The Mail Bag
Lescott to Man Utd?
Comments (46)
Righto, let's get it right: who out there thinks Joey will go to Old Trafford if he's offered a massive wage increase and guaranteed Champions League games every week (which will help him into Capello's mind)?
I, personally, hope he stays but he's never said he's blue through and through so who knows? What is the opinion if Manchester United offer £10m for him? Any takers? Just a thought, guys an gals...
Matt Kay, Posted 27/01/2008 at 22:16:28
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Lyndon Lloyd
I would hope no one at Everton would start to consider it until the price got to £15m - £20m but I'm still sticking my head in the sand and pretending no one's interested in him :)
Erik Dols
1 Posted 28/01/2008 at 07:35:22
1 Posted 28/01/2008 at 07:35:22
Exactly Lyndon, for less than £20m I wouldn’t let him go. But I still live in the dream world where every player wants to stay at Everton. He’s still got two seasons on his contract after this one, sign him on a new deal untill 2012 or 13 as soon as possible!
When I pull my head out of the sand I fear this: He’s a regular in the England squad and he’s just one of the best in the league. If he goes, which I don’t hope, I expect him to go to the Manure for £10m with an extra £2.5m a year the next three years, which in fact will mean we get two or three Manure-reserves over the years.
When I pull my head out of the sand I fear this: He’s a regular in the England squad and he’s just one of the best in the league. If he goes, which I don’t hope, I expect him to go to the Manure for £10m with an extra £2.5m a year the next three years, which in fact will mean we get two or three Manure-reserves over the years.
Micheal Hunt
2 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:15:37
2 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:15:37
I’m hoping Moyes had succeeded in a similar way to Juande Ramos in terms of getting players on board with the mission of the club. For explanation read this excellent piece in the Guardian online re Ramos is Cup King http://football.guardian.co.uk/News_Story/0,,2247217,00.html
I know we are not interested in any other team than Everton but Ramos’ philosophy is one area I hope Moyes is getting stronger. Cahill’s recent comments seems to evidence this is the case. Incidentally, I know Spurs lost at Old Trafford yesterday but they at no time backed off from looking to win and had defensive lapses not cost them and they had not had missed sitters and hit the post it could have been a different story (sound familiar to us Vs. Arse!?)
Sorry for digression but basically I’m saying I believe Lescott will sign for us and help us smash the glass ceiling. the team spirit we have should help him make the right choice too. The grass is growing greener on our patch so he’d be risking a lot to chew some other cud esp. at the theatre of wank!
I know we are not interested in any other team than Everton but Ramos’ philosophy is one area I hope Moyes is getting stronger. Cahill’s recent comments seems to evidence this is the case. Incidentally, I know Spurs lost at Old Trafford yesterday but they at no time backed off from looking to win and had defensive lapses not cost them and they had not had missed sitters and hit the post it could have been a different story (sound familiar to us Vs. Arse!?)
Sorry for digression but basically I’m saying I believe Lescott will sign for us and help us smash the glass ceiling. the team spirit we have should help him make the right choice too. The grass is growing greener on our patch so he’d be risking a lot to chew some other cud esp. at the theatre of wank!
John Welsby
3 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:47:49
3 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:47:49
Hope he stays - of course I do.
But in this day and age, who knows?
If we?re paying him say £25k a week and upped it to say £40k a week (all fig.s are speculative) and Man Ure offerd say £55k a week - what HONESTLY, hand on heart do you think he?ll do? Stay for less money and less opportunity to win trophies for the love of the club he?s been with for 2 years?
Nope.
It?s a shame cos I think he?s our best defender for years & years.
But in this day and age, who knows?
If we?re paying him say £25k a week and upped it to say £40k a week (all fig.s are speculative) and Man Ure offerd say £55k a week - what HONESTLY, hand on heart do you think he?ll do? Stay for less money and less opportunity to win trophies for the love of the club he?s been with for 2 years?
Nope.
It?s a shame cos I think he?s our best defender for years & years.
Ange Stamos
4 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:41:50
4 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:41:50
I personally think that Jole wont be going anywhere and I base this on the ever-improving progress of Everton. Still challenging in UEFA with a great chance of progressing into the next stage, top 4 place up for grabs and the commitment our other players(Arteta Cahill etc) have shown in signing new contracts, would hopefully have a positive impact on Joles decision to stay. If we were the mid/bottom feeders in the table,as were we a few years ago, then you would assume he?d go and I have no problem with that. The fact is, we are constantly improving every season and it wont be long when the ?right ? investors join our ranks, with Everton then be able to compete with the ? top 3? on a regular basis.
Lue Glover
5 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:49:09
5 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:49:09
Oh lordy, what a depressing thought on a Monday morning!
In my heart I believe that every player is touched by Everton and would never want to leave but the reality is that footballers, like everyone else, will always aim for the higher goal. In this case, trophies, more money and international acclaim. I would love to think that all of this is available with the Blues and some of it probably is but perhaps it won’t be enough to keep an excellent player like Lescott with us. The difference between us and the likes of Man U is that they consistently challenge for the Premier League title, we, at present can only nibble at the fringe.
