U21s defeat Blackburn in Cup Quarterfinal

Not sure I like Leandro playing with 16- and 17-year-olds but have to trust the coaches know what they’re doing. Martinez has already stated that the lad has had senior experience in Uruguay and wouldn’t want him to lose the talents which caused us to buy him.

Actually, although this low shot inside the far post Goodison goal was top notch, it was his goal in the previous match which impressed me. Mainly because it reminded me of his River Plate goals where he anticipated the flight of the ball and accelerated to get on the end of it. Youngsters don’t do that. In fact, there are plenty of seniors who don’t do that. Our exception is Naismith of course. Short on technical ability but a quick thinker in the box.

Anyway Mike, it seems Leandro is on a fitness programme and we’ll just have to see where it takes him.

Anyway, 45 years ago tonight, I was sat in Goodison Park watching Everton play Borussia Monchengladbach in the European Cup, a game which would eventually lead to the first ever penalty shootout in a European game. Don’t remember too much about the game, I was only eleven, at the time.

I remember Johnny Morrissey scoring at the Park End. Then the penalties. Sandy Brown scored our final penalty then Andy Rankin's great save which put us into the next round.

Least said about that the better, though.

Man Utd were on the phone right after the game, and said their coach had been 'hasty'. The dad said he would discuss it with his son, and let them know.

He asked his son what he had to tell Man Utd, and his son said - honestly - "Tell them to fuck off, I'm staying with Everton!" His dad said he was laughing that much he couldn't bollock him for swearing.

Watch out for Bengy Johnston in the future. (I'm not sure of the spelling.)

He’s a good player and should develop into a quasi Rooney one day as he has that determination about him. Whether he does or not is down to coaching, his personal development and the chances he gets.

I must have forgotten all about that Liverpool Senior Cup triumph but if the mighty Blues do get their hands on a ’proper’ trophy this season, there will indeed be a parade and one hell of a party, but we won’t lull ourselves into a false sense of security and have the bus painted until the Referee blows for time in the game that clinches the silverware.

Harold, if they are getting taught good habits, it can't be all bad, but talk about "stars in their eyes". It might be funny, but a seven year old kid, telling Man Utd to fuck off. It sounds like the kids head is already bigger than the ball to me!

Bill 12. A kid can train with as many clubs as he wants, until the age of eight, then they usually have to sign for a club to train with them.

If it wasn't such a big business, then I'm sure we would develop a lot more decent players in this country. but as the man from United said, it's all about now, hence so many hasty decisions.

My girl is fine and fit but, 30 years later. the bone still sticks out.

Boys suffer more than girls and football is one of the main culprits.