Season 2011-12 Fan Articles
Who I'd like for Christmas...
By Sam Hoare :: 13/12/2011
52 Comments (»Last)
So admittedly they wouldn't be arriving in time for Christmas (or Boxing Day matches at least) but I thought it being the season of goodwill and all that we might forgot about the current state of depression and turn an eye towards who we would like to see grace the teamsheet in the New Year.
I know in reality we probably won't have any money but it's my Xmas list so I'm going to pretend we have around £6M to spend (let's say for argument's sake we sell Bily for £6M... we can dream!). Right then...
1. A striker. Plenty linked; Macheda or Defoe on loan? Dutch scoring sensation Luuk De Jong? Charlie Davies the American International? I'll go for Nicky Maynard, pacy and prolific in the Championship and with a good first touch to boot. With 6 months left on his contract ? ours for a knockdown £3M.
2. A creative midfielder/right winger. Albert Adomah (also Bristol City) is an interesting livewire. Marvin Sordell at Watford looks good. Maybe Krancjar from Spurs? Parejo from Valencia has been linked. But I'll take something tried and tested ? Landon Donovan back on another loan.
3. A pacy right back. Someone able to do on the right what Baines does on the left. But someone who can defend as well. How about Nathaniel Clyne at Palace ? also running his contract down and possibly available for around £3M.
4. Royston Drenthe. I like him ? let's have him stay.
5. Ronaldo on loan ? am I asking too much? Probably.
So, all-in-all, using our manager's favoured formation, this is the team for the New Year.
Howard
Clyne Jagielka Distin Baines
Coleman Rodwell Fellaini Drenthe
Donovan
Maynard
Subs: Mucha, Heitinga, Cahill, Barkley, Vellios, McAleny, Saha
There we go. Nice and easy... and suddenly we have a team that looks like it might actually score some goals while having a solid core too.
Other player suggestions welcome but this is a Happy Xmas piece so, if possible, let's refrain from the pointing out of all the current regime's flaws. Who'll make the first 'no point buying a striker because Moyes will ruin him' comment....
Reader Comments (52)
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Nick Armitage
2 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:11:48
2 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:11:48
Why anyone is holding out any hope for any signings in January is beyond me.
The annual excuse of "it is difficult to sign a player who will make a difference in January," will be trawled out. This actually means, Kenwright hasn't got any more assets to sell or use as security for yet another unaffordable loan.
So the team for the run in will be
Howard
Hibbert Jagielka Distin Baines
Coleman Rodwell Fellaini Osman
Cahill
Saha*
* When Saha is injured / can't arsed, he will be substituted for a useless galoot by the name of Victor Anichebe.
Watch us rocket up that table.
The annual excuse of "it is difficult to sign a player who will make a difference in January," will be trawled out. This actually means, Kenwright hasn't got any more assets to sell or use as security for yet another unaffordable loan.
So the team for the run in will be
Howard
Hibbert Jagielka Distin Baines
Coleman Rodwell Fellaini Osman
Cahill
Saha*
* When Saha is injured / can't arsed, he will be substituted for a useless galoot by the name of Victor Anichebe.
Watch us rocket up that table.
Ant Ellis
3 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:21:44
3 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:21:44
Now come on Nick, tis the season of joy and festive frolics......lets atleast pretend we might bid for someone mate
Sam Hoare
4 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:25:15
4 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:25:15
Nick! Did you not read the article?!! This is my xmas list. It involves the suspension of total reality and an element of make believe (as of course all transfer speculation does).
Go be a Grinch elsewhere.
Go be a Grinch elsewhere.
Shaun Brennan
5 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:30:11
5 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:30:11
Stinks of Nick getting a sack of coal for Christmas!
Mike Rourke
6 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:34:08
6 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:34:08
I'd have a sack of coal in the team ahead of Saha, Cahill or Osman.
Jon Ferguson
7 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:37:14
7 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:37:14
In the spirit of the festive season, I?m going on the basis that we will have £5m from the £20m worth of sales in the summer and added £5m for Bily (fingers and toes crossed). I would then try and flog Cahill for between £4m and £5m.
I would blow the £15m on a winger and a striker (as I?ve said for the last 2 years at least).
