ToffeeWeb - Season 2008-09

Michael Kenrick

This is a classic case where you can look for plenty of positives... and find them. Or you can look for plenty of negatives... and yep, they're there too! As to which way the lad will lean with us... well, that's the question, of course. No-one knows for sure... but only time will tell. All the lad has to do is pop in a few goals... in the most difficult of leagues... and I'm sure everyone will love him!

Ray Robinson
1 Posted 02/02/2009 at 20:55:38

Report abuse

Fellaini and Jo up front against Bolton? In the words of Austin Powers, after weeks of impotence up front, we’ve got our mojo back!.

Kevin Sparke
2 Posted 02/02/2009 at 20:50:51

Report abuse

Basing my comments on what little I have seen him do for Manchester Citeh - I’m not optimistic.

Why? He seems slow, at times he looked uninterested even confused and his work-rate never impressed... Now, work rate doesn’t really matter if you can score the goals... but he didn’t do much of that at Man Citeh.

In his favour, I’ve just watched a clip of his goals at CSKA and he looks a much better player... But this is the English Premier League

I’m hoping he proves me wrong and if he does I’ll hold my hands up... the evidence from Man Citeh suggests otherwise

Matt Bone
3 Posted 02/02/2009 at 20:59:45

Report abuse

If Jo is the sort of player who relishes crosses from the wing then he and we are up shit street. We don't play with out-and-out wingers as Beattie found to his cost...

John Martin
4 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:21:30

Report abuse

Despite knowing we needed a striker sinc before December we waited until the last day of the window to complete 1 deal for 1 striker. I think he’ll be ok, at least more of a threat on goal than Big Vic is and so therefore an improvement. I am sure we’ll continue to defy the odds and get 6th and hopefully UEFA cup football next season. But once again i cant help feeling we’ve missed out again on a chance to push on. There must have been players available or might have been that we could have gotten a winger with pace or even a strong defensive midfielder as cover to our threadbare squad. But as we are slow in the transfer market 1 transfer in 31 days is all i expected

Anthony Jaras
5 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:19:15

Report abuse

Sorry Matt, I disagree. Have a look at all our goals this season. We have scored 13 goals this season by way of headers, which indicates to me that we are putting some good quality crosses in for our attackers.

Anthony Jaras
6 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:29:28

Report abuse

Regardless of this, as far as I have seen, most of his goals in Russia came from a thunderous left foot.

Keith Glazzard
7 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:26:41

Report abuse

Some of us did most of this late this afternoon ? best advice is to look at the youtube video first, think about the mess that is Man City, consider the support from our midfield that this player might get plus the supply of quality crosses now coming from the left, and sometimes the right. If he?s given a chance, and wants to take it, it could work out very well.

Jay Harris
8 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:38:31

Report abuse

One thing to remember with Jo is he came to City with no preseason training and therefore was thrown in totally unprepared for the prem.

I think like with Manny we will have to wait for the last few games of the season for him to produce but what a prospect.

Dont forget he is filling the REAL Ronaldo?s boots for Brazil and was amazing in the Russian league and Ok it?s not the prem but it?s certainly a cut above the Scottish prem so it?s not a major step up.

Just be patient till the lad gets fit then watch him go.

Lyndon Lloyd
Editorial Team
9 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:43:17

Report abuse

Tom Campbell
10 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:48:24

Report abuse

We have to remeber YouTube only shows the good bits, Dirk Kuyt looks class on YouTube...

Anthony Jaras
11 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:46:03

Report abuse

Yep, some GREAT goals on here, no shortage of pace, strength, power and athletisism either.

Saw this video earlier and it made me happy he is on board.

Could never, ever see Anichebe or Vaughan scoring goals like this.

21 years old and must have been daunted by the size of the price tag City paid for him.

Young lad, in a shite team with allsorts going on around him and a manager who never even signed him.

At least he will know Moyes wanted him in the first place.

Great move for all parties concerned.

Good luck to the lad!!!!

Anthony Jaras
12 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:50:17

Report abuse

Tom, if he has just one ’Good Bit’ like this every 2 games, I will be happy with that.

Tom Campbell
13 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:58:42

Report abuse

Anthony I agree, I was one of the first people to post the Jo rumour to Toffeeweb and the to back him. I'm just saying maybe City looked at this video and that's why they payed £19million.

Chad Schofield
14 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:57:13

Report abuse

I remember seeing that (or very similar) vid in the summer. I think he could be class if he’s given a few games... but his confidence is highly likely shot to bits at the moment. In true Brazilian style, he doesn’t seem to use his head that much, but that left foot looks awesome!