Yes, I fear J Lo will be off at some stage, be it Man U or elsewhere but the world did not stop revolving when Rooney did a runner so we’ll have to move on, if or when the time comes.
I hope this hasnt set the tone for the rest of the week or I’ll be suicidal by Friday.
In my heart I believe that every player is touched by Everton and would never want to leave but the reality is that footballers, like everyone else, will always aim for the higher goal. In this case, trophies, more money and international acclaim. I would love to think that all of this is available with the Blues and some of it probably is but perhaps it won’t be enough to keep an excellent player like Lescott with us. The difference between us and the likes of Man U is that they consistently challenge for the Premier League title, we, at present can only nibble at the fringe.
Yes, I fear J Lo will be off at some stage, be it Man U or elsewhere but the world did not stop revolving when Rooney did a runner so we’ll have to move on, if or when the time comes.
I hope this hasnt set the tone for the rest of the week or I’ll be suicidal by Friday.
Erik Dols
6 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:57:48
6 Posted 28/01/2008 at 08:57:48
Karneet, Joleon knows he’ll play every game here, as long as he isn’t injured or suspended. At United, he has Vidic and Ferdinand as competitors for the centre back positions. Don’t see him break in those positions really soon, cause Fergie seems to be a big fan of Ferdinand (who I personally think is overrated) and Vidic is, to be honest, a class act this season. So Joleon would have to focus on the left back spot. Don’t know if he’s interested in becoming a left back fulltime.
But I admit: if another company offered me say 30% extra salary and the only downside would be some of the work I had to do would be not exactly what I loved most, but still be acceptable and something I would do with pleasure, I would take it any day of the week.
Then again: Lescott earns about 100 times more than I do (OK I’m guessing but you get the idea). He can pick the job he likes most without pondering the financial consequences.
But I admit: if another company offered me say 30% extra salary and the only downside would be some of the work I had to do would be not exactly what I loved most, but still be acceptable and something I would do with pleasure, I would take it any day of the week.
Then again: Lescott earns about 100 times more than I do (OK I’m guessing but you get the idea). He can pick the job he likes most without pondering the financial consequences.
Mark Griffiths
7 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:11:06
7 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:11:06
Oh crap, I really hope we do not let him go, he is class and I really can see him becoming a legend at Everton.
One the one side, Manure have the power to get these players, with consistant CL quals, league titles and other cups and that really pisses me off!
But, if we want to move forward and take this next step and build for the future, part of me says £30M is a no, because we are building here and we are not a selling club and selling our best players is not the answer!!!
I do not want £15M plus £1M a year and 2 crap manure reserve players!!!
But we do not know this will ever happen so....
Talking of transfers, i am getting nervous now, 4 days left and no solid links with more players, which we need. I keep saying, we only need to get injuries and suspensions and that could cost us a Uefa place, never mind 4th spot!!!
I hope Moyes has something up his sleeve!
One the one side, Manure have the power to get these players, with consistant CL quals, league titles and other cups and that really pisses me off!
But, if we want to move forward and take this next step and build for the future, part of me says £30M is a no, because we are building here and we are not a selling club and selling our best players is not the answer!!!
I do not want £15M plus £1M a year and 2 crap manure reserve players!!!
But we do not know this will ever happen so....
Talking of transfers, i am getting nervous now, 4 days left and no solid links with more players, which we need. I keep saying, we only need to get injuries and suspensions and that could cost us a Uefa place, never mind 4th spot!!!
I hope Moyes has something up his sleeve!
Tony Part
8 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:35:00
8 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:35:00
My simple advice to Lescott here though would be..The grass is not always greener Joleon.. How many players have moved on to the so-called big four and failed dismally?. Remember all the rave for Steve Sidwell at Reading?. He would have been better off joing a UEFA cup chasing club rather than Chelsea but he chose the glamour option and as a result he is used sparingly..Scot Parker went to Chelsea and failed to progress into the player everyone thought yet went to Newcastle and found his form again..There is probably so many examples but I would hope that we would get at least 15 million for Lescott..I would then go all out to attempt to sign Micah Richards from Manchester City..I know it may seem a long shot as he is another who is seems destined to join that ’top four’ but we have to be ambitious in everything we do from now on..It cannot go back to the Peter Johnson era of all talk and little delivery..I understand sometimes you cant stop players leaving you but you then have to replace them with equals.
Jason Lam
9 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:53:10
9 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:53:10
Tony, you forgot to mention the example of a certain Mr. Rooney.
Out of the 3 top clubs, manure would be the one to improve this skills and professionalism due to Sir Alex. Never liked the manure but C Ronaldo and Rooney have improved so much during the few years there. Plus championship medal as well. With Ferdinand, Lescott, Hargreaves, Rooney you have the central England spine.
My heart wants him to stay though. He’s more important that Tiny Tim and Mikel. We don’t have any other player worth the #5 shirt. And no-one dare wear the #9
Out of the 3 top clubs, manure would be the one to improve this skills and professionalism due to Sir Alex. Never liked the manure but C Ronaldo and Rooney have improved so much during the few years there. Plus championship medal as well. With Ferdinand, Lescott, Hargreaves, Rooney you have the central England spine.
