Season 2011-12
The Mail Bag
The Curious Case of Royston Drenthe
81 Comments: As a dedicated follower of David Moyes, I spend much time trying to read his moods and predict his actions. I suspect I get him right about 50% of the time ? a success rate I could probably achieve by merely guessing at the outcomes!
Be that as it may, I have been paying particular attention to his matchday reactions and general comments on Royston Drenthe. In the Arsenal game, he bawled him out for sitting on his arse to berate a linesman whilst, when asked about RR last Friday, the Moyestro said it had "been good to have him here on loan" and that "he`s made some impact at times". He showed no warmth or enthusiasm for the Dutchman and I hereby predict the lad`s time at Goodison is coming to an end.
Of course, the player`s absence yesterday at Swansea may well have been to ensure his fitness for "the big one" but whether or not he`s selected at Sunderland, I think his days here are numbered!
Richard Dodd, Posted 25/03/2012 at
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Disagree. I think he is trying to coax the best out of a player with a suspect attitude. I also hope he is signed at the end of the season as he gives us something different in attack and I think many fans including me have taken a real shine to him.
If it's a choice of Pienaar or Drenthe at the end of season, I hope Moyes would take Pienaar. I reckons Drenthe's goals have been cancelled out by goals he's cost us. Man City and Liverpool spring to mind and I'm sure there are more.
I agree with Steve Guy. Ok he is a bit of a maverick but his ability is second none. If we can keep Pienaar then losing Drenthe would be bearable but a squad without both these players would be severely lacking in attacking quality next season
Drenthe should have been taken outside the Main Stand and given a good kicking by his teammates for arguing the toss with the linesman last week and leaving the team exposed on the counter attack. Pip Neville gave it to him both barrels; let's hope he's learned from this, though I suspect not.
He's got wonderful ball control at times though ? and hell of a shot. On balance, I'd keep him, but someone should tell him it's a team game.
He's got wonderful ball control at times though ? and hell of a shot. On balance, I'd keep him, but someone should tell him it's a team game.
I gave up my season ticket so I haven't watched Drenthe much, but I have to say I haven't been that impressed by him. He reminds me a bit of Bily really, scores cracking goals but other than that does very little.
I think I'd prefer Pienaar to him. I think he has the potential to be a great player for Everton, but as we're skint I can't see us signing him at the end of the season. Hopefully he'll play well against the Mackems on Tuesday ? he'll need to be at his best.
I think I'd prefer Pienaar to him. I think he has the potential to be a great player for Everton, but as we're skint I can't see us signing him at the end of the season. Hopefully he'll play well against the Mackems on Tuesday ? he'll need to be at his best.
In your own words Richard, it's about 50/50!!!!!!!!!
We can all hope that he stays when he shows his best qualities, but he needs to do it more often.
We can all hope that he stays when he shows his best qualities, but he needs to do it more often.
The word on the street is that he turned up for traing pissed and has been sent packing.
His potential is massive, and I see him learning all the time. Pienaar has to stay, but for me Drenthe should be on that list. Just about every Blue would take Donovan tomorrow and for me Royston offers similar skills and mobility. And I'd bet he would love to stay.
But don't ask anyone except Mr Moyes of course.
But don't ask anyone except Mr Moyes of course.
Some years ago Richard we had a similar sitiation with Duncan McKenzie and Gordon Lee
Dear old Gordon had no time for "fancy Dans" and, whilst unlike Royston apparently, Duncan had great football intelligence to go with his skill, he was never a Gordon Lee-type player ? that was obvious
I hope we're both wrong and Moysey can see the bigger picture and is willing to take on the managerial challenge Royston presents.
Dear old Gordon had no time for "fancy Dans" and, whilst unlike Royston apparently, Duncan had great football intelligence to go with his skill, he was never a Gordon Lee-type player ? that was obvious
I hope we're both wrong and Moysey can see the bigger picture and is willing to take on the managerial challenge Royston presents.
If Moyes doesn't try to sign him at the end of the season it will sum the man up in his entirety. Here's a player who has been the difference in so many games that he's played, has a bit of a different attitude to the rest of the sheep our squad have become, and Moyes can't handle him.
He is not a Davey Moyes player... end of.
However, he is a young Evertonian's dream of a player, someone who can lift a game, go past people and shoot from range which only Gibson can do as well. The rest struggle to hit the target from 18 yards: Osman, Fellaini, Coleman, Rodwell... need I go on?
Davey would rather play a workhorse no-frills player any day of the week, sod what we think... hence he won't be here past June. Expect another defender and a defensive midfielder to come in...
That's why I didnt renew my season ticket.
However, he is a young Evertonian's dream of a player, someone who can lift a game, go past people and shoot from range which only Gibson can do as well. The rest struggle to hit the target from 18 yards: Osman, Fellaini, Coleman, Rodwell... need I go on?
