterday.

Every time I see Dendoncker's name mentioned, I think of the Radcliffe and Maconie radio "jingle" - "You know what you wanna do with that, right? You wanna put a bangin' donk on it".

It's the Shane Meadows short film Le Donk for me.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on November 09, 2022, 10:28:05 AM
Anyway, Dendoncker has been close to MotM for me recently. He's very good at just getting in there and breakling it up, similar, but better than Nakamba as he can pass it too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: not3bad on November 09, 2022, 10:28:21 AM
Oyvind Leonardson
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 10:34:57 AM
Anyway, Dendoncker clearly doesn't belong anywhere near this discussion.

Agreed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brend'Watkins on November 09, 2022, 10:45:28 AM
When I think of footballers who we've signed over the years and who have turned out to be monumentally shit I look more at the people responsible for signing them than the player.  Is there any other industry in the world where deciding to part with millions of the company's pounds would be based on "He's played for Chelsea so he must be good"..."He's scored a few goals at a lesser level, he's just what we need"..."That You Tube clip playing for Lech Poznan shows he's got a decent shot on him"?  It's staggering. 
Maybe we are a bit better at it now but I still feel that research into future signings is one area where we need to invest in.

Anyway, Dendoncker has shown he's been decent thus far.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on November 09, 2022, 10:51:26 AM
Drinkwater is the only one ever where i made my mind up when we signed him, even before he'd kicked a ball that it was a big mistake and he was going to be utterly shite.
Although Richards and Lescott were free (i think) and i was quite happy at the time to see them come in, there can't be many over the years that have fucked the club over in such a big way.
In terms of quality, there were a number of bad ones during the 2011-2017 period, and for expensive mistake it's hard to see much past a Balaban or a McCormack.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: rooboy316 on November 09, 2022, 11:23:54 AM
We needed an upgrade on Nakamba. Seems like he is one.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: rooboy316 on November 09, 2022, 11:24:19 AM
Oyvind Leonardson
Mark Kinsella
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on November 09, 2022, 11:27:06 AM
Was it Kinsella that turned out to be a big Villa fan and was overjoyed that he'd got the chance to play for us, but we only learned this after he'd gone? Or did I dream that entirely?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on November 09, 2022, 12:09:56 PM
Not sure about that. He was pants though, and had sounded promising for the money. He wasn't as bad a Djemba Djemba though.
As for Leonardson, it was an underwhelming one for sure but he actually did quite well.

Also, not sure how this has all come up on the Dendonker thread, as i think he's going to be a bargain.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: darren woolley on November 09, 2022, 12:39:04 PM
Michael Bradley
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: darren woolley on November 09, 2022, 12:41:15 PM
Or Jean Makoun
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 09, 2022, 12:45:49 PM
Drinkwater is the only one ever where i made my mind up when we signed him, even before he'd kicked a ball that it was a big mistake and he was going to be utterly shite.


It really was completely unfathomable. Had hardly kicked a ball in anger for two years, couldn't get into a shit Burnley team, and had all sorts of really unsavoury stories following him around. So in he came, straight into the team, was shit, then left during which time he stuck the nut on Jota and then apologised using Google translate. Utter shit, and an utter twat.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ger Regan on November 09, 2022, 12:51:28 PM
Habib Beye was a monumental waste of money and played fuck all.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villan For Life on November 09, 2022, 12:58:26 PM
The Djemba brothers deserve an honorary mention on this list so I'm mentioning them.

This particular topic probably deserves its own thread.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: SamTheMouse on November 09, 2022, 01:08:14 PM
Eirik Bakke. Total shite. See also: Nicky Shorey.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ian. on November 09, 2022, 01:09:59 PM
Signing Marlon Harewood was nuts. At that point we were getting excited and believing in our selves again and then we purchase him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Virgil Caine on November 09, 2022, 01:16:17 PM
Drinkwater is the only one ever where i made my mind up when we signed him, even before he'd kicked a ball that it was a big mistake and he was going to be utterly shite.



It really was completely unfathomable. Had hardly kicked a ball in anger for two years, couldn't get into a shit Burnley team, and had all sorts of really unsavoury stories following him around. So in he came, straight into the team, was shit, then left during which time he stuck the nut on Jota and then apologised using Google translate. Utter shit, and an utter twat.

I had exactly the same regards as to a very similar type of player Villa had on loan in recent history, as I had some ITK from a very reliable source that, to use a totally inappropriate and misguided phrase, 'he liked a drink'. What was actually said was that there was a serious drink problem. When looking at some very talented players who appear to lose form very quickly you have to wonder if the game has a bigger with alcohol abuse that it cares to admit and that in reality the sport has not moved on from the lessons learnt from George Best and others.

Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on November 09, 2022, 01:33:26 PM
Signing Marlon Harewood was nuts. At that point we were getting excited and believing in our selves again and then we purchase him.

If only he'd have displayed the same largesse in signing centre forwards as he did with centre halves. Carew didn't really count as Houllier gifted us him because he wanted Baros (lol).

You'd have thought that single transaction would've ruled out Houllier as a candidate to replace O'Neill.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Hookeysmith on November 09, 2022, 01:45:21 PM
Eirik Bakke. Total shite. See also: Nicky Shorey.

Nicky Shorey - always gave me the impression he was a Plasterer* called Dave - never convinced he was a footballer

*He probably is a plasterer now ;)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Hookeysmith on November 09, 2022, 01:47:38 PM
Drinkwater is the only one ever where i made my mind up when we signed him, even before he'd kicked a ball that it was a big mistake and he was going to be utterly shite.



It really was completely unfathomable. Had hardly kicked a ball in anger for two years, couldn't get into a shit Burnley team, and had all sorts of really unsavoury stories following him around. So in he came, straight into the team, was shit, then left during which time he stuck the nut on Jota and then apologised using Google translate. Utter shit, and an utter twat.

I had exactly the same regards as to a very similar type of player Villa had on loan in recent history, as I had some ITK from a very reliable source that, to use a totally inappropriate and misguided phrase, 'he liked a drink'. What was actually said was that there was a serious drink problem. When looking at some very talented players who appear to lose form very quickly you have to wonder if the game has a bigger with alcohol abuse that it cares to admit and that in reality the sport has not moved on from the lessons learnt from George Best and others.



I would imagine in any top level professional sport the opportunity to become an addict (Drink, Gambling, Sex - not so much drugs due to regular testing) as having that sort of wealth is a magnet to the wrong kind of "friends" and hangers on
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on November 09, 2022, 02:01:13 PM
I was talking to someone the other day that lived in the area Gazza used to frequent in his Spurs days, apparently back then he ‘really liked a drink’. I always thought that his horrendous drink problems came about after he finished playing, but perhaps not.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on November 09, 2022, 02:38:47 PM
Eirik Bakke. Total shite. See also: Nicky Shorey.

Nicky Shorey - always gave me the impression he was a Plasterer* called Dave - never convinced he was a footballer

*He probably is a plasterer now ;)


Gosh , forgot Bakke played for us.  O’neil bought him then persisted in playing Luke young at left back 😳 , marvellous !
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 09, 2022, 02:50:24 PM
Eirik Bakke. Total shite. See also: Nicky Shorey.

Nicky Shorey - always gave me the impression he was a Plasterer* called Dave - never convinced he was a footballer

*He probably is a plasterer now ;)


Gosh , forgot Bakke played for us.  O’neil bought him then persisted in playing Luke young at left back 😳 , marvellous !

Think you've got mixed up somewhere, it was O'Leary who brought him in on loan the season before O'Neill started, and three years before Young was signed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on November 09, 2022, 02:54:06 PM
Sorry was not clear I i meant O’neil bought shorey and young .  I really can’t remember anything of Bakke 😳😃
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 09, 2022, 05:54:56 PM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.

Hogan had a good record before he joined. And while he was terrible it also didn't help that the dinosaur manager we had at the time decided the best way to service a 5'11 striker is to constantly pump balls down the wing to him. As opposed to creating a gameplan to take advantage of the attributes that led us to shell out what we did.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 06:28:44 PM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.

Hogan had a good record before he joined. And while he was terrible it also didn't help that the dinosaur manager we had at the time decided the best way to service a 5'11 striker is to constantly pump balls down the wing to him. As opposed to creating a gameplan to take advantage of the attributes that led us to shell out what we did.

5'11, is that when he was up a ladder?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 09, 2022, 06:40:39 PM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.

Hogan had a good record before he joined. And while he was terrible it also didn't help that the dinosaur manager we had at the time decided the best way to service a 5'11 striker is to constantly pump balls down the wing to him. As opposed to creating a gameplan to take advantage of the attributes that led us to shell out what we did.

5'11, is that when he was up a ladder?