Andrew David James
15 Posted 02/02/2009 at 22:16:39

Report abuse

I’ve seen that Youtube before but today I watched it with more consideration, he can shoot with both feet and head the ball.

He’s clearly not that quick over long distance but his short distance acceleration is good enough in the box.

Some of the defending was awful (how many times was he unmarked?)

But his reaction is blistering. I take back him being a player who might hold it up - he’ll be a striker who folds back into the midfield if they support him (much like the the Yak) and then does the damage.

Let’s hope for the best as we need 10 goals from the front line to press otherwise the back four are going to be very busy repelling everything based on an Arteta/Fellaini/Cahill/Osam one nil....

Steve Williams
16 Posted 02/02/2009 at 22:08:09

Report abuse

I understand that YouTube can make almost anyone look good but I was impressed with the range of goals this lad scores; left foot, right foot, outside the box, tap ins, headers etc. He is clearly quick when he wants to be and certainly knows where the back of the net is. I’m sure the legendary work ethic will rub off on him - if it does then we might, just might, have another player on our hands.

Also don’t be fooled into thinking the Russian league is as bad as some are making out. Remember Zenit weren’t too shabby. I guess it depends how badly this lad wants it. You never know he might be really pissed off over how he was treated at City and have something to prove!

Andrew David James
17 Posted 02/02/2009 at 22:34:06

Report abuse

Jay Harris - his lack of pre-season is a really good point - we see the effect it has had on so many players such as the Euro 08 class like Ronaldo, Torres (not that I?m saying Jo is as good as them) but it makes such an impact. If only Jimmy V could go through one without injury!!!

Matt Bone - another good point but we just put Shandy on the left and Mikky on the right. If the bar is on the left wing for the second half that should inspire Shandy to play well in the first...

Seriously, we do need to get our wing play sorted out a la Royle?s or Kendall?s sides....

Tom Campbell
18 Posted 02/02/2009 at 22:59:41

Report abuse

We need a Jo song... it shouldnt be to difficult?

Richard Watts
19 Posted 02/02/2009 at 21:31:05

Report abuse

Michael is right that there are plusses and minuses to this move. For me, the big advantage is there is very little risk involved in a 6 month loan.

That is unless, like Manny Fernandes the first time around, he turns out to be great and we haven’t got a clause that allows us to sign him for a fixed fee.

Does anyone know if we have got this clause with Jo? And, if so, what the fee might be?

I understand people being fed up that we only managed one deal in January and that was on the last day. But the truth is Moyes had a hard job - a striker good enought to walk straight into a top 6 Premiership team either on loan or on a free. It’s not like these are ten-a-penny in world football at the moment.

Mike Carney
20 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:14:35

Report abuse

I hope it works out for us and him, but I find it rather hard to understand why Moyes has brought Jo in on loan and at the same time lets LuKas Jutkiewicz go to Huddersfield on loan. He has been on the bench for most of the games lately and he never got a sniff bar 5 minutes against Sunderland when we were 3 up.

Robbie Murphy
21 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:16:19

Report abuse

Song for Jo then
2 unlimited
JO JO,
JO JO JO JO,
JO JO JO JO,
JO JO .
There?s no limit!!!!!!!!

Jimmy Rimmer
22 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:17:56

Report abuse

Does anyone know if there is an "option to buy" clause in this deal?

He clearly has the talent / potential to be a hugh hit here but it would be a shame if that were the case and then either City decide to keep him or someone steals in and gets him.

It’s also re-assuring that he was a target for Moyes over the summer so it doesn’t really smell too much of a desperate last minute loan deal.

Keith Glazzard
23 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:08:02

Report abuse

Jay’s point about the preseason is a good one. We can add that he’s spent 6 months getting used to being here, at someone else’s expense, and will be much the better for it. He’s had a good taste of the PL, and could be well on the way to fitting in with us.

The jury isn’t out - it hasn’t been sworn in yet - so about 5 games down the line? Hope so.

Luke Gould
24 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:25:16

Report abuse

Mike Carney, it might have something to do with the fact that lucas is simply not good enough? At least at Hudderfield he will get more than 5 mins game time and experience. Jury may be out on Jo, but I'd take him over Lukas (and definately Anichebe) anytime.

