Blues announce Delph signing

Monday, 15 July, 2019 158comments  |  Jump to most recent

Everton have completed the signing of Fabian Delph from Manchester City in a deal initially worth £8.5m pounds.

The 29-year-old becomes the club's third signing of the current transfer window after Jonas Lössl and André Gomes by agreeing a three-year contract that would keep him at Goodison Park until 2022.

Delph flew out to Switzerland today to link up with his new team-mates while the deal was being finalised. His transfer from City could eventually total £10m depending on appearance-related clauses.

“I'm hungry,” he said after the deal was announced. ‘I don't like losing. I see myself as a winner. I'm at an age now where I am probably one of the most experienced players, so hopefully I can help my teammates here to do better.

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"I'm really happy to be here, I'm going to give absolutely everything — nothing less than 100 per cent.

"Every time I have played against Everton, whether it was home or away, straight away the first thing that comes to mind when you see the fans is passion, Everton fans seem to know football, seem to understand it, it seems to be in their blood & they really back the team.”

Having initially come to prominence at Leeds United. Delph was linked with a move to Everton 10 years ago after he had helped the Yorkshire club gain promotion from League One. He eventually signed for Aston Villa and went on to become a full England international during the latter stages of his time there.

Despite verbally committing his future to Villa in the summer of 2015, Delph was tempted away when Manchester City made an £8m move for him as they sought to bolster their squad and he has since made 89 appearances in all competitions, scoring five times.

Originally deployed in his natural central midfield role, the Bradford-born player was used more recently as a left-back to cover for Benjamin Mendy who sustained a long-term injury.

Delph has battled injuries of his own, however, in recent years but, with him being available for a cut-price fee a year before his contract expires at the Etihad Stadium, Marcel Brands and Marco Silva have seen the value in adding his versatility to their midfield options.

 

Reader Comments (158)

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Pat Kelly
1 Posted 15/07/2019 at 21:50:22
Delph signs 3-year deal on reported £100,000 per week!!!
Kieran Kinsella
2 Posted 15/07/2019 at 21:55:12
He is saying the right things.

“Over the years, I’ve played against Everton and the fanbase has always been one that I’ve always had one eye on, thinking ‘what an amazing group of fans’.

Pat Kelly
3 Posted 15/07/2019 at 21:56:51
Kieran, the Everton PR people write that stuff.
Andrew Keatley
4 Posted 15/07/2019 at 21:57:43
Excellent business. Now hopefully the focus will be on moving some of the dead wood on and hunting for some top attacking talent.
Brent Stephens
5 Posted 15/07/2019 at 21:59:25
Not unhappy with this. Seems to me to be a strengthening of the squad, coupled with some reduction in the size of the overall squad. Small steps.
Pat Kelly
6 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:01:27
Brent, it's not doing much for the wage bill. £15.6m over three years before he retires.
Tony Abrahams
7 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:04:48
Until he says he hates losing, Pat!
Brian Hennessy
8 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:05:35
I was a bit indifferent to this signing until I read a few pages from the Man City fan pages.

Let's face it, City fans have seen much more of him than most of us and he seems to be held in very high regard by them - as a player and an influence around the squad.

Welcome to Everton, Fabian!

Dan Nulty
9 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:17:10
Reading Silva's comments, it looks to me he has been brought in for his leadership skills and winning mentality more than his ability.

When you think about it, losing jags from the changing room will be felt. Gomes and Gueye are quality but can't imagine them being too vocal.

Chris Gould
10 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:24:58
Saying all we need to hear:

"I’m really happy to be here, I’m going to give absolutely everything - nothing less than 100 per cent,” Delph told Everton’s website.

"Hopefully we can push together, fans and players, to do something special.

"The club that I’ve been at has had success, especially in the last two seasons, but over the last four years we managed to win trophies. I wanted to be playing more regularly and the opportunity to come and play for Everton was too good of an opportunity to turn down.

"I’m hungry. I don’t like losing. I see myself as a winner. I’m at an age now where I am probably one of the most experienced players, so hopefully I can bring that and try to help my teammates here to do better. “Ultimately, the goal is to win something. I’ve not come here just to be here - I’ve come here with ambitions to win things.”

Jim Bennings
11 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:31:26
The guy is a leader, anyone who watched the Manchester City documentary will know that!

Give him the captaincy now!

Bill Gienapp
12 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:32:18
Amusingly, a lot of Man City fans on Twitter were complaining that we "robbed" them re: the fee. Owners with bottomless pockets, can buy virtually any player they want, back-to-back Premier League titles and probably the best manager in the game... but hey, you gotta find something to moan about, right?
Jim Bennings
13 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:32:31
Welcome Fabian!

Big leader, big character which is something we have complained a lot about in recent years.

This guy is a vocal leader and hates losing.

Bobby Mallon
14 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:33:37
Welcome.
Duncan McDine
15 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:35:01
I hope I’m wrong, but I reckon this means Gana is a gonner. Delph will be a strong player for us though, I’m sure.
Pat Kelly
16 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:37:27
"I'm at an age now where I am probably one of the most experienced players."

Hmmm...

Robert Leigh
17 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:40:49
Welcome Fab - now you’re blue you’ll get our support if you put the effort we all know you can in to go with the quality you have.

Just hope we can keep Gana - but if not, Delph seems to be one who could do that job.

Great price too - COYB!!

Peter Roberts
19 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:41:33
I think this is a shrewder signing than people give it credit for. We effectively sign Gueyes replacement and let him go for his dream move if needs be, and invest the profits from that sale towards our new striker/winger (Pepe, Malcom or whoever)
Trevor Peers
20 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:43:13
Nailed on replacement for Gueye, only he's not in the same class as an athlete or a footballer, he's more of a Tom Cleverley.

Let's hope we spend Gueye's £30 million fee, and a lot more besides, on a creative goal scorer of some description. Silva needs pull off a masterstroke now, or we will all be comatose watching the blues next season.
Peter Warren
21 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:45:52
Good signing. Hopefully more quality to follow.
Dan Parker
22 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:47:51
Good stuff!
Paul Birmingham
23 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:51:13
Let's hope this move fires up Fabian, Everton and hopefully Gana stays.

Being honest it's good value, he wasn't one that Id have gone for at this time of his career, but Brands must see him as a leader from a very successful club, who can add that winning mentality to EFC.

Onwards and upwards... and now for a couple of strikers!

Mike Gaynes
24 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:55:10
Welcome aboard, mate.

May you prove to be a spectacular bargain!

Paul Gallagher
25 Posted 15/07/2019 at 22:58:40
Delph could be our new Peter Reid. Reid was a gamble at the time with his injury concerns, and a lesser extent his age. We need players with a winning mentality, and Delph should have that in abundance from his time at Man City.