Apparently he is 1.8M which is 5'11
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 09, 2022, 06:42:55 PM
Carlos Sanchez is the worst player I've seen play for us.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 09, 2022, 06:52:22 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 09, 2022, 06:58:52 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on November 09, 2022, 07:14:27 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery
Wesley.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 09, 2022, 07:34:22 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery

Fucking hell.

Desperate times.

We've been through it, the last 12 years.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: UK Redsox on November 09, 2022, 07:36:19 PM
Carlos Sanchez is the worst player I've seen play for us.

Have you forgotten Simon Dawkins ?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: SamTheMouse on November 09, 2022, 07:37:23 PM
Carlos Sanchez is the worst player I've seen play for us.

Have you forgotten Simon Dawkins ?

Even Simon Dawkins' mom has forgotten Simon Dawkins.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: nuninho on November 09, 2022, 07:40:57 PM
Gary Penrice.  For a million or so in 90/91(?) that was big money at the time wasted.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: nigel on November 09, 2022, 07:47:54 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery

He was a punt at 500k.
Never really Prem standard, but in fairness he always gave his all.
Could never be accused of not trying
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dr.chekov on November 09, 2022, 07:55:49 PM
Carlos Sanchez is the worst player I've seen play for us.

Have you forgotten Simon Dawkins ?

Even Simon Dawkins' mom has forgotten Simon Dawkins.

Ha. I was talking about Dawkins today at work with my Ipswich supporting friend. Seeing as what an amazing job he had done for him at Villa, Lambert signed him again when he became Ipswich manager. He played twice then disappeared without trace. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: KevinGage on November 09, 2022, 08:01:57 PM
Scott Hogan had a bit of a purple patch in Bruce's second season.

At times Gestede barely even looked like a footballer.

Truly grim times back then, but somehow we made a profit on him with what Boro paid. Steve Gibson had the nerve to bleat on about FFP when he signed off on shit deals like that.

Some sap always has it worse.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: RamboandBruno on November 09, 2022, 08:05:05 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

Said this before, but on a freezing cold January in 2016, FA Cup 3rd Replay against Wycombe, we won 2-0 but Gestede put in probably the worst centre forward display ive seen for Villa, he just didn’t know where to run or what to do.

I know he scored a few goals but as a teenager i thought Simon Stainrod was shite
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on November 09, 2022, 08:35:30 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery

He was a punt at 500k.
Never really Prem standard, but in fairness he always gave his all.
Could never be accused of not trying

He played well in a game at home to Hull that we needed to win to stay up. More than a lot of more expensive shitebags ever gave us.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 09, 2022, 10:01:31 PM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.

Hogan had a good record before he joined. And while he was terrible it also didn't help that the dinosaur manager we had at the time decided the best way to service a 5'11 striker is to constantly pump balls down the wing to him. As opposed to creating a gameplan to take advantage of the attributes that led us to shell out what we did.

5'11, is that when he was up a ladder?

Apparently he is 1.8M which is 5'11

He doesn't look it, to put it kindly.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on November 09, 2022, 10:10:14 PM
I'm just shy of 6ft, there's no way he's as tall as me. He's clearly doing a Shay Given and bullshitting about his height
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 09, 2022, 10:16:02 PM
I'm shy of being shy of 6ft and there's no way he's as tall as me!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on November 10, 2022, 12:11:18 AM
I think the worst player I've seen who played quite a few games was probably Aly Cissokho.

That's a fair shout, Hogan would be right up there as well.

Hogan had a good record before he joined. And while he was terrible it also didn't help that the dinosaur manager we had at the time decided the best way to service a 5'11 striker is to constantly pump balls down the wing to him. As opposed to creating a gameplan to take advantage of the attributes that led us to shell out what we did.

Ah Hogan was useless. Whinged like hell too about Villa not looking after him. The likes of Abraham or even Grabban didn't seem to have much issue scoring for us. Lansbury another Brucie dud, woeful player. Nzogbia was up there in the hall of shame.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rory on November 10, 2022, 12:16:07 AM
I'm shy of being shy of 6ft and there's no way he's as tall as me!

My Gran is just shy of 5ft and there's no way he's as tall as her.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on November 10, 2022, 06:35:25 AM
I'm shy of being shy of 6ft and there's no way he's as tall as me!

My Gran is just shy of 5ft and there's no way he's as tall as her.

This is my biggest problem with Hogan summed up perfectly, he looks a lot shorter and slower than he actually is, I don't think I've ever seen another player like it. He could be jogging then break into a sprint and it looked like he was just working harder to keep up the same pace.

He's one of those players that make running look unnatural, Ings is another with the weird head bobbing thing he does and, to bring this on topic, Dendoncker verges on it as well.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 10, 2022, 07:26:06 AM
Forgot about N'Zogbia. Vastly overated and didn't really seem interested.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: avfc456 on November 10, 2022, 07:57:24 AM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery

He was a punt at 500k.
Never really Prem standard, but in fairness he always gave his all.
Could never be accused of not trying

He played well in a game at home to Hull that we needed to win to stay up. More than a lot of more expensive shitebags ever gave us.

Played away at Stoke also, I think the Lowton screamer game and played well if I remember right.  Odd signing though
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on November 10, 2022, 11:48:20 AM
Well done on making the WC squad Leo. Do yourself and your country proud and don’t get injured
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 11, 2022, 07:50:32 PM
I found myself surprised he hadn't made the Dutch world cup squad.

Then I realised it's because he's Belgian.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 11, 2022, 07:51:05 PM
I didn't mind Hogan too much. You could see why he had goals in him. Gestede on the other hand, oh dear.

I present you Jordan Bowery

He was a punt at 500k.
Never really Prem standard, but in fairness he always gave his all.
Could never be accused of not trying

He played well in a game at home to Hull that we needed to win to stay up. More than a lot of more expensive shitebags ever gave us.

Played away at Stoke also, I think the Lowton screamer game and played well if I remember right.  Odd signing though

His main contribution to the club was quite a funny gif of him spinning around in a wheelchair.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Goldenballs on November 11, 2022, 08:03:45 PM
Dendonckor runs like he's shat himself.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 11, 2022, 08:15:35 PM
McGinn runs like he's on an an invisible Segway.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on November 11, 2022, 08:43:52 PM
Augustinsson runs like he's in treacle.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 11, 2022, 08:52:01 PM
McGinn runs like he's on an an invisible Segway.

The obsession is real.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 11, 2022, 08:54:31 PM
Augustinsson wasn't great was he? Might have been a bit rusty due to lack of games mind.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on November 11, 2022, 08:56:15 PM
I didn't think he was too bad going forward. Can't remember who was at fault for their goals other than Olsen.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ian. on November 11, 2022, 09:00:19 PM
I didn't think he was too bad going forward. Can't remember who was at fault for their goals other than Olsen.

When you see the goals over and over again it’s the most strangest goalkeeping performance I’ve seen. Every long ball caused a threat, mainly due to Olsen.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 11, 2022, 09:01:21 PM
He didn't seem to want and come and catch anything.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: CT Villan on November 11, 2022, 09:03:00 PM
Who was the fella that would headbutt the post before every game ? I remember him being pretty crap too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 11, 2022, 09:03:29 PM
McGinn runs like he's got an invisible, large shopping bag full of groceries over each arm.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 11, 2022, 09:04:50 PM
McGinn runs like he's on an an invisible Segway.

The obsession is real.

Unintentionally hilarious!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 11, 2022, 09:06:38 PM
McGinn runs like he's got an invisible, large shopping bag full of groceries over each arm.

I didnt see that coming, straight after Risso's too. All very predictable.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 11, 2022, 09:08:22 PM
McGinn runs like he's got an invisible, large shopping bag full of groceries over each arm.

I didnt see that coming, straight after Risso's too. All very predictable.

You OK, hun?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on November 11, 2022, 09:10:25 PM
McGinn runs like he's got an invisible, large shopping bag full of groceries over each arm.

I didnt see that coming, straight after Risso's too. All very predictable.

You OK, hun?

Fine thanks. You?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on November 11, 2022, 09:10:46 PM
McGinn runs like he's got an invisible, large shopping bag full of groceries over each arm.

I didnt see that coming, straight after Risso's too. All very predictable.

You OK, hun?

Fine thanks. You?

Wunderbar.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on November 23, 2022, 09:00:17 PM
Well done Leander on a great performance in your side’s victory tonight.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on November 23, 2022, 09:08:07 PM
McGinn runs like he's got an invisible, large shopping bag full of groceries over each arm.

I didnt see that coming, straight after Risso's too. All very predictable.