If the press are right (which they mostly aren?t) then De Jong is available for £6 ? 8 m. Failing that, if Rodellega is out of contract at the end of the season I would try and coax him off them for £2m.
I would then try and get either Scott Sinclair (who has said he would like to stay at Swansea today, but surely we?ve heard that a million times before) or Sortis Ninis the Greek International at Panathinikos. Ninis has a buy out clause for £8m (they might sell for less). I wouldn?t have a clue how much Sinclair could be bought for, I would expect as he only has 18 months left on his contract a similar fee would be tempting for Swansea. Both players are pacey and can take a man on, something we are massively lacking.
Drenthe needs to be signed ASAP and I still think that Coleman should be playing right back for a stint before he is written off in that position at that level. Being judged on a bad performance early in your career against Di Maria (now of Madrid) is unfair.
De Long
Drenthe Barkely Ninis
Felli Rodwell
Baines Distin Heitinga / Jagielka Coleman
Howard
Ben Jones
8 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:40:45
8 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:40:45
To be honest, I think Pienaar is more realistic rather than Kranjcar. I would take both of them in a heart beat.
Clyne looks a good idea, a good long term guy for Neville and Hibbert, although I see Coleman taking that role.
The striker needs a target man kind of guy to suit that 4-5-1 role and I'm not sure Maynard can do that, so I'd rather see if we can get him for free at the end of the season. Pavluychenko on loan would be my ideal because he's good in the air and with his feet.
I think sell Billy and sign Kranjcar. Both are worth similar fees I think
Clyne looks a good idea, a good long term guy for Neville and Hibbert, although I see Coleman taking that role.
The striker needs a target man kind of guy to suit that 4-5-1 role and I'm not sure Maynard can do that, so I'd rather see if we can get him for free at the end of the season. Pavluychenko on loan would be my ideal because he's good in the air and with his feet.
I think sell Billy and sign Kranjcar. Both are worth similar fees I think
Tony J Williams
9 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:47:10
9 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:47:10
Macheda, couldn't cut it in Italy, scored one goal in 16 and the team was relegated.
You name a few championship players.....we already have enough in our team at teh moment thank you very much.
pienaar would be ok, get the old dope Donovan in to balance out the wings and prey that Old Scrooge finds some money to give to Bob Cratchitt in january to get a forward. (For those with entirely no imagination, Scrooge will be ably played by Kenwrong and Cratchitt will be Moyes)
You name a few championship players.....we already have enough in our team at teh moment thank you very much.
pienaar would be ok, get the old dope Donovan in to balance out the wings and prey that Old Scrooge finds some money to give to Bob Cratchitt in january to get a forward. (For those with entirely no imagination, Scrooge will be ably played by Kenwrong and Cratchitt will be Moyes)
Julian Wait
10 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:55:51
10 Posted 13/12/2011 at 14:55:51
Another right back? No. We have at least 4 candidates already in Hibbert, Coleman, Neville and Jagielka. Not saying any of them are top class at RB, but it's not a priority right now.
We're clearly missing a true goal-scorer and someone to replace Mikel (2008 version). Everything else has to come after that.
We're clearly missing a true goal-scorer and someone to replace Mikel (2008 version). Everything else has to come after that.
Adam Bennett
11 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:01:07
11 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:01:07
I reckon we?ll get bought out by some rich dude on New Years Eve.
He will declare war (not literally) on the Premier League money elite, load up a cannon (metaphorically speaking) and fire of a load of bullets (wraps of £50 notes) at clubs with good players for sale
First press conference January 3rd, in walks ; Rickie van Wolfswinkle (bought to keep the girls busy in Everton One and Two), Fernando Torres. Striking problems sorted.
Second press conference January 5th, in walks; Kaka, Wesley Sneijder. Midfield creativity sorted.
Third press conference January 6th, in walks; David Beckham. (Commercial and Marketing activity improvements sorted).
Team against Tamworth in the FA Cup Third round take to the field as such;
Howard
Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines
Fellaini
Beckham, Kaka, Sneijder
Wolfswinkle, Torres
We win 27-0 (Torres 8, Wolfswinkle 5, Kaka 3, Sneijder 3, Beckham 7 ? all freekicks, and a Baines penalty ? so I win my to score anytime bet)
Wem-ber-leeeeeee here we come!
