Season 2011-12 Fan Articles
Who's on board for 2012-13?
By Matthew Lovekin :: 02/02/2012
37 Comments (»Last)
After the January 2012 transfer window has shut, Everton look in a far better shape than before. We finally have some quality players again with pace, creativity and attacking intent ? pretty much every characteristic that has been missing from the whole squad for the entire season so far!
However, all these main concerned players are on very short-term contracts and we could be in the same position at the start of next season if only some or none of these players stay.
Landon Donovan
I truly believe the American is a world class and very intelligent footballer. Landon has proved this not only at Goodison but also on the international stage at the World Cup. He possesses pace, passing ability and seems to raise his game when needed; the sign of a top player.
Landon also comes across as very intelligent in regards to picking the right pass at the right time and never seems to panic. He is versatile and can play in any attacking position, can score as well as create goals and works hard. Landon is also a true Evertonian now and if he did arrive permanently should be relatively cheap (£5m-£10m) and reasonable wages. He is also a real athlete so despite his age, should have a number of years playing football left in him yet.
In fact, there is only one negative I can find in signing Donovan on a full-time contract; that is he is unlikely to want to join us permanently. Who would really swap a nice cosy lifestyle in Los Angeles for Merseyside?
Royston Drenthe
On the face of it, Drenthe is an explosive and powerful left-winger who can create and score goals with lots of pace and an eye for a trick. Drenthe is also on a free transfer at the end of the season, so surely signing him is a no-brainer?
Well, no. Unfortunately, Royston is the complete opposite of a stereotypical David Moyes player and therefore I?d be surprised if Moyes made a move for Drenthe in the summer. Rumours of fall-outs between player and manager, not tracking back, and not working hard enough, as well as rumours of his arrogance and ego, will count against Drenthe being at Goodison next season.
A great player on his day, but will Moyes feel he can get more good days than bad out of the temperamental Dutchman, not to mention his reported high wages?
Steven Pienaar
In an ideal world, most Evertonains would probably choose to see the pace of Donovan and Drenthe tearing down either wing for Everton next season. However, in a more realistic/Moyes world, we will probably see a hard-working central midfielder pushed out wide next season. Cue: Steven Pienaar.
Evertonains know all about Pienaar; hard-working and skillful. Perhaps not enough goals or assists but excellent wing play with Leighton Baines.
The main stumbling block in Pienaar?s return could be the transfer fee. If Pienaar performs during the next six months then Spurs will bump up the asking price to probably around £5m. The only way Everton will get that sort of money is by selling players first, which will be a major stumbling block as we are running out of players to sell. Currently our best players are only on loan!
There will also be the problem of Pienaar?s wages. He turned down £65k per week to go to Spurs a year ago. Everton are nowhere near that financial situation now and he might only get offered around the £40k per week mark.
The question is: how much does Pienaar really want to come back to Everton?
Denis Stracqualursi
The Beast from Argentina is becoming a cult hero. Lacks quality but runs through brick walls (or Man City defenders) for Everton. He doesn?t stop working his hardest until he is ready to collapse on the pitch. He can head the ball and holds the ball up really well which suits David Moyes?s style of play.
Signing Denis should be a formality. It should be a case of asking his Argentine club how much they want (£2m-£5m) and then paying it.
The only downside to Denis now, is will he start another game now that Jelavic has signed? I think the big Argentine has to play now and could be even better in a partnership by holding the ball up and creating chances for Jelavic. Has Moyes got the bottle to start Denis in place of Cahill? I think he deserves the chance and Moyes needs to start both strikers with Cahill being an impact sub.
A lack of opportunities for Denis now could result in him not being at Goodison next season which will be a major disappointment.
Summary
Ideally, Everton would sign all four of these loan players for next season. Donovan and Drenthe would be first-choice wingers with Pienaar a back-up. Denis would be second choice striker but Jelavic?s partner with Cahill on the bench. However these four would cost around £15m and approximately £150k per week in wages. I?m not sure how Everton would raise this money but they surely need to try.
Unfortunately, I really can?t see Donovan ever playing again in a royal blue shirt after this month, but he is such a good player that Everton need to try every possible angle to get him to sign. At least three of these four players need to be signed for next season for Everton to move forward as a club. The other three players would probably cost around £8m and £110k per week in wages which is more realistic.
Personally, I feel if we sign only one or two of these players then we aren?t going to improve enough as a club. Signing none of these players will simply be a disaster for next season and it?s doubtful if Moyes will be given any funds towards signing any permanent players. Successful loan signings need to be made permanent by the Board otherwise we will simply have a continuous stream of loan players.
Loan players should be a stop-gap solution, not a long-term plan. How the Board can fund this plan on the reduced wages budget as well as generating future transfer funds is the next step...
Reader Comments (37)
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Nate Allen
2 Posted 02/02/2012 at 14:50:08
2 Posted 02/02/2012 at 14:50:08
There is no way Donovan will stay. Most Evertonians should realize that. There's a chance with Drenthe, and perhaps an even better one with Pienaar. Not so sure about whether we would or even should get Strac.
Hopefully we get to keep at least two of them, it's definitely not definite though.