There’s a conspiracy afoot.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on November 24, 2022, 04:30:39 AM
Well done Leander on a great performance in your side’s victory tonight.
It wasn’t great but one of the few Belgians to come out of this with ant credit.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on November 24, 2022, 07:10:54 AM
Well done Leander on a great performance in your side’s victory tonight.
It wasn’t great but one of the few Belgians to come out of this with ant credit.

Does that mean we call him Decdoncker going forwards?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villa Lew on November 24, 2022, 03:06:37 PM
Well done Leander on a great performance in your side’s victory tonight.
It wasn’t great but one of the few Belgians to come out of this with ant credit.

Does that mean we call him Decdoncker going forwards?

Applause
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on November 27, 2022, 03:30:19 PM
Belgium should have started with big Den. They got what they deserved. P45 for Martinez soon?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dcdavecollett on November 28, 2022, 02:09:41 AM
Well, he appears to be the Belgian Southgate.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on November 28, 2022, 07:24:54 PM
Belgium really are a boring side to watch, which is a massive surprise as they have the likes of De Bryun and Hazard playing for them.  Very one dimensional, Steven Gerrard esque!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Abbeyfealeavfc on December 01, 2022, 04:57:05 PM
Unlucky Big Den! Well done on your World Cup. Blame Martinez and Lukaku (seriously how many chances did he miss)!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: cdbearsfan on December 01, 2022, 05:07:07 PM
I hope Dendoncker is comforting Lukaku with whatever is the French/Dutch for "useless Baggie twat".
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on December 01, 2022, 07:23:33 PM
How long does he get off from Villa work or does Unai expect him back asap?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on December 02, 2022, 08:44:46 AM
How long does he get off from Villa work or does Unai expect him back asap?

I presume he'll get a few days or a week off then go back.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on December 02, 2022, 10:04:22 AM
How long does he get off from Villa work or does Unai expect him back asap?

I presume he'll get a few days or a week off then go back.

He might as well hang tight then join them in Dubai/Abu Dhabi.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on January 08, 2023, 06:47:14 PM
Today, the versus Stevenage this Panic signing Dendoncker showed how poor he is. So, to me, he was to blame for he was so poor and lazy throughout the match and contrived to convede a peanlty and sent off.
I think he isn’t needed much here at the club.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LukeJames on January 08, 2023, 06:53:49 PM
Yeah but he's tall.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: edgysatsuma89 on January 08, 2023, 07:00:01 PM
My review of his performance:

He looks a lot like Romeo Beckham.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 08, 2023, 07:20:05 PM
He has been a steady eddie so far , but bloody hell donk
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Jon Crofts on January 08, 2023, 07:21:31 PM
I guess he won’t be available for the 4th round tie at Stoke then?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VILLA MOLE on January 08, 2023, 07:23:18 PM
I guess he won’t be available for the 4th round tie at Stoke then?


only if we send him out on Loan
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 08, 2023, 07:39:03 PM
Hes a decent player. Lacks pace, but is usually very composed on the ball.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Grande Pablo on January 08, 2023, 08:46:17 PM
Hes a decent player. Lacks pace, but is usually very composed on the ball.

Expect when it's fired at you by a shite goalkeeper whilst a L2 centre forward is up your arse.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on January 08, 2023, 08:49:03 PM
He was laarrfable in his firstf games and he continued to be so, totally consistent at being useless.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Tayls_7 on January 08, 2023, 08:49:14 PM
Hes a decent player. Lacks pace, but is usually very composed on the ball.

Expect when it's fired at you by a shite goalkeeper whilst a L2 centre forward is up your arse.

C'mon. That clusterfuck was entirely Dendonker.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 08, 2023, 09:10:18 PM
He was laarrfable in his firstf games and he continued to be so, totally consistent at being useless.

Nothing like an overreaction.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Aldridge Villa on January 08, 2023, 09:13:26 PM
He’s adequate as a squad player. The viscosity of the treacle he appears to have to run through shows no sign of diminishing mind.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clark W Griswold on January 08, 2023, 09:16:09 PM
Ive been quite supportive of this guy and optimistic that he’d become a decent player for us. His complete lack of pace and him having the turning circle of a London bus, which was all too evident today, has me losing faith somewhat.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on January 08, 2023, 09:39:09 PM
Panic signing, waste of money.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Smirker on January 08, 2023, 10:03:02 PM
31 caps for Belgium how?

Shite.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: tomd2103 on January 08, 2023, 10:14:25 PM
Hes a decent player. Lacks pace, but is usually very composed on the ball.

Expect when it's fired at you by a shite goalkeeper whilst a L2 centre forward is up your arse.

C'mon. That clusterfuck was entirely Dendonker.

Olsen shouldn't have been playing around with it there at that stage of the game, but Dendoncker got caught on the ball and should have done better.  Watching it again, he had a number of options to who he could have laid it off first time.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Somniloquism on January 08, 2023, 10:52:51 PM
Today, the versus Stevenage this Panic signing Dendoncker showed how poor he is. So, to me, he was to blame for he was so poor and lazy throughout the match and contrived to convede a peanlty and sent off.
I think he isn’t needed much here at the club.

The dawdling on the ball and subsequent "tackle" for the pen was shit, but as two villa players were coming back in, not sure on how it was a red.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on March 03, 2023, 06:13:13 PM
He represented Belgium occasionally during the World Cup and in a back three. So DD never experienced the training time with the club during the world cup and is he really fitting in here?

Now he is so called injured and unable to train, making him unavailable versus Palace.
I guess he still has the rest of the season to prove himself as the Dendocker blunder v Stevenage is all he's really known for here so far.
I'm inclined to think that he was a panic signing and that Emery may not have him in mind for next season.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on March 10, 2023, 04:06:57 PM
Leander Dendoncker sustained a hand injury in an incident at his home. As reported.

The theory is that it could be anything, and no one knows what type of injury it is, as it could be anything from a fall or a pet bite to punching a hole in the wall or catching it in a drawer, or cut when doing food prep or a burn from a hot plate it must however be severe to potentially keep him out of the squad.
I'm thinking some sort of bruises from a fall, but that is nothing but guesswork, so it's clear I am not saying it is as fact I am speculating.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on March 10, 2023, 04:20:24 PM
I think his other half's pet hamster had a penchant for dressing up as a ferret and crawling into unmentionable places. When Leander put the Gerbil costume out instead it all got a bit out of hand and he went to bite him. As Leander then moved out of the way he banged his elbow on the cupboard, which then started to fall over and as he went to catch it the top drawer fell open and a Bic razor fell out. When he tried to catch it, the razor bounced out of his hand he instinctively went to catch it with his other hand and inadvertently punched his lover in the face and broke two fingers.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: The Man With A Stick on March 10, 2023, 04:33:14 PM
It's probably hot cross bun-related, as injuries usually are this time of year.  Bryan Robson burnt the roof of his mouth on one in 1984 and he was out for six weeks.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Bad English on March 10, 2023, 04:44:08 PM
Zinedine Zidane once admitted to getting injured during (sexual) intercourse-related activities with his wife on a bed of all places. Maybe Dendoncker was having a hand shandy.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 10, 2023, 04:52:08 PM
Zinedine Zidane once admitted to getting injured during (sexual) intercourse-related activities with his wife on a bed of all places. Maybe Dendoncker was having a hand shandy.

"leander dendoncker, he can not play, he has a bad case of wanker's hand"
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on March 10, 2023, 04:53:10 PM
It's probably hot cross bun-related, as injuries usually are this time of year.  Bryan Robson burnt the roof of his mouth on one in 1984 and he was out for six weeks.

The chewing probably put his shoulder out again
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave shelley on March 10, 2023, 04:57:54 PM
It's definitely a case of chicken choker's revenge.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on March 10, 2023, 05:40:16 PM
Dendoncker, Dendoncker, and it does him good like it bloody well should....
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on March 10, 2023, 07:05:06 PM
It's probably hot cross bun-related, as injuries usually are this time of year.  Bryan Robson burnt the roof of his mouth on one in 1984 and he was out for six weeks.

Makes sense, I seem to recall his older namesake was a fan of the even more perilous pop-tart.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on March 10, 2023, 07:53:03 PM
It's probably hot cross bun-related, as injuries usually are this time of year.  Bryan Robson burnt the roof of his mouth on one in 1984 and he was out for six weeks.

Makes sense, I seem to recall his older namesake was a fan of the even more perilous pop-tart.

Not to mention pancake-based injuries.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Hookeysmith on March 12, 2023, 12:28:24 PM
So what was actually wrong with his hand that would stop him from playing?
Buendia has that much bandage on his hand he looks like an Egyptian mummy but still plays!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on March 12, 2023, 01:24:05 PM
So what was actually wrong with his hand that would stop him from playing?
Buendia has that much bandage on his hand he looks like an Egyptian mummy but still plays!