He will declare war (not literally) on the Premier League money elite, load up a cannon (metaphorically speaking) and fire of a load of bullets (wraps of £50 notes) at clubs with good players for sale
First press conference January 3rd, in walks ; Rickie van Wolfswinkle (bought to keep the girls busy in Everton One and Two), Fernando Torres. Striking problems sorted.
Second press conference January 5th, in walks; Kaka, Wesley Sneijder. Midfield creativity sorted.
Third press conference January 6th, in walks; David Beckham. (Commercial and Marketing activity improvements sorted).
Team against Tamworth in the FA Cup Third round take to the field as such;
Howard
Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines
Fellaini
Beckham, Kaka, Sneijder
Wolfswinkle, Torres
We win 27-0 (Torres 8, Wolfswinkle 5, Kaka 3, Sneijder 3, Beckham 7 ? all freekicks, and a Baines penalty ? so I win my to score anytime bet)
Wem-ber-leeeeeee here we come!
Shaun Brennan
12 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:01:20
12 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:01:20
Personally i think we need annother centre half to cover the cover!
Chris Rudd
13 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:06:54
13 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:06:54
Adam - how can you have a fantasy like that and not have Hibbo scoring?
Ant Ellis
14 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:02:26
14 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:02:26
Adam#11 With all that wealth and talent and Tony Hibbert still gets a game?! haha thats loyalty to the bitter end mate
Stephen Kenny
15 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:07:21
15 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:07:21
If we sign all the players Adam suggested this is how we will line up against Tamworth
Howard
Hibbert Jagielka Distin Baines
Coleman Fellaini Heitinga Rodwell
Cahill
Saha
Howard
Hibbert Jagielka Distin Baines
Coleman Fellaini Heitinga Rodwell
Cahill
Saha
Stephen Kenny
16 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:12:28
16 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:12:28
If Bill manages to sell the lead off the roof to Brazenose scrappy and we get £6-8m to spend this is what I'd like to see.
Any one of these midfielders;
Krancjar
Faurlin
Valero
Zaha
Butterfield
Any of these should be available for around £3m.
Any one of these strikers;
Klasnic
Pav
Defoe
Kenwyne Jones
All of these could come in and do a job for us. My preference would be Faurlin and Zaha as both are young and would see our club as a step up. both are good players going forward and Zaha especially is quick.
Those who choose to focus only on our problems going forward need to look at the bigger picture.
We cannot stop conceding goals. Jagielka and Heitinga have looked fairly solid recently but even now we are conceding poor, easy to defend against goals.
If Arsenal or anybody else comes in with decent money for Jagielka then I'll gladly carry him there. I'd go and look for a new partner for Heitinga such as Cahill at Bolton or Dann at Blackburn, both of whom will be available cheaply and know how to defend at this level, my choice would be Dann.
If there was any money left I'd also be looking for a more commanding goalie.
Teams who can't score and can't keep clean sheets go down. That's the boat were in at the moment, something drastic needs to happen. I don't think we will be relegated but I don't think points wise we will be too far away maybe 6-10pts at most if we try to plough on with this squad.
Any one of these midfielders;
Krancjar
Faurlin
Valero
Zaha
Butterfield
Any of these should be available for around £3m.
Any one of these strikers;
Klasnic
Pav
Defoe
Kenwyne Jones
All of these could come in and do a job for us. My preference would be Faurlin and Zaha as both are young and would see our club as a step up. both are good players going forward and Zaha especially is quick.
Those who choose to focus only on our problems going forward need to look at the bigger picture.
We cannot stop conceding goals. Jagielka and Heitinga have looked fairly solid recently but even now we are conceding poor, easy to defend against goals.
If Arsenal or anybody else comes in with decent money for Jagielka then I'll gladly carry him there. I'd go and look for a new partner for Heitinga such as Cahill at Bolton or Dann at Blackburn, both of whom will be available cheaply and know how to defend at this level, my choice would be Dann.
If there was any money left I'd also be looking for a more commanding goalie.