Delph's initial comments are what I want to hear about winning trophies and wanting to play. I agree with Peter, this probably means Gueye is on his way out, time will tell if this is a shrewd move by Brands and Silva.

David Pearl
26 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:05:43
I think he will fit it well, we’ve been missing something from the middle of the park. Someone that can actually pass the ball a bit.
Tom Bowers
27 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:07:52
Well, hopefully he strengthens the midfield but he can also play left back if I recall from his Villa days.

I haven't been his biggest fan and he hasn't really progressed since going to Man City but that's a tough eleven to crack.

With a chance that Gana may move it makes sense to anticipate that a void will need filling and the price is right.

Gordon White
28 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:08:04
Quality player. Winning mentality. Experience of playing with winners, in currently, the best performing team in English football.

Very pleased. Welcome.

Darren Murphy
29 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:15:55
Not saying it's a bad thing as he has experience etc. Just think this could be what we already knew with our tacking machine going to PSG... I love his work rate but respect how he conducted himself over the non January mooted move.

I did want/do want Gana to stay and have a real good cracking season with Gomes and Delph used as sub when needed.

I said I don't like this signing at the start yes... because I wanted a new striker in the doors and will say yes I would've liked to think so.

For the money said and the money we stole for our boy Gomes... I'm more than happy.

Premier League proven, will try shoot and can score. Does bring leadership so happy.

There's not many 20+ goals a season strikers ready to move, plus the game has changed.

But... like many others it does piss on my chips since Luka we didn't get in that goal poacher we sorely miss.

I love Calvert-Lewin's work rate but he's not going to do the clinical finishing we lack.

We shall see... I'm up for Costa or Dzeko on deadline day if we are left with said above, Niasse and Tosun.

Jer Kiernan
30 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:20:04
Bye-bye, Gana :( , ,Hope this lad can fill the void
Michael Lynch
31 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:24:02
He seems to have the kind of mentality that's been a bit lacking in the squad, so hopefully he'll be a big character in the dressing room. Concerned about his fitness, but he's got bags of ability IMO and we could get a few good years out of him. I was surprised we were in for him, because I thought we were only going for under-25 year olds, but it makes sense to bring in some experience too.

Hope he does the business for us and becomes a fan favourite.

Darren Murphy
32 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:30:27
@14 ML. Exactly my sentiments lad.

Injury prone and apparently not in our new found age range...maybe we found that fit girl that worked all her life and did a good job

Probably not imo but welcome.

Bet I'm right though and fortunately I'm not the sad type to say I told ya so.

We are going to seriously miss Idrissa if he goes...seriously.

Jamie Sweet
33 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:33:01
It's all about fitness now. If he can get in peak condition and stay fit for a couple of seasons then this should prove to be a very shrewd piece of business.

He has played just under 2,500 minutes over the past two Premier League winning campaigns at City. He isn't one of Pep's favourites, but his manager obviously trusted him to step in, and step up whenever required.

He has scored a couple of belters for them too. He might not match Gana on many metrics, but his shooting will certainly be an improvement!

Alex Parr
34 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:34:08
Welcome Fabian. Like the stuff about being a winner and coming here to win things. Fingers crossed you do!
Martin Berry
35 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:39:24
Trained to play the Pep way is the best education and now he will bring that too an emerging Everton side.

£8m is an absolute steal and many clubs will be scratching their heads as to how we wrapped that one up.

Eddie Dunn
37 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:50:22
I think this guy will do a good job for us, with or without Gana. A welcome addition who we will appreciate, a player of proven quality, a hard worker with experience. Welcome aboard, Fabian.
Joe Corgan
38 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:55:27
Good signing for the price. Selected for a successful World Cup squad last year which I think says a lot about his personality (given how little he’s played) and also how highly thought of he is within the game.
Drew O'Neall
39 Posted 15/07/2019 at 23:55:40
Very good player. This administration’s Gareth Barry. Will prove any doubters wrong and become important.
James Lauwervine
40 Posted 15/07/2019 at 00:00:52
I like him already as he plays for Everton.
Mike Corcoran
41 Posted 15/07/2019 at 00:02:48
Vlasic and Lookman out for what £35 mill? McCarthy, Besic and Bolasie out for another £15 mill soon. Possibly Morgan too? Balanced by Gomes and Delph in for £30 mill. Sensible business if those 3 maybe 4 go.

I'd hate to lose Gana but that's what Delph is covering. Striker (or 2) coming in maybe someone who isn't necessarily going to get more than 10 but will feed the mids around him with his back to goal. Someone like Moise Kean though would be perfect. Tosun back to Turkey? Then one centre-back, unlikely to be Zouma, and a wild-card right-back. Here's hoping.

Si Smith
42 Posted 15/07/2019 at 00:06:20
Almost all positive comments here by looks of it, I agree Delph is a good addition to the squad, but I don't believe hes come to play 2nd fiddle.

Gomes will start, Siggy will start and if he doesn't move Gana will start, so I think weve seen Gana play his last competitive Everton game.

Still a fair bit of movement left for the blues, let's hope we have a good transfer window.

Ernie Baywood
43 Posted 16/07/2019 at 00:28:35
Si #25 - I'll be the negative one. I really don't rate him. Every time I see him he makes terrible decisions. Gives the ball away too easily. He may have been trained by Pep, but the fact they're willing to sell a young English international for just 8.5M speaks volumes regarding his ability to pay in Pep's style.

But as with anyone who chooses to join us, he'll get the benefit of the doubt and absolute support from me. Turn it around, young man.

Don Alexander
44 Posted 16/07/2019 at 00:29:25
We're told Delph has a lot of good to say off the field and, if so, welcome indeed because the True Blues we've had for years have been way too "nice" to get others in the team performing as winners for even part of a season.

Skipper by Christmas if the razzmattaz is bob on.

Welcome Fabian ....... for now.

Tony Twist
45 Posted 16/07/2019 at 01:02:38
Hmmm, don't know how to feel about this really, Gana replacement perhaps. I have never really wanted him even when he was catching people's eyes at Villa. Time will tell, I wish him well.

Where's the centre-forward, Marcel!?

Fran Mitchell
46 Posted 16/07/2019 at 01:09:20
Good signing

He's not a Gana replacement.

Si Smith
47 Posted 16/07/2019 at 01:13:15
Ernie 26;

Appreciate your reply mate, but you call Delph a young English international, but he's not young at all, he's 29 and in footballing terms he's getting on a little.

Also not getting a good crack of the whip in a team containing Silva's (David and Bernardo), De Bruyne, Fernandinho, Foden, Gundogan and now with another £63m signing in Rodri, it's no wonder he's been allowed to move on.

I'm not saying I couldn't have wished for a better player to sign, I'm saying that at £8.5m he's a good addition to our squad.