Seems a bit suspect to me too...he's missing a big opportunity to impress with Kamara out. Might not get many others and Iroegbunam seem to be going well at QPR.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on March 12, 2023, 04:23:49 PM
Kodja had his wrist wrapped up for years and still made the team. There's something dodgy going on here.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: SoccerHQ on March 12, 2023, 04:29:27 PM
Have Belgium called him up?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: aj2k77 on March 12, 2023, 04:30:48 PM
Have Belgium called him up?

Yes but his hand is injured so he couldn't answer the phone.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: astonvilla82 on March 12, 2023, 04:34:29 PM
Have Belgium called him up?

Yes but his hand is injured so he couldn't answer the phone.
what about climbing over the front gate?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on March 12, 2023, 04:56:25 PM
Why can’t he just be injured without it being a massive conspiracy?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on March 12, 2023, 05:00:42 PM
Agreed. The poor chap wasn't ready to play, that's probably the start and end of it. Hopefully he'll be available next week.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on March 12, 2023, 09:01:52 PM
Agreed. The poor chap wasn't ready to play, that's probably the start and end of it. Hopefully he'll be available next week.

That would be handy.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on March 12, 2023, 09:08:42 PM
Why can’t he just be injured without it being a massive conspiracy?

I won't be palmed off as easily as that.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Aldridge Villa on March 12, 2023, 09:25:19 PM
If he’s french speaking the main thing is he’s ok
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on March 12, 2023, 10:41:32 PM
Why can’t he just be injured without it being a massive conspiracy?

I won't be palmed off as easily as that.

Someone needs to finger the culprit.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on March 12, 2023, 10:54:23 PM
Will he get into double digits this season?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on March 13, 2023, 12:07:54 AM
He needs to knuckle down and get a grip.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on March 13, 2023, 12:33:19 AM
Hans-i Flick is believed to be a fan of the Donk.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dcdavecollett on March 14, 2023, 01:34:16 AM
It's a thumbs-up from me when he comes back.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: algy on March 14, 2023, 06:45:16 AM
It's a thumbs-up from me when he comes back.
You say that, but knowing our crowd they'll be pointing the finger in no time
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dcdavecollett on March 15, 2023, 02:28:45 AM
I think you've nailed it there.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on March 15, 2023, 05:38:55 AM
That was a great series of puns, I’ve got to hand it to you all.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Bad English on March 15, 2023, 05:50:48 AM
Yes, you're into double digits.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 15, 2023, 06:22:13 AM
Slow hand clap.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dave shelley on March 15, 2023, 09:29:01 AM
I just have to hold my hands up on this one.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Baldy on March 15, 2023, 09:41:48 AM
Love a good pun, but please folks give it a wrist.  :'(
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on March 15, 2023, 09:58:00 AM
Barring that shite mistake against Stevenage I don't think he's done much wrong?

He's a good player to have in the squad.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on March 15, 2023, 10:09:53 AM
Don't geddit...
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Mellin on March 15, 2023, 10:49:00 AM
He's a great first reserve. Would've started every week for the first three seasons we were back. The engine room is sorted with Tim coming back. Improve elsewhere and leave it to tick over.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Mister E on March 15, 2023, 07:19:28 PM
He's a great first reserve. Would've started every week for the first three seasons we were back. The engine room is sorted with Tim coming back. Improve elsewhere and leave it to tick over.
You're suggesting that he hands over to Tim and waves Goodbye took the squad.
Fair enough.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ventnorVillain on March 15, 2023, 07:27:06 PM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Footy-Vill on March 17, 2023, 10:27:05 AM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Russ aka Big Nose on March 17, 2023, 10:53:26 AM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
If he pulls his finger out.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: spartacuss on March 18, 2023, 09:45:44 AM
Why can’t he just be injured without it being a massive conspiracy?


I won't be palmed off as easily as that.

Someone needs to finger the culprit.

I don't know why, but all this lurid speculation has brought to my mind:

'Wank, Spank & Palmer'

Probably the worst firm of solicitors I've ever dealt with.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on March 18, 2023, 09:48:54 AM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
He won’t be able to pull himself off at half time.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on March 18, 2023, 10:46:41 AM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
He won’t be able to pull himself off at half time.

That's OK though as the manager would pull him off instead
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on March 18, 2023, 01:44:36 PM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
He won’t be able to pull himself off at half time.

That's OK though as the manager would pull him off instead

When Terry Vennables told Gazza that he would pull him off at half-time, the irascible imp said that he only got an orange at Newcastle.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 18, 2023, 01:52:24 PM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
He won’t be able to pull himself off at half time.

That's OK though as the manager would pull him off instead

When Terry Vennables told Gazza that he would pull him off at half-time, the irascible imp said that he only got an orange at Newcastle.

That was Rodney Marsh to Don Revie.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: adrenachrome on March 18, 2023, 07:33:28 PM
If he gets picked on Saturday he'll have to knuckle down. :)
Will he get handed a start?
He won’t be able to pull himself off at half time.

That's OK though as the manager would pull him off instead

When Terry Vennables told Gazza that he would pull him off at half-time, the irascible imp said that he only got an orange at Newcastle.

That was Rodney Marsh to Don Revie.

Stuff and nonsense, Rod would never let Don pull him off at half time, or any other time.

He was a geezer.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dcdavecollett on March 21, 2023, 12:47:14 AM
Alf Ramsey, I think.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on March 21, 2023, 01:01:38 AM
Alf Ramsey, I think.

Ah, so it was.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on April 15, 2023, 05:10:59 PM
I have been very harsh on this man in the past, today I thought he played his role brilliantly. Took everything off them when required and got play moving time after time.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dante Lavelli on April 15, 2023, 05:15:59 PM
Had become a bit of a scape goat despite not playing much.  Credit to him and Emery as getting value out of the full width of the squad makes for a healthy squad and club.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OCD on April 15, 2023, 05:29:03 PM
He was excellent today and against Man United. He's good cover for Kamara. He's made one bad mistake and had very few opportunities to steer people away from that memory. Others have made the same mistake, like Kamara against Leicester, and it's been put behind them because they've been able to push on from there.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Mister E on April 15, 2023, 05:30:52 PM
Including him to nullify Bruno was a smart move. Playing Ramsey and McGinn wider to nullify Murphy and Gordon was a smart move. Emery is getting the best out of these players.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on April 15, 2023, 05:41:58 PM
97% pass accuracy. Highest on the pitch today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on April 15, 2023, 05:45:53 PM
97% pass accuracy. Highest on the pitch today.

That's quite a feat.  He must be a useful player and other than the FA Cup game, hasn't let us down so far.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Richard E on April 15, 2023, 05:47:34 PM
Doesn’t do anything sexy or spectacular but does the meat and potatoes stuff really calmly and makes himself available as an outlet. I thought he was great today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on April 15, 2023, 05:51:16 PM
Including him to nullify Bruno was a smart move. Playing Ramsey and McGinn wider to nullify Murphy and Gordon was a smart move. Emery is getting the best out of these players.

Ramsey was more about Trippier than Murphy, by having Ramsey start wide and break in-field whenever we attack Trippier got pinned in to play deeper and tighter than he'd like, which in turn created fuckloads of space for Moreno.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on April 15, 2023, 06:07:19 PM
He's a big strong lad who can pass the ball really well. We needed his strength against the likes of Joelinton today, and he put in a very good performance.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villafirst on April 15, 2023, 06:22:07 PM
I thought he did brilliantly today. So many interceptions and decent passes - very similar to Kamara. That was some atmosphere to be in today!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: not3bad on April 15, 2023, 06:48:53 PM
It's so important that we can call on the likes of Dendocker during the run in as we're just a small squad if an honest bunch of lads.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: SoccerHQ on April 15, 2023, 06:51:20 PM
I have been very harsh on this man in the past, today I thought he played his role brilliantly. Took everything off them when required and got play moving time after time.

The Stevenage error didn't help but I'm always confused with these posts. What other games has he looked poor? He was mostly sub under you know who and then he started the Brentford and and Man. United games where we were excellent.

He obviously isn't UE's type of midfielder but masterstroke starting him today to nullify their physicality in midfield and off set pieces.

I have no issue with him being kept around as squad player next season as he was a regular for Wolves when they played in that a few years ago and we can't just cull everyone on the fringes of first 11 given it will hopefully be 3 games in a week from September 2023.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ChicagoLion on April 15, 2023, 06:54:59 PM
I liked the fact that he was prepared to take some physical challenges without complaints and with composure.
He had a very good game today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on April 15, 2023, 07:10:08 PM
A nice birthday present for him today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Beard82 on April 15, 2023, 07:18:26 PM
TBF - other than against Stevenage - he’s always looked composed and secure. 