My heart wants him to stay though. He’s more important that Tiny Tim and Mikel. We don’t have any other player worth the #5 shirt. And no-one dare wear the #9
Charlie Dingle
10 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:49:40
10 Posted 28/01/2008 at 09:49:40
Well this is it decision time.
We?re at the crossroads, if we want to step up to the next level and be a top club mixing it with the best, we have to keep our best player?s.
Its not just about Lescott, if we sell him can anyone see Yobo staying, or Moyes for that matter.
If we have any intention of challenging for anything we must do everything to keep Lescott, if we let him go without a fight it could very well be a defining moment in our history, remember when Ball, Lineker and Kendall left? it?s that serious as far as i?m concerned.
It?s time we said no.
I know in reality that money talks and i wouldn?t blame Lescott if he said he wanted to go, but let?s make sure we show him and every other player at Everton that we are not settling for being the "best of the rest".
History means nothing if we continue to let the rich clubs dictate our future.
We?re at the crossroads, if we want to step up to the next level and be a top club mixing it with the best, we have to keep our best player?s.
Its not just about Lescott, if we sell him can anyone see Yobo staying, or Moyes for that matter.
If we have any intention of challenging for anything we must do everything to keep Lescott, if we let him go without a fight it could very well be a defining moment in our history, remember when Ball, Lineker and Kendall left? it?s that serious as far as i?m concerned.
It?s time we said no.
I know in reality that money talks and i wouldn?t blame Lescott if he said he wanted to go, but let?s make sure we show him and every other player at Everton that we are not settling for being the "best of the rest".
History means nothing if we continue to let the rich clubs dictate our future.
Paul OHanlon
11 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:13:07
11 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:13:07
Why are we stoking the flames of this rumour? Haven’t heard anything at all from any reliable sources so let’s not give the rumours any credit on here, we’re just helping to unsettle one of our own players!
Richards at City is apparently struggling to reach an agreement over a new contract, would imagine they’d show interest in him first if that continues. Let’s unsettle him instead!
Richards at City is apparently struggling to reach an agreement over a new contract, would imagine they’d show interest in him first if that continues. Let’s unsettle him instead!
Allan Hobbs
12 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:15:11
12 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:15:11
Talk is cheap, paper talk is even cheaper.
Steve Ryan
13 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:45:50
13 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:45:50
Matt Kay, have you got nothing better to do?
Mark Pendleton
14 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:44:29
14 Posted 28/01/2008 at 10:44:29
Hang on, McFadden wasn’t sold to balance the books. The price we got for him reflects the fact we’re NOT a selling club any more. Had we been a selling club we’d probably have got about £2.5m for him. We’re ALL more than happy to get the value we did for him as all are agreed we’ve better forwards and better midfielders.
When it comes down to it, if any player wants to move on then that’s life and you get what you can for them. Everton now have far better players, hence more clubs will be interested and they’re all worth far more. The club are doing all they can to keep players (we could easily have sold AJ, Cahill and Arteta in the summer for £10m minimum each). But no, we paid out to keep them all and ensure they can’t leave on the cheap and we can keep progressing and adding the likes of the Yak, Pienaar and Fernandes (hopefully the latter two on permanent deals).
Like all our fans I desperately hope that Joleon wants to stay, in the short term at least. Ideally he’ll also sign a new long term deal. But, if he doesn’t, then there’s still plenty of time left on his contract for it to have to be a huge offer to make us part with him.
When it comes down to it, if any player wants to move on then that’s life and you get what you can for them. Everton now have far better players, hence more clubs will be interested and they’re all worth far more. The club are doing all they can to keep players (we could easily have sold AJ, Cahill and Arteta in the summer for £10m minimum each). But no, we paid out to keep them all and ensure they can’t leave on the cheap and we can keep progressing and adding the likes of the Yak, Pienaar and Fernandes (hopefully the latter two on permanent deals).
Like all our fans I desperately hope that Joleon wants to stay, in the short term at least. Ideally he’ll also sign a new long term deal. But, if he doesn’t, then there’s still plenty of time left on his contract for it to have to be a huge offer to make us part with him.
Dan Johnson
15 Posted 28/01/2008 at 11:21:04
15 Posted 28/01/2008 at 11:21:04
I thinkj Lescott will go maybe not this season but he will go. I just get the impression he enjoys it at Everton but there is no love there. I think he sees us a stepping stone, he knows hes improving and when the time sright he will jump ship for "new challenge" etc.
Wayne Smyth
16 Posted 28/01/2008 at 11:15:18
16 Posted 28/01/2008 at 11:15:18
Geez, dont know whats wrong with some of you today! Must be all the grey weather getting you down :)
IF we were mid-table and didn?t look like we were going anywhere, the speculation might be justified.
The last time a player wanted out, there were problems with squad morale, and we?d finished 17th in the league if my memory serves me right.
I can honestly say I believe that the majority of the players we have are here for the duration. Team spirit is something that is clearly a big part of our team and its entirely concievable we will end up in a champions league spot this season and may well be pushing for the title in 4 or 5 years if we can keep the core of the squad together.