Davey would rather play a workhorse no-frills player any day of the week, sod what we think... hence he won't be here past June. Expect another defender and a defensive midfielder to come in...
That's why I didnt renew my season ticket.
I remember Moyes getting the best out of Thomas Gravesen who was (and still is) an absolute loon.
Moyes can tame Drenthe, whether Drenthe wants to listen is another matter entirely.
Moyes can tame Drenthe, whether Drenthe wants to listen is another matter entirely.
The ONLY reason Royston was not involved on Saturday was that he is one booking away from a ban. All the other rubbish about drugs/drink is out of order.
I just hope Royston on Tuesday has blinder and scores the winner - we need players with flair/talent like Royston in our team. We have enough robots.
I just hope Royston on Tuesday has blinder and scores the winner - we need players with flair/talent like Royston in our team. We have enough robots.
Kevin Sparke, if there is one thing wrong at the moment, it's Phil Neville barking out orders to team mates when he can't even run himself!!!
Let's get some perspective here. Drenthe is the one who can't control Drenthe, not Moyes.
Yes, all the ability in the world, but better managers than Moyes have washed their hands of Drenthe.
Yes, he has scored a few excellent goals, but his discipline is attrocious ? only Fellaini has picked up more yellow cards this season for us, in over twice the number of games.
His attitude is also poor, certainly not a modern team player, more a throw-back to the seventies, when every team had an "enigma". When the going gets tough, he goes missing, or worse still, becomes a liability, and so justifiably gets "the hook".
Offer us a swap with McClean from Sunderland right now, and I'd snatch your hand off, especially with the replay on Tuesday coming up!
These inexpensive gems still exist, so I wouldn't despair too much if Drenthe doesn't sign up in the summer, as long as a replacement for the right-hand side is found. Pienaar, on the other hand, is a must!!
Yes, all the ability in the world, but better managers than Moyes have washed their hands of Drenthe.
Yes, he has scored a few excellent goals, but his discipline is attrocious ? only Fellaini has picked up more yellow cards this season for us, in over twice the number of games.
His attitude is also poor, certainly not a modern team player, more a throw-back to the seventies, when every team had an "enigma". When the going gets tough, he goes missing, or worse still, becomes a liability, and so justifiably gets "the hook".
Offer us a swap with McClean from Sunderland right now, and I'd snatch your hand off, especially with the replay on Tuesday coming up!
These inexpensive gems still exist, so I wouldn't despair too much if Drenthe doesn't sign up in the summer, as long as a replacement for the right-hand side is found. Pienaar, on the other hand, is a must!!
Billy, I don't know if you live in Liverpool or not but the 'word on the street' there is usually a comedy rumour made up by fans of the opposition. There used to be some crackers about Robbie Fowler.
On the general point, unfortunately, I agree with Richard Dodd. I would've signed Drenthe by now, if he's out of contract, he can sign a pre-contract with a foreign (ie. non-Spanish) club and we haven't done that (if I've misunderstood that situation, somebody please correct me). This fact alone, assuming my understanding is correct, leads me to believe we will not be seeing Drenthe here permanently next season.
More generally, looking at our squad, Moyes has made four loan signings this year: Drenthe, Pienaar, Donovan and Stracqualursi. All four of these are currently not due to be here next season, and I believe that we need to sign or replace all four of them in order to have a squad we can even be reasonably confident about.
In the case of Pienaar and Drenthe I would sign them; Donovan doesn't seem to be available ,so an equivalent would be necessary (I like Sinclair at Swansea but they won't go down so it looks like a tough ask); and Stracqualursi isn't actually good enough, but a big man to back-up and occasionally compliment Jelavic would make the squad seem deeper.
ps: Peter, better managers than Moyes have been able to afford to wash their hands of Drenthe because they could sign Cristiano Ronaldo and Angel Di Maria instead.
On the general point, unfortunately, I agree with Richard Dodd. I would've signed Drenthe by now, if he's out of contract, he can sign a pre-contract with a foreign (ie. non-Spanish) club and we haven't done that (if I've misunderstood that situation, somebody please correct me). This fact alone, assuming my understanding is correct, leads me to believe we will not be seeing Drenthe here permanently next season.
More generally, looking at our squad, Moyes has made four loan signings this year: Drenthe, Pienaar, Donovan and Stracqualursi. All four of these are currently not due to be here next season, and I believe that we need to sign or replace all four of them in order to have a squad we can even be reasonably confident about.