Hopefully we get to keep at least two of them, it's definitely not definite though.
Ray Roche
3 Posted 02/02/2012 at 15:01:18
3 Posted 02/02/2012 at 15:01:18
"Donovan and Drenthe would be first-choice wingers with Pienaar a back-up"
No way. Pienaar brings out the best in Baines, something Drenthe will never do. Drenthe is also a liability with some of the tackles he throws in, he was lucky to stay on the pitch against City with their diving,cheating ways...something Drenthe is also capable of. He is ,at best, an impact sub. Incidenmtally, against City he was gash i the first half.
No way. Pienaar brings out the best in Baines, something Drenthe will never do. Drenthe is also a liability with some of the tackles he throws in, he was lucky to stay on the pitch against City with their diving,cheating ways...something Drenthe is also capable of. He is ,at best, an impact sub. Incidenmtally, against City he was gash i the first half.
Adam Trotario
4 Posted 02/02/2012 at 15:41:21
4 Posted 02/02/2012 at 15:41:21
I would sell Rodwell to get the money to buy whichever of these we thought were useful (Donovan + Pienaar + Straq?). Cashing in on Rodwell and his overhype would be good business if we could get anything over 12-13 million for him. I think Donovan would move -- it's a matter of getting the fee right with Galaxy/MLS.
Roberto Birquet
5 Posted 02/02/2012 at 15:44:29
5 Posted 02/02/2012 at 15:44:29
Landon is also a true Evertonian now and if he did arrive permanently should be relatively cheap (£5m-£10m)
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First off, £10 million is not cheap, especially for a 30-year old. Off the top of my head I can only think of two players Everton has ever paid more than £10 million for. How is that cheap?
However, I don't think he'd cost more than £5 million, if he pushed for switch. And losing the LA lifestyle should not be part of his consideration.
For Heaven's Sake, you're not gonna be a top athlete all of your life. Once it's over, it's over and your life will never be as good again. We can only guess how amazing it is to run out in front of 40-50,000 chanting your name; life has to be a bit of a damp squib after that. Are you seriously saying that someone would turn down three years of that for a bloody suntan?
I don't buy it. Bloody nonsense if you ask me.
He'd cost £5 m tops. His contract ends in December 2013, and he's 30. as for the MLS wanting to keep him. He has served his time for the League, helping to raise its profile. Tt would be a sin to block a move if he wanted it. I'd take him, but defo no more than £5 m, and if left till jan next year, for less than that.
Drenthe would be cheaper as the Madrid deal was loan to the end of his contract (June 2012), and only pay an amount if taken on after that. I would guess that it'd be no more than £2-3 million tops. He's worth that I think.
Pienaar? I doubt it. If he can find a CL club, or Arsenal, I'd expect him to leave. And at 30, do we want another 30-yr old? No. And the wages? He is supposed to have left because of wages. we can't afford him. Nice to have him back, but it's short-term.
Straqui? Not yet convinced, but he will get his chance to impress. I reckon the sale of Rodwell is gonna happen - or else it will be 'bye, bye Baines - NO!!!!!!!!. If some of it (Rod money) goes to the banks; then maybe get Donovan, Drenthe and Straqui for a combined £10 m. If we can spend it all, maybe a better striker instead of Straqui, plus the other two just mentioned
----------------
First off, £10 million is not cheap, especially for a 30-year old. Off the top of my head I can only think of two players Everton has ever paid more than £10 million for. How is that cheap?
However, I don't think he'd cost more than £5 million, if he pushed for switch. And losing the LA lifestyle should not be part of his consideration.
For Heaven's Sake, you're not gonna be a top athlete all of your life. Once it's over, it's over and your life will never be as good again. We can only guess how amazing it is to run out in front of 40-50,000 chanting your name; life has to be a bit of a damp squib after that. Are you seriously saying that someone would turn down three years of that for a bloody suntan?
I don't buy it. Bloody nonsense if you ask me.
He'd cost £5 m tops. His contract ends in December 2013, and he's 30. as for the MLS wanting to keep him. He has served his time for the League, helping to raise its profile. Tt would be a sin to block a move if he wanted it. I'd take him, but defo no more than £5 m, and if left till jan next year, for less than that.
Drenthe would be cheaper as the Madrid deal was loan to the end of his contract (June 2012), and only pay an amount if taken on after that. I would guess that it'd be no more than £2-3 million tops. He's worth that I think.
Pienaar? I doubt it. If he can find a CL club, or Arsenal, I'd expect him to leave. And at 30, do we want another 30-yr old? No. And the wages? He is supposed to have left because of wages. we can't afford him. Nice to have him back, but it's short-term.
Straqui? Not yet convinced, but he will get his chance to impress. I reckon the sale of Rodwell is gonna happen - or else it will be 'bye, bye Baines - NO!!!!!!!!. If some of it (Rod money) goes to the banks; then maybe get Donovan, Drenthe and Straqui for a combined £10 m. If we can spend it all, maybe a better striker instead of Straqui, plus the other two just mentioned
Sam Hoare
6 Posted 02/02/2012 at 16:17:47
6 Posted 02/02/2012 at 16:17:47
Interesting piece.