I like him - in the I don’t care if he leaves - kind of way
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on April 15, 2023, 08:43:04 PM
Delighted for him. Have been calling for weeks to drop Bailey and play the Donk. Thought it was clear Emery didn't rate him but he got an opportunity today and delivered. He's a bit ungainly but is tidy on the ball and he is a fair old presence without it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Olof's Beard on April 15, 2023, 08:48:06 PM
He has been great when called upon all season as others have said. The Stevenage error just sticks in people's minds but he is a solid pro and offers the sort of physicality we don't have among our other midfielders while still being decent on the ball. Keep!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: RamboandBruno on April 15, 2023, 08:57:16 PM
Joelinton did not  get a look in today, mainly down to Bog Donk strutting his bamby stuff.

Brilliant today.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on April 15, 2023, 09:11:35 PM
I think where he came from and how late he joined int he summer has worked against him all season but I always thought he was a decent signing to add a bit of depth whilst Kamara settled in, you don't get into the current Belgian squad without being a decent player.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: LeeB on April 15, 2023, 09:21:00 PM
I think where he came from and how late he joined int he summer has worked against him all season but I always thought he was a decent signing to add a bit of depth whilst Kamara settled in, you don't get into the current Belgian squad without being a decent player.

I used to see him at Wulvz and think we could do with a player like that, gives us a bit of height in the box too which is handy against a team half filled with basketball players.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on April 15, 2023, 09:23:30 PM
Didn't he play in the game against Brentford and we all over them as well?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on April 15, 2023, 10:01:38 PM
Really interesting that he came in cold for today's game and against Brentford in October. Both times, the opposition wouldn't have expected him to play and would likely have made other plans (ie for dozy Bailey in today's case).

We end up bossing the midfield in both games and I'm doubtful we would have won today had we played a winger instead of him. Unspectacular compared to the stylish Kamara but he breaks up play, tracks his runners and can pass a ball.

I'd definitely be wanting to keep him around next season. Hopefully we get Europe and there are some assurances over game-time. He is still a Belgian international after all so he'll want to be starting a lot more frequently.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: algy on April 16, 2023, 07:07:29 AM
Delighted for him. Have been calling for weeks to drop Bailey and play the Donk. Thought it was clear Emery didn't rate him but he got an opportunity today and delivered. He's a bit ungainly but is tidy on the ball and he is a fair old presence without it.
I don't think Bailey will be around after the summer, whereas I could see Donk still being in the squad. He's a useful player to have for cover, and adds something to the team when called upon.

Think Tim I might end up on loan again. It sounds like he's done well at QPR, but he's still only 19 and has had 1 season of regular football in him. Could see him going to a club chasing for promotion next season - a bit like Cam Archer has. At this stage he doesn't need to be sat on the bench & IMO hasn't made a clear case for using him over signing a new player.

Whereas say Cam Archer has been showing the kind of form which, if he wasn't our players already, we'd be throwing £20m-£30m down to try to sign him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dicedlam on April 16, 2023, 09:33:13 AM
I thought he was superb yesterday. Very much the type of player we needed for that game.

No frills, just does what is says on the tin.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: exigo on April 16, 2023, 11:43:00 AM
Excellent yesterday. His performance summed up with his set-up that led to the third goal. In the right place, steps in, blocks the Newcastle pass in a high press, feeds it off to McGinn, two touches later it's in their net. Quality.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 20, 2023, 12:50:44 AM
Reminds me of John Cazale.

JC: 3 films - The Godfather, Dog Day Afternoon, The Deer Hunter.

LD: 3 starts - Brentford, Man Utd, Newcastle.*

*ignore Newcastle away.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brazilian Villain on April 20, 2023, 01:27:28 AM
Reminds me of John Cazale.

JC: 3 films - The Godfather, Dog Day Afternoon, The Deer Hunter.

LD: 3 starts - Brentford, Man Utd, Newcastle.*

*ignore Newcastle away.


thick_mike will be upset you didn't reference 'The Conversation'.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on April 20, 2023, 01:30:30 AM
Reminds me of John Cazale.

JC: 3 films - The Godfather, Dog Day Afternoon, The Deer Hunter.

LD: 3 starts - Brentford, Man Utd, Newcastle.*

*ignore Newcastle away.


thick_mike will be upset you didn't reference 'The Conversation'.

That was his Newcastle away.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: London Villan on August 21, 2023, 12:34:47 PM
Sorry to bump the thread. But where is he?? Not in the squad, not on the injured list?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Steve67 on August 21, 2023, 12:36:44 PM
I hope his baby isn't poorly and he needs time off.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Smithy on August 21, 2023, 12:52:12 PM
Didn't his younger brother have to retire as a professional last week due to a previously unidentified heart condition? I'm putting 2 + 2 together and coming up with 147 here, but I guess it's possible that if there is ANY element of genetic predisposition to that condition, he will be undergoing all manner of tests right now to rule it out?

It's equally possible he's simply on the verge of being sold.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: London Villan on August 21, 2023, 01:01:04 PM
I hope his baby isn't poorly and he needs time off.

Not thought of that  - let's hope not.

As does the heart reason too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: UK Redsox on August 21, 2023, 01:05:01 PM
I hope his baby isn't poorly and he needs time off.

This is what I'm thinking
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: coreyfeldman on October 30, 2023, 12:02:34 PM
Looks off the pace every time he comes on these days, guessing we'll shift him in January if we can
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OCD on October 30, 2023, 12:06:43 PM
Limited match time and he nearly made a Stevenage-type mistake that would have made it 3-2 and given a comfortable win a bit of a nerve-wracking last few minutes.

Iroegbunam was on the bench yesterday, he may well overtake Dendoncker next time Emery wants to shore up the midfield.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Smirker on October 30, 2023, 12:47:57 PM
He is shit. No idea why Gerrard bought him.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: brontebilly on October 30, 2023, 12:50:40 PM
Limited match time and he nearly made a Stevenage-type mistake that would have made it 3-2 and given a comfortable win a bit of a nerve-wracking last few minutes.

Iroegbunam was on the bench yesterday, he may well overtake Dendoncker next time Emery wants to shore up the midfield.

I liked the Donk last season but it's been cameos from hell this season after he skipped pre season too. If Iroegbunam was fit in August then I think Emery would have let the Donk go to Everton. He's incredibly uncomfortable playing on the half turn in midfield and that's a pre req for playing in our midfield.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV82EC on October 30, 2023, 12:51:26 PM
Increasingly looking out of place in a possession based team where the centre mids need to be able to receive the ball in tight positions. Interesting that Ireogbunam is starting to feature in the squad, certainly brings more dynamism to that part if the squad.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: danno on October 30, 2023, 12:53:26 PM
He is shit. No idea why Gerrard bought him.

Thought he had some good games last season, Man Utd and Newcastle at home in particular.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV84 on October 30, 2023, 12:58:16 PM
Donk is the only player I've heard Emery say something even remotely negative about. Can't remember the exact wording but it was something about him needing to show that he can be consistent in his effort. I know Emery throws a lot of the same phrases around, so maybe he didn't mean anything by it, but I got the impression that he's maybe one of the few who hasn't fully bought into Emery's methods and just isn't that bothered about getting up to speed for this season. 
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: OCD on October 30, 2023, 01:01:37 PM
I remember the comments you're referring to. I think it was more a frustration that he didn't seem able to stay fit.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV84 on October 30, 2023, 01:35:31 PM
Found the quotes. I suppose you could see a few interpretations in that. It's the "10 months" mention for me. Was he injured much last season? As I said, not exactly scathing, but the most specific I've heard Emery be about a player who isn't playing.

Quote
"I have had 10 months with him and I am always trying to find [how he can] be regular every day, every month, training, playing and getting his best performance, for some different circumstances he didn’t do it," Emery said of Dendoncker ahead of Villa's clash with Burnley at Turf Moor on Sunday.
"Now, hopefully on Monday he will start to train again with the group, hopefully he is going to keep consistent for a long time because I think he can help us."
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on November 13, 2023, 01:45:15 PM
Sitting near the tunnel yesterday and when the players were warming up, and chatting as they do, I noticed Adama Traore start his routine. He greeted Bailey and Bertie then kept going along the line, looked Dendoncker in the eye and completely blanked him. Nothing from Dendoncker either.

Presumably there wasn't a particularly strong bond between them at Wolves!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Hookeysmith on November 13, 2023, 01:50:31 PM
Sitting near the tunnel yesterday and when the players were warming up, and chatting as they do, I noticed Adama Traore start his routine. He greeted Bailey and Bertie then kept going along the line, looked Dendoncker in the eye and completely blanked him. Nothing from Dendoncker either.

Presumably there wasn't a particularly strong bond between them at Wolves!