In the case of Pienaar and Drenthe I would sign them; Donovan doesn't seem to be available ,so an equivalent would be necessary (I like Sinclair at Swansea but they won't go down so it looks like a tough ask); and Stracqualursi isn't actually good enough, but a big man to back-up and occasionally compliment Jelavic would make the squad seem deeper.
ps: Peter, better managers than Moyes have been able to afford to wash their hands of Drenthe because they could sign Cristiano Ronaldo and Angel Di Maria instead.
Good when he runs at people but i just can't cope with his diving.
Phil Bellis - comparing Drenthe with Duncan McKenzie is sacrilegious in my book - Duncan was a far better player than Drenthe.
We all agree...
We all agree...
Drenthe can be a liability, but we have a full squad of hard working players, there is room for one who plays to his own tune; especially one with such skill, pace and an amazing shot.
He's entertaining for a fan, partly due to his unpredictability and has been a part of anything worth watching from us this season.
I hope those who have the theory that Moyes is playing mind games to get the best out of him are correct, but I fear not. I don't think he'll pull on a blue shirt next season and I'll be gutted sat there watching us work our socks off but unable to create chances because we have no one with pace, guile and flair.
He's entertaining for a fan, partly due to his unpredictability and has been a part of anything worth watching from us this season.
I hope those who have the theory that Moyes is playing mind games to get the best out of him are correct, but I fear not. I don't think he'll pull on a blue shirt next season and I'll be gutted sat there watching us work our socks off but unable to create chances because we have no one with pace, guile and flair.
The jury's out on RR. Like a football fans I like to see players with the bottle to take people on rather than go for the 5 yard sideways pass and of course at times they will lose possession. But great players usually marry their talent with a bit of nouse and choose the right option more times than the wrong one, and Drenthe just ain't got that. Will it come with time? If it does I don't think he will be wearing an Everton shirt...
Michael Hegarty... Drenthe the diver!?!
Arteta used to fall over consistently and everyone called him clever... Funny old game, isn't it?!!
Arteta used to fall over consistently and everyone called him clever... Funny old game, isn't it?!!
Kevin #531, I thought it was outrageous that Neville gave Drenthe such a bollocking. Prior to him doing this we'd been in an attacking position down the right hand side, with Drenthe on the ball and looking for support that wasn't forthcoming ? not an uncommon scenario.
Phil Neville should have been there to give Drenthe an option, yet he was nowhere to be seen. Fair fucks, RR should have chased back when he lost the ball... but, if we'd have adopted a more attacking and positive mindset, he probably wouldn't have needed to.
Neville needed the bollocking for not backing his winger up and leaving him exposed.
Phil Neville should have been there to give Drenthe an option, yet he was nowhere to be seen. Fair fucks, RR should have chased back when he lost the ball... but, if we'd have adopted a more attacking and positive mindset, he probably wouldn't have needed to.
Neville needed the bollocking for not backing his winger up and leaving him exposed.
Fair points about the inconsistency and the diving.............but I would love to sign him.
Every time he gets the ball I'm on the edge of my seat. Not many players have made me do that since the days of Andrei and Anders.
Surely Moyes must realise that we have enough steady players and that we need some unpredictability??
Every time he gets the ball I'm on the edge of my seat. Not many players have made me do that since the days of Andrei and Anders.
Surely Moyes must realise that we have enough steady players and that we need some unpredictability??
I have reason to believe that Drenthe has had two official warnings from the club about his private life. I have heard from a source that Drenthe has a nightclub in his house and that he has brought girls back to Finch Farm as a joke. This happened around November last year and, if you remember back then, this is when Drenthe was dropped for unknown reason despite playing well.
Billy #539.. Just read similar !! ????
Steve #552
I not sure myself but has Drenthe really been booked 9 times this season?
As according to this PDF on the FA website he would recive a 2 match ban for reaching 10 bookings between the start of the season and the second Sunday in April.
http://www.thefa.com/TheFA/~/media/37C906F6526B487B8BD17E4FCEB61FD4.ashx/FADiscProc11-12.pdf
Scroll down to Page 10
Perhaps Moyes just rested him, knowing that Pienaar is cuptied for Tuesday night and he wanted a fully rested and fit Drenthe to start?
I not sure myself but has Drenthe really been booked 9 times this season?
As according to this PDF on the FA website he would recive a 2 match ban for reaching 10 bookings between the start of the season and the second Sunday in April.
http://www.thefa.com/TheFA/~/media/37C906F6526B487B8BD17E4FCEB61FD4.ashx/FADiscProc11-12.pdf
Scroll down to Page 10
Perhaps Moyes just rested him, knowing that Pienaar is cuptied for Tuesday night and he wanted a fully rested and fit Drenthe to start?
Sorry Andrew but that's complete and utter bollocks and not what happened at all (did you watch the game?)