Martin Cutler
25 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:45:41

Report abuse

I think under the circumstances it?s a great loan signing... pity he?s cup-tied but this Wednesday would be too soon for him anyway. Clearly we?ll not pay anything like the £19m City paid for him so as somebody pointed out I hope the deal is a good one if/when we do decide to buy him if he works out for us.

I don?t think his time with City is a true reflection of his real ability... City are a shambles, rich mebbe, but still a bloody shambles.. I?m sure Moyes can turn the kid around... and if he does with his young age and Europe next season (fingers crossed!) who knows!

Ever hopeful!

First of all we need to stuff The Shite on Wednesday!

COYB!!!

Michael Dawson
26 Posted 02/02/2009 at 23:47:31

Report abuse

Mike Carney - maybe it’s because Jo is a Brazilian international who has scored shedloads of goals on both sides of the world, whilst Lucas J is an untried youth team player. Who would you rather have in your side when heading into the business end of the Premier League season?

Hopefully Lucas J will prove himself good enough to make it at Everton, but a few months in the lower leagues should go some way to showing whether that will be the case.

Jonny Brown
27 Posted 03/02/2009 at 00:31:45

Report abuse

To the tune of S-Club Party

We got the Jo
He got the flow
Come on everybody and here we go
Everton, ain?t no party like an Everton party...

Sean Condon
28 Posted 03/02/2009 at 01:28:03

Report abuse

Well, we?re all Jo fans now.

Chris Eagles, fuck, he would?ve been a decent loan signing if he?s anything like he looked at Turf Moor against Spurs.

Jason Lam
29 Posted 03/02/2009 at 01:54:30

Report abuse

Mike, we never ever drop Captain Pip.

Speaking of which, Moyes never drops Osman...

Interesting to see how Moyes will balance the wide positions.

When was the last time we got ourselves a Brazil national striker? Great coup by Moyes, hope he likes to run a lot though.

Stuart O'Malley
30 Posted 03/02/2009 at 02:06:52

Report abuse

Fellaini and Jo up front, the may not end up the league's top scoring partnership, but they will defo have the best hair combo. Go Fro Bros!!!!!

Peter Bradshaw
31 Posted 03/02/2009 at 02:25:19

Report abuse

Song for Jo, what about Go ahead Jo as in Jump by Van Halen

Okay I"ll get my coat!!!!

Jamie Crowley
32 Posted 03/02/2009 at 04:43:38

Report abuse

Howard
Hibbo Jags Lescott Baines
Pip Mikey Peanuts
Fel Cahill
Jo

Derivative of the 4-5-1 which IMO must be kept. a psuedo 4-3-2-1 Ozzy to the bench as a capable sub (ah, the luxury).

Scott Milne
33 Posted 03/02/2009 at 04:35:03

Report abuse

I’m cautiously optimistic.

Heard from a few City fans that it was down to Jo and Hughes not getting on that he wasn’t played more - they couldn’t believe that Ched Evans, Caicedo and Kelvin Etuhu were getting picked ahead of him.

Apparently he covers a lot of ground and drifts deep to collect the ball - not just a target man type... Can’t say that the few City matches I’ve seen him in that I paid any attention to what he was doing off the ball, so hopefully they’re right.

Either way, the fact that Moyes was scouting him before City nicked in with their play money should mean that he sees something that he thinks will work for us, fingers crossed.

Trevor Lynes
34 Posted 03/02/2009 at 04:42:59

Report abuse

Arshavin at £12.5 mill looks a really good buy for what is the finished article!! I reckon we paid miles too much for Felli when you compare them... unless Arshavin has gone backwards since I last saw him, he is one of the best buys of this transfer window...

I'm a bit sceptical about Jo as he has shown nothing at all over here and I'm just hoping that he settles better at EFC. I'm still disappointed that he is the only business we completed and let's face it ? he is not ours!! We still are very short of squad numbers and some players have absolutely no competition for their place in the side even if they lose form.

It's still a desperately small squad for the long haul and maybe Jo needs a slower more passing game than we have in the Premier League to show his ability. I don't see him as a lone striker up front without support. He is not a physically strong guy, he is a finisher not a target man.

Derek Thomas
35 Posted 03/02/2009 at 05:04:38

Report abuse

Compared to Vics 1 in 42 or is that 1 in 70, Jo’s 3 in 19 for city is prolific.

Winston Green
36 Posted 03/02/2009 at 05:42:48

Report abuse

How about:

Jo jo, jo jo jo jo, jo jo jo jo, jo jo jo jo jo

As in no no, no no no no, by 2 unlimited?

