Bolasie suffers ACL blow

Monday, 5 December, 2016 188comments  |  Jump to most recent
Yannick Bolasie is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after scans on his injured right knee revealed damage to his anterior cruciate ligament.

The Congolese international was forced off midway through the second half of yesterday's 1-1 draw with Manchester United following a collision with Anthony Martial and fears that he suffered a serious problem have been confirmed.

Though he initially went down in agony, the 27-year-old was able to get back to his feet and return to the field but was withdrawn shortly afterwards.

Bolasie has been ever-present for Ronald Koeman's side since joining from Crystal Palace in August but is ruled out of the busy festive period and will almost certainly play no part in next month's Africa Cup of Nations.

He is scheduled to undergo surgery in the next days and could be ruled out of the remainder of the season based on the expected recovery time for such injuries.  



Reader Comments (188)

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John Otway
1 Posted 05/12/2016 at 19:58:21
I see that Bolasie is now ruled out for the season with a knee injury. Absolute shame on the posters on the live forum who called him a "pussy" and worse.
Oliver Molloy
2 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:07:13
A right few headlines saying he is out for the season.
Mike Gaynes
3 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:10:42
All the best to the young man for a successful procedure and a swift recovery. It looked bad from the moment it happened and I hope the damage isn't too severe.

And a hearty middle finger to all the a-holes on yesterday's live forum – you know who you are – who accused him of faking it, or being soft, or wanting out of the game.

This would be a good place to start posting your apologies. If you have the courage.

James Marshall
4 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:12:47
I was just about the say the same thing about the amount of people calling him a bottler on the live forum yesterday.

Looked bad at the time. I've had the same injury and broken pretty much every bone in my body, including my back twice, and nothing hurt like my cruciate. Some players are never the same again so fingers crossed.

Brian Williams
5 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:16:35
Same sentiment to the knobhead near me in the top balcony shouting, "Get up you stupid cunt, we know there's nowt wrong with you."
John Otway
6 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:24:33
Mike Gaynes. Absolutely, I've posted elsewhere before this thread was started. Shame on those who posted "pussy" and worse on the live thread.
Tony Hill
7 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:28:49
A great shame. He seems a very decent fellow to me. Let's get him back asap although it could indeed be a long road. We can only give him proper support as he recovers.
Joe O'Brien
8 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:30:34
What a disaster for him. Get well soon Yannick mate. Looks like Geri is going to get a run of games. It did look bad from the start. Didn't see any of the comments on the live thread. Thank God I didn't. In fairness that's shameful, lads.
Mike Powell
10 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:35:08
That's all we need. Get well soon, Yannick.

To those idiots who were calling him a pussy, hang your head in shame.
Stephen Brown
11 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:40:09
There's more and more vitriol creeping into this site and others! And at the match! It really is counter-productive especially towards players like Ross Barkley who it evidently effects greatly!

The team deserves some critisism but OTT personal abuse isn't necessary!

Steven Kendrew
12 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:48:48
Hear, hear, Stephen Brown. It's been going on for years though. Some fans, including people at the games, are just complete idiots who do not have a clue about football, I am sorry to say. They seem to come to games just to get lagered up and sling abuse at whoever they can.

Same goes for all these "Koeman out" knobheads. Jesus wept. He's only been in the job for four months or so. Apparently being a bit "reserved" and not some emotional nutter like Mourinho is some kind of crime!
Nick Swallow
13 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:51:33
If he has snapped his ACL, it will be 9 months minimum.
Ian Jones
14 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:53:24
Gary Neville on the commentary was one of the first to query how injured he was. Guess he knew better... waiting for the apology.
John Audsley
15 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:53:55
Totally agree, Mike, I said on the LF that it looked bad and it's proved worse than that. Get well soon, Yannick.
Don Alexander
16 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:55:46
I doubt he's snapped it or he wouldn't have been on his feet afterwards. That said, it's a horrible injury and we must all hope he fully recovers.
David Barks
17 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:57:03
Yeah, the forum exploded with people saying he was faking the injury and to get the fuck up. It was pathetic. As if any injury that doesn't show a bone snap or blood spraying can just be run off.
Ian Riley
18 Posted 05/12/2016 at 20:57:54
Sickening blow for the lad. From his reaction to the pain on his face, I thought it might be serious. His game is based on pace and an injury like this will take some recovery. Get well soon and come back stronger.
Lyndon Lloyd
19 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:01:08
Bolasie by his very nature can be very hit and miss but he's been one of our most productive players this season, even if he only influences a couple of key moments per game.