Lescott is getting plenty of 1st team action at a football club he clearly likes to be at. Hes our best left back and centre back and I?d expect the club to offer him a good contract extension this summer which I?d hope he?d sign to be part of a club clearly on the up.
In any case, when skeletor finally pops his cloggs I?d expect manure?s purple patch to come to an end, so all considered, I dont think its as cut and dry as some of you may think.
As for the £10m figure.....quite comical really.
IF we were mid-table and didn?t look like we were going anywhere, the speculation might be justified.
The last time a player wanted out, there were problems with squad morale, and we?d finished 17th in the league if my memory serves me right.
I can honestly say I believe that the majority of the players we have are here for the duration. Team spirit is something that is clearly a big part of our team and its entirely concievable we will end up in a champions league spot this season and may well be pushing for the title in 4 or 5 years if we can keep the core of the squad together.
Lescott is getting plenty of 1st team action at a football club he clearly likes to be at. Hes our best left back and centre back and I?d expect the club to offer him a good contract extension this summer which I?d hope he?d sign to be part of a club clearly on the up.
In any case, when skeletor finally pops his cloggs I?d expect manure?s purple patch to come to an end, so all considered, I dont think its as cut and dry as some of you may think.
As for the £10m figure.....quite comical really.
Alex Taylor
17 Posted 28/01/2008 at 11:49:22
17 Posted 28/01/2008 at 11:49:22
I find it gutting that clubs like us go out, sign and then nurture talent and the likes of Man U can simply take the pick of our best...
I hope he doesn’t leave but I think every player has a price (look at Rooney or even Faddy)
Saying that, we’re a not a selling club apparently and the likes of Arteta, Yobo, Cahill, Yakubu and the possibility of buying Piennar and Manny could be enough to make him stick around for a while...
Fingers crossed
I hope he doesn’t leave but I think every player has a price (look at Rooney or even Faddy)
Saying that, we’re a not a selling club apparently and the likes of Arteta, Yobo, Cahill, Yakubu and the possibility of buying Piennar and Manny could be enough to make him stick around for a while...
Fingers crossed
David Chait
18 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:02:10
18 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:02:10
I’m also hoping this is rubbish... but it did cross my mind now that I read a 3rd club in for Woodgate that the sale of Lescott could be subject to securing Woodgate as a replacement.... its all conjecture anyway...
Jeremy Benson
19 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:00:17
19 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:00:17
If Joleon wasnt ambitious, or didnt want to ply his trade at a higher level, or had too much love for a current club to move on, then he would still be playing at wolves.
We ourselves have profited from players wanting to play at a higher level. And thus the circle continues.
I have no doubt that should Man Utd or Chelsea come calling, he will go. Thats life. The only way to stop that occuring is to break into the top 4 ourselves, and that will only minimise the flow...
Lets hope people arent having a word in his shell when he is at england camp, eh?
We ourselves have profited from players wanting to play at a higher level. And thus the circle continues.
I have no doubt that should Man Utd or Chelsea come calling, he will go. Thats life. The only way to stop that occuring is to break into the top 4 ourselves, and that will only minimise the flow...
Lets hope people arent having a word in his shell when he is at england camp, eh?
Robert Szlaz
20 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:09:05
20 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:09:05
I am very concerned over Lescott. It only takes words from him to stop all talk dead - I’m staying , I am not interested in any other club.
Jay Harris
21 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:21:58
21 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:21:58
I hate to stoke the fire even more but he apparently has had a new contract offer made 2 months ago which he hasnt signed which is why Manure etc. are allegedly showing interest.
As Robert says why doesn't he or Everton come out and say the paper talk is rubbish.
As Robert says why doesn't he or Everton come out and say the paper talk is rubbish.
Paul Lenehan
22 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:56:01
22 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:56:01
I agree Lyndon!! Im going to try and ignore this speculation. Its obvious why Utd and others are interested I just hope we can tie him up to a long term deal and match his ambitions on the pitch. As Joleon and Yobo get older and see them only getting better and surely will be the foundations of future success.
I hope Joleon sticks his head in the sand too!!
I hope Joleon sticks his head in the sand too!!
Mike Owen
23 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:44:16
23 Posted 28/01/2008 at 12:44:16
Such a thread serves no purpose, especially on such a prominent website, it only fans the flames of speculation where hardly any existed.
Supporters doing the stuff of agents, marvellous!
Normally, I really like toffeeweb, but not today. Red card.
Supporters doing the stuff of agents, marvellous!
Normally, I really like toffeeweb, but not today. Red card.
Steve Guy
24 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:02:32
24 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:02:32
When we talk about Everton and "the next level" this is actually what it’s all about..keeping hold of your best players. We now expect to get into the top six each season and see breaking into the top 4 monopoly as within our grasp (if not this season then sometime soon). However, it’s chicken and egg. To do this we need great players and it won’t happen unless we have them already on board and happy. The best teams are not selling teams and are also the ones that players actively seek out.
We are at a crossroads in this regard and retaining the likes of Lescott is pivotal to which direction we take. The teams above us will always covet great players in other teams, but it’s now a two way street for Everton. We don’t need to sell and this is a marked improvement on where we have been for so many years. A number of players (Arteta and Cahill in particular) have signed long term deals because they can see a Club on the verge of great things. Why would Lescott be any different ?