I cannot say too much but when i saw them they were both chatting away like good friends in spanish. It was the Villa kids asking for autographs that Leo regulary blanks
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on November 13, 2023, 01:51:57 PM
Maybe they'd already said hello when I saw them then.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on November 13, 2023, 02:02:42 PM
Do you still work for the club, Hookey?

Btw, were all the subs and coaches getting drenched  yesterday now that we can't afford a roof for the bench? "Fcukin tinpot mate, your club is shit".
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: London Villan on November 13, 2023, 02:16:18 PM
I heard the dugouts having the roof removed had something to do with UEFA regulations.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Martyn Smith on November 13, 2023, 02:25:18 PM
Donk is the only player I've heard Emery say something even remotely negative about. Can't remember the exact wording but it was something about him needing to show that he can be consistent in his effort. I know Emery throws a lot of the same phrases around, so maybe he didn't mean anything by it, but I got the impression that he's maybe one of the few who hasn't fully bought into Emery's methods and just isn't that bothered about getting up to speed for this season. 

His is the only UE signing that I don't really get. I don't see what he adds to the side. I wonder if the idea was for him to be an Ian Taylor type of player, of limited skills but will always give 100% and be a reliable water carrier. He doesn't seem to be that, though
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Martyn Smith on November 13, 2023, 02:29:39 PM
I heard the dugouts having the roof removed had something to do with UEFA regulations.

I sometimes think that UEFA must have an internal 'who can come up with the biggest pile of wank this month' competition. Whoever came up with the idea of soppy great capacity-reducing advertising boards deserves such an award
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Sexual Ealing on November 13, 2023, 02:32:47 PM
Donk is the only player I've heard Emery say something even remotely negative about. Can't remember the exact wording but it was something about him needing to show that he can be consistent in his effort. I know Emery throws a lot of the same phrases around, so maybe he didn't mean anything by it, but I got the impression that he's maybe one of the few who hasn't fully bought into Emery's methods and just isn't that bothered about getting up to speed for this season. 

His is the only UE signing that I don't really get. I don't see what he adds to the side. I wonder if the idea was for him to be an Ian Taylor type of player, of limited skills but will always give 100% and be a reliable water carrier. He doesn't seem to be that, though


Didn't Gerrard sign him?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV84 on November 13, 2023, 03:00:53 PM
Donk is the only player I've heard Emery say something even remotely negative about. Can't remember the exact wording but it was something about him needing to show that he can be consistent in his effort. I know Emery throws a lot of the same phrases around, so maybe he didn't mean anything by it, but I got the impression that he's maybe one of the few who hasn't fully bought into Emery's methods and just isn't that bothered about getting up to speed for this season. 

His is the only UE signing that I don't really get. I don't see what he adds to the side. I wonder if the idea was for him to be an Ian Taylor type of player, of limited skills but will always give 100% and be a reliable water carrier. He doesn't seem to be that, though


Didn't Gerrard sign him?

Pretty sure Moreno was the only player Emery signed before the summer window. (Technically Durán but I think that was in progress)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Mister E on November 13, 2023, 03:00:55 PM
Donk is the only player I've heard Emery say something even remotely negative about. Can't remember the exact wording but it was something about him needing to show that he can be consistent in his effort. I know Emery throws a lot of the same phrases around, so maybe he didn't mean anything by it, but I got the impression that he's maybe one of the few who hasn't fully bought into Emery's methods and just isn't that bothered about getting up to speed for this season. 
His is the only UE signing that I don't really get. I don't see what he adds to the side. I wonder if the idea was for him to be an Ian Taylor type of player, of limited skills but will always give 100% and be a reliable water carrier. He doesn't seem to be that, though
Didn't Gerrard sign him?
Pretty sure so, yes.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on November 13, 2023, 03:28:08 PM
Yes the Donck was a panic signing along with the defender from Southampton whose name I've already forgotten.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on November 13, 2023, 03:42:51 PM
Bednarek
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: dcdavecollett on November 14, 2023, 01:32:56 AM
Bless you!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Hookeysmith on November 14, 2023, 02:53:59 PM
Do you still work for the club, Hookey?

Btw, were all the subs and coaches getting drenched  yesterday now that we can't afford a roof for the bench? "Fcukin tinpot mate, your club is shit".

Yes i do - 37 years in total.

Dug out - the roof was removed to remodel the area so they can accomodate all the additional subs required for the Euro games. Individual seats on the back row were replaced with a long bench .We are under the impression that a new one is in development - which is sensible considering our weather
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: olaftab on January 23, 2024, 06:18:44 PM
On his way to Napoli for £8.5M.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 23, 2024, 06:21:18 PM
On his way to Napoli for £8.5M.

Loan with option to buy. Not mandatory
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Hookeysmith on January 23, 2024, 06:23:57 PM
Tim to step up or new option coming in?

Nice contract if you are happy playing the occasional 3 minutes
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villafirst on January 23, 2024, 06:25:06 PM
Why are we letting Dendoncker go without a replacement coming in first? I hope there's a deal imminent as this already weakens a thin squad.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Toronto Villa on January 23, 2024, 06:38:21 PM
Why are we letting Dendoncker go without a replacement coming in first? I hope there's a deal imminent as this already weakens a thin squad.

I imagine we can’t bring players in without moving players out to stay within FFP.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV84 on January 23, 2024, 06:46:58 PM
They're not like for like but could this mean that the Middlesbrough lad is a done deal now too?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 23, 2024, 06:51:34 PM
I'd imagine it's that in the season and a half he's been here he's only started 8 league games. We most likely want his wages gone, and a potential fee in, so as we can bring in someone we're likely to play more.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 23, 2024, 06:59:38 PM
I understand the FFP concerns, but bloody hell we’re light here. Clearly Kamara is exceptional, and crucial, but we’d have little or nothing to cover him unless Unai thinks Tim is decent but he hasn’t give any real indication of that yet.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dante Lavelli on January 23, 2024, 07:08:44 PM
Step up Tim.  He needs the minutes to test whether he’s good enough (or, worst case fatten him up for sale).

Seems sensible to me, creates the space for Tim this season and/or a big name signing in the summer.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 23, 2024, 07:46:40 PM
Fingers crossed Iroegbunam gets an opportunity. He is a player I rate highly, potential wise.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: eamonn on January 23, 2024, 07:58:23 PM
8.5m?! Wow, that's good going.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Ads on January 23, 2024, 08:02:14 PM
Emery sees big Tim as having much more potential to step in with some more work on the training ground. Definitely has more legs and energy about him than Donk.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villan82 on January 23, 2024, 08:41:54 PM
Donk probably a decent option and bar the Stevenage game has been solid when called upon. The 4-0 Brentford game between Gerrard's sacking and Emery's appointment springs to mind.

But he is never an Emery player. Not mobile enough, not technical enough.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Percy McCarthy on January 23, 2024, 08:48:21 PM
Donk probably a decent option and bar the Stevenage game has been solid when called upon. The 4-0 Brentford game between Gerrard's sacking and Emery's appointment springs to mind.

But he is never an Emery player. Not mobile enough, not technical enough.

And the 3-1 Man Utd game, and the 3-0 Toon.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: paul_e on January 23, 2024, 10:47:56 PM
Emery sees big Tim as having much more potential to step in with some more work on the training ground. Definitely has more legs and energy about him than Donk.

And even if he isn't quite there he'd be stepping in for someone who has played the equivalent of just over 4 games this season.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Villafirst on January 24, 2024, 06:36:21 AM
Our squad isn't strong enough at the moment to cope with 3 competitions in this second half of the season without reinforcements. We're very light up front, imagine if Watkins gets injured! I think we have a great opportunity to get 4th spot, but doubt we have the strength in depth.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Dogtanian on January 24, 2024, 08:33:24 AM
Yet another bit of evidence for how poor Gerrard was. Just look at his signings;

Chambers - told he can go.
Coutinho - sent away, told he can go.
Olsen - pretty sure he's on his way out.
Dendoncker - on his way out.
Digne - told he could go (though possibly redeemed himself after injury to Moreno)
Carlos - bad luck on his injury, but probably would have had Longlet's role this season had Mings not been injured.
Kamara - got sent off at Brentford, making Gerrard directly responsible for us not being top at Christmas and losing to a mid-table team at Old Trafford.  ::)

And Gerrard was only here a bloody year!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Risso on January 24, 2024, 08:36:49 AM
Our subs bench is going to have three goalies on it at this rate. Hopefully the kid from Boro can come in now because a small squad is now looking wafer thin.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: john e on January 24, 2024, 09:57:26 AM
Dendoncker is no great loss He comes in and fills a hole which a myriad of other players could do
I know we’re gonna get this, he never let us down and he did a job for us but for me he weakened the team every time he played
If he got through a game by playing it safe and steady without making a major ricket we all said he had a good game, No he didn’t he was nowhere near good enough for a top half Premier League side

He wasn’t the worst player we’ve ever had and I don’t think he did anything particular bad He was just not at the level we require now even for a backup player

If there is an option to buy for Napoli they won’t be taking us up on it, but that’s just my opinion
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VillaTim on January 24, 2024, 10:01:56 AM
He must have a bloody good agent is all i can say landing at Napoli
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 24, 2024, 10:43:06 AM
He must have a bloody good agent is all i can say landing at Napoli

Napoli are shit this year...
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulTheVillan on January 24, 2024, 10:45:35 AM
Dendoncker might do Ok with the slightly slower pace of Italian football.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Monty on January 24, 2024, 10:57:13 AM
He must have a bloody good agent is all i can say landing at Napoli

Napoli are shit this year...