Simon Dalzell
48 Posted 16/07/2019 at 01:18:21
I think he could be a very good addition. The key word, of course, being 'addition'. If Gana is to leave, Delph surely cannot be seen as a replacement. ''Filling a void'' is not how I would see it, as has been suggested on here.
Andrew Keatley
49 Posted 16/07/2019 at 01:23:40
I've been cheering this signing on since the rumours started, so am happy to see him in the shirt. My one major misgiving about him is that he's prone to diving in (Calvert-Lewin knows about that – should be a fun first conversation as team-mates).

I hope he can stay on his feet and stay on the pitch for the duration; if he can – and his fitness holds – I think we've paid around 30% of what he's worth. His wages are high, but if he delivers on the field (and around the club) then he deserves to be one of our higher earners.

Derek Knox
50 Posted 16/07/2019 at 02:19:10
Can't see anything but good in this acquisition, and the price is right so come on down. A very welcome edition and encouraging that he has hopped on a plane straight away to join up with the squad, that speaks volumes too, about how highly they rate him and how eager he is for chocolate, cheese and a cuckoo clock.

Welcome aboard, I have joined the Fabian Society.

Alex Fox
51 Posted 16/07/2019 at 02:20:30
Another strong signing: £8.5m is pocket-change for an England international who's spent time under Pep Guardiola's tutelage.

As Drew (22) says, expect Delph to take on the Gareth Barry role. He's an experienced pro, a hugely underrated passer, and possesses the leadership qualities we've been lacking. He's the type of player you don't realize is that good until he's playing for your team.

The one thing he isn't is a like-for-like Gana replacement. My Villa-supporting friends genuinely crack up remembering some of his dreadful tackles. He's apparently Scholes-esque in that regard.

Jack Convery
52 Posted 16/07/2019 at 02:44:00
FAB – Thunderbirds are GO!! He makes the bench look a lot healthier and increases competition for £10m - chicken feed these days.

As soon as the AfCoN finishes we will know how the wind blows regarding Gueye. I hope he stays...

Jay Harris
53 Posted 16/07/2019 at 03:17:39
Unlike others, I actually see him filling a midfield three of Gomes, Gana and Delph playing just in front of Digne with a front three of Richarlison, Sigurdsson and AN Other.

I'm underwhelmed by this signing but, as long as he is not a replacement for Gana, I can live with it.

Annika Herbert
54 Posted 16/07/2019 at 04:38:35
Poor signing for me. I have never rated him as a top player. I am amazed that people are so enthused by his signing, so many people on TW were complaining about us signing Man Utd cast-offs yet it's now okay to sign Man City cast-offs!!

All this make him captain, he is a leader etc. Don't you need to be on the pitch to be a leader? Unless, of course, a leader is required in the treatment room.

He may well be in the England squad but that just tells me how poor that squad is and it's not like he is a guaranteed starter.

I am completely underwhelmed by this signing; it has dampened all my early season enthusiasm and, if this is indicative of future signings, then we are set for yet another mediocre season at best.

Whilst I was never expecting any superstar signings, neither was I expecting injury-prone cast-offs either. This player is not a replacement for Gueye; he can't tackle to save his life.

Of course, having played under Pep, he must be a top player?!!! Do me a favour! I can only hope we have some quality signings lined up to follow this dross.

David Ellis
55 Posted 16/07/2019 at 05:41:31
I've always thought we was a good player. He obviously hasn't left Man City to warm the bench here and same goes for Gomes. Which means Gana must be off. So he is a replacement for Gana – although obviously a different sort of player.

As for these "cast-off" remarks... who cares why a player left another club? Digne and Gomes are both cast-offs. I'm not complaining. Better them than a "super star" from a weaker club who doesn't cut the mustard (of which we have many examples).

Chris Gould
56 Posted 16/07/2019 at 05:43:17
Just because he is a very different player to Gueye, with different qualities, doesn't mean he won't or can't replace him. We don't need a like for like replacement. Man City, Liverpool, Spurs etc do not have a tackling machine like Gueye in their team.

Gueye has been fantastic at covering cracks all over the team, but as we improve further as a unit, we will hopefully be able to cope and evolve without him.

I believe he will leave, so we're likely to find out.

Alan J Thompson
57 Posted 16/07/2019 at 06:22:56
Before we get carried away, does anyone know which side insisted on the £1.5M add-on based on appearances? Who had doubts about what at the reported £100k per week?
Frank Sheppard
58 Posted 16/07/2019 at 06:29:17
Not a signing to be “excited” about, but could very well work out to be an astute piece of business.
John Keating
59 Posted 16/07/2019 at 07:32:49
I don't believe we would have signed him unless the Club knew and agreed to let Gana move.

It would have made more sense, if possible, to offer Gana an improved contract and save the signing fee.

We are still waiting to fill the most important position we need and it's a pity it wasn't sorted early doors prior to pre-season.

Paul Setter
60 Posted 16/07/2019 at 07:40:28
Meh... Jack of all trades... master of none. It's been along time since I was this underwhelmed with a signing — especially as I know he isn't going to improve us one bit.
Rick Tarleton
61 Posted 16/07/2019 at 07:48:26
He's a very able squad player, and his signing suggests Gueye is going. Not sure he's going to make the difference, so that we move into the top six.
Neil Cremin
62 Posted 16/07/2019 at 07:53:14
Looks to me is that you all have got it wrong. I think that he is a potential replacement for McCarthy.(sic)
Keith Gleave
63 Posted 16/07/2019 at 07:55:45
Sorry, totally underwhelmed by this signing. He has leadership qualities but is very injury prone and liable to making rash tackles that get him sent off.

I thought we were looking for younger, hungrier players with a quality and desire to win with the plus of added value.

Andrew Presly
65 Posted 16/07/2019 at 08:21:49
Solid and improved squad alternative to McCarthy or Besic. Fine... but, knowing us, that is Gana gone now – which just renders it depressing and very “Everton that”.
Tony Abrahams
66 Posted 16/07/2019 at 08:26:33
I hope the rumour about Mandzukic is also true.
Daniel A Johnson
67 Posted 16/07/2019 at 08:36:13
In terms of physical capability, Gueye is a machine (never injured) and a tireless ball of energy.

Delph doesn't have as good an engine is often injured and his tackling is akin to Paul Scholes crossed with a drunken blind man. I feel he's another player who has made a reputation of being good just by being surrounded by superstars at Man City.

Good price but with massive wages, but to say he's a direct replacement for Gueye – well, I'd rather have Schneiderlin in that role.

Then again, what the hell do I know? I guess we better trust the judgement of Marcel Brands and Marco Silva.

Richard Cusworth
68 Posted 16/07/2019 at 08:39:10
Whilst not setting the world on fire, I think this could be an astute signing. I believe he is left-footed – something we are short on for one, and his versatility could be crucial. We don't know the impact of VAR this season – more penalties, more occasions when reduced to 10 men - this is where is versatility could really pay off within the game.