Teams who can't score and can't keep clean sheets go down. That's the boat were in at the moment, something drastic needs to happen. I don't think we will be relegated but I don't think points wise we will be too far away maybe 6-10pts at most if we try to plough on with this squad.
Eric Myles
17 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:28:36
17 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:28:36
Top of my Christmas wishlist wouldn't be who I'd like to see come in, but for who I'd like to see go.
Tommy Hesketh
18 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:44:09
18 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:44:09
Adam 11#,
You sound just Like Alan Partridge mate.
I'd like to see big Vic back in the side for his speed, strengh, heading ability.
Or the sack of coal Mike 5# mentions.
You sound just Like Alan Partridge mate.
I'd like to see big Vic back in the side for his speed, strengh, heading ability.
Or the sack of coal Mike 5# mentions.
Ian Tunstead
19 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:03:34
19 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:03:34
Whats the point in bringing in quality players? Everyone knows its tactics that win games not quality players.
Rob Teo
20 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:57:20
20 Posted 13/12/2011 at 15:57:20
I'd like Moyes to let some of the players he's bought to have a proper run in the team - Stracqualursi, Gueye, Vellios, Mustafi, perhaps even McFadden and Joao Silva - and to play Billy in his natural position.
Because I don't see a point in giving him a war chest if he's just gonna stick them on the bench while sticking to the same players he's stuck with over the years.
Granted, it may be argued that these players are simply not good enough for the Premier League, and that we need to spend money to get players in who are up to standard. However, it then begs the question of how reliable the scouting info was that led to their purchases initially. And if it's not reliable, then there's no point in splurging money on new players who may also turn out to not be up to standard.
Because I don't see a point in giving him a war chest if he's just gonna stick them on the bench while sticking to the same players he's stuck with over the years.
Granted, it may be argued that these players are simply not good enough for the Premier League, and that we need to spend money to get players in who are up to standard. However, it then begs the question of how reliable the scouting info was that led to their purchases initially. And if it's not reliable, then there's no point in splurging money on new players who may also turn out to not be up to standard.
Mike Rourke
21 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:10:09
21 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:10:09
Ian,
Not going to keep flogging that horse with you buuuuuut...
Did you see the Stoke v Spurs game?
Spurs started with a 4-5-1 ( with much better players than us ) and they were shite in the first half.
Hawwy saw this and at half-time substituted Lennon for Defoe and changed to a 4-4-2. Spurs were amazing in the second half and should have won from 2-0 down - but for the ref and his linesman.
Tactics. Not irrelevant.
Not going to keep flogging that horse with you buuuuuut...
Did you see the Stoke v Spurs game?
Spurs started with a 4-5-1 ( with much better players than us ) and they were shite in the first half.
Hawwy saw this and at half-time substituted Lennon for Defoe and changed to a 4-4-2. Spurs were amazing in the second half and should have won from 2-0 down - but for the ref and his linesman.
Tactics. Not irrelevant.
Stephen Kenny
22 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:13:18
22 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:13:18
"Whats the point in bringing in quality players? Everyone knows its tactics that win games not quality players. "
Or, if the opposite is true why not get rid of the manager and get someone cheap, that way we'd have an extra £3m a year to spend on quality players!!!
Or, if the opposite is true why not get rid of the manager and get someone cheap, that way we'd have an extra £3m a year to spend on quality players!!!
Glen Anderson
23 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:19:12
23 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:19:12
Is that #5 the fat Brazilian Rondaldo on loan? I wouldn't put it past Moyes to ask.
Dave Lynch
24 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:21:21
24 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:21:21
Why does Defoe always get a mention when we talk about targets.
There is no fucking way he would leave spurs and no fucking way we could afford his wages never mind transfer fee.
Why would he leave a team who play open attacking football, are in with a shout of winning trophies and is played in his natural prefered position.
Unless that is. He would take a massive wage cut, be happy playing out of position chasing lost causes and be happy with the knowledge he will never win a fucking light whilst with us.
Get fucking real !
There is no fucking way he would leave spurs and no fucking way we could afford his wages never mind transfer fee.