I certainly don't think a lack of effort or commitment is something you could ever have levelled at him in his time at Everton so far. Always works and always willing to keep trying. He will be a bigger miss than we realise unless we get a decent replacement in in January.

Not sure Memphis Depay is the answer but he at least has a goal in him and I would imagine the speculation linking him to Goodison will now go into overdrive.

Frank Wade
20 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:04:40
Let's hope Yannick makes a full recovery and soon. I was a bit worried when I saw it was his knee and he tried to run it off.

It seems cruciate injuries feel ok immediately after treatment when flexing and running a straight line as happened yesterday. As soon as the player turns, bang. I've seen it happen several times.

Mike Gaynes
21 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:05:58
Don's right, if he'd blown the ACL completely, he couldn't have come back on the pitch, however briefly.

Unfortunately, Nick's right too... we will likely not see him on the pitch again until August. And given the way he plays, it's probably a full calendar year until he's back on form. Terrible blow.

Brian Wilkinson
22 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:06:42
Oh well... looks like the Yarmalenko press rumours will resurface again.
Mike Gaynes
23 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:16:27
Well said, Lyndon, and great point about Depay. Seems much more likely now, especially with some of our other previous wing targets (Ghezzal) no longer available.
Joe O'Brien
24 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:25:04
Why so, Mike? Had he signed a new contract?
James Marshall
25 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:27:23
Ghezzal has been quoted as saying he isn't interested in playing for us, and is also now saying he's going to sign a new contract with Lyon anyway.
Kieran Kinsella
26 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:27:32
Knees are funny old things. I've had all kinds of trouble with mine. You can walk on a torn meniscus for example but it's painful and often requires surgery.

There's a multitude of things it could be beyond ACL. Regardless, I thought he was hurt but in this day and age so many cry wolf that many fans are cynical.

As a player, he is hit a miss but he's had some assists and goals which is more than can be said for the other wingers.

Andy Crooks
27 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:29:23
Just so disappointing. I think he has been a good signing who will get better. However, he is not short of his prime and I hope he is back in time. Gutted for him.
Chris Corn
28 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:31:50
Let's be honest, I've seen players who are now rightly revered as legends be slaughtered by our crowd when the glory days faded. Sheedy, Ratcliffe and Reid all got battered towards the end of their Everton careers so the likes of Bolasie will be fair game. Even Dave Watson got booed when he first landed.

My take on Bolasie is, if you can accept he will have games when he looks like he's never played, he will also have games where he is unplayable. Some of his crosses are sheer quality and he tries to make things happen.

I wish him a speedy recovery. All the best, fella.

Eugene Ruane
29 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:33:37
He got dog's abuse from loads of 'Evertonians' yesterday (certainly too many for me to 'debate' with all at one time).

Every kind of 'coward' and 'shit-house' he got from these experts.

Wonder how many posts there'll be saying – "Yeah, I was one of them, obviously I got it absolutely wrong, made a twat of myself and have learnt a valuable life lesson." (None so far.)

I can only wish him the best and hope for a speedy recovery.

I also hope that whatever it is in life that frustrates these pricks (to the point where they go from 0 to completely unhinged fucking lunatic in 2 seconds) not only continues, but gets so bad they drown in their own bile.

'Yeah but 'old on, we're all like... Evertonians."

No we aren't – I refuse to be lumped in with nob-heads because they support the team I support.

Fuck them!