Sam Tuft
37 Posted 02/02/2009 at 18:28:36

Report abuse

Bill Kenwright is a mockery to the Everton name by putting a couple of pence out his back pocket into the budget; however, talks about a Dubai investment are going on, we need improvements and experience if we've got any chance of breaking into the top 4.

Mark Pendleton
38 Posted 03/02/2009 at 07:34:31

Report abuse

I did read somewhere confirmation that no fee has been agreed to buy Jo at the end of the loan period. In fairness Man City were always highly unlikely to get the money they paid elsewhere for him so I guess if the move does work out for all concerned and we can agree a structured deal then there?s every chance. But, of course we will hopefully get the Yak and Vaughany back so with a bit of luck we won?t need him.

Whatever way you look at it, this is a low-risk move. I don?t think his time at City can really be a yardstick, as can his record in the Russian league. We may well be able to get more out of him but the guy must have talent and you?d think he?d also have plenty of incentive to prove himself, so let?s hope he does that in a royal blue jersey. A brace against Bolton would be a good start!

Trevor Lynes
39 Posted 03/02/2009 at 08:18:07

Report abuse

At least it strengthens the bench now we have Yobo fit again... I would play Gosling from the start and give Ozzie a games rest. The bench would then be Jo, Yobo, Osman, Rodwell, Nash, Anichebe and Castillo.... we have decent options then depending upon how the game is panning out.

Mike Whittaker
40 Posted 03/02/2009 at 08:45:53

Report abuse

I?m just wondering what sort of deal Everton have done to require his services. IF we were really desperate to have him (personally I can't see why), have Man City demanded first option on one of our better players in the summer as part of the deal?

In a strange way, I hope he does nothing for us, because if he bangs in 10 league goals for us between now and May, we can only afford him by doing a swap deal for Lescott.

Martin Berry
41 Posted 03/02/2009 at 05:02:16

Report abuse

Looks like Davy has brought off another gem in the transfer market. Any of you doubters must admit that having watched the You Tube segment (thanks Lyndon), the boy is pure class, a predator, with a great shot, it shows that the ability is there, it's for all to see. Forget what happened at City, a new cult hero has arrived and once settled in, the fans will be passing the hat round and begging Davy to sign him up permanently, SET EM UP, JO!

Tony Waring
42 Posted 03/02/2009 at 09:23:02

Report abuse

If he does half as well for us as he did for CSKA, I?ll be well satisfied. Two good thumping feet, a header as well; what more can we ask for?

Neil Pearse
43 Posted 03/02/2009 at 09:44:10

Report abuse

Looks a smart move. The best part of it is that Moyes was already trying to get Jo last summer ? so he saw something then and this is no panic buy. If he works out, we should be able to cut some deal with City in the summer (hopefully not involving anyone going the other way).

Credit also to Moyes for not losing anyone this window. I really feared that Lescott could go (City or Arsenal could really benefit from him), but perhaps his recent form and centre pairing with Jagielka (acknowledged second best in the Prem after Ferdinand and Vdic) persuaded him to stay. Arteta also looks a natural Arsenal target, but he seems settled now in Liverpool with his Spanish mates (perhaps the only benefit we have ever had from the RS!).

COYB tomorrow! Time to do the business.

Antony Matthews
44 Posted 03/02/2009 at 09:42:58

Report abuse

Trevor... Arshavin is late 20s early 30s, and Fellaini is only 21. Plenty of time for him to be a world star. He could be one of the hottest prospects around. Davey?s reduction in the age of the squad is astounding.

Micheal Hunt
45 Posted 03/02/2009 at 10:13:34

Report abuse

Strangely the Mirror says Big Vic could be going to Hull TODAY (maybe the coast to coast journey makes it a weather extension?)... http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2009/02/03/hull-make-late-bid-for-everton-striker-victor-anichebe-115875-21093667/

Can?t see it myself, esp. now Lukas is loaned too, but I?d be in favour of loaning him to Hull if we had more choices up front than just Jo/Cahill (or just Cahill in Cup).

Gary Tudor
46 Posted 03/02/2009 at 11:20:12

Report abuse

Great signing by Davie Moyes, the lad is only 21 too!

Let's hope we have a clause for buying him, I feel once he gets in the groove at Everton he will be class.

Just compare this deal to Red Shite's Robbie Keane!!!!

I am in favour of selling Vic as I feel he will never make the grade, I just wish he would prove me wrong!!!!