Why would he leave a team who play open attacking football, are in with a shout of winning trophies and is played in his natural prefered position.
Unless that is. He would take a massive wage cut, be happy playing out of position chasing lost causes and be happy with the knowledge he will never win a fucking light whilst with us.
Get fucking real !
Ian Tunstead
25 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:30:01
25 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:30:01
Mike, i am converted, i now agree with you, thats why i'm saying lets not buy any players, we dont need them, its all about the tactics.
Stephen we now need Moyes more than ever, he has kept us the best of the rest for years because of his brilliant tactics, at times they seem crazy but to be a genious you need to be a little crazy.
Stephen we now need Moyes more than ever, he has kept us the best of the rest for years because of his brilliant tactics, at times they seem crazy but to be a genious you need to be a little crazy.
Danny Broderick
26 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:38:36
26 Posted 13/12/2011 at 16:38:36
If we do bring anyone in, it will be bargain basement stuff.
Andy Johnson is running down his contract - but I'm not sure how things finished between him and Moyes. Would they bury the hatchet? He works hard and Moyes knows him, and more importantly he'd be cheap, so I think he could be a possibility.
Bobby Zamora - he seems to be having problems under Martin Jol. He could be a target man for Moyes, though I personally think he blows hot and cold.
Would United loan us Berbatov or Owen?
I won't be getting too excited, as I don't think we are the most appetising of options for strikers. If you were one, would you want to play for Moyes up front on your own?
Andy Johnson is running down his contract - but I'm not sure how things finished between him and Moyes. Would they bury the hatchet? He works hard and Moyes knows him, and more importantly he'd be cheap, so I think he could be a possibility.
Bobby Zamora - he seems to be having problems under Martin Jol. He could be a target man for Moyes, though I personally think he blows hot and cold.
Would United loan us Berbatov or Owen?
I won't be getting too excited, as I don't think we are the most appetising of options for strikers. If you were one, would you want to play for Moyes up front on your own?
Peter Warren
28 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:00:13
28 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:00:13
My christmas wish is for Victor to be fit again. Then we'll have both a quality striker and winger
Shaun Brennan
29 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:04:37
29 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:04:37
Eva Banega anyone?
Stephen Leary
30 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:03:55
30 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:03:55
With the reported 5 million, and hopfully selling billy for 6 to a Russian club or any club for that matter and maybe that hopfully leaves 11 million, i wouldn't mind our line-up then for the rest of the season looking like this,
Howard,
Coleman, Jags, Heitinga, Baines,
Pienaar, Felliani, Rodwell, Drenthe
Andy Johnson, Zamora.
Zamora aparently wants out of Q.P.R and so does AJ i think they work quite well with eachother, that would leave a bench of Mucha, Hibbert, Distin, Neville, Osman, Cahill, Saha, Barkley, Geuye, Vellios. If someone were to offer 6 mill for Cahill i would take it, the mans a legend but i think hes finished in the role he plays in, and Moyes seems reluctant to use him as a central midfielder.
Howard,
Coleman, Jags, Heitinga, Baines,
Pienaar, Felliani, Rodwell, Drenthe
Andy Johnson, Zamora.
Zamora aparently wants out of Q.P.R and so does AJ i think they work quite well with eachother, that would leave a bench of Mucha, Hibbert, Distin, Neville, Osman, Cahill, Saha, Barkley, Geuye, Vellios. If someone were to offer 6 mill for Cahill i would take it, the mans a legend but i think hes finished in the role he plays in, and Moyes seems reluctant to use him as a central midfielder.
Sam Hoare
31 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:21:29
31 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:21:29
Dave Lynch@24. You definitely win top Grinch prize so far! Also not sure Defoe is playing in his favoured position at Spurs at the moment unless he likes it on the bench!
Also Stephen Kenny @16. I like some of your suggestions for attacking players but before you say the bigger problem is at the back you should surely have a look at the league table where you will see that we have one of the tighter defenses. We have conceded the same as Tottenham and Chelsea and less than the likes of Newcastle, Arsenal and Villa. Our defense is far from perfect but its clear that scoring goals is our main problem this season.