What is also interesting is how many players are out of contract this summer. Good players in the premiership (like Rodallega and Drenthe) and in the champiosnhip (like Nathaniel Clyne).
It may be that having so many players on loan now is a good strategy to free up space and wages.
My gut would be to say that in our current state we cannot afford to spend much in the way of transfer fees on players without resale value. I would say that we are better off going for free agents of on players 26 or under with potential to improve and be sold if needed.
Under that principle, depedning on how they do over the next 4 months Stracula and Drenthe may be worth retaining but Pienaar and Donavan not, as they would cost fees that would not be recouped.
What is also interesting is how many players are out of contract this summer. Good players in the premiership (like Rodallega and Drenthe) and in the champiosnhip (like Nathaniel Clyne).
It may be that having so many players on loan now is a good strategy to free up space and wages.
My gut would be to say that in our current state we cannot afford to spend much in the way of transfer fees on players without resale value. I would say that we are better off going for free agents of on players 26 or under with potential to improve and be sold if needed.
Under that principle, depedning on how they do over the next 4 months Stracula and Drenthe may be worth retaining but Pienaar and Donavan not, as they would cost fees that would not be recouped.
James Stewart
7 Posted 02/02/2012 at 17:57:38
7 Posted 02/02/2012 at 17:57:38
Strac and drenthe are must sign up for me.
Pienaar too if the fee is low but if not then its not worth it.
Donovan will never happen and thats just the way it is. Calling him world class is a little over the top. Good hard working player yes but no way world class. And he has lost a lot of the pace he had last time he was here.
Pienaar too if the fee is low but if not then its not worth it.
Donovan will never happen and thats just the way it is. Calling him world class is a little over the top. Good hard working player yes but no way world class. And he has lost a lot of the pace he had last time he was here.
Barry Rathbone
8 Posted 02/02/2012 at 18:50:53
8 Posted 02/02/2012 at 18:50:53
LD won't move but we need a clone of him.
First time round we should have found one, the improvement recently only reinforces the point.
Just seen Pienaar's interview on SKY, if ever a fella wanted to return he is that man, a gnats bollock away from saying it was a mistake going to spurs
First time round we should have found one, the improvement recently only reinforces the point.
Just seen Pienaar's interview on SKY, if ever a fella wanted to return he is that man, a gnats bollock away from saying it was a mistake going to spurs
Stuart O'Malley
9 Posted 02/02/2012 at 20:36:05
9 Posted 02/02/2012 at 20:36:05
Delighted to see Pienaar back, as Baines has not been the same player since he left .
Richard O'Shea
10 Posted 02/02/2012 at 20:46:27
10 Posted 02/02/2012 at 20:46:27
I think Pienaar would accept less wages than quoted £65,000 a year. Seen now he is not as good as he thought he was. Where is he going to go in the summer, spurs dont want him or any clubs in top 6. Can't see many clubs lower in the table to offer him £65,000 a week, I say his wage demands will be less in the summer.
Rob Hollis
11 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:02:41
11 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:02:41
Drenthe or Donovan before Pienaar? Drench has done nothing to deserve to be on the same pitch as Pienaar.
Jim Slade
12 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:15:22
12 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:15:22
I think Drenthe is getting some unfair bashing here. He is quality , just needs a bit more games like Tues night to get his confidence going. You could here Moyes shouting at him to keep going good lad a lot so needs encouragement. Hes better than Billy!
Rob Hollis
13 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:26:02
13 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:26:02
Jim. Not bashing him. Fast as you like but seems to fail to get to the point. I have not seen any contribution to compare with Pienaar from him yet. Hope he does become as good though.
Paul Columb
14 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:24:56
14 Posted 02/02/2012 at 21:24:56
I'm with you Adam (965). The Rodwell hype has already hushed and don't know if it will reach a height again, unless he gets significant England time at the Euros. If we could get 15-20 for him I'd be chewing hands off. Maybe I'm not seeing something that others are, but I really don't rate him that highly.
Mike Allison
15 Posted 02/02/2012 at 22:13:10
15 Posted 02/02/2012 at 22:13:10
A good summary of a situation I think a lot of us have been thinking about. Unfortunately, I can easily envisage none of them being here at the start of next season for the various reasons you've suggested.
Personally one thing I think you left out is the possibility of playing Pienaar behind Jelavic and Donovan and Drenthe on the wings. That would actually be my preferred line-up.
I do rate Rodwell, but £20M for him which allowed us to keep this front four, or maybe someone different to Donovan if he wasn't really available (I like Sinclair at Swansea, who is a good age too) and you wouldn't find me moaning about being a selling club.
Unfortunately I still worry that Moyes would be looking to spend it on a centre back. I now think we've got four centre backs who are, or soon will be in Duffy's case, good enough.
Also noticed mention of Rodallega above too. Assuming his wages are acceptable and we can sign him on a free I'd go for him ahead of Stracqualursi.
Personally one thing I think you left out is the possibility of playing Pienaar behind Jelavic and Donovan and Drenthe on the wings. That would actually be my preferred line-up.
I do rate Rodwell, but £20M for him which allowed us to keep this front four, or maybe someone different to Donovan if he wasn't really available (I like Sinclair at Swansea, who is a good age too) and you wouldn't find me moaning about being a selling club.