Tom Campbell
47 Posted 03/02/2009 at 11:20:16

Report abuse

Lads, all the morning papers over here in Ireland have full page articles saying that we have completed the signing of Seamus Coleman who they regard as the next Steve Finnan over here.

And regarding the Jo deal, I read on the internet that we have an option to LOAN him again if he's succesful here, maybe it's bullshit but I?ll have a look and see if I can find it!

Brian Waring
48 Posted 03/02/2009 at 11:13:15

Report abuse

Jimmy, it mentioned on teletext that there is no deal for us to have the option to buy in the summer, becausde we wouldn?t be able to pay the fees that City would be looking to get back.

Wow Martin, you're easily pleased, a few minutes of watching him on YouTube, and you're already praising Moyes for buying a gem, and giving us a new cult hero. So, if Jo is shite while he is with us, and someone gives Moyes abuse for bringing him in on loan, then that is going to be okay with you?

His record with CSKA is superb, but I just think in some of the European leagues, you get more time on the ball, maybe it?s going to take him a while to adjust to the pace of the Prem. I don?t think he will actually start many games for us, and will be used mainly coming off the bench.

As you say though Martin, I hope he does turn out to be a gem.

Dave Wilson
49 Posted 03/02/2009 at 11:48:38

Report abuse

I cant believe the nonesense thats posted on here about Vic
70 games? 70 fucken games?
Did he make his debut when he was Eleven?? ?

Anichebe, is barely 20, he has started 19 games in the past two seasons, he?s scored 6 goals. But hey, he?s the whipping boy, why bring facts into it?

Dan Sedlak
50 Posted 03/02/2009 at 12:08:00

Report abuse

"There is no agreement in place for Everton to sign the Brazilian permanently in the summer ? the Merseysiders cannot afford his City wages or their asking price ? and Jo is ineligible for Wednesday?s FA Cup replay with Liverpool at Goodison. The striker is expected to make his debut for Everton against Bolton on Saturday."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/feb/02/everton-manchester-city-striker-jo

Bradley Nolan
51 Posted 03/02/2009 at 12:50:27

Report abuse

Watched Asamoah for Rennes on Satanta the other day, he came on for a few minutes at the end and almost scored a spectacular goal, looked quick but a bit headless. I?d say Jo was the better option.

M'Bia was the best player on the field, he ran the show, won everything in midfield, looked strong, covered a lot of ground and passed it really well. I have to admit I was put off in the summer by his interviews but after watching him, I hope we can go after him again in the summer.

Peter Hurley
52 Posted 03/02/2009 at 13:06:01

Report abuse

Anyone remember the last Brazilian we got on loan?

Not holding my breath...

Aide Dews
53 Posted 03/02/2009 at 12:58:39

Report abuse

Looking at that YouTube clip, it's obvious to see that he?s got a great eye for goal and always gets in to good goalscoring positions, but I think he needs to feel like he?s wanted at the club, needs that arm around him from Moyesy to assure him he is capable of all that again, and to give him the confidence to get back to that form which I'm sure Moyesy will do. It was clear to see that at City he wasn't wanted, always in and out of the side, played a couple, missed a couple and his form suffered for that. Put that together with Man City?s poor form this season too, he as really suffered... but coming here, a fresh start with a team thats doing ok, might do him and us the world of good.

Peter Hurley
54 Posted 03/02/2009 at 13:21:43

Report abuse

PS He looks great on YouTube too!

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=gQxgKBv4pSc&feature=related

Aide Dews
55 Posted 03/02/2009 at 13:28:44

Report abuse

Bradley Nolan, I have been banging on about M?Bia for months on here about how good he is and I watch him a lot on Setanta. Every game I see him in, I'm impressed with him. I would be gutted if we didn't go back in for him AND sign him in the summer. He?s a quality player and just what we need in the holding midfield role.

All that about him rejecting us in the summer is bullshit, it was his club that rejected us. He wanted to come play for us but his club, understandably, wanted to keep him for one more season to have a crack at breaking in to the Champions League.

Stewart Littler
56 Posted 03/02/2009 at 13:11:10

Report abuse

As usual, good article, and some very interesting comments, which I thought I would respond to:

Matt Bone, some of the balls put in the box recently, by Baines in particular, have been crying out for a player like Jo to be taking the gamble and getting on the end of them. No we don?t play with out-and-out wingers, that wasn?t Beattie?s downfall, he just wasn?t good enough (that?s why he plays for Stoke).