Also Stephen Kenny @16. I like some of your suggestions for attacking players but before you say the bigger problem is at the back you should surely have a look at the league table where you will see that we have one of the tighter defenses. We have conceded the same as Tottenham and Chelsea and less than the likes of Newcastle, Arsenal and Villa. Our defense is far from perfect but its clear that scoring goals is our main problem this season.
Nick Armitage
32 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:26:38
32 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:26:38
Who on God's earth would offer £6 million for Cahill?
Stephen Kenny
33 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:36:11
33 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:36:11
Sam,
Imo neither problem is bigger than the other. But put them together and you have a recipe for disaster. Maybe not this year or even next but???
Imo neither problem is bigger than the other. But put them together and you have a recipe for disaster. Maybe not this year or even next but???
Dave Lynch
34 Posted 13/12/2011 at 18:13:51
34 Posted 13/12/2011 at 18:13:51
Sam @ 30.
If he signs for us i'll jump off Mount Crumpit singing you'll never walk alone and trust me, i fucking hate that dirge.
If he signs for us i'll jump off Mount Crumpit singing you'll never walk alone and trust me, i fucking hate that dirge.
Jack Wilkinson
35 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:49:40
35 Posted 13/12/2011 at 17:49:40
Rob #20 got it right. Moyes, for some reason, is incredibly reluctant to play the players he already has. He needs to give Gueye, Barkley, Strac etc a good run in the team before he targets more young players to buy. We then have the likes of Bidwell, Wallace, Mcaleny, Mustafi etc. that are virtually untried yet I hear so much good stuff about them. I'd also like to see Silva come back, perhaps for next season, to see if he can crack it.
Only then should we be identifying our transfer targets. I'd be over the moon with a creative midfielder and a 10-15 goals-a-year striker. Other than that I think we have a decent squad. Defence is alright (as Sam #30 points out), we have some decent midfielders: Rodwell, Drenthe, Fellaini (who I think is top, top class). The only problem is we are completely void of the two things you need to score goals: someone to make the chance, and someone to finish it.
In reference to the formation problem, I know 4-5-1 can work, but never the way we play it. We seem to play two holding midfielders, two wide midfielders who aren't particularly attacking with one midfielder trying to support a virtually isolated striker. I'd try Johnny in DM, he seems to fit the bill in terms of his aggression, fearlessness and he seems to fancy himself as a bit creative. Let Fellaini and Rodwell get forward with Drenthe and Barkley providing chances out wide. If we were to get someone it would likely be loan moves or cheap buys - those out of favour in their team or running out of contract. Perhaps Klasnic upfront, Kranjcar in midfield and Donovan back on loan? Unlikely.
Only then should we be identifying our transfer targets. I'd be over the moon with a creative midfielder and a 10-15 goals-a-year striker. Other than that I think we have a decent squad. Defence is alright (as Sam #30 points out), we have some decent midfielders: Rodwell, Drenthe, Fellaini (who I think is top, top class). The only problem is we are completely void of the two things you need to score goals: someone to make the chance, and someone to finish it.
In reference to the formation problem, I know 4-5-1 can work, but never the way we play it. We seem to play two holding midfielders, two wide midfielders who aren't particularly attacking with one midfielder trying to support a virtually isolated striker. I'd try Johnny in DM, he seems to fit the bill in terms of his aggression, fearlessness and he seems to fancy himself as a bit creative. Let Fellaini and Rodwell get forward with Drenthe and Barkley providing chances out wide. If we were to get someone it would likely be loan moves or cheap buys - those out of favour in their team or running out of contract. Perhaps Klasnic upfront, Kranjcar in midfield and Donovan back on loan? Unlikely.
Mike Gaynes
36 Posted 13/12/2011 at 19:49:22
36 Posted 13/12/2011 at 19:49:22
Let's assume Santa's bag is empty and no new players arriving... so my gift would be this, just to get our 11 best on the field:
Howard
Hibbert Jagielka Heitinga Distin
Drenthe Rodwell Fellaini Baines
Barkley
Saha
Moving Baines up the field gives us creators on both flanks, and Distin's better defensively anyway. Barkley at attacking mid is more likely to create goals than Cahill, and with Rodders and Felli behind him, the kid has fewer defensive responsibilities and less pressure. Anybody buying? Anybody laughing?