Also, whats the situation with Baines. He has signed a year contract but if he is not getting game time come January will he be seeking to move on for regular football – Delph can cover left-back. Hopefully not a replacement for Gueye although I fear this maybe the case.

Every transfer is a gamble – but, at the price and given the so-called leadership skills and versatility, I think it is a solid if unspectacular signing and one where we will grow to appreciate what he brings.

James Hill
69 Posted 16/07/2019 at 08:51:32
Could be a master stroke this. He's always been a good player but, like many have said, injuries have been a problem. Hopefully Peter Reid Mk 2. Let's hope he's worth the risk at this price.
Phillip Warrington
70 Posted 16/07/2019 at 08:55:03
Brands is full of shit! So much for his "buying young players" — this is a bullshit signing... he will be another Schneiderlin, he will play some okay games but mostly shit and we will be stuck with him for the next three years.

Brands, I've lost complete faith in you! Another player who can't get a game in a top team — no problem! We will send him to Everton to see out his playing career and get some money in the bank.

Derek Thomas
71 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:05:18
'Underwhelmed' seems to be the word of the day, but we'll just have to wait and see how he plays. For all we know Brands may have pinched a bargain.
Marc Hints
72 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:20:08
I think this is a very astute signing. Marcel Brands is building for now and not just for the future, he is looking at getting rid of McCarthy and Besic who are at best average players. I think Delph will bring a winning mentality to the team; he's a great leader in the dressing room and we certainly need that.
Jerome Shields
73 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:26:11
Brands is having difficulty moving the deadwood, so he has to get value somewhere. Changing like for like, age-wise, at a profit, and taking a risk on injury is at the limit of what Brands would want. Of course he would want youth, as he stated, but finances are finances. I expect they will cash in on Gueye unless Moshiri splashes the cash, as he did unexpectedly late on in the transfer window last season.

The Robinson move and relationship to Baines extended contract (the benchmark of old regime incompetent) smacks of old regime.

I have flashback to Baines's errors of last season, unrecoverable at his age.

Bob Parrington
74 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:29:24
I'll reserve my judgement on this signing. Not being negative about him as a player and leader but concerned about the age thing.

Seriously, we need to focus on a striker. Mandukic has been mentioned on this thread. I'd like to canvas ideas on this from all y'all (as they seem to say in the southern states of USA), based on this thought. Currently, we have been building a side with flexibility of movement, agility and speed. Do we want a striker who is a proven scorer and equally flexible to the others or a hulk, who is a proven scorer (a Ferguson type for instance)? If so, who should we consider?

I'm asking this as I have always respected the views of ToffeeWebbers.

Sam Hoare
75 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:35:32
A few people saying that his tackling is not up to much.

In his peak years at Aston Villa and City City, he was averaging around 2.3 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per match. That is comfortably more than Schneiderlin, Gomes and Davies last season and about even with McCarthy over his Everton career. Obviously Gueye is ahead, as he is compared to almost everyone in this department. Delph is very decent defensively even if he does make a few clumsy challenges (like Gomes!).

If Delph is fully fit then he is a quality, rounded midfielder with a winning attitude. He's also 4 years younger than Gareth Barry was when we signed him. If he stays fit for the next 3 years then I think most detractors on here will come to like and possibly even love him. Hopefully!

John Hammond
76 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:43:15
On the face of it, he doesn't look like the best of signings due to his age, wages and injury record but, when you think about it, we're getting a player with Premier League and international experience having played over 60 games under Guardiola in various positions. This isn't one to set the pulse racing but rather increase our strength in depth.

Looking at his injury record, from what I can see he wasn't injured at all last season (although he only played 20 games in all competitions) while the season before he missed 10 games in total due to injury.

I think he'll mainly be back up to Gomes and if Gueye goes we'll have a replacement lined up with Schneiderlin playing backup to the new guy.

I'd rather have Delph than a perma-crocked McCarthy.

Sam Hoare
77 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:43:41
In other news Eintracht have announced that they have accepted an offer from West Ham for Seb Haller. I'd have thought he would be right up there for us a possible striker option. Strong, quick, good in the air and a very decent finisher. Fee being reported between £35 and £45m.

Rumour has it that we might be paying a similar type of fee for either Moise Kean or Rafael Leao (either of which I'd be delighted by) but Haller is more developed than either and would have been a good fit potentially.

Seb Niemand
78 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:53:10
Sam @77, I came by to mention Haller – it would be a tragedy if we didn't throw our hat into the ring for him, he's just the kind of striker we need. Delph, meh, I tend to see him as a puzzle piece rather than building block, which is fine, I suppose – but Haller would certainly be someone to build on.
James Marshall
79 Posted 16/07/2019 at 09:53:22
Why are so many people worried about his age? We must have gone over this a thousand times on here – players play much later and older these days, times have changed, fitness, diet, technology etc all mean players can play well into their 30s at the top level.

Look at Man City last year: their best/most important player for the majority of the season was Fernandinho and he's 34.

Good teams need a good blend, a mixture of youth and experience. You can't have a team full of young whipper-snappers who don't understand the game. Look at how much of a calming influence an older player can be. Have you ever played the game?

You'll find that you 100% need an old head in the team to cajole, and dictate what goes on, on the pitch. Barry did it for us, so did Phil Neville in recent years. You may not rate them as the best players out there, but they bring so much more to the team than their mere footballing ability.

Delph is experienced, well coached and a good footballer technically speaking. Yes, he may lack in the superstar status, and he may not get your pulse racing, but every team needs a player like him. This will be an excellent signing in my view. Even better that he's nearly 30.

Ian Lloyd
80 Posted 16/07/2019 at 10:18:22
Striker? Are we ever going to sign one?

Unbelievable, this!

Tony Everan
81 Posted 16/07/2019 at 10:32:15
Delph is a good addition and at the price he is a bargain. I bet any number of clubs would have wanted him at £8.5M. He will add strength and options to our midfield.

The fact that he is 29 is something I am not worried about. In the last few years, there has not been too many miles put on the clock. Fully fit, I think he will have a lot to give over the next 3 years.

Derek Wadeson
82 Posted 16/07/2019 at 10:32:51
For those saying he can't tackle, how many times do you actually need to tackle playing for Manchester City when they have over 70% possession on average?

If he plays as good as he talks we have a winner. Positive move from M & M for me.

Dave Williams
83 Posted 16/07/2019 at 10:41:16
An excellent signing at the price. He adds versatility, experience and from all accounts a winners attitude that we so badly need to inject into our squad. He won't freeze against the big boys either.

I don't think the RS fans were jumping through hoops when they signed their own Man City cast-off in Milner and look what a great buy he has been for them! You can't build a winning team of spectacular players and this guy will provide some of the more basic skills we will need.

Great work from Brands and his team to get him at this price!