Mike Gaynes
30 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:35:36
Joe (#23), Lyon's having an excellent season and Ghezzal has become a mainstay for them. He's cemented there.
Mike Gaynes
31 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:38:05
Quite right, Eugene.

Don't expect the ones who made those comments yesterday to come scuttling back out from under the fridge anytime soon.

David Hamilton
32 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:40:31
All depends on whether it's a strain or a tear. Reconstruction for a tear and maybe 12 months out. I'm hoping the surgery is only investigative, but doubt it.
Max Murphy
33 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:41:19
How we'll miss his goals.
Andy Crooks
34 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:45:17
Eugene, I have sat beside guys whose shouts, comments and observations have made me reconsider my views on everything, absolutely everything. I have left games depressed to the core, not just by the football but by the jaw dropping, insane, monumental, terrifying shite that some men say out loud.

Dave Abrahams
35 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:46:08
Bolasie is a bit of a hit-or-miss player, but it makes no difference if he is good bad or indifferent, you wouldn't wish that sort of injury to your worst enemy.

I hope the injury is not as bad as indicated and he is back as soon as possible.

James Doran
36 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:50:39
Decorum, Max?
Seamus McCrudden
37 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:52:55
I was watching on telly and to be honest at the time (in my opinion) it actually looked like he was playing it up a bit. Just goes to show how wrong you can be eh?

And I'm quite sure anyone who posted heat of the moment for him to get up via the live forum wouldn't have wished Yannick to have suffered such an injury. Just my two pence worth.

Bob Hannigan
38 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:55:46
Realistically he is out for the season. Very unfortunate, indeed. All the best to the young man.
Guy Hastings
40 Posted 05/12/2016 at 21:59:08
As my Palace supporting lad, who's seen a lot more than of Yannick than anyone else on this site, said when Bolasie stayed down, you can never accuse him of staying down for staying down's sake.
Dave Abrahams
42 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:01:03
Max (#32) your comment here and on a couple of other threads makes you sound like a very unhappy man.
Colin Malone
43 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:03:03
Lets hope they put a rocket up his arse during surgery.
James Doran
44 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:10:56
Unhappy like he just got beat 3-4 in stoppage time? :-/
Mark Morrissey
45 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:13:16
It looked agonising from where I was sat and you just know when a player shifts around so quickly like he's just sat on a cactus that it's serious. It looked bloody agony. A real shame. He is one player who could have made a real difference as the season wore on. Get well soon, son.
Bobby Thomas
46 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:17:24
One of the most overpriced players I've ever seen.
Brian Williams
47 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:19:59
Time and place Bobby, time and place.
Paul Thompson
48 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:25:53
Inconsistent, but we knew that. He's a good lad, with plenty of talent and works hard. His record of assists this season is good. We'll miss him – just hoping it's not as serious as it's feared.
Bobby Thomas
49 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:26:30
Don't like to see any player get injured, Brian. I just don't particularly rate him.
Liam Reilly
50 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:32:41
Nasty injury and one that's not kind to players who use pace as one of their more prominent weapons.

He needs to take the time to complete the rehabilitation and not rush back.

James Doran
51 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:34:52
Mirallas, Deulofeu and Valencia to start on Saturday then, in a 4-4-2?
Ian Bonnette
52 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:38:13
The level of shite written on the live forums now has turned me off from reading them whilst the game is on.

I snapped my ACL playing footy 6 years ago and screamed for about 5 seconds as I've never felt pain like it, but then nothing. I got up and walked off the pitch and even drove home.

When I saw it I could tell something had gone by his reaction, said the same too when Walcott done his a few years ago as well. It's the players reaction for a short burst of pain then they look like nothing's wrong... I wish the lad luck cos it's a long recovery road...

Eugene Ruane
53 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:39:50
Andy (#33) – I'm in the Upper Gwladys where it meets the Bullens, not usually a hotbed of crack-pottery, but yesterday we had a bunch of those bladdered/stoned unhinged hillbilly loons one sometimes encounters while following Everton.

The amount of times over the years I've thought "Where do these knuckle-draggers live? What do they do in the week