Howard
Hibbert Jagielka Heitinga Distin
Drenthe Rodwell Fellaini Baines
Barkley
Saha
Moving Baines up the field gives us creators on both flanks, and Distin's better defensively anyway. Barkley at attacking mid is more likely to create goals than Cahill, and with Rodders and Felli behind him, the kid has fewer defensive responsibilities and less pressure. Anybody buying? Anybody laughing?
Jamie Sweet
37 Posted 13/12/2011 at 21:08:13
37 Posted 13/12/2011 at 21:08:13
I?d be very happy to get Drenthe tied down to some sort of contract agreement for starters.
Next priority must be a striker but I?m at a loss as to who we could afford or who would want to join us. Another Championship gamble like Maynard? Risky, but I?m pretty sure we can?t afford someone who is proven at the top level so this appears to be our most realistic option.
I can tell you this though: If in February, our forward line is still looking like this for every game:
Cahill
I
Saha
?. I will seriously consider wrapping up small bits of dog poo in my season ticket, placing them on the doorsteps of the Kenwright and Moyes households and setting fire to them! That will be me signing out until the Kenwright / Moyes era is over.
Next priority must be a striker but I?m at a loss as to who we could afford or who would want to join us. Another Championship gamble like Maynard? Risky, but I?m pretty sure we can?t afford someone who is proven at the top level so this appears to be our most realistic option.
I can tell you this though: If in February, our forward line is still looking like this for every game:
Cahill
I
Saha
?. I will seriously consider wrapping up small bits of dog poo in my season ticket, placing them on the doorsteps of the Kenwright and Moyes households and setting fire to them! That will be me signing out until the Kenwright / Moyes era is over.
Ben Stoker
38 Posted 13/12/2011 at 21:55:21
38 Posted 13/12/2011 at 21:55:21
On the link Ant provided [http://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/en/spieler/vertragsende/basics.html] there is a glaring one for me. 10th on the list: Tim Howard.
If we don't get his contract sorted we'll be down to Mucha, oh dear.
We don't have the money to buy a new keeper either.
If we don't get his contract sorted we'll be down to Mucha, oh dear.
We don't have the money to buy a new keeper either.
Andy Crooks
39 Posted 13/12/2011 at 22:54:12
39 Posted 13/12/2011 at 22:54:12
Good suggestion, Mike Gaynes. A little bit of imagination with the squad we have would help.
Eric Myles
40 Posted 14/12/2011 at 02:27:04
40 Posted 14/12/2011 at 02:27:04
Steven #29 "Zamora aparently wants out of QPR and so does AJ."
I don't think either of them play for QPR??
I don't think either of them play for QPR??
Peter Barry
41 Posted 14/12/2011 at 03:27:31
41 Posted 14/12/2011 at 03:27:31
I'd take the resignation of Tactics Devoid Dour Davey and Kenwright and his 'lovey' mates getting the bums rush and us getting a new financially viable owner. Now THAT would be a good Xmas present.
Peter Barry
42 Posted 14/12/2011 at 04:34:09
42 Posted 14/12/2011 at 04:34:09
I would advise everyone to take Drenthe out of your Xmas stacking list he chinned Dour Davey he will never play for Everton again. Tactics Devoid Dour Davey puts HIS Jock pride way above the interests of Everton football club and their supporters.
Peter Barry
43 Posted 14/12/2011 at 04:38:03
43 Posted 14/12/2011 at 04:38:03
Ian # 19 Tactics are certainly important as Tactics Devoid Dour Davey proves week after week but you also need quality players playing in their preferred positions to implement those tactics and an inspirational manager to motivate them. At the moment we have none of the above.
Gavin Ramejkis
44 Posted 14/12/2011 at 07:11:24
44 Posted 14/12/2011 at 07:11:24
Sheikh Mansour for chairman - actually forgotten what its like to have a chairman who actually spends money.