Drenthe was pissed off with the linesmen and stayed upfield to argue the toss and seemed to completely forget about the team ? meanwhile, the play was 50 metres up the other end; there was a massive gap where Drenthe should have been tracking back... he abrogated responsibility for an area he should have been covering and Neville was well within his rights as captain to give him an ear-bashing.
I don't know if you've ever watched the game but all teams' attacking players track back ? even fucking Messi tracks back and gets behind the ball when his team requires it... and Drenthe isn't Messi by any stretch of the imagination
Drenthe was pissed off with the linesmen and stayed upfield to argue the toss and seemed to completely forget about the team ? meanwhile, the play was 50 metres up the other end; there was a massive gap where Drenthe should have been tracking back... he abrogated responsibility for an area he should have been covering and Neville was well within his rights as captain to give him an ear-bashing.
I don't know if you've ever watched the game but all teams' attacking players track back ? even fucking Messi tracks back and gets behind the ball when his team requires it... and Drenthe isn't Messi by any stretch of the imagination
EDIT to my earlier post;
One this very site there is a link showing Drenthe has 6 yellows and 1 red.
http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/11-12/appearances.asp
One this very site there is a link showing Drenthe has 6 yellows and 1 red.
http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/11-12/appearances.asp
Colin.. leaving a player out for such a valid reason was never in doubt.. were not that clever !!
If it's a choice of Pienaar or Drenthe, as it could well be, then it's Pienaar every single time.
If its a choice of Pienaar or Drenthe as it could well be, then it's Pienaar every single time
Phil Bellis - until my keyboard decided otherwise I was about to post the similarity between the Gordon Lee and Duncan Mckenzie stuation a few hours back. I think we have something similar here. In his favour, David Moyes is more adaptable than Lee ever was.
I hold out the hope that he will try to keep our 24 year old maverick. I don't know how the pennies add up, but a Prem conditioned player with his talent couldn't come cheap from anywhere I guess.
Does he dive? I read that he is awarded a foul every 25 minutes, top of that league. Recently one penalty denied, and a goal chalked of by an official who came from Woolwich (I made that last bit up).
We've got some of the best defenders there are. We need a few more like him.
I hold out the hope that he will try to keep our 24 year old maverick. I don't know how the pennies add up, but a Prem conditioned player with his talent couldn't come cheap from anywhere I guess.
Does he dive? I read that he is awarded a foul every 25 minutes, top of that league. Recently one penalty denied, and a goal chalked of by an official who came from Woolwich (I made that last bit up).
We've got some of the best defenders there are. We need a few more like him.
Kevin - The idea that Drenthe doesn't track back is garbage. I only see the home games but I have never faulted him for full-on commitment. Sometimes he uses his speed to get back to where he should have been if he was Darron Gibson, but the two guys play entirely different games. We need them both.
I'll bet everyone has read loads about exciting attacking Arsenal prospects like Oxlade-Chamberlain (I think) but not much in the national press who actually delivers more, like Royston. Good. And let us keep it to ourselves, and I hope we keep him.
I'll bet everyone has read loads about exciting attacking Arsenal prospects like Oxlade-Chamberlain (I think) but not much in the national press who actually delivers more, like Royston. Good. And let us keep it to ourselves, and I hope we keep him.
A couple of things. First off, he gives a ton of effort, both going forward and he is often seen sprinting back to help in defense. I never fault him for his effort. One time recently he was a victim of an obvious foul, which replays showed him getting his legs taken out, which also occurred after having a clear penalty denied and multiple other fouls turned away, and stayed down complaining and Neville screamed at him. A goal was not scored from it, so no harm and no foul.
As for his diving, I don't see it. Yes, sometimes he goes down to try to get the foul. But it's no more than any other great player does because they are being fouled constantly and due to 2-3 previous uncalled fouls he has lost the advantage.
So he gets a little contact and tries to get the foul when he's lost the advantage. What he does not do is roll around on the ground as if he's been shot. There is a difference. I really hope we can sign him, one of the few exciting and unpredictable players we have.
As for his diving, I don't see it. Yes, sometimes he goes down to try to get the foul. But it's no more than any other great player does because they are being fouled constantly and due to 2-3 previous uncalled fouls he has lost the advantage.
So he gets a little contact and tries to get the foul when he's lost the advantage. What he does not do is roll around on the ground as if he's been shot. There is a difference. I really hope we can sign him, one of the few exciting and unpredictable players we have.
Keith - I didn't say he doesn't track back - I said Neville was spot on for giving him a good bollocking for arguing with the linesman after he'd not tracked back during this particular incident.
He was more arsed about perceived injustice than he was about the team - and Neville let him know; just as he should have done.
And he does dive - in fact his acrobatics cost him a penalty last week, as the ref probably had his earlier tumble in mind when he denied Drenthe a good penalty shout.