Denis Richardson
84 Posted 16/07/2019 at 11:01:43
I could argue the fee is too high given he only had one year left on his contract but not massive in the grand scheme of things.

I'm however shocked we're paying him £100k/week, which is more than he was getting at Man City! Had there been a list of other clubs after him I could understand but I haven't heard of any other club being interested.

That's £15M over three years plus the transfer fee so £40M odd this will cost the club.

We're getting a dangerously large number of players earning £100k+ a week on the books. Not sure how this is sustainable given we're nowhere near Champions League and Moshiris millions won't be there forever.

Believe we now have Mina, Delph, Sandro, Sigurdsson and Schneiderlin all on £100k/week or more. Likes of Richarlison and Bernard are on £90k/week. I presume Gomes is also on £100k+ a week.

James Stewart
85 Posted 16/07/2019 at 11:29:46
@80 my thoughts exactly.

@77 Haller should have been on our radar. So I assume we have something else lined up if we are letting him go to West Ham without a fight... I hope it's Kean personally.

Simon Smith
86 Posted 16/07/2019 at 11:32:53
Excellent signing. I was impressed by him playing for England last season.
Sam Hoare
87 Posted 16/07/2019 at 11:39:24
James @85, by all accounts, it's either Kean or Rafael Leao. Both look like interesting if rather inexperienced options. A risk at £30-40m but lots of upside if they do well.

Haller you'd expect could hit the ground running though and is a real handful for defenders able to provide both goals and assists. Reminds me a bit of a quicker Giroud. £45M is a lot but I think he could prove an astute purchase for West Ham.

Andrew Ellams
88 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:07:46
Denis, as crazy as it sounds, £100k is just not that massive a wage any more. It's not even half of what Rashford just signed up for. If we want to compete with these teams, we have to be able to offer higher salaries.
Denis Richardson
89 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:15:38
Andrew 88 - guess that's one way of looking at it. Crazy that £5M/year is ‘not that much' these days in the prem.

Stupid amount of money in the game these days. Guess we should probably stop worrying about the money side and focus on the players on the pitch. I still remember when Shearer (I think) was the first £50k/week player about 20 years ago. Delph will improve the first team so am happy on that front at least. Main thing at the end of the day.

Also happy to have a first-team signing who's English. We were in danger of becoming an all Portuguese speaking team the rate we were going. We also need English players for the home grown contingent.

Gomes and Delph certainly beefs up the central midfield dept. Now for that Illusive striker...

Derek Knox
90 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:22:08
I have to agree with Denis @84, that at a time when we are constantly hearing of reducing the wage bill, here we are signing a player who is allegedly on £90k/week under his present contract. Why do we bump it up to £100k?

I know generally people won't move for a decrease, but why not match it, or negotiate increments of £1k, remembering of course that a 'measly' £1k is £50k over a year which is not shabby at all in our poor fan's eyes? It does smack of dual standards at a time when we are supposed to be making economies.

The same with Lossl who was on a 'measly' £28k at Huddersfield, has signed as a back-up keeper to Pickford, and has been increased to £62k?

Don't get me wrong – I am happy with the signings of Delph and Lossl and Andre Gomes, but it does wrankle a tad when the Club are making statements (and quite rightly so) about the bloated squad, wage bill etc, then seemingly proliferating at the first opportunity to do so.

Andrew Ellams
91 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:33:23
I guess the issue with the wage bill is what we are paying Koeman players who will never get near the bench again. Paying the likes of Delph, Gomes and Lössl close on Rashford's wage between them when they will be at least on the bench whenever available is not quite the same thing.
Francis van Lierop
92 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:41:44
Welcome, Fabian. Good signing.

I don't understand the moaners, it's not as if this is our only signing.

Daniel A Johnson
93 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:48:59
I guess two ways of looking at it:

1. Delph as a replacement for Besic & McCarthy — then a good bit of business

2. Delph as a replacement for Gueye — then it's a massive step back.

Small-club mentality surely if its No 2? Selling your best players and buying cheap half-price replacements... when has that model ever worked well?

Daniel A Johnson
94 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:51:58
Have we improved the squad this season? NO!!!

So far, it's Gomes (retained) & Delph (added) and we have lost Zouma and maybe Gueye from last season's squad.

We're still miles away from improving the squad at all.

Annika Herbert
95 Posted 16/07/2019 at 12:56:51
Derek @82, he is not going to be playing for a team that has 70% possession any longer though is he? That's assuming he is ever fit enough to take the field!

For me, the big question is: Does he improve us as a team in any way, shape or form? For me, the answer is a huge No!!!

Complete waste of money in my eyes. . . and I have yet to see this leadership everyone claims he has. Will that leadership bring us trophies? Well, it certainly didn't for Neville or Barry.

Anthony Hawkins
96 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:10:51
I wish Delph all the best but I'm confused why he was brought in. It's a bit like the Walcott deal.

3 players have been added to the ranks but nothing that makes the team better than last season. The first team is still a defender, midfielder and striker away from being better.

Anthony Hawkins
97 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:13:36
@Francis #92 - We hope he's not the only signing. other than Lössl.
Kieran Kinsella
98 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:17:20
Reading some comments on here, I feel like people will never be happy. If we get Messi – “too old”; Kane – “dodgy ankle”; Neymar – “bad attitude”...
Hugh Jenkins
99 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:18:12
Slightly off topic - but concerning the progress of our youngsters, it does seem like a lot of promising your Brits are not making the grade. I have just seen that former Leeds starlet Sam Bryam, who, to the consternation of many on here, turned us down for West Ham in 2016, has just been sold to Norwich for £750k.
Kieran Kinsella
100 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:31:08
Denis @84,

“Could argue the fee is too high.”

I seem to recall another injury-prone player with 6 months left on his contract going for a similar price many years ago. The name was Pienaar. Factoring in inflation which prices a YTS Newcastle kid at £50 million, I cannot really see your point.

Hugh Jenkins
101 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:41:36
On topic - if, as we were led to believe, M&M have had their targets earmarked since well before the last season end, then either Delph was on that list, or - we cannot get our targets and this is a "panic buy".

I think that M&M have a plan and are single-minded enough not to go in for "Panic buys" so that Delph, for whatever reason (probably versatility and leadership) was on that list and is part of the plan.

Given the upturn in our overall performances in the final quarter of last season, I am happy to see the further development of that plan and, if Delph is a part of it, I anticipate that it is for a good reason.

I am now wondering who else will be joining in the not too distant future.

One thing I do like about this window is – no weeks of gossip and chatter and speculation – just as Marcel promised.

One brief mention that we were in negotiations and the next thing he is signed. That's the way to conduct transfer business!

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

102 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:50:07
Personally, I've always liked Delph as a player. At Aston Villa, year on year, game on game, he looked their standout player. Nor has he looked out of place in the England side in recent years. This very year, wasn't he captain for at least one game for his national side also?