Still a good gig!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: ASHTONVILLA on January 24, 2024, 11:04:38 AM
Dendoncker might do Ok with the slightly slower pace of Italian football.

I'd say he'll do well there. He was a solid if unspectacular back up for Kamara, but hopefully, his going allows a better player to come in and compete for that spot. I would not be that unhappy for Iroegbunan to get a tryout and for Dendoncker to be replaced in the summer.

I do hope there is a mandatory purchase though. I don't want yet another Guilbert / Sanson situation where we keep loaning out for partial wage coverage and then write him off on a free eventually.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 11:08:19 AM
According to Romano, there is no compulsory purchase.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Brend'Watkins on January 24, 2024, 11:09:08 AM
The Donk has been adequate for us and payed very well V Newcastle last season. Tim Iroegbunam should be at least as good with the potential to be much better and that's something Emery has seen in training. One out, sold and one promoted with no drop off in standard is very good business.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 24, 2024, 11:12:45 AM
According to Romano, there is no compulsory purchase.

Frustrating.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV84 on January 24, 2024, 11:16:37 AM
According to Romano, there is no compulsory purchase.

Frustrating.

As long as he's getting regular game time there's a chance someone will want him in the summer.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 24, 2024, 11:22:36 AM
Our subs bench is going to have three goalies on it at this rate.

Heck has probably got an eye on one of those places as a GA++ offering.

£3,000 for all you can eat pick and mix and chips plus replace Calum Chambers on the bench.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on January 24, 2024, 12:22:26 PM
According to Romano, there is no compulsory purchase.

Frustrating.

As long as he's getting regular game time there's a chance someone will want him in the summer.

Yep, he'll want game time himself and doesn't get much here, and hopefully he will do well and increase his value.



Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: AV84 on January 24, 2024, 12:26:43 PM

As long as he's getting regular game time there's a chance someone will want him in the summer.

Yep, he'll want game time himself and doesn't get much here, and hopefully he will do well and increase his value.

I forgot the Euros are this summer too. I don't know how guaranteed his place is but it's a little extra motivation to do well over the next few months. Which all hopefully combines to get us a bit of cash in the summer.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Olneythelonely on January 24, 2024, 12:38:40 PM
Our subs bench is going to have three goalies on it at this rate.

Heck has probably got an eye on one of those places as a GA++ offering.

£3,000 for all you can eat pick and mix and chips plus replace Calum Chambers on the bench.


This gave me a good chuckle.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Clampy on January 26, 2024, 09:56:09 AM
Confirmed now as gone on loan to Napoli.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: PaulWinch again on January 26, 2024, 10:03:20 AM
Good luck to him it’s a nice move for him. It’s very odd from us though, I get he’s not likely to play but our squad is very thin. Hopefully it allows us to strengthen elsewhere.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VillaTim on January 26, 2024, 10:04:09 AM
FFP biting ?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on January 26, 2024, 10:10:00 AM
A strange signing really, but I wish him luck.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: chrisw1 on January 26, 2024, 10:12:11 AM
FFP biting ?
Of course it fucking is.  As you well know as you've been all over every thread where we've been discussing exactly that for the last few months.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Drummond on January 26, 2024, 10:12:56 AM
He did a job as cover I suppose.

Ultimately, I doubt we were ever pleased to see him come on. He didn't offer anything much and I'd rather see Iroegbunam come on, a youngster offers hope and promise, a star signing offers some wow.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: pablo_picasso on January 26, 2024, 10:40:28 AM
If it's a choice between Dendoncker & Iroegbunam, it's Iroegbunam every day of the week & twice on Tuesday for me.

Even being a "naive" young player, his athleticism is far superior to that of Dendoncker & the biggest benefit is that he likes to drive forward with the ball at his feet at pace, similar to Kamara. (And to a lesser extent Jacob Ramsey, just from deeper).

So he is the natural choice for me & it's a positive sign that we are looking to a youth player when they look like they can offer the team more than an experienced player.

My concern after the summer fire sale of youngsters was that they would become merely chips in the FFP / P&S game of poker against the status quo clubs.

Hopefully this move signals that is not going to be the case for all youngsters...
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: Meanwood Villa on January 26, 2024, 10:47:44 AM
I don't think anyone will remember his Villa career with much fondness although he did play in that Newcastle game last season. Seems bizarre we might end up with a smaller squad after this window
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: rob_bridge on January 26, 2024, 11:06:41 AM
Didn't work out - don't think they style suite him the way it does Kamara and Luiz (and most of the others).

Good luck - no ill will.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Smithy on January 26, 2024, 11:10:04 AM
I think he was brought in to challenge Kamara (who hadn't kicked a ball for us at that point) and/or Dougie for that deeper-lying midfielder slot.  Which wasn't a bad move in all honesty, but no one could have predicted how well those two have developed in the last 18 months.   He hasn't done a "bad" job for us, he's just not been given much of a chance because the guy ahead of him has been SO good. 

There have been plenty of worse signings in recent years, and I'm sure he could still do a good job for someone at a pretty high level. Hopefully his loan goes well and get can get a few quid for him in the summer.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: UK Redsox on January 26, 2024, 11:17:30 AM
It'll soon be three subs on the bench...and two of them will be keepers :)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Monty on January 26, 2024, 11:26:12 AM
'Donk' sounds like the Neapolitan word for 'I give' ('Dong', pronounced like it looks in pure Walsall accent, hard g at the end). A problem, as giving the ball is basically the thing he finds hardest.

But good luck to him. There are creative players he can play behind there, basically giving Zielinski, Kvara etc fewer defensive worries. I imagine that's the idea.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: VillaTim on January 26, 2024, 11:37:07 AM
FFP biting ?
Of course it fucking is.  As you well know as you've been all over every thread where we've been discussing exactly that for the last few months.
Nope . Nobody knows only the club so we speculate . Now detangle your knickers
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Matt C on January 26, 2024, 11:54:20 AM
He made 36 appearances for us, I feel like I remember about three of them.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: PeterWithe on January 26, 2024, 12:05:30 PM
Farewell. Probably the most unathletic player I can remember. I mean he wasn't bad, he just ran like he was.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: PeterWithesShin on January 26, 2024, 12:08:21 PM
The streets will never forget that the Donk was here.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: VillaTim on January 26, 2024, 12:10:40 PM
He made 36 appearances for us, I feel like I remember about three of them.
Stevenage + which 2 others
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: eamonn on January 26, 2024, 12:17:56 PM
He made 36 appearances for us, I feel like I remember about three of them.
Stevenage + which 2 others

Newcastle at home, 3-0, he bossed it. Likewise Brentford 4-0 and Ure, 3-1 in Emery's first game. Why only remember the aberrations? Why hate...
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: VillaTim on January 26, 2024, 12:22:12 PM
He made 36 appearances for us, I feel like I remember about three of them.
Stevenage + which 2 others

Newcastle at home, 3-0, he bossed it. Likewise Brentford 4-0 and Ure, 3-1 in Emery's first game. Why only remember the aberrations? Why hate...
nice goal at ManUre
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: OCD on January 26, 2024, 12:39:28 PM
I just don't think he was technical enough for Emery's tactics. He never looked particularly comfortable on the half-turn, for instance, when taking the ball from a defender. Kamara's made the odd mistake doing the same thing but he's a lot more technical.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Axl Rose on January 26, 2024, 12:43:00 PM
He made 36 appearances for us, I feel like I remember about three of them.
Stevenage + which 2 others

Newcastle at home, 3-0, he bossed it. Likewise Brentford 4-0 and Ure, 3-1 in Emery's first game. Why only remember the aberrations? Why hate...
nice goal at ManUre

That's about it. He was ok. Just.