Unfortunately I still worry that Moyes would be looking to spend it on a centre back. I now think we've got four centre backs who are, or soon will be in Duffy's case, good enough.
Also noticed mention of Rodallega above too. Assuming his wages are acceptable and we can sign him on a free I'd go for him ahead of Stracqualursi.
Dick Fearon
16 Posted 02/02/2012 at 22:04:13
16 Posted 02/02/2012 at 22:04:13
Does anyone remember Jimmy Gauld who was with us for a short period many years ago. Seeing Royston zig zag toward goal at top speed I can't help but think how similar in style he is to Jimmy.
In some ways both were in the same mould as AJ. Very fast, low centre of gravity, too easily goes to ground or knocked off the ball.
Referees and opponents picked up on those things making it almost impossible to win a free kick let alone a penalty.
Other than the above attributes Jimmy and AJ had little else in their locker. I have yet to be convinced that Royston is any better equipped.
In some ways both were in the same mould as AJ. Very fast, low centre of gravity, too easily goes to ground or knocked off the ball.
Referees and opponents picked up on those things making it almost impossible to win a free kick let alone a penalty.
Other than the above attributes Jimmy and AJ had little else in their locker. I have yet to be convinced that Royston is any better equipped.
Adam Luszniak
17 Posted 03/02/2012 at 00:03:48
17 Posted 03/02/2012 at 00:03:48
Drenthe is an excellent player in my opinion. He has his limitations but christ who doesn't. What other player do we have who will take the ball at his feet and run at defences? When was the last time you saw a player in an Everton shirt skin someone like Drenthe did to Gareth Barry the other night?
Keith Glazzard
18 Posted 03/02/2012 at 00:17:14
18 Posted 03/02/2012 at 00:17:14
The win against City was based on a defensive game plan - no other alternative available. Hibbo at CB for experience and block and tackle on the ground.
So how did Donovan and Drenthe fit into this scheme? Simple answer - they did. Both worked their sox off covering and closing down, using their speed to force opponents to make ineffective passes, shuffling the ball around. Landon's game is much better than it was 2 years ago, and Royston is improving game by game.
As is that of the mighty Straq. He has the skills to survive and prosper in the top flight in Argentina. If he is now ready to compete in our league, after only six months (no irony intended at all) that will be amazing. I hope he has a great half season.
And keeping Pienaar - if it can be done - should be a no-brainer.
Can we afford it? Would Donovan live in a Cheshire estate for a couple of years? Fuck knows.
Hands up who's missed Jack Rodwell while he's been out.
Landon, Royston and Denis and a very decent midfielder Darron Gibson are the best thing that's happened to us for a long time. Steven Pienaar to come, and this Croatian bloke from Rangers. Plus Vellios and Duffy in the locker with Jags, Distin and Osman to return.
Keep this squad together and 2013 doesn't sound so bad.
So how did Donovan and Drenthe fit into this scheme? Simple answer - they did. Both worked their sox off covering and closing down, using their speed to force opponents to make ineffective passes, shuffling the ball around. Landon's game is much better than it was 2 years ago, and Royston is improving game by game.
As is that of the mighty Straq. He has the skills to survive and prosper in the top flight in Argentina. If he is now ready to compete in our league, after only six months (no irony intended at all) that will be amazing. I hope he has a great half season.
And keeping Pienaar - if it can be done - should be a no-brainer.
Can we afford it? Would Donovan live in a Cheshire estate for a couple of years? Fuck knows.
Hands up who's missed Jack Rodwell while he's been out.
Landon, Royston and Denis and a very decent midfielder Darron Gibson are the best thing that's happened to us for a long time. Steven Pienaar to come, and this Croatian bloke from Rangers. Plus Vellios and Duffy in the locker with Jags, Distin and Osman to return.
Keep this squad together and 2013 doesn't sound so bad.
Keith Glazzard
19 Posted 03/02/2012 at 00:58:34
19 Posted 03/02/2012 at 00:58:34
Sorry Seamus, that should have read 'Jags, Distin, Osman and Coleman to return - in no paricular order.'
James Flynn
20 Posted 03/02/2012 at 01:57:05
20 Posted 03/02/2012 at 01:57:05
On the other hand, Buddle just re-signed with Arena at Galaxy. With him and Keane up top and Beckham providing service, a formidable MLS side for sure.
Will say again, a deal for LD is doable if Moyes offers his talented youngsters Rodwell and Barkley to Arena on loan.
MLS is a minor league (for now). However, Galaxy is the glamour side over here and gets every club's best shot. Not to mention, the big CONCONCAF club tournament here starts in March before the season and Galaxy ownership are ambitious in the extreme.
An excellent atmosphere for Rodders and Barkley. Better they're playing than sitting around waiting for training camp.
It can be done, LD in for a couple years. His wages are low by EPL standards.
Will say again, a deal for LD is doable if Moyes offers his talented youngsters Rodwell and Barkley to Arena on loan.
MLS is a minor league (for now). However, Galaxy is the glamour side over here and gets every club's best shot. Not to mention, the big CONCONCAF club tournament here starts in March before the season and Galaxy ownership are ambitious in the extreme.