It's a little bit 'offside' from the declared Brands model of buying potential young and cheap, but a team also needs the balance and experience he has in spades. Landing him for the price we have in this market is not extravagant, especially alongside some of our more lavish recent dealings. And 29 is not an age to be embalmed and mummified in football as some are suggesting.

I would very, VERY much hope this is not a signing to cover the departure of Gueye, who I very, VERY much want to stay.

I would be interested to learn eventually how close the young Delph was to signing for us from Leeds instead of Villa 10 years ago. I have a very good mate, a die-hard Leeds fan, who worked in banking at the time and he swore to me he was sure he was going to sign for us having seen draft contracts confirming the same. I swore at him back when it didn't happen!

John McFarlane Snr
103 Posted 16/07/2019 at 13:55:11
Hi all, to those who question the wisdom of signing Fabian Delph, I would ask the question, how many top-class players have been signed by top-class clubs only to fail to make an impression? For example, the signing of Alexis Sanchez by Manchester United, and various Everton signings.

This issue can work in reverse, the signing of Gareth Barry being a prime example, he too was given a lukewarm reception early in his Everton career. I choose to give any newcomers a settling-in period in order to acquaint themselves with their new colleagues and the manager's style of play.

The reason I take this approach is because, when Everton signed Roy Vernon from Blackburn Rovers, on making his debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers, I considered him exceedingly average. In fairness, he was thrown in at the deep end...

But age and experience have taught me to 'look before I leap'. Therefore I welcome Fabian Delph to the 'Everton family'. the rest is up to him.

Ernie Baywood
104 Posted 16/07/2019 at 14:07:52
Si #29. I'm shocked he's 29!

Agree that it was always going to be hard for him to get a run in that team, but I've never seen anything to suggest he was worth it.

Still can't believe he's 29. For a player who wasn't the finished article when he signed for them, it's pretty poor that he spent his prime riding the bench.

He doesn't have the experience of a Gareth Barry, so he's not bringing that. He doesn't even really bring the unfulfilled promise of a Darren Gibson!

Let's hope for the best, but this doesn't make any sense to me.

Martin Nicholls
105 Posted 16/07/2019 at 14:16:36
Some ill-informed and/or poorly researched claims on this thread. Examples:

(1) "He's some sort of goal threat" – an average of one per season throughout his career suggests otherwise.

(2) "He picks up red cards due to rash tackling" – 3 in 8 years is probably pretty average for a player in his position.

In my opinion, Delph is a decent player and I welcome him to our Club.

Colette Black
106 Posted 16/07/2019 at 15:10:30
I'm going to bite my lip and wait to see how the rest of the window pans out before passing judgement. I hope this is an ill wind and there's some good to come from it.

However, I'm getting worried. Maybe the club wanted to give us the bad news before the good news?

John Boon
107 Posted 16/07/2019 at 15:47:54
A fit 29 year old International is a really good buy at 8 million. I still get disappointed by the doom and gloom merchants who will always be critical of any signing. Delph has said all the right things. I think he should be given the chance to actually "Do" the right things. Welcome to Everton, Fabian Delph. I am sure you are hoping to demonstrate that we have made an astute signing.
Kieran Kinsella
108 Posted 16/07/2019 at 16:12:38
You give Steve Walsh 30 million and he comes back with Bolasie. You give Brands 30 million and he comes back with Bernard, Gomez, Lossl and Delph. Yes I know wages are part of the equation but it's not like we were paying Bolasie, Klaasen and Sandro the minimum wage.
Gavin Johnson
109 Posted 16/07/2019 at 16:28:26
He's making the right noises and he's a winner. Something we haven't got in the current squad. It can't do any wrong but it's debatable how much benefit it'll make. Villa weren't doing much while he was there and City were winning trophies before he got there. We also signed 3 captains in Koeman's last season and 2 of them had won cups. Rooney a shed load.


An England international at 29, is very good business for £8.5m. Once we offload McCarthy, Besic and possibly Schneiderlin it'll be even better. I just hope Delph & Schneiderlin aren't Gana Gueye's replacements

James Morgan
110 Posted 16/07/2019 at 16:35:06
£8m for a title winning English midfielder with 3 years left at the top of his game? Bargain. He’s not a world beater but he improves our midfield strength and depth. If he turns out to be a Gana replacement, that’s when I’d be kicking up a fuss.
Mike Connolly
111 Posted 16/07/2019 at 17:58:49
£8m for a player who mostly sat on the bench. I don't rate him. However, Id be more than happy to eat humble pie if I'm wrong. Now the hard part, getting rid of the dead wood. What would make my happy if we acquired a decent centre forward
Dermot Byrne
112 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:18:44
£80m, £60k.

Ya never really know.

Let's hope

Darren Hind
113 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:31:13
He'll score and create more than Gueye, Davies, Gomes.
He will defend better than Sigurdsson, Gomes and Bernard.
He will retain possession better than Walcott, Gueye and Slidingin

While we sweat buckets worrying about whether we can retain the services of a tackling Machine who has offered virtually nothing going forward since he got here. Teams like Leicester are spending proper money on a midfielder who offers soooo much more with the ball.

Signing Delph hardly sets the pulses racing, but some on here need to get a grip.

Beggars. . . choosers

Julian Exshaw
114 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:40:16
I like this signing but I fear it spells the end for Gueye. It's hard to see how Gomes, Delph and Gueye would fit in together not to mention Davies and Schneids. And Siggi? I noticed on Sunday he was playing just behind Niasse and Hornby as a kind of second striker. Are we going then for one 'winger' (Richarlison??)? Interesting selections ahead.
David Pearl
115 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:42:05
Ooh Lookman deal to sell to Leipzig. Now can we sign a goal scorer!?
Stephen Davies
116 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:50:03
indeed €25 apparently.
Word is were closely watching Mandzukic position at Juventus hes 33 !!
Dave Abrahams
117 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:50:03
David (115) £22.5M deal to be announced in the next twenty four hours, to the surprise of hardly anyone!!!.
Dave Abrahams
118 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:50:04
David (115) £22.5M deal to be announced in the next twenty four hours, to the surprise of hardly anyone!!!.
Zahir Jaffer
119 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:50:51
Yes David for a fee around £22.5m. Decent amount which will be reinvested upfront. We’ve just formally contacted Juve over Moise Kean. I’d prefer Costa as Kean won’t be firing at the get go.
David Pearl
120 Posted 16/07/2019 at 18:57:16
Stephen I can’t believe the Mandzukic rumour.

Nobody surprised Dave.

Zahir, I’d like both of Costa and Kean. That would excite me, finally. And then I’m guessing Brands will loan out another 10 players. I’m guessing Brands might need a holiday in a few weeks time.