I don’t agree by the way, that he doesn’t see himself as a "Blue" and all the comments I have seen suggest that he is indebted to a Club that had the confidence to give him his chance, when so many others dithered.
We are at a crossroads in this regard and retaining the likes of Lescott is pivotal to which direction we take. The teams above us will always covet great players in other teams, but it’s now a two way street for Everton. We don’t need to sell and this is a marked improvement on where we have been for so many years. A number of players (Arteta and Cahill in particular) have signed long term deals because they can see a Club on the verge of great things. Why would Lescott be any different ?
I don’t agree by the way, that he doesn’t see himself as a "Blue" and all the comments I have seen suggest that he is indebted to a Club that had the confidence to give him his chance, when so many others dithered.
Michael Hunt
25 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:13:45
25 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:13:45
On reflection this is a NON STORY. It is usual for players (given the complexities of agents, image rights, contract intricacies etc.) it is usual for contracts to take a while to be signed. Even Osman and Hibbo took over two months and they were gagging to sign their extensions (as evidenced by them in recent interviews).
Everton are now 4th from top and progressing (not 4th from bottom and in financial dire straits as we were when Rooney left). Lescott is a grounded character anyway (and not running away from granny shagging hassles unlike rooney!) When he was 5 years old he had a car accident (leaving mark on forehead) and felt sorry for himself (understandably!) Then another young lad came into the ozzie who had ben clipped by a car mirror, this lad suffered no physical sign of injury but was permanently brain damaged. Lescott has stated this moment in his young life taught him about perspective and it stays with him and enables him to be thankful for his fortune in life. He is not the kind of character to turn his back on his team mates, the adoring fans and the Club that give him his chance in the Premier League. Especially when Moyes is building something special of which he is an integral part. He is already getting England recognition and will not improve any faster. Unlike when Rooney left, Everton are now a top Club able to compete at the very top of the league and also able to achieve success in Europe. Lescott will remain part of the Everton success story and likely be lifting trophies in the coming seasons as our Captain on the pitch. A number 5 hero in the royal blue jersey big Joleon Lescott will remain. NSNO.
Everton are now 4th from top and progressing (not 4th from bottom and in financial dire straits as we were when Rooney left). Lescott is a grounded character anyway (and not running away from granny shagging hassles unlike rooney!) When he was 5 years old he had a car accident (leaving mark on forehead) and felt sorry for himself (understandably!) Then another young lad came into the ozzie who had ben clipped by a car mirror, this lad suffered no physical sign of injury but was permanently brain damaged. Lescott has stated this moment in his young life taught him about perspective and it stays with him and enables him to be thankful for his fortune in life. He is not the kind of character to turn his back on his team mates, the adoring fans and the Club that give him his chance in the Premier League. Especially when Moyes is building something special of which he is an integral part. He is already getting England recognition and will not improve any faster. Unlike when Rooney left, Everton are now a top Club able to compete at the very top of the league and also able to achieve success in Europe. Lescott will remain part of the Everton success story and likely be lifting trophies in the coming seasons as our Captain on the pitch. A number 5 hero in the royal blue jersey big Joleon Lescott will remain. NSNO.
Andy Morden
26 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:29:04
26 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:29:04
I hope this doesn’t com back to bite me in the arse, but...
Having a number of Wolverhampton Wanderers fans as relatives I have been well aware of Lescott and his potential since well before his move to us. What interests me in the light of this debate is his conduct whilst at Wolves - he was very, very honest and honourable to the club. He made it clear that he wanted to be in the premier league but decided to stay with the club for another 2 seasons to help them get there. Through a combination of him being injured and poor managerial decisions he didn’t get there with Wolves. But he had made an agreement with the club board and managerial team that if come the end of the season that we signed him Wolves were not in the prem, he could go. I suspect that Lescott will not jump ship yet - it is down to Moyes, the board and the rest of players, and of course Joleon himself to bring success to Everton and he will stay. What I am trying to say is that I think he will give us time. Hopefully I am right!
Having a number of Wolverhampton Wanderers fans as relatives I have been well aware of Lescott and his potential since well before his move to us. What interests me in the light of this debate is his conduct whilst at Wolves - he was very, very honest and honourable to the club. He made it clear that he wanted to be in the premier league but decided to stay with the club for another 2 seasons to help them get there. Through a combination of him being injured and poor managerial decisions he didn’t get there with Wolves. But he had made an agreement with the club board and managerial team that if come the end of the season that we signed him Wolves were not in the prem, he could go. I suspect that Lescott will not jump ship yet - it is down to Moyes, the board and the rest of players, and of course Joleon himself to bring success to Everton and he will stay. What I am trying to say is that I think he will give us time. Hopefully I am right!
Ron Leith
27 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:49:22
27 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:49:22
If Man Utd or Arsenal made a bid Lescott probably would go because that is what players do. They all want to play for one of the big 4. Same can be said of any member of our squad. The issue is that Arsenal will probably go for a cheaper foreign defender and Man Utd have also got the money to look elswhere. EFC need to qualify for Europe again to keep our best players. If we finish 4th nobody will leave. If we finish 8th then we could be struggling.