I like his swashbuckling style and his eye for goal - but he'd be a better player if he could curb his footballing eccentricities.
If I was given the choice between him and Donovan - I'd take Donovan without a second thought. Landon is a far better player.
He was more arsed about perceived injustice than he was about the team - and Neville let him know; just as he should have done.
And he does dive - in fact his acrobatics cost him a penalty last week, as the ref probably had his earlier tumble in mind when he denied Drenthe a good penalty shout.
I like his swashbuckling style and his eye for goal - but he'd be a better player if he could curb his footballing eccentricities.
If I was given the choice between him and Donovan - I'd take Donovan without a second thought. Landon is a far better player.
Kevin and Keith..with you all the way -
wee Dunc, with The Latch, Dobbo and Dave Thomas were shafts of light in the gloom of the 70s
We though THAT era was bad, little did we know the dross the 90s and later would bring
wee Dunc, with The Latch, Dobbo and Dave Thomas were shafts of light in the gloom of the 70s
We though THAT era was bad, little did we know the dross the 90s and later would bring
Phil ? and in the 70s we came 3rd once and 4th twice ? and it was regarded as failure!
How times have changed...
Terry Darracott makes Tony Hibbert look like Carlos Alberto!
How times have changed...
Terry Darracott makes Tony Hibbert look like Carlos Alberto!
Terry Darracott makesTony Hibbert look like Carlos Alberto, not in my book, I will never forgive Darracott for his role in costing us the league cup final in 77, freaking idiot.
Drenthe is an enigma, is not a team player and consequently will not fit into the Everton way, but there is an opportunity to do what we did with Beckford, sign on a free, then sell for a few million in January, if he continues with bad attitude, if he knuckles down then we have a reasonable player on our hands with little outlay, then we do the BK trick and sell him for Lescott style money, either way it is a chance for the club to make some money.
Drenthe is an enigma, is not a team player and consequently will not fit into the Everton way, but there is an opportunity to do what we did with Beckford, sign on a free, then sell for a few million in January, if he continues with bad attitude, if he knuckles down then we have a reasonable player on our hands with little outlay, then we do the BK trick and sell him for Lescott style money, either way it is a chance for the club to make some money.
I have wonderful memories of Duncan Mckenzie and it's over 30 years ago that he graced the turf at Goodison. He had pace, skill, and vision and one piece of skill has remained with me as if it was yesterday. High flying Ipswich Town with Sir Bobby Robson came to town and Duncan brought the ball down on the edge of the area surrounded by 3-4 defenders and half-volleyed the ball into the back of the net. Pure magic.
Ipswich may have been high flying at the time, but none could jump over a mini I would wager!
Will - certainly not while smoking an Embassy Regal.
Good thread. I'd like to keep him. Espcially if Moyes can make him adapt.
I,too,fear he will not be here next season.Not Moyes` type ,at all.
He will,however,be in to replace Pienaar tomorrow in what may be the only change from the Swansea game.
A preference for Jagielka to partner Sylvan may well lead to another Dutchman moving on as well!
He will,however,be in to replace Pienaar tomorrow in what may be the only change from the Swansea game.
A preference for Jagielka to partner Sylvan may well lead to another Dutchman moving on as well!
When McKenzie had a fruit shop in Prescot after he retired, my brother, egged on my me, kept pestering him to play 5 a side for our team - which he sensibly declined (we were a bunch of cloggers).
My abiding memory of him is nutmegging the 'Anfield Iron' Tommy Smith and leaving him flat on his arse in a derby - Smith was seething and had him in his sights the rest of the game, trying to kick lumps out of him.
My abiding memory of him is nutmegging the 'Anfield Iron' Tommy Smith and leaving him flat on his arse in a derby - Smith was seething and had him in his sights the rest of the game, trying to kick lumps out of him.
The lad has obviously got issues but I feel a bit sorry for him too, taking him off against Arsenal was a joke, as he was having his most focused game for us and if anyone was going to create something to gain a point it was him.
Then we have all this shit in the press from Osman and Co, telling him what's required and everyone making big issues about his foul leading up to the QPR equaliser yet no mention of the powder puff goalkeeping which cost us the goal and this has been a regular occurrence this season.
Then we have all this shit in the press from Osman and Co, telling him what's required and everyone making big issues about his foul leading up to the QPR equaliser yet no mention of the powder puff goalkeeping which cost us the goal and this has been a regular occurrence this season.
Drenthe has made Everton on a number of ocassions this season. He's been the beacon when the remaining team members couldn't be bothered and had the season ended pre-christmas, He'd have been our star player.
Come January and the new signings plus Donovan has re-energised the rest of the team to play more aligned to where they should have been at the start of the season. Having Pienaar back has been great but Moyes would be missing a MASSIVE trick if he didn't sign Drenthe. Players like him are our next level and should be building a team with Jagielka/Heitinga, Baines, Drenthe, Pienaar Fellaini and Jelavic at it's core.