Brian Williams
121 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:03:18
.............. And let the Lookman arguments begin!
Zahir Jaffer
122 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:22:16
The thought of getting both Moise Kean and Costa arouses me uncontrollably so!
Mike Gaynes
123 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:23:45
Seems like the argument is over, Brian.

£22.5m is a reasonable price IMO.

But now I'm in another pissy mood.

Eric Paul
124 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:26:24
James I think you will be kicking up a fuss,
Why else would we sign him if not to replace Gana Gueye.
Dave Abrahams
125 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:30:14
Mike (123), snap out of those moods Mike, it’s no use crying over spilt milk, andI’ve been through it with Dave Hickson in 1955, still haven’t got over that.
Mike Gaynes
126 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:31:13
David/Dave/Zahir, according to Tuttosport in Italy the hangup on the Kean deal is Juve's desire for a buyback clause on the kid. Reportedly we'd have to up our offer to £40m to persuade Juve to sell him with no buyback.

Stephen, I don't believe the Mandzukic story either. No way he'd come to us. And a 33-year-old who averages a goal every four games for the best club in Italy won't be on my wish list. Pass.

Eric #124, because he offers little of what Gana does defensively. Decent positionally but not a great ballwinner. Won't provide the protection for our backline.

Denis Richardson
127 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:32:59
Kieran 100 - not sure what isn't clear in my post. Obviously players entering into the last year of their contracts cost less. Delph could have signed a pre-contract with another club in about 5 months time and left on a free.

Also, Man City paid about £8m for him in 2015 so they're getting their money back for a player 4 years older. Either way, as I said, £8m-£10m for even a half decent player in the prem these days seems to be peanuts so can't grumble.

Speaking of peanuts, also not sure what Pienaar has to do with anything here. His signing is nothing like Delph's. We initially signed him on loan before buying, for a start. We also paid far less for him (first and second time round) and he was 25 when he first came to us, much younger than Delph. Very odd example to use indeed.

Eric Paul
128 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:34:33
Gana Gueye offers nothing defensively???
Kieran Kinsella
129 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:42:57
Dennis #127

I referenced Pienaar not being bought by us but being sold. We sold him for close to what we just paid for Delph when he had just six months left on his contract. That was 8 years ago so comparatively (factoring in inflation), more expensive for Spurs than Delph was for us.

Pienaar at the time was 28 years old so only a year younger than Delph is now. He had a similar injury record to Delph. So I think it's a pretty good comparison since you raised the topic of selling players coming towards the end of their contracts, who are injury prone, and in their late 20s.

Iain Johnston
130 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:50:07
Kieran, we sold Pienaar to Spurs for £3m and bought him back after he sat on the bench for 12 months for £4.5m... at 30 years old.
Gavin Johnson
131 Posted 16/07/2019 at 19:57:44
No, Lookman leaving isn't a surprise and £22.5m is a fair fee. Lookman's fluffed his lines whenever he was given a chance last season, plus we're looking for a winger and Onyekuru might get his work permit, in which case we shouldn't miss Lookman at all.

We've also got Josh Bowler who needs a good loan in the Championship this season. A good season on loan and he'll be back and knocking on the door. I had very high hopes for Lookman. He reminded me of Stirling when he first came from Charlton but he seems to be just treading water with us and my gut feeling is that he won't sign a new contract so I'm indifferent to him leaving now.

Kieran Kinsella
132 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:00:46
Lookman gone, Vlasic gone, Dowell gone, but we still have Onyeruku who is unable to play and Mirallas who is unwilling.
Hugh Jenkins
133 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:03:08
Ian (130) - Prima facia that deal looks crazy, but often, in cases like this he was still worth 4.5 million to us as to get a similar player that could gel with Leighton may have cost us a great deal more.

We know what we were getting. The shame was that he was tempted away in the first place by 'Arry's scattergun approach to recruitment.

i.e. see someone playing well for another side and then buy them - whether or not they are a fit for your side or your style of play.

Annika Herbert
134 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:11:39
Another young player gone. Lookman, though admittedly this isn't surprising.

Just sad to see more deadwood coming in. . . such as Delph.

John McFarlane Snr
135 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:11:50
Hi Dave, [125] I too, was devastated when we sold Dave Hickson to Aston Villa, and I was a 'passionate fan' in those days, but time and experience has taught me that, when a popular player is transferred, the club and fan-base will survive.

I suspect that our forebears felt the same way when Dixie Dean and Tommy Lawton were transferred, and it will surely happen again in the future. I appreciate that Dixie Dean was nearing the end of his career, and that Tommy Lawton had his career curtailed due to World War Two, but I'm sure that nevertheless there would have been many tears shed in 'Blue Houses'. I take the stance of, "The King is dead, long live the King!"

Andrew Ellams
136 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:28:40
Lookman leaving is no big deal. His head doesn't seem to be in it and he's not on the same planet as Bernard or Richarlison.
Christy Ring
137 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:29:15
Delph is supposedly on £100k p/w, a bigger contract than he had at City. If he's replacing Schneiderlin, who's on the same money, fair enough, but if he's in for Gueye, and a lot of the comments think he's a great replacement, I believe it's a shocker. Fernandinho is City's defensive midfielder, he missed 9/10 games last season, but Guardiola didn't replace him with Delph, because he tackles like Scholes, over the top, and played mostly at left back. Happy to have him on the bench as cover.
Brian Williams
138 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:31:01
Reading the plaudits from Man City supporters and other football professionals alike it would seem "they" don't look upon Delph as deadwood.
Iain Johnston
139 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:31:12
Hugh@133, I can't argue, the service he gave over both spells far outweighed the less than £7m overall we paid for him, well less than £4m if we include what Spurs paid us.

David Pearl
140 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:32:10
Our title-winning team mid-80s being broken up because of the European ban has to be up there John... for my generation anyway.
Conor Skelly
143 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:34:48
For those of you who are worried that Delph is Gueye's replacement, let me assure you that he is Gueye's replacement. Delph is a defensive midfielder and hasn't come to sit on the bench.

Delph may not have a super-human ability to anticipate attacks like Idrissa but he has a great engine, is aggressive and possesses plenty of ability.

If we can net £30M in the difference and put it towards a striker, then all the better. He's better on the ball than Idrissa.

Eric Paul
144 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:35:11
Mike @126

My reply was to your original footnote “because he offers nothing defensively”.

I don't know if you've edited your post or it just didn't come through; that said. I agree what you say. I don't think he's swapped City's bench for ours he must have been given assurances he will play. Personally, I think Gueye is going and Delph is a stop-gap until one of the youngsters is ready or not, if the case may be...

Charles McCann
145 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:37:23
I'm not sure about that Andrew 136. Lookman has great potential and no wonder he often seemed unhappy, he rarely got a chance. He needed a run of matches and unfortunately Walcott – despite playing crap week after week – continually played. Very disappointed with this decision by Silva.