Paul Niklas
28 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:04:57
28 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:04:57
Keep this going and you will have sold him by next week. Give the lad a break, he is happy at Everton and is doing a great job. There is not one scrap of evidence to support this, so get off the subject and start discussing something more positive. I accept he could be a target but until he is then he is not.
I also accept that you have the right to debate anything ( stop you bollicking me Michael) however you could say this about 50 per cent of our current team. Make the most of what you have until you have not got it. Lescott is a blue and in my opinion will be for a few more years to come.
I also accept that you have the right to debate anything ( stop you bollicking me Michael) however you could say this about 50 per cent of our current team. Make the most of what you have until you have not got it. Lescott is a blue and in my opinion will be for a few more years to come.
Steve Ashton
29 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:40:18
29 Posted 28/01/2008 at 13:40:18
I think we have to be pragmatic about this. Of course I hope he stays because he is the future - if he goes for a reasonable fee we have to weigh his worth against what we can get with the money and while it may set us back a season we may come out stronger.
Provided he goes to one of the top 3 for a reasonable fee I don’t see that we can complain. I honestly don’t think that we would have made the progress we have if Rooney had stayed and we hadn’t had the £25m.
I always remember Steve McMahon going to Villa because he wanted to win medals. At the time we were devastated but had we kept him Bracewell might not have come and the rest is history. Coming out of Villa Park after the Luton SF and spotting McMahon on the main stand balcony, and everyone singing ’where’s your medals Steve McMahon’ one of the sweetest moments!
However if he went to someone outside the top 3 I would be up in arms.
Provided he goes to one of the top 3 for a reasonable fee I don’t see that we can complain. I honestly don’t think that we would have made the progress we have if Rooney had stayed and we hadn’t had the £25m.
I always remember Steve McMahon going to Villa because he wanted to win medals. At the time we were devastated but had we kept him Bracewell might not have come and the rest is history. Coming out of Villa Park after the Luton SF and spotting McMahon on the main stand balcony, and everyone singing ’where’s your medals Steve McMahon’ one of the sweetest moments!
However if he went to someone outside the top 3 I would be up in arms.
Neil Styles
30 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:07:52
30 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:07:52
David Moyes has been building our side fantastically over the last several years and as a consequence of the leaps and bounds made by DM,Blue Bill and the team itself we are now in a more commanding position in terms of telling the likes of the mancs and the arse to piss off. The likes of these corporations/football clubs no longer have a strangle hold over us, they can no longer hold us to ransom for our players and thus force us into selling.
Paul Niklas
31 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:11:59
31 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:11:59
So your suggesting we keep finding and developing gems like Lescott, then sell him to someone like Man U or Arsenal because they say so ( rooney-GILL STATED BEFORE THEY BOUGHT ROONEY THAT THEY WERE NOT READY TO BUY HIM AT THE TIME BUT THEY WOULD IN THE SUMMER How F....G arrogant was that>!!!
You stated it would put us back a season, great so lets keeping taking one step forward and two steps back all the time and settle for mid table mediocrity.
If Lescott is sold it will send signals out to all that we have no ambition and they will be on the phone for Arteta, Cahill, Fernandes would not sign shall I go on.
I hate Man U fans but I will give them credit they dont talk defeatist like we do.
They are the best and they make everyone around know it.
Pissed off and prepared to be shot down in flames.
Paul
You stated it would put us back a season, great so lets keeping taking one step forward and two steps back all the time and settle for mid table mediocrity.
If Lescott is sold it will send signals out to all that we have no ambition and they will be on the phone for Arteta, Cahill, Fernandes would not sign shall I go on.
I hate Man U fans but I will give them credit they dont talk defeatist like we do.
They are the best and they make everyone around know it.
Pissed off and prepared to be shot down in flames.
Paul
Paul Withe
32 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:40:27
32 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:40:27
I thought he came out the other week and said he wouldn’t need to go anywhere? For me, he will do the same as Mikky and Tim and sign a new deal. He doesn’t want to leave, and I very much doubt Everton would accept anything less than £15m for him anyway. I think if we did accept a bid for him, Moyes would walk.
Michael Hunt
33 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:43:29
33 Posted 28/01/2008 at 14:43:29
Paul N, Correctamundo sir! The players are showing pride in the shirt and the fans largely are too. Defeatist fearful bollox is ridiculous. Everton are back, we are about improving the squad not selling our best players! Fear not blues, we’re on the up and our best players want to stay and other top players such as Manny want to join. NSNO!
John Murphy
34 Posted 28/01/2008 at 15:00:02
34 Posted 28/01/2008 at 15:00:02
In my opinion, Joleon Lescott is a better player than Rio Ferdinand. So therefore Sir Alex, feel free to make a bid, but you may have to pay more than the 30 million you shelled out for Ferdinand or give us Ronaldo in return. 10 million? Don’t make me laugh. Everton have got to get think ’selling club’ label off their heads. Bigger clubs are thinking that they just take our best players off us at knockdown prices.
Dave Lynch
35 Posted 28/01/2008 at 15:39:14
35 Posted 28/01/2008 at 15:39:14
If one of the big 3 come in for him then he’s gone, simple as.