John Martin, we have no money and we?re in the market for loans and frees ? how many players in this bracket do you think can improve the squad we?ve got? I grimaced when Leroy Lita was touted...

Tom Campbell, I used to have a very low opinion of Dirk Kuyt, but you cannot deny he has a fantastic workrate and is actually a decent player, who I would take tomorrow

Mike Carney, I saw Lukas play at PNE in pre-season; at this point in time, he is simply not good enough for the Prem, especially top 6 ? whether he ever is remains to be seen, so better to let the kid get some games else where

Dave Wilson, I would love Anichebe to do that too, I think a lot of us desperately want him to prove himself, I just think he will never quite make the grade and it?s frustrating given his Uefa Cup heroics last season.
Finally, COYB tomorrow, surely it?s our time.

Steve Williams
57 Posted 03/02/2009 at 13:33:16

Report abuse

Peter, Rodrigo was his name.

Got injured, never played ? complete waste of space (and money). Nothing to back it up, but I just feel this lad may be different. As I said previously, depends on how badly he wants it.

Iain Love
58 Posted 03/02/2009 at 13:38:20

Report abuse

As far as I?m aware, it was Sven who signed Jo, and as a club manager he was bloody good (what he did with City was fantastic) so the lad must have something about him. That Kia fella, the agent, said when he first went to City that you wouldn?t see the best of him till January due to missing pre-season etc etc.

Personally, when I?ve seen him for City I thought he looked shite and I was happy we had missed out on him. The big question is how will Moyes use him? When he did well for CSKA he had Vagner Love alongside him, so do we play a 4-4-2 to help him along or stick him up front on his own? If Moyes does it right we could have a player or maybe another bench warmer?

If nowt else, it?s more height.

John Dybvad
59 Posted 03/02/2009 at 14:14:34

Report abuse

M'bia!!! You must be joking, Aide. The man would be a disaster for Everton. We want team players, not ego-maniacs with a family of 500 to feed, clothe and house.

Alasdair Mackay
60 Posted 03/02/2009 at 14:02:48

Report abuse

Jo looks to be in a lot of space for most of the goals on YouTube, but I tend to agree that he has not had much of a chance at City and may prove to be a good signing ? especially if we can get him in space near the edge of the box and on his left foot.

I don?t think we have any intention of signing him in the summer, though. BK has promised Moyes one major signing per summer and this summer it will be a DefMid, possibly Moutinho, Veloso or M?Bia. If he is any good we will try to loan him, but City will want to sell and will not be short of offers if he bangs in a few for us. Plus Yak will be back and there will be less urgency for a big-name striker. We will end up loaning someone else for next season, like Darren Bent, who clearly fancies a move after the two reasons he was not getting in the Spurs team both went back.

I would also like to defend Anichebe. He was young player of the season for us last season, did well out of position at Stoke and West Ham and worked hard after coming on at Spurs and at home to Villa. He has been off form in the last couple of weeks, but he is not 100% fit and his confidence is probably taken a bit of a knock from the fact that he is the club?s only 95% fit recognised striker and he can?t get in the side (because of Cahill?s form). It is not time to sell yet. If he is poor for the rest of the season and the start of next, then maybe we will cash in next January, but so far he has had 18 good months and 2 bad ones ? give the lad a break!

Bradley Nolan
61 Posted 03/02/2009 at 14:30:32

Report abuse

John Dybvad, I don’t think you’d be saying that if you seen him play. I felt the same but now I can understand why Rennes were so desperate to keep him (despite what he had been saying in the media). I haven’t seen a player dominate the tempo and pattern of a game this much since Roy Keane in his pomp. M’Bia looked like he was ’taking it personally’ & in that, his attitude (on the pitch) was spot on. If we sign no-body else in the summer, we should sign him.

Aide Dews
62 Posted 03/02/2009 at 14:34:15

Report abuse

John Dybvad, M?Bia is no ego-maniac, the lad had agreed to join us in the summer only for his club to stop him from coming, and what's wrong with stating that the deal Everton offered him was that good he could afford to support his family back in Cameroon?!

All that in the reports this january about him rejecting us was bullshit, that L?Equipe or whatever its called is always full of shit, how many French internationals or players coming to the Premier League from France get quoted as saying stuff in that magazine for it later to be known as a load of bollocks!!

Now it could of gone two ways the situation with M?Bia:

1. He throws his dummy out, refuses to play or tosses it off during in games in dispute of not being able to move or

2. He just gets on with things and keeps on putting the performances in like a true professional until he can move this summer.