An excellent atmosphere for Rodders and Barkley. Better they're playing than sitting around waiting for training camp.
It can be done, LD in for a couple years. His wages are low by EPL standards.
Eric Myles
21 Posted 03/02/2012 at 01:48:03
21 Posted 03/02/2012 at 01:48:03
Matthew, you've forgotten that we also need a couple of defenders in the summer, Neville, Distin and Hibbert are getting older and slower and we still have no back up for Baines.
Who will get on Moyes buy list first, a good solid defender or a flairfull pacy winger?
Who will get on Moyes buy list first, a good solid defender or a flairfull pacy winger?
James Morgan
22 Posted 03/02/2012 at 11:03:31
22 Posted 03/02/2012 at 11:03:31
I think Donovan won't happen but I can see maybe Stracq, Pienaar and Drenthe signing up. Pienaar is most effective with Baines on the left and I think Drenthe could be useful on the right. The lad has skill and pace, he's a bit wild but every team needs a maverick.
I'd also like Coleman to be put at right back, not before learning the defensive side off Hibbo first though! Jelavic up top with the big man and any one of Gibson/Rodwell/Barkley/Osman/Gueye next to Felli in the middle. I'd like Barkley.
I'd also like Coleman to be put at right back, not before learning the defensive side off Hibbo first though! Jelavic up top with the big man and any one of Gibson/Rodwell/Barkley/Osman/Gueye next to Felli in the middle. I'd like Barkley.
Stephen Kenny
23 Posted 03/02/2012 at 11:13:53
23 Posted 03/02/2012 at 11:13:53
James,
I appreciate your patriotism but there's no way on earth any Englsih side will be sending their better young players over the pond. The standard of play is too poor and the environment too different to our game.
Rodwell is an England international before the age of 21. EFC cannot and will not be loaning out players of that quality to sides who play in (no offence intended) footballing backwaters.
I think Drenthe is potentially the best winger in this league given time to settle. I can see him scoring and creating a lot once he loses the 'got something to prove' chip he seems to be carrying.
If he can't get used to the discipline needed to play on the wing over here I'd consider playing him off a front man where he would be effective breaking quickly and commiting defenders as he done from a central position for our goal against Man City. It would be madness not to sign him if he's not demanding ridiculous sums of money.
As much as I'd like Donovan I can't see us having the money up front to get him. The only scenario I can maybe see is us losing merchandising rights for him in exchange for the player for a few years. Still from a footballing perspective a good deal.
I'd love Denis to stay. He's everything I want a target man to be. If you mix up your football between short and long passing with lots of crosses into the box you need a player like him in the side.
The fact he gives defenders a hard game and has a decent touch is just a bonus. There's few left like him these days but I'd liken him to Grant Holt. You wouldn't get Holt for £2-3m even at his age so Denis would be a steal.
I think we may sign Denis and Drenthe. I can't see the other two happening for finances alone, wages of about £5m a year between them and then a fee for each player.
We may get some money this year for Yobo and there may be a few players who either hang up thier boots or leave like Distin and Neville which may free up funds but I can't see that if I'm honest. The only long serving older player I can see going is Cahill who has always said he want's to finish his career in his homeland.
I appreciate your patriotism but there's no way on earth any Englsih side will be sending their better young players over the pond. The standard of play is too poor and the environment too different to our game.
Rodwell is an England international before the age of 21. EFC cannot and will not be loaning out players of that quality to sides who play in (no offence intended) footballing backwaters.
I think Drenthe is potentially the best winger in this league given time to settle. I can see him scoring and creating a lot once he loses the 'got something to prove' chip he seems to be carrying.
If he can't get used to the discipline needed to play on the wing over here I'd consider playing him off a front man where he would be effective breaking quickly and commiting defenders as he done from a central position for our goal against Man City. It would be madness not to sign him if he's not demanding ridiculous sums of money.
As much as I'd like Donovan I can't see us having the money up front to get him. The only scenario I can maybe see is us losing merchandising rights for him in exchange for the player for a few years. Still from a footballing perspective a good deal.
I'd love Denis to stay. He's everything I want a target man to be. If you mix up your football between short and long passing with lots of crosses into the box you need a player like him in the side.
The fact he gives defenders a hard game and has a decent touch is just a bonus. There's few left like him these days but I'd liken him to Grant Holt. You wouldn't get Holt for £2-3m even at his age so Denis would be a steal.
I think we may sign Denis and Drenthe. I can't see the other two happening for finances alone, wages of about £5m a year between them and then a fee for each player.
We may get some money this year for Yobo and there may be a few players who either hang up thier boots or leave like Distin and Neville which may free up funds but I can't see that if I'm honest. The only long serving older player I can see going is Cahill who has always said he want's to finish his career in his homeland.
Brian Waring
24 Posted 03/02/2012 at 15:18:35
24 Posted 03/02/2012 at 15:18:35
In regards to Donovan, I'm sure I read somewhere, Moyes said that trying to sign Donovan is not something that him, or the club would be pursuing.