Money rules and he would be an idiot to turn down what the big 3 could offer him.
You wouldn’t and don’t kid yourself you would.
As for his price tag ? Blue Bill and Bully would probably sell him on the drip. Like they did with Rooney.
All this talk of breaking into top 3s etc.
Get real lads.
You saw what Chelsea did to us with their reserves, so unless someone comes in with massive amounts of funds, we are always going to be a selling club.
The Ossies, Jagielkas, Hibberts and Carsleys of this world will always pledge their allegience to us. Why ?
Cos they are of no use to the big boys, because they have much better players.
Lescott on the other hand is a different kettle of fish, he is class.
Sorry to be so honest, but that is life in football today.
Prepare for the worst and the spin when he goes.
Money rules and he would be an idiot to turn down what the big 3 could offer him.
You wouldn’t and don’t kid yourself you would.
As for his price tag ? Blue Bill and Bully would probably sell him on the drip. Like they did with Rooney.
All this talk of breaking into top 3s etc.
Get real lads.
You saw what Chelsea did to us with their reserves, so unless someone comes in with massive amounts of funds, we are always going to be a selling club.
The Ossies, Jagielkas, Hibberts and Carsleys of this world will always pledge their allegience to us. Why ?
Cos they are of no use to the big boys, because they have much better players.
Lescott on the other hand is a different kettle of fish, he is class.
Sorry to be so honest, but that is life in football today.
Prepare for the worst and the spin when he goes.
Michael Hunt
36 Posted 28/01/2008 at 17:04:50
36 Posted 28/01/2008 at 17:04:50
Dave Lynch, I assume you are in the ?half glass empty? camp. Such a negative attitude is ridiculous in my opinion. DM and BK are not about to throw away the progress they?ve worked hard to achieve (unless the huge money offerred makes it a no brainer i.e. enough so it could be reinvested to improve the team). I know losing the SF was gutting, but we aren?t far off really. If the team and management keep believing (and eradicate the stupid self destructive errors) we will soon be turning the big three over more frequently. Don?t be so frickin negative, but for silly errors or ref howlers we?d have won two already this season and drawn a couple more. We?re on the up, get used to it!
Clyde McPhatter
37 Posted 28/01/2008 at 17:52:11
37 Posted 28/01/2008 at 17:52:11
It can happen to any club. Look at all the talk about Berbatov. And then Boro goes from UEFA Cup finals to selling like mad to any one who came forwad with the cash. SWP took three years to get a regular place in the Chelsea setup and he needed the manager to go first.
The grass certainly is NOT alwasy greener but the money is. Look at the cash they splash on John Terry for weekly wages. Rio too.
No offense to those who think once a blue always a blue, but in this day and age one of the big three would have come for Dixie Dean and there would be no statue.
I just like the fact that the RS have been dropped from the Big Four!!!
The grass certainly is NOT alwasy greener but the money is. Look at the cash they splash on John Terry for weekly wages. Rio too.
No offense to those who think once a blue always a blue, but in this day and age one of the big three would have come for Dixie Dean and there would be no statue.
I just like the fact that the RS have been dropped from the Big Four!!!
Ed Fitzgerald
38 Posted 28/01/2008 at 17:55:19
38 Posted 28/01/2008 at 17:55:19
Michael
I think you are unfair on Dave, all he states are the facts? Lets be fair if Man U, Chelsea or Arsenal come in for him he will be gone. Please dont believe anything that comes out of Kenwrights mouth with regards to transfers - remember his statements regarding the Rooney saga. He is our most important player but he will be sold if they come knocking.
I think you are unfair on Dave, all he states are the facts? Lets be fair if Man U, Chelsea or Arsenal come in for him he will be gone. Please dont believe anything that comes out of Kenwrights mouth with regards to transfers - remember his statements regarding the Rooney saga. He is our most important player but he will be sold if they come knocking.
Brian Williams
39 Posted 28/01/2008 at 18:45:01
39 Posted 28/01/2008 at 18:45:01
Just shut up about ANY of our players being kidnapped by ANY other club........just shut up about it NOW and don’t even think about it ok? *L*
Dave Lynch
40 Posted 28/01/2008 at 18:47:51
40 Posted 28/01/2008 at 18:47:51
Michael.
Come match day. My cup runneth over my freind and all are welcome to drink from it.
Open your eyes.
It’s not up to the club half the time whether a player goes or stays. If HE wants to leave then he will.
Football is driven by market forces and agents, not by the clubs or the fans.
You may say my glass is half full, but i live in the real world. Not some utopic we are Everton and all should be loyal etc......
As for if this if that, we’d be this we’d be that.
If me auntie had ball she’d be me uncle.
Come match day. My cup runneth over my freind and all are welcome to drink from it.
Open your eyes.
It’s not up to the club half the time whether a player goes or stays. If HE wants to leave then he will.
Football is driven by market forces and agents, not by the clubs or the fans.
You may say my glass is half full, but i live in the real world. Not some utopic we are Everton and all should be loyal etc......
As for if this if that, we’d be this we’d be that.
If me auntie had ball she’d be me uncle.