Wont be missed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: JUAN PABLO on January 26, 2024, 01:04:43 PM
Did he play in the 3 1 manure win .  He will only be remembered for Stevenage tho
Title: ERe: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Tony Daleys Shorts on January 26, 2024, 01:09:39 PM
Fate is a fickle thing. His sublime back heel to put us 2-0 up in front of the Stretford End would have gone down in Villa folklore had we gone on and won the game. It’s now going to be forgotten due to the shit show that followed it.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Brazilian Villain on January 26, 2024, 01:13:47 PM
I wish him well, and hope he likes pizza.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: pauliewalnuts on January 26, 2024, 02:31:34 PM
And is a confident driver.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: eamonn on January 26, 2024, 02:49:30 PM
And is a confident driver.

He'll have the newborn in a robust baby-seat, fingers-crossed.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - signed
Post by: algy on January 26, 2024, 02:58:23 PM
Yet another bit of evidence for how poor Gerrard was. Just look at his signings;

Chambers - told he can go.
Coutinho - sent away, told he can go.
Olsen - pretty sure he's on his way out.
Dendoncker - on his way out.
Digne - told he could go (though possibly redeemed himself after injury to Moreno)
Carlos - bad luck on his injury, but probably would have had Longlet's role this season had Mings not been injured.
Kamara - got sent off at Brentford, making Gerrard directly responsible for us not being top at Christmas and losing to a mid-table team at Old Trafford.  ::)

And Gerrard was only here a bloody year!
Don't forget he signed Villa legend Jacob Bednarek on loan!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Monty on January 26, 2024, 04:23:06 PM
And is a confident driver.

He'll have the newborn in a robust baby-seat, fingers-crossed.

Give it two months the baby will have its own scooter.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: VillaTim on January 26, 2024, 04:29:57 PM
imagine being told 12 months ago Napoli wanted Dendonker
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: manic-road on January 27, 2024, 06:52:34 PM
Hope he does well at Napoli so that they want to make his signing permanent at the end of the loan.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dogtanian on February 20, 2024, 12:22:36 PM
Reports that the deal is too expensive to make permanent;

https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/ (https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/)
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: OCD on February 20, 2024, 01:31:27 PM
They'll be flush with cash when PSG or another buy Osimhen off them.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Drummond on February 20, 2024, 01:32:24 PM
Early negotiation tactics then.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Gareth on February 20, 2024, 02:32:24 PM
I would have thought his ability would have made a deal difficult not money, theyll get to see him for 4 months.

Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Monty on February 20, 2024, 02:33:47 PM
At least he'll have a new manager to impress.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Risso on February 20, 2024, 02:42:47 PM
I'd have thought his style would suit Italian football. He's a big old unit with a decent range of passing, but absolutely no pace whatsoever.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Mister E on February 20, 2024, 06:20:06 PM
Reports that the deal is too expensive to make permanent;
https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/ (https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/)
Strange that they were happy to include the option-to-buy price in the loan contract. Negotiation tactics.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: VILLA MOLE on February 20, 2024, 06:38:47 PM
Reports that the deal is too expensive to make permanent;
https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/ (https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/)
Strange that they were happy to include the option-to-buy price in the loan contract. Negotiation tactics.

Any of theirs worth pinching
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Brazilian Villain on February 20, 2024, 06:41:49 PM
Reports that the deal is too expensive to make permanent;
https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/ (https://sportwitness.co.uk/difficult-club-trigger-option-buy-aston-villa-player-transfer-currently-pipe-dream/)
Strange that they were happy to include the option-to-buy price in the loan contract. Negotiation tactics.

Any of theirs worth pinching

I suppose a straight player swap for Osimhen is out of the question. :(
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: eamonn on February 21, 2024, 12:44:43 AM
Has the Donk got any playing time yet for them? He hadn't up to a couple of weeks back from what I could see.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Smithy on February 21, 2024, 07:56:09 AM
Has the Donk got any playing time yet for them? He hadn't up to a couple of weeks back from what I could see.

 Think he's had a couple of sub appearances? Definitely one. But I don't think he's started a game yet.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 21, 2024, 08:56:35 AM
Napoli are a total car crash this season.

Putting in one of the worst title defences of all time. Managerial churn, too.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: eamonn on February 21, 2024, 09:24:31 AM
Putting in one of the worst title defences of all time. Manager churn too.

Sounds like us in '82 (without the, er European Cup win, obvs...).
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dogtanian on February 21, 2024, 10:01:50 AM
Apparently, he's been left out of their Champions League squad, which he wasn't expecting and he isn't happy about.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: eamonn on February 21, 2024, 10:04:42 AM
Well, you wouldn't be, would you ?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dogtanian on February 21, 2024, 10:09:05 AM
Well, you wouldn't be, would you ?

I'm used to it now, I don't even look for my name anymore.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: VILLA MOLE on February 21, 2024, 10:13:01 AM
Well, you wouldn't be, would you ?

I'm used to it now, I don't even look for my name anymore.

it is a disgrace !!!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dogtanian on February 21, 2024, 10:21:17 AM
Well, you wouldn't be, would you ?

I'm used to it now, I don't even look for my name anymore.

it is a disgrace !!!

I've literally never put a bad performance in for them!
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Demitri_C on March 18, 2024, 07:05:29 AM
Has played a whopping 23 minutes for Napoli. I would say there is zero chance they will sign him permanently.  Probably another player we will sell on a loss/peanuts
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Clark W Griswold on March 19, 2024, 01:09:20 PM
If we're not looking too clever with FFP i hope we keep him in the squad next season. I know he's had a few iffy moments but he also played the full game in the Newcastle home 3-0 last season and was only subbed in IT at the end of the 3-1 home Man Utd game. Two of the best performances since Unai came in, some were comparing the Newcastle performance to the best they'd seen since the season we won the league. We'll just need to get him a bit fitter i think, but with all of the injuries we seem to be getting he'll be useful to have around.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Mister E on March 19, 2024, 04:39:58 PM
If we're not looking too clever with FFP i hope we keep him in the squad next season. I know he's had a few iffy moments but he also played the full game in the Newcastle home 3-0 last season and was only subbed in IT at the end of the 3-1 home Man Utd game. Two of the best performances since Unai came in, some were comparing the Newcastle performance to the best they'd seen since the season we won the league. We'll just need to get him a bit fitter i think, but with all of the injuries we seem to be getting he'll be useful to have around.
Some of the reckoning will depend on his wages, I guess.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: brontebilly on March 19, 2024, 07:56:42 PM
If we're not looking too clever with FFP i hope we keep him in the squad next season. I know he's had a few iffy moments but he also played the full game in the Newcastle home 3-0 last season and was only subbed in IT at the end of the 3-1 home Man Utd game. Two of the best performances since Unai came in, some were comparing the Newcastle performance to the best they'd seen since the season we won the league. We'll just need to get him a bit fitter i think, but with all of the injuries we seem to be getting he'll be useful to have around.

He's done in Emery's eyes I'd wager. I know he had some parental type leave during pre season but Emery was far from impressed with him afterwards. In fairness, it's up to the player to get fit. I thought he was decent enough at Old Trafford, certainly compared to Luiz that night, but he can't play on the half turn so not an Emery midfielder.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: john e on March 19, 2024, 08:50:46 PM
If we haven’t got a youngster/a Academy/ u21 player better than bloody Dendocker then we might as well pack our bags and move to Timbuktu
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: john e on March 19, 2024, 08:52:10 PM
Disclaimer

I am pissed on reasonable amounts of bushmills
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Footy-Vill on April 16, 2024, 03:10:44 PM
There been rumours Everton are interested in buying him
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: kippaxvilla2 on April 16, 2024, 03:14:21 PM
Everton can’t even pay the newspaper bill at the minute.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: dcdavecollett on April 18, 2024, 01:44:12 AM
Did they want to sign him last summer?
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: OCD on April 18, 2024, 11:59:37 AM
Yeah, they put in an offer on the last day of the window and we turned it down because there wasn't time to bring in a replacement.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dogtanian on April 18, 2024, 12:11:20 PM
Yeah, they put in an offer on the last day of the window and we turned it down because there wasn't time to bring in a replacement.

He's been thankful ever since.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dante Lavelli on April 18, 2024, 12:28:54 PM
Probably worth having him around until Christmas next season, unless there unexpected cash available to buy an alternative.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: eamonn on April 18, 2024, 03:55:45 PM
I'd rather have Sanson back, he would have got plenty of game-time in recent months. Assume his move will be made permanent, he's done well in Ligue Une this season by all accounts.
Title: Re: Leander Dendoncker - On Loan at Napoli
Post by: Dante Lavelli on April 18, 2024, 06:36:38 PM
I'd rather have Sanson back, he would have got plenty of game-time in recent months. Assume his move will be made permanent, he's done well in Ligue Une this season by all accounts.

Not for me. We have lots of 8s in mcginn, tielemans, luiz but only have kamara (injured) and Tim (young) who are genuinely defensive midfielders.
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