And lately he as done just that, because believe me from what I've seen, if his performances this season have been that of a player who has been tossing it off then when he does put the effort in he must be some fucking player!!

Steve Phillips
63 Posted 03/02/2009 at 14:58:17

Report abuse

Does any one know if we are paying his full City wages or are we paying more than that or less than that and if less does City top it up? Sorry if this is a silly question but I would like to know.

Barry Sherlock
64 Posted 03/02/2009 at 14:55:35

Report abuse

Dave Wilson,

In ALL competitions Big Vic has played 60 games and scored 11 goals.

Not the best.

Brian Waring
65 Posted 03/02/2009 at 15:28:11

Report abuse

Steve, not at all a silly question, actually quite an interesting point.

I could imagine he was on mega - bucks at City, and with us being skint, I just can’t see us paying all his wages. Also, it’s not as if he is setting the premier league alight.

Maybe there is someone out there who would have a bit of inside information on this.

James Marshall
66 Posted 03/02/2009 at 15:39:27

Report abuse

Apparently we’re only paying half his wages.

Will Leaf
67 Posted 03/02/2009 at 16:41:05

Report abuse

I’m sorry, what is this Youtube clip? Eight minutes of Shambolic Russian Defending?

Ian Tod
68 Posted 03/02/2009 at 17:15:37

Report abuse

I hope that we have the option to sign jo permenantly in the summer. I highly doubt moyes would sign a loan player without the option to sign him as he could become a key and integrated member of our squad but we would know he’s another clubs player which could have a negative impact on our squad.

Alasdair Mackay
69 Posted 03/02/2009 at 17:16:17

Report abuse

Will Leaf - I thought that as well when I first saw it, but we don’t need or expect him to be as prolific as he was in Russia.
He is a loan signing that we will not be able to afford to make permanent. We just need him to plug a few gaps for 4 months! If he gets one tap in thanks to bad defending and 5 or 6 of those long range left foot shots that he seems to be fond of he will have made enough of a contribution for us and will have earned himself an £8-10million move to some German or Italian club of mediocre standing that likes to spend a lot on players.

Alasdair Mackay
70 Posted 03/02/2009 at 17:25:06

Report abuse

Barry Sherlock -

How many of those 60 games has he started?

If you are really bored, perhaps you could be bothered to work out how many minutes he has actually had on the pitch and compare that to his goals record.

I am not trying to say he is definitely the finished article or even that he is defintely going to make it, just that his drop in performance level is a recent thing and some of you are too quick to jump on the lad’s back.

Ian Tod
71 Posted 03/02/2009 at 18:04:24

Report abuse

Just seen on sky sports news moyes has said there is an option to sign jo permanently at the end of the season

Robbie Murphy
72 Posted 03/02/2009 at 18:20:22

Report abuse

1. Winston Green ? stop trying to rob my song idea!!
2. Stewart Littler ? Beattie was crying out for a winger during his time at Everton.
3. Everybody ? Get behind Big Vic... ok he?s had a rough couple of months but he?s one of our own & he needs a bit of confidence so get behind the lad tomorrow night if he?s involved.

Dave Wilson
73 Posted 03/02/2009 at 18:21:08

Report abuse

Barry Sherlock

so Your actually counting the times when Vic came on in the last 4-5 minutes sometimes less ?

I think your kinda proving my point there Barry

JJ Turunen
74 Posted 03/02/2009 at 18:17:07

Report abuse

Anichebe:

http://www.soccerbase.com/players_details.sd?playerid=43254
It can?t be a confidence thing. As a young striker you must have belief about scoring and yourself like Vaughan etc. I think that Big Vic has no character to make it.

Just think that Vic can maybe be a Premier League player in future, but not as a striker, he's not even close to be a new Emile Heskey...

Jeremy Benson
75 Posted 03/02/2009 at 19:29:47

Report abuse

I?m afraid that his time at Man City *is* a yard stick.

That's his statistics. You cannot choose to ignore his stats simply to make it fit your own argument...

Jeremy Benson
76 Posted 03/02/2009 at 19:32:52

Report abuse

ps: I?m with Tom Campbell. Everyone looks good on YouTube. Not going to show his misses, are they? Arteta?s misses, now that's a different matter...

Tom Campbell
77 Posted 03/02/2009 at 20:15:46

Report abuse

Stewart Littler, Kuyt is shite.

Paul Joy
78 Posted 03/02/2009 at 20:51:48

Report abuse

I can?t believe I am saying this but I agree with Michael Kenrick !!!!!!!