Karl Masters
41 Posted 28/01/2008 at 19:04:01
41 Posted 28/01/2008 at 19:04:01
What a depressing load of bollox.
Why do you people do this to yourselves? Torturing yourselves like this!
It’s always a possibility that anybody can leave, but for now Joleon is pretty much guaranteed a first team place at Everton, at Manure he’d just be a squad player. If we can have a successful end to the season, it’s not that likely he would want to go, but nobody is irreplaceable anyway.
That said, I don’t want him to go and if you look at the address of the original poster , maybe you’ll suspect a bit of a Manc wind-up going on...
Why do you people do this to yourselves? Torturing yourselves like this!
It’s always a possibility that anybody can leave, but for now Joleon is pretty much guaranteed a first team place at Everton, at Manure he’d just be a squad player. If we can have a successful end to the season, it’s not that likely he would want to go, but nobody is irreplaceable anyway.
That said, I don’t want him to go and if you look at the address of the original poster , maybe you’ll suspect a bit of a Manc wind-up going on...
Will Leaf
42 Posted 28/01/2008 at 19:19:31
42 Posted 28/01/2008 at 19:19:31
Hee hee, okay then.
Not even specific to Lescott, Everton are indeed at a crossroads.
We now inhabit that final stepping stone before the leap into the stratosphere of the likes of Man U and co. Any player sought by these multinationals will eventually sign becauses we cannot as of this time offer the obvious: massive wages, consistent CL play, worldwide exposure and recognition.
Thus, we are forced to either smash our wage structure, or break into the elite (and these are indelibly linked).
Short of this, we will be continually forced to sell to our celestial masters, then move on and duck and dive for the next Joleon Lescott, Arteta, etc.
And this will not be a matter of choice as it would not be prudent to let a low morale player’s contract peter out to where we receive absolutely nothing.
Though circumstances are different, BK does not deserve the derision for "selling Rooney for a song". We were never going to get 50 mill, or anything near it with Chelsea on the sidelines. Rooney with us for an additional 18 months would have served nothing, and we would likely still be fighting relegation year in year out.
He really would have gone for a song then, and the chants we’d be hearing from Anfield may have been gladly cheering our Championship League status.
Not even specific to Lescott, Everton are indeed at a crossroads.
We now inhabit that final stepping stone before the leap into the stratosphere of the likes of Man U and co. Any player sought by these multinationals will eventually sign becauses we cannot as of this time offer the obvious: massive wages, consistent CL play, worldwide exposure and recognition.
Thus, we are forced to either smash our wage structure, or break into the elite (and these are indelibly linked).
Short of this, we will be continually forced to sell to our celestial masters, then move on and duck and dive for the next Joleon Lescott, Arteta, etc.
And this will not be a matter of choice as it would not be prudent to let a low morale player’s contract peter out to where we receive absolutely nothing.
Though circumstances are different, BK does not deserve the derision for "selling Rooney for a song". We were never going to get 50 mill, or anything near it with Chelsea on the sidelines. Rooney with us for an additional 18 months would have served nothing, and we would likely still be fighting relegation year in year out.
He really would have gone for a song then, and the chants we’d be hearing from Anfield may have been gladly cheering our Championship League status.
Jason Broome
43 Posted 28/01/2008 at 20:44:09
43 Posted 28/01/2008 at 20:44:09
Lescott is one of the best defenders in the league, and if he keeps on improving... europe. If Moyes is serious about the future then why whore ours to Man United.
And if Rio Ferdinand is worth £31M... our boys at least £25M.
And if Rio Ferdinand is worth £31M... our boys at least £25M.
Cliff Zampost
44 Posted 28/01/2008 at 22:36:25
44 Posted 28/01/2008 at 22:36:25
Spurs have paid Middlesbrough around £8m for Woodgate?s services.and they mention Lescott could go for around £10 million soon? Ummmm I dont think so.........
Roy Coyne
45 Posted 29/01/2008 at 03:20:30
45 Posted 29/01/2008 at 03:20:30
OK the first £40mill offer and he can go; otherwise, leave him alone. I don't think United are really interested ? the team I think if any try will be Newcastle ... would he leave us for them? Nah...
Michael Hunt
46 Posted 29/01/2008 at 07:01:58
46 Posted 29/01/2008 at 07:01:58
Dave, I hear what you are saying but at the end of the day we are catching up to the top and can break into the elite group i.e. like we are doing right now! We don’t have to sell anyone and selling our best players is only gonna do more harm than good. Our Club has a great spirit...or big bollox if you want to use that analogy. I accpt your point but don’t care if your aunty has big swingers or not. I do care that our club has balls big enough to tell any club to fuck off when they come knocking for a player that does not want to leave and is an integral part of our side! Agents are scum but it is not our place to worry about their snake like behaviour and focus on what happens on the pitch. Threads like this only serve to fuel the agents who wish to unsettle players and get a fat fee from getting them to move clubs for big money e.g. Stretford’s ’Proactive’ - apt name that - agency alledgedly bagged 1million when Rooney moved! There is a good chance with only British team to win silverware in Europe this year will be Everton, with next year a tilt at the CL...Utopia maybe, but lets aim for it and we may just get there!
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