Shaun Brennan
25 Posted 03/02/2012 at 15:28:09
25 Posted 03/02/2012 at 15:28:09
Drenthe is a fantastic talent. However he really does loose the ball too cheaply!
James Flynn
26 Posted 03/02/2012 at 16:19:25
26 Posted 03/02/2012 at 16:19:25
Stephen (187) - Not seeing where my patriotism has anything to do with it.
MLS is a minor league, no question. But Galaxy is a first-class organization. How about a run of games for Rodders? I think he'll be a good pro in a couple years, but am worried about such a young man's body breaking down constantly. Let him go to LA for the off-season and get a run of games. Nothing more, certainly nothing permanent, and to the benefit of EFC not some yearning of mine for my country's domestic league.
As for Barkley, absolutely send him to Galaxy. For what good to him or EFC is it sitting on his ass instead of playing for one of the best run organizations in any sport? How is this bad. It's all upside.
On the other hand, perhaps your patriotism leads you to believe him loaned out to the Championship would be better simply because that low-quality minor league is in England instead of the US.
MLS is a minor league, no question. But Galaxy is a first-class organization. How about a run of games for Rodders? I think he'll be a good pro in a couple years, but am worried about such a young man's body breaking down constantly. Let him go to LA for the off-season and get a run of games. Nothing more, certainly nothing permanent, and to the benefit of EFC not some yearning of mine for my country's domestic league.
As for Barkley, absolutely send him to Galaxy. For what good to him or EFC is it sitting on his ass instead of playing for one of the best run organizations in any sport? How is this bad. It's all upside.
On the other hand, perhaps your patriotism leads you to believe him loaned out to the Championship would be better simply because that low-quality minor league is in England instead of the US.
Alasdair Mackay
27 Posted 03/02/2012 at 18:24:31
27 Posted 03/02/2012 at 18:24:31
Donovan is non-starter as a permanent transfer.
Drenthe doesn't track back enough.
The best hope is that he learns a thing of two from Pienaar about how a winger should perform for Everton under Moyes, as we can't afford to buy Nuts back.
If Drenthe improves the elements of his game that he needs to, he would be a suitable alternative to buying Nuts back.
Then we get Rodallega or Kalou in on a free in the summer and make sure we have Distin tied down for another year.
Drenthe doesn't track back enough.
The best hope is that he learns a thing of two from Pienaar about how a winger should perform for Everton under Moyes, as we can't afford to buy Nuts back.
If Drenthe improves the elements of his game that he needs to, he would be a suitable alternative to buying Nuts back.
Then we get Rodallega or Kalou in on a free in the summer and make sure we have Distin tied down for another year.
Chris Butler
28 Posted 03/02/2012 at 19:52:59
28 Posted 03/02/2012 at 19:52:59
I think most fans would rather see Pienaar stay and another thing is that Drenthe has his own personality which Moyes doesn't like. He is also far too prone to bad challanges which could get him in to trouble.
Keith Glazzard
29 Posted 04/02/2012 at 00:51:10
29 Posted 04/02/2012 at 00:51:10
Drenthe is a boy becoming a man.
Baines goes past opponents - our left back consistently our most exciting player. Heitinga carries the ball forward with confidence and can long pass accutately. Gibson is settling in, but looks to move forward. Coleman always does. Osman's close control takes him past opponents. And Fellaini would be bought at a very high price by any number of clubs if he became available.
We have the makings of a good attacking team in there, but nothing quite like Drenthe. Somebody has to make things happen. He does.
And he's learning how to track back. And his yellow cards will wither away just as the Big Fella's have.
Sign him up.
Baines goes past opponents - our left back consistently our most exciting player. Heitinga carries the ball forward with confidence and can long pass accutately. Gibson is settling in, but looks to move forward. Coleman always does. Osman's close control takes him past opponents. And Fellaini would be bought at a very high price by any number of clubs if he became available.
We have the makings of a good attacking team in there, but nothing quite like Drenthe. Somebody has to make things happen. He does.
And he's learning how to track back. And his yellow cards will wither away just as the Big Fella's have.
Sign him up.
Leung Chi Ho
30 Posted 04/02/2012 at 07:48:22
30 Posted 04/02/2012 at 07:48:22
Donovan, Drenthe, Pienaar, if you can sign only one of them, who will you sign??
I will sign Donovan definitely, but we have no chance definitely too.
So, how about Drenthe and Pienaar??
I know most of us want Pienaar stay instead, but in this footballing world, It MUST be Drenthe.
The reason as simply as that:
Drenthe : Free Agent, turn 25 in April, still have plenty of room to improve, have 3-4 years at his peak, wages in 40k - 50k, have resale value
Pienaar : may need more than 3m to buy him back, turn 30 in March, warm the Spurs bench can make him never come back to his best, but still can play good football in 2-3 years, wages 50k - 60k, no resale value.
The only edge of Pienaar is he can make Baines a better player than Drenthe.
It is a win-win situation if we can sign a free agent who have resale value like Drenthe. Let's see the example of Beckford : a free agent turned to a 4m player in one season, and Saha : a Turkish club want him for 8m after one or two season he joined us for nothing I remember.