Someone has rightly said it is a no lose situation for us.

But desperate optimism needs to be balanced against Jo?s level of performance for City in this league. It can?t be argued that he has sweated very much can it.

But as MK rightly says ? let's give him a chance and if he knocks in some goals for us we can make our minds up then can?t we.

Hope he doesN?t wear polo necks under his shirt and an alice band on his head though. But if he scores who cares really.

Now off for a lie down after my MK comments.

James Boden
79 Posted 03/02/2009 at 20:39:25

Report abuse

So Moyes always wanted to sign him. So why on earth didn't he sign him on January 1st? He?s cup-tied, isn?t that just wonderful! It took all that time to sign 1 player. You have to wonder if it?s worth it.

Regarding the Anichebe arguement, now while im not his biggest fan and i don't see a great future for the guy, I think it's wrong to be critical of his goalscoring record. Most of the time it?s been 5/10 minutes here and there so I don?t see how people could say his goalscoring record is abysmal.

And did I read it right when someone said Vaughan could never do what Jo did? That's because he's always bloody injured. And whenever he?s not, Moyes refuses to play the guy, despite when he did have a run in the time he looked a cracking player and scored a few good goals. We will have to wait and see on Jo.
COYB

Ian Bennett
80 Posted 03/02/2009 at 20:54:54

Report abuse

He might be 6 ft 3 in ? but judging by the video he scored a lot of rangey shots, tap-ins and pens - only a couple of headers. He appears to have a decent touch, and if Moyes can get some willing work rate I am sure will be another loan hit.

If it works out it would be nice to think he would stay on. I love the Yak, and Vaughan (unlikely to ever play more than 20 games with his style) whilst the other 2 I would happy drive to their next club.

Bill Cummings
81 Posted 03/02/2009 at 22:28:16

Report abuse

It?s a gamble... but then what isn?t on the transfer front these days? I think, of the names that were banded around, he was a good choice. Technically gifted and tall, and if he can up his work rate he will get chances here. Moyes had checked him out all Summer but we didn?t have the money to compete with Man City for his signature. I think he has more chance here. He will get encouragement, he knows he?s our top striker for now, he will be given a run. (He never really was in City was he?)

All of this is no guarantee that he will settle in England but I believe he has more chance here, where he doesn?t have the pressure of the transfer fee over his head, where he will be part of a confident functioning team. The fact that he?s on loan too means that he will be motivated to prove a point, motivated to gain a contract here next season.

And best of all because he?s on loan if he doesn?t do the buisness he will be shipped back to City when Yakubu returns next season.

Steve Phillips
82 Posted 03/02/2009 at 23:48:31

Report abuse

To settle an argument and back to the wages thing, can anybody in the know say who will pay his wages? Are City charging a premium or are they selling him cheap? Does anybody know?

I believe that City may recoup whatever they can in wages and keep him busy and out of their dressing room therfore keeping him playing and still an asset, especially if he performs, whilst my City friend says No! Everton will have to pay his full wages, who is correct?

Kieran Kinsella
83 Posted 03/02/2009 at 23:33:29

Report abuse

I am not an Anichebe basher by trade and in fact I was a strong advocate of his when he first broke onto the scene; however, times have changed and I am ready to be rid of him. I was embarrassed by his lazy flopping to the ground looking for free kicks against Liverpool and I am even more embarrassed to read about his reaction to being deined a loan move to Hull.

Here's the deal, Vic: you are the only fit striker at Everton and tomorrow we face Liverpool in the cup and yet you would rather go and play for a going nowhere bunch of losers at Hull? Why? Do you think their boss will be any less demanding than Moyes? Clear off, you waste of space.

Brett Bradshaw
84 Posted 04/02/2009 at 09:29:04

Report abuse

I think this is a bit harsh on Anichebe, I put his form down to tactics. To me it?s clear that our game plan is to win free kicks (against big 4) as that is our most dangerous position allowing defenders etc to attack. To do this Pienaar, Anichebe, Osman, they all try winning free kicks. I mean it?s pretty obvious that, IF Anichebe wanted to stay on his feet, 90% of the time he could do easy.

Whilst I say this, and it looks bad on one or two players, I think it?s probably the right tactic for us at the moment.

One things for sure, we have to stick at it 100% tonight, look what they done to Chelsea as soon as they took a bit of a gamble!? (Admittedly an unfairly reduced to 10 man Chelsea.)

COYB!!!