Come January and the new signings plus Donovan has re-energised the rest of the team to play more aligned to where they should have been at the start of the season. Having Pienaar back has been great but Moyes would be missing a MASSIVE trick if he didn't sign Drenthe. Players like him are our next level and should be building a team with Jagielka/Heitinga, Baines, Drenthe, Pienaar Fellaini and Jelavic at it's core.
Drenthe is a mad basket-case of a player who is going to make mistakes but he's everything (well... nearly) that we've been screaming out for.
He makes mistakes because he tries things that our other pre-programmed players wouldn't even think of. I hope that Moyes accepts that he is always going to be of this mind set and will improve as a player as time goes by.
Sign him up!
Anthony Hawkins, I agree. These players form a decent enough backbone for the team so we can introduce the likes of Barclay and get him established.
He makes mistakes because he tries things that our other pre-programmed players wouldn't even think of. I hope that Moyes accepts that he is always going to be of this mind set and will improve as a player as time goes by.
Sign him up!
Anthony Hawkins, I agree. These players form a decent enough backbone for the team so we can introduce the likes of Barclay and get him established.
How many Everton players are good enough to be signed by Real Madrid? Answer: Drenthe!
The lad has class, skill, pace can shoot and all people on here worry about is can he defend and help Phil Neville. So what you are saying is that you would prefer players like Osman or Coleman (who would struggle to get in Madrid's under 11 team!).
The lad has class, skill, pace can shoot and all people on here worry about is can he defend and help Phil Neville. So what you are saying is that you would prefer players like Osman or Coleman (who would struggle to get in Madrid's under 11 team!).
If he is not a Moyes type player, how come he is playing for Everton?
Tony
If you were starving and only had 99p to spend 3 mins before closing time, and were stood outside the 99p Store....
If you were starving and only had 99p to spend 3 mins before closing time, and were stood outside the 99p Store....
Cannot believe that people are so strong about wanting Pienaar more than Royston.
Firstly, Royston would be free, and also we could offer him any wage. Pienaar would cost money we don't have and we'd have to meet his wage at Spurs which would be too much.
Secondly, Royston is nearly 25, Pienaar is 30.
Add those to the fact that Royston really can score or create from anywhere within 25 yards of the opponents goal, and Pienaar can barely kick a ball 10 yards in a straight line, I'd be having Drenthe every day.
What shits me off about the flack he gets though is that no one else gets any flack from team mates or manager. So he took a few games to get used to Moyes' "style" of play. That was no reason for certain players as well as Moyes to publicly point out his short comings.
I've never heard Moyes or anyone from within the club point out that Howard flaps at high balls, or Tony Hibbert can't pass, shoot or cross, or that Fellaini can't win a header against a migget, or that Jagielka can't pass, mark or run, or that Osman get's pushed off the ball by a light breeze, or that... you get the picture.
Firstly, Royston would be free, and also we could offer him any wage. Pienaar would cost money we don't have and we'd have to meet his wage at Spurs which would be too much.
Secondly, Royston is nearly 25, Pienaar is 30.
Add those to the fact that Royston really can score or create from anywhere within 25 yards of the opponents goal, and Pienaar can barely kick a ball 10 yards in a straight line, I'd be having Drenthe every day.
What shits me off about the flack he gets though is that no one else gets any flack from team mates or manager. So he took a few games to get used to Moyes' "style" of play. That was no reason for certain players as well as Moyes to publicly point out his short comings.
I've never heard Moyes or anyone from within the club point out that Howard flaps at high balls, or Tony Hibbert can't pass, shoot or cross, or that Fellaini can't win a header against a migget, or that Jagielka can't pass, mark or run, or that Osman get's pushed off the ball by a light breeze, or that... you get the picture.
Richard,
Unfortunately I think you are probably right. I'm a fan of Drenthe and can put up with the odd misplaced pass from a player willing to try something different or looking to make things happen. I personally don't think Moyes is as tolerant and has largely created a team in his own image - hardworking, resilient and who look to do the "right" things, but devoid of creativity and imagination.
The body language between player and manager after a recent goal (QPR away?) when he ran to the bench didn't look great either.
Although I didn't see it, I'm told Moyes made some comments in his press conference last Friday about not being pleased with him going to ground too easily. I don't see what good going public with something like that will do. Needless to say, I don't ever recall Moyes remarking on Cahill or Pienaar despite their propensity to hit the deck all too easily, or even Jagielka after his ridiculous dive to win us a penalty last season (can't recall which game, off the top of my head)
Pretty much agree with what Roman @ 691 says.