If Bily worth 5m now and in the age of 27, I can say we have a 9m+ player in Drenthe now and may he turn to a 15m+ player next 2-3 seasons if he play well, or at worst a 5m player like Bily if he play like shit (though I don't think player have temperament like him will).
So Let's face the truth, who Moyes or Kenwright want to sign permanently if we have no money in the summer must be Drenthe, just hope Moyes have enough money to sign Pienaar.
I will sign Donovan definitely, but we have no chance definitely too.
So, how about Drenthe and Pienaar??
I know most of us want Pienaar stay instead, but in this footballing world, It MUST be Drenthe.
The reason as simply as that:
Drenthe : Free Agent, turn 25 in April, still have plenty of room to improve, have 3-4 years at his peak, wages in 40k - 50k, have resale value
Pienaar : may need more than 3m to buy him back, turn 30 in March, warm the Spurs bench can make him never come back to his best, but still can play good football in 2-3 years, wages 50k - 60k, no resale value.
The only edge of Pienaar is he can make Baines a better player than Drenthe.
It is a win-win situation if we can sign a free agent who have resale value like Drenthe. Let's see the example of Beckford : a free agent turned to a 4m player in one season, and Saha : a Turkish club want him for 8m after one or two season he joined us for nothing I remember.
If Bily worth 5m now and in the age of 27, I can say we have a 9m+ player in Drenthe now and may he turn to a 15m+ player next 2-3 seasons if he play well, or at worst a 5m player like Bily if he play like shit (though I don't think player have temperament like him will).
So Let's face the truth, who Moyes or Kenwright want to sign permanently if we have no money in the summer must be Drenthe, just hope Moyes have enough money to sign Pienaar.
Stephen Kenny
31 Posted 04/02/2012 at 11:59:44
31 Posted 04/02/2012 at 11:59:44
James,
The majority of footballers from over here who go and play in the MLS are journeymen and league 1 cast-off's.
They are not chamionship standard by any stretch, nor is the MLS.
I wouldn't be loaning either player out as Rodwell is clearly a first choice midfielder and Barkley IMO is better than him and Gibson put together.
The other reason being that the style of football is in no way similar to England, neither is the attitude.
The football is laidback and the will to win and physicality of our league isn't replicated, though I know Americans are by nature competitive and usually have a winning mentality, this is IMO a vital aspect in the development of footballers to play in the PL.
Like I said Rodwell is an England international before his 21st birthday. Regardless of my opinion of him only a handful of players can say that. He's far too good aplayer to be loaned to anybody.
I'm not trying to insult your countrys Football but it's got some way to go before it can be considered to be at a level of lower prem/championship which is normally where good young players are loaned to.
The majority of footballers from over here who go and play in the MLS are journeymen and league 1 cast-off's.
They are not chamionship standard by any stretch, nor is the MLS.
I wouldn't be loaning either player out as Rodwell is clearly a first choice midfielder and Barkley IMO is better than him and Gibson put together.
The other reason being that the style of football is in no way similar to England, neither is the attitude.
The football is laidback and the will to win and physicality of our league isn't replicated, though I know Americans are by nature competitive and usually have a winning mentality, this is IMO a vital aspect in the development of footballers to play in the PL.
Like I said Rodwell is an England international before his 21st birthday. Regardless of my opinion of him only a handful of players can say that. He's far too good aplayer to be loaned to anybody.
I'm not trying to insult your countrys Football but it's got some way to go before it can be considered to be at a level of lower prem/championship which is normally where good young players are loaned to.
Robbie Muldoon
32 Posted 04/02/2012 at 13:46:24
32 Posted 04/02/2012 at 13:46:24
Drenthe won't be staying, Moyes doesn't want him.
Bobby Thomas
33 Posted 04/02/2012 at 13:59:20
33 Posted 04/02/2012 at 13:59:20
The Donovan thing is a complete non starter so can people just drop it.
Drenthe is much more realistic. It depends on him. He has the opportunity to kick start his career in the Premier League and, as Jelavics comments show, for a player its all about getting a chance like that.
Despite his trademark mad moments against City, he can also be responsibe for really cutting play that creates chances, such as his driving run in the build up to the goal.
In that abject second half against Blackburn he was responsible for the only moment of genuine creativity when he went down the right and knocked in a driven ball across the 6 yard box, but, obviously, no one was there. And for those taking the piss out of Jelavics comments about being able to score a tap in, have a think about that.
He brings things we dont have, things that will even more apparent when Donovan goes.
I thjought he put it in against City and his tracking back, against a physical animal like Micah Richards who has been chewing people up all season, was fantastic.
You HAVE to track back and do your job, especially in the era of overlapping full backs. Its not the instructions of some draconian mananger, its part of playing wide midfield. The old style winger barely exists now, if it at all, they are a dying breed of footballer, like the penalty box poacher in the era of the loan striker.
Drenthe can pyhsically handle this league, he is pacy strong and aggressive. He is also a bit of a loon. I though Richards had every right to get up and dig him the other night aftr that "tackle". He also 23/24 and clearly has bags of raw but unharnessed talent. Its down to our coaching staff and Drenthes attitude/maturity. Potentially a young, dynamic player to be had on a free and im really hoping he can kick on down the right hand side when Donovan goes.