As for Delph, if it means Sneiderlinn moves on then I'm ok with that. Gomes, McCarthy, Delph, Davies and Baningime should be fighting for the centre-midfield positions. I've got a bad feeling for the new season already : (

Andy Crooks
146 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:45:39
Annika, @ 54, leaders on the pitch are rare. Much as I admired Phil Jagielka, he was never in a million years a leader on the pitch. Good man... but leader..?

Brian Clough, yeah, leader off the pitch. What is required is a nasty Roy Keane bastard. Peter Reid? Yeah. Delph, perhaps, and that will do for me.
If Michael K, you will excuse this brief reference to cricket. I would mention the wonderful Mike Brierley. In John Arlott's greatest all-time eleven purely for captaincy.

Delph brings what we lack. Hatred, utter hatred, of defeat. He will not be having a laugh with the Red Shite in the tunnel. And it is about fucking time. Bring him on and make him a hero.

Iain Johnston
147 Posted 16/07/2019 at 20:47:08
I watched a City game last season with Delph playing having De Bruyne and Zinchenko (I think) either side of him in a three man midfield, he didn't seem out of place... He was instrumental at Villa, my missus and father in law are big Villa fans and loved him. Irony being that they signed Gana to replace him and were relegated...?
Michael Kenrick
148 Posted 16/07/2019 at 21:22:28
Echo reporting that Delph will wear the No 8 shirt, which Gomes wore last season.

Apparently, Gomes wanted No 21, last worn by Mo Besic. And his wish has been granted. In a show of great generosity, those who purchased Gomes ahirts beariung No 8 can exchange them for (new?) shirts with No 21.

And if you hadn't noticed from the Sion game, Lössl apparently will wear No 49, which was nominally Antonee Robinson's shirt number.

Paul Burns
149 Posted 17/07/2019 at 10:28:55
I can't see why ANYONE is moaning considering the criminal fortunes wasted on utter shite in recent years.

All of a sudden to some people, £15 million on wages over the contracts full term is a lot when they stayed silent on the tens of millions frittered away on Mirallas, Schneiderlin, Bolasie etc, etc with no return but whinging and moodiness.

No wonder we can't get a new ground built the way we throw money away on losers.

Kev Clark
150 Posted 17/07/2019 at 13:07:43
Well the good news on this is that rapper "Method Man" has already given us a chant - "Release Yo' Delf" (Delph)

As I keep it movin', we keep it movin', uh
Keep it movin' an' keep it movin' uh
Keep it movin', baby, we be movin', uh
Keep it movin', we keep it huh, rharh

What's that rhythm, what's that sound?
Party people gettin' down
When it hit the baddest man
Just release yo' Delph!!

Annika Herbert
151 Posted 17/07/2019 at 15:05:57
Paul @149, that's exactly my complaint, throwing money away on losers like Delph! Yes, he won a few trophies with Man City – but as a squad member, not first choice.
David Pearl
152 Posted 17/07/2019 at 15:12:04
Annika,

Perhaps you should wait to see him play for us and what he brings to the team over a few games before you put the boot in. Funny how he keeps getting picked for England, isn't it?

Kieran Kinsella
153 Posted 17/07/2019 at 15:21:09
Annika,

You're raising the bar. Two Championship winner medals, 20 England caps, captain of Aston Villa, hundreds of Premier League appearances... what a total loser. Gosh, where does this leave Tony Hibbert?

Annika Herbert
154 Posted 17/07/2019 at 16:15:58
David@152, keeps getting picked for England!!Is that Why he only has 20 caps at 29?It, s one thing being picked for the squad but quite another actually playing.
Kieran@153, the City back up keeper has 2 titles too, but it does, nt make him a good player. Tell me, what exactly did he win with Villa again?
Si Cooper
155 Posted 17/07/2019 at 16:28:35
Where do people get their valuation of players from? If Citeh only payed £8 million for him at 25, then their fans should be plenty satisfied to get a potential 20 % profit on a squad player who has figured in probably less than half of the fixtures they have had since he’s been with them.
Eric Myles
156 Posted 17/07/2019 at 21:06:26
Hopefully another Gareth Barry?

Welcome Fabian, put your words into deeds on the pitch and the fans will be with you, even the naysayers on ToffeeWeb.

Jerome Shields
157 Posted 17/07/2019 at 21:44:21
It just occurred to me that Silva wants to bolster his midfielder options and Delph could be a replacement for Besic. Midfield was overrun too many times last season especially just after Xmas. Gueye may still stay. Delph squad number may be telling.
Phil Lewis
159 Posted 18/07/2019 at 07:58:14
I'm pleased by the signing of Delph. Not only is it good business in these inflated days, but most importantly he can pass a ball. You don't get to play for Pep without that basic attribute.

But please, Mr Silva, a proven goalscorer has to be our immediate priority. We will win nothing without one.

For months now I have been banging the drum for Sebastien Haller, having watched everything available on YouTube of him he looks the part for me. To my dismay, I find out yesterday that West Ham have signed him. Mark my words, Mr Brands, this boy will come back to haunt you for not snapping him up.

Kieran Kinsella
160 Posted 18/07/2019 at 16:34:25
Silva quoted as denying Delph is a Gana replacement. His comments leave me thinking he is essentially the new Alan Harper?

“They are two completely different players. Gana plays in one role, Fabian can do the role of Gana but he doesn’t come to our squad to replace Gana.

“For me he is a box-to-box player and Fabian performs better when he is a box-to-box player.

“Of course, he can play as one of the two midfielders with an offensive midfield player, the role we are giving to Gylfi and one that Bernard and Tom can also play there and even Andre because he did in Valencia, and so Fabian can play in that role in our 4-2-3-1 formation we played last season.

“He can also play as an offensive midfielder and can give us more opportunities than we had last season."

Gerry Ring
161 Posted 19/07/2019 at 09:11:28
I don’t see how playing for England is a major recommendation. So does Trippier & who the hell would want him???
Dan Nulty
162 Posted 01/09/2019 at 19:53:27
Well, this comment thread makes interesting reading. Early days yet but already he has proved his comparisons to Tom Cleverley clearly misguided.

Largely positive comments and at £8M an absolute bargain already proven.

A handful of regular contributors should be eating a bit of humble pie...

Tony Abrahams
163 Posted 01/09/2019 at 19:59:55
I was made up we signed Delph but one swallow doesn't make a summer, they say, so let's just see how everyone is doing around Xmas time?
Dan Nulty
164 Posted 01/09/2019 at 20:31:00
I know I am jumping the gun a bit so early, Tony, but when you read some of the comments by people (admittedly very few) it would seem to me they are misguided at best.

Anyway, we will see how he is performing at Christmas. No doubt get injured next week, be out for 6 months and have them screaming 'I told ya so'...


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