Unfortunately I think you are probably right. I'm a fan of Drenthe and can put up with the odd misplaced pass from a player willing to try something different or looking to make things happen. I personally don't think Moyes is as tolerant and has largely created a team in his own image - hardworking, resilient and who look to do the "right" things, but devoid of creativity and imagination.
The body language between player and manager after a recent goal (QPR away?) when he ran to the bench didn't look great either.
Although I didn't see it, I'm told Moyes made some comments in his press conference last Friday about not being pleased with him going to ground too easily. I don't see what good going public with something like that will do. Needless to say, I don't ever recall Moyes remarking on Cahill or Pienaar despite their propensity to hit the deck all too easily, or even Jagielka after his ridiculous dive to win us a penalty last season (can't recall which game, off the top of my head)
Pretty much agree with what Roman @ 691 says.
Phil, not disputing that, but if he wasn't a Moyes player he would be getting splinter on his arse or in the rezzies, not playing in important games.
Roman, the difference between your examples and Royston is that Hibbert is still "trying" to cross, Fellaini was "trying" to win the headers etc etc Royston was arguing with a lino and allowing their winger to have a direct go at old man Neville.
Agree with you agout keeping him though... and it would be nice to keep Pienaar too, pity he has the same strength shot as Osman... and my sister.
Roman, the difference between your examples and Royston is that Hibbert is still "trying" to cross, Fellaini was "trying" to win the headers etc etc Royston was arguing with a lino and allowing their winger to have a direct go at old man Neville.
Agree with you agout keeping him though... and it would be nice to keep Pienaar too, pity he has the same strength shot as Osman... and my sister.
I'll agree with you on Hibbo trying (yet failing), Ton, but so many times you see Fellaini barely rise an inch when balls are coming down on his mop head. I really don't think he tries that hard to compete for them - something I think, ridiculous as it might sound, has a lot to do with said mop. If he got that shit cut down, or even corn rolled, I think we'd see him improve in the air.
"Hardworking, resilient and who look to do the "right" things" ? Surely that should be the absolute minimum of every professional footballer?
I'd keep him and play him behind Jelavic because Jelavic is doing too much on his own. His movement in the box is excellent but he's tiring quickly due to his extra work. Having Drenthe up front will prevent him from having to track back as much (not that he does anyway) and anything within 30yds of goal he should have a crack. His pace would be beneficial when trying to get onto Jelavic's flick-on's.
Just a thought
Just a thought
Yes Tony, but what I actually said was: "hardworking, resilient and who look to do the "right" things, but devoid of creativity and imagination".
The last six words in that are crucial to the point I was making i.e. it's a team created in Moyes's own image. Which is not what I personally would hope for in the make up of a team / squad.
The last six words in that are crucial to the point I was making i.e. it's a team created in Moyes's own image. Which is not what I personally would hope for in the make up of a team / squad.
Drenthe, Pienaar, Baines, Fellaini, Osman (I know, I know) Donovan ? For a person who doesn't like creativity, he gets a lot of creative players in his team.
Game of opinions Tony and mine is that our team, like Moyes, is not especially creative or imaginitive.
Incidentally, of those you named, I'd consider Ossie one of the more creative...yet least effective.
Incidentally, of those you named, I'd consider Ossie one of the more creative...yet least effective.
Sign him up! We know he can be frustrating as he does sit on his arse a little too often but there's not many perfect footballers out there and we cry out for his pace, fast passing shooting and crossing. He's everything Ossie isn't!!!!
Don't think he'll be here next year. Neither will Moyes.
I rate Drenthe but we need to play him in the role usually taken by Cahill floating behind the striker where we may get the best of his strengths ? pace, dribbling and shooting from distance ? and there is cover behind him for when he loses the ball.
We need to keep a player who can do the unexpected and win games as we have plenty who can do the basics.
We need to keep a player who can do the unexpected and win games as we have plenty who can do the basics.
People say you see the game better on TV; I haven't watched us on TV all season but went to Sunderland at home, I think you get a far better perspective at the match.
His final ball and choice are lacking, he's a complete loon, jumps into challenges and is a liability defensively. He doesn't keep possession well. That said, he is so quick and can keep defenders on the back foot and is a goal threat.
I think, if he wants to stay, he will. He'll be on a free but I suspect he'll go elsewhere as he'll get a bigger signing-on fee. Nice to watch a maverick and character play ? we haven't had one since Gravesen, and I hope he stays.
His final ball and choice are lacking, he's a complete loon, jumps into challenges and is a liability defensively. He doesn't keep possession well. That said, he is so quick and can keep defenders on the back foot and is a goal threat.
I think, if he wants to stay, he will. He'll be on a free but I suspect he'll go elsewhere as he'll get a bigger signing-on fee. Nice to watch a maverick and character play ? we haven't had one since Gravesen, and I hope he stays.