Then a new manager who has more than one gameplan and uses subs as and when required to change games - also forgotten what another formation looks like but know it must be better than 7-3-0
World class players like Silva instead of someone nobody has ever heard of or ever will - the top scorer in the Amish league or another bleeding defender
Father xmas owes us a lot, think he forgot our address over a decade ago
Then a new manager who has more than one gameplan and uses subs as and when required to change games - also forgotten what another formation looks like but know it must be better than 7-3-0
World class players like Silva instead of someone nobody has ever heard of or ever will - the top scorer in the Amish league or another bleeding defender
Father xmas owes us a lot, think he forgot our address over a decade ago
Stephen Leary
45 Posted 14/12/2011 at 17:40:57
45 Posted 14/12/2011 at 17:40:57
Eric 39, well spotted mate lol my mistake i of course meant Fulham.
Ian Tunstead
46 Posted 14/12/2011 at 17:46:28
46 Posted 14/12/2011 at 17:46:28
I dont understand what you are tying to say Peter. What is more important?
Ian Tunstead
47 Posted 14/12/2011 at 17:51:19
47 Posted 14/12/2011 at 17:51:19
We dont have many quality players and we dont have enough players who can play in every position. Moyes tactics have been proven to be top 8 in the league over a 10 year period. It had nothing to do with quality players like Arteta and Pienaar.
Simon Harris
48 Posted 14/12/2011 at 18:05:08
48 Posted 14/12/2011 at 18:05:08
Terry Curran - or failing that Pienaar and Defoe.
Eric Myles
49 Posted 15/12/2011 at 09:38:18
49 Posted 15/12/2011 at 09:38:18
Peter #41 "I would advise everyone to take Drenthe out of your Xmas stacking list he chinned Dour Davey he will never play for Everton again."
The Echo have denied this so I guess it must be true. I'd better sell him from my Fantasy Team now.
The Echo have denied this so I guess it must be true. I'd better sell him from my Fantasy Team now.
Eric Myles
50 Posted 15/12/2011 at 09:40:23
50 Posted 15/12/2011 at 09:40:23
Better take Rodwell out of the squad lists too as now Fletcher is out of United's side, they'll be Christmas shopping for a new midfielder.
Peter Barry
51 Posted 15/12/2011 at 12:51:38
51 Posted 15/12/2011 at 12:51:38
Ian # 45 do I have to spell it out in words of one syllable so you can understand, seems so.
1) Tactics Devoid Dour Davey is devoid of well...... TACTICAL ABILITY
2) Even if we had someone ,NOT Round, who could use some TACTICS Dour Davey insists on not putting players in their preferred and thus STRONGEST positions.
It also does not help that Tactics Devoid Dour Davey has allowed virtually all our experienced Strikers to leave thus leaving us the perennial cripple Saha the injured and USELESS Anichebe and two UNPROVEN inexperienced re[placements in Strac and Vellios. And even then HE DOES NOT PLAY THEM.
1) Tactics Devoid Dour Davey is devoid of well...... TACTICAL ABILITY
2) Even if we had someone ,NOT Round, who could use some TACTICS Dour Davey insists on not putting players in their preferred and thus STRONGEST positions.
It also does not help that Tactics Devoid Dour Davey has allowed virtually all our experienced Strikers to leave thus leaving us the perennial cripple Saha the injured and USELESS Anichebe and two UNPROVEN inexperienced re[placements in Strac and Vellios. And even then HE DOES NOT PLAY THEM.
Tony J Williams
52 Posted 15/12/2011 at 16:08:30
52 Posted 15/12/2011 at 16:08:30
But Peter, we are constantly hearing how shite our players are on here, yet we haven't been relegated yet.
How can a tactically inept manager keep up such a shower of shite?
How can a tactically inept manager keep up such a shower of shite?
Sam Hoare
53 Posted 16/12/2011 at 00:17:22
53 Posted 16/12/2011 at 00:17:22
Well thats number 2 done! Thanks Santa.
Just 1, 3 and 4 to go!!
Just 1, 3 and 4 to go!!
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1 Posted 13/12/2011 at 13:54:40
Haven't seen too much of Maynard but heard good things, probably more realistic if his contract expires in the summer to have him sign a pre-agreement and take him on free.
Just found this link http://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/en/spieler/vertragsende/basics.html for players out of contract at the end of this season, happy shopping gents!!