Drenthe is much more realistic. It depends on him. He has the opportunity to kick start his career in the Premier League and, as Jelavics comments show, for a player its all about getting a chance like that.
Despite his trademark mad moments against City, he can also be responsibe for really cutting play that creates chances, such as his driving run in the build up to the goal.
In that abject second half against Blackburn he was responsible for the only moment of genuine creativity when he went down the right and knocked in a driven ball across the 6 yard box, but, obviously, no one was there. And for those taking the piss out of Jelavics comments about being able to score a tap in, have a think about that.
He brings things we dont have, things that will even more apparent when Donovan goes.
I thjought he put it in against City and his tracking back, against a physical animal like Micah Richards who has been chewing people up all season, was fantastic.
You HAVE to track back and do your job, especially in the era of overlapping full backs. Its not the instructions of some draconian mananger, its part of playing wide midfield. The old style winger barely exists now, if it at all, they are a dying breed of footballer, like the penalty box poacher in the era of the loan striker.
Drenthe can pyhsically handle this league, he is pacy strong and aggressive. He is also a bit of a loon. I though Richards had every right to get up and dig him the other night aftr that "tackle". He also 23/24 and clearly has bags of raw but unharnessed talent. Its down to our coaching staff and Drenthes attitude/maturity. Potentially a young, dynamic player to be had on a free and im really hoping he can kick on down the right hand side when Donovan goes.
Tony J Williams
34 Posted 05/02/2012 at 09:41:27
34 Posted 05/02/2012 at 09:41:27
Drenthe on a free is a no brainer. Just a bit lit the man himself. His brain is elsewhere, but he is an exciting player to watch even if he does lose the ball a lot.
He is a player that can give you a spark when you need it. Should have came on yesterday instead of Neville.
This,"he's not a typical Moyes player" is a load of bollocks too, he brought him in, so he must be a "Moyes" player, why else would he be here?
He is a player that can give you a spark when you need it. Should have came on yesterday instead of Neville.
This,"he's not a typical Moyes player" is a load of bollocks too, he brought him in, so he must be a "Moyes" player, why else would he be here?
Si Cooper
35 Posted 06/02/2012 at 22:03:33
35 Posted 06/02/2012 at 22:03:33
Do people really think DM wants to keep Drenthe? Don't know if he was injured but he was on the bench on Saturday and not used to replace Cahill when Davey thought we were comfortable (and so could have gone for it). Has not been given enough game time in my opinion.
To answer TJW (597) - was brought in as a last-minute gamble and I don't think he has convinced Moyes that he is worth hanging on to. Hope to be proved wrong because we are not really going to be in the market for many truly creative players.
Landon going home and Peanuts will be sold to highest bidder (i.e. not us) in the summer. Denis has best chance of permanent deal . Like his enthusiasm and effort, but doesn't have the 'Wow' factor for me - no better than Anichebe or Vellios overall.
Wish people would lay off Rodwell as he will become a far better player in the next couple of years. He is still young and has not had a decent mentor (an experienced player of type) at the club to learn from for last couple of years.
To answer TJW (597) - was brought in as a last-minute gamble and I don't think he has convinced Moyes that he is worth hanging on to. Hope to be proved wrong because we are not really going to be in the market for many truly creative players.
Landon going home and Peanuts will be sold to highest bidder (i.e. not us) in the summer. Denis has best chance of permanent deal . Like his enthusiasm and effort, but doesn't have the 'Wow' factor for me - no better than Anichebe or Vellios overall.
Wish people would lay off Rodwell as he will become a far better player in the next couple of years. He is still young and has not had a decent mentor (an experienced player of type) at the club to learn from for last couple of years.
Peter Hall
37 Posted 10/02/2012 at 20:01:26
37 Posted 10/02/2012 at 20:01:26
Cahill and Neville wouldn't get a run-out now for an average Championship side.
Unlike most of you, I don't have a position about Moyes. I just see what he does, on the whole a pretty good job but not outstanding. I see his biggest weakness as loyalty to players who've done good things for him in the past but can't do it any more. Anyone can see Pip and Tiny Tim are both in that category.
Against that, would our position be likely to improve or decline if Moyes left? That's easy - we'd be most likely to decline.
Unlike most of you, I don't have a position about Moyes. I just see what he does, on the whole a pretty good job but not outstanding. I see his biggest weakness as loyalty to players who've done good things for him in the past but can't do it any more. Anyone can see Pip and Tiny Tim are both in that category.
Against that, would our position be likely to improve or decline if Moyes left? That's easy - we'd be most likely to decline.
Richard Dodd
38 Posted 10/02/2012 at 20:14:12
38 Posted 10/02/2012 at 20:14:12
My forecast is that only Pienaar is likely to be with us next season.Donovan wont want it,Drenthe lacks the qualities Moyes demands and Straq ain`t really any better than a dozen other reputed strikers who will become available for next to nothing.
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1 Posted 02/02/2012 at 14:50:45
If Bily hadn't have forced the issue we would probably have what we had before the January market opened.
The only question to your article is who would we have to sell to fund just one of your targets.
The coming close season will be exactly like the last 2.
We have NO MONEY !!