Drenthe is on compassionate leave and WON'T play v Sunderland.
Be nice if you could source such a firm statement, Ryan.
Moyes says he's on compassionate leave for a family situation so won't play against Sunderland. Link:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/mar/26/david-moyes-everton-sunderland-fa-cup
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/mar/26/david-moyes-everton-sunderland-fa-cup
Wonder if that's true or just a cover up?
That's utter rubbish. Watch the Moyes press conference this afternoon. He says he doesn't know on his availability yet? That's straight from Moyes's mouth. So anyone else making comments to the contrary is merely speculating!!!
I hope you are right Dave. If Coleman is out and we can't use Pienaar we need Royston in a big way.
Season comes down to this match now.
Season comes down to this match now.
Err... Thanks, Chris.
So Dave, is The Guardian lying?
So Dave, is The Guardian lying?
Well, one thing for sure: SOMEONE is lying.
All sounds a bit Van der Meyde-ish to me!
Perhaps there`s something about the Dutch!
Perhaps there`s something about the Dutch!
"I have heard from a source that Drenthe has a nightclub in his house and that he has brought girls back to Finch Farm as a joke."
No nightclub at Finch Farm?
Hard to believe, "Happy Mondays Bez Neville" giving it some with DJ Moyes on the decks ? thought it was part of the lease...
No nightclub at Finch Farm?
Hard to believe, "Happy Mondays Bez Neville" giving it some with DJ Moyes on the decks ? thought it was part of the lease...
Mike 564 - I'm not sure he does 'dive'.
From what I've seen he's such a lightweight teams now encircle him with 2-3 bigger players and force him off the ball. His feet are all over the place, even when he's in control!!
As for his attitude - it's good to have attitude - but it has to be channelled.
If he went, would I be worried?. No really - I've seen plenty of Roman Candles in my time.
From what I've seen he's such a lightweight teams now encircle him with 2-3 bigger players and force him off the ball. His feet are all over the place, even when he's in control!!
As for his attitude - it's good to have attitude - but it has to be channelled.
If he went, would I be worried?. No really - I've seen plenty of Roman Candles in my time.
Sir Royston Drenthe is something of a liability in defence and yes he is a moaner and yes he is a diver. But he has blistering speed and an unpredictability I love.
For me, as manager, I would show him the half way line and tell him not to bother coming back across it. Any chance you get, play the ball quickly up to him. It would cause the opposition more problems in defence than it would us.
For me, as manager, I would show him the half way line and tell him not to bother coming back across it. Any chance you get, play the ball quickly up to him. It would cause the opposition more problems in defence than it would us.
What Tony J Williams forgets to mention is his sister's name is Serena.
I bet she has got one heck a shot on her, I know her serve is pretty vicious for a lassie.
Not known for tracking back though...
I bet she has got one heck a shot on her, I know her serve is pretty vicious for a lassie.
Not known for tracking back though...
I think that "compassionate leave" - whether a smokescreen or genuine - might just extend a wee bit longer given Gueye's performance last night. I can't help thinking that Royston's French Fries might just be sprinkled with urine.
Re #636 Kevin Sparke, think you will find that nutmeg of Smith was when Duncan left him on his arse in the 77 semi final at Maine Road - 1st match where we were robbed. All the sweeter as after the 3rd round where we beat Stoke 2-0 at Goodison, said Smith was a summariser on Gerald Sinstadt's Kick-Off tv show and slagged off Duncan as a Fancy Dan after he got the ball on the touchline in front of the Main Stand and went on a slalom run over towards the Bullens leaving 5 or 6 Stoke players in his wake as they tried, unsuccessfully, to kick lumps out of him. We were 2-0 up at the time, Duncan had already scored and was showboating a bit, but it was great to watch, unless you were the crater faced one. Nuts, love it!
Anto Byrne at #607, I'm afraid you're memory is not as good as you would like it to be. I can't recall that Ipswich match at all and a check of the record book says it didn't actually happen. He did however score a similar description half volley against us for Chelsea one day at Goodison, and a good goal it was too, though only a consolation as we battered them that day.
Anto Byrne at #607, I'm afraid you're memory is not as good as you would like it to be. I can't recall that Ipswich match at all and a check of the record book says it didn't actually happen. He did however score a similar description half volley against us for Chelsea one day at Goodison, and a good goal it was too, though only a consolation as we battered them that day.
So, what do WE (the great multi-mind that is TW) think? Is Royston history? Or is he destined to score the winner in the semi? I'm leaning towards the former...
Steve, Anto may be thinking of Norwich, McKenzie scored against them at Goodison in a 3-0 win.
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523 Posted 25/03/2012 at 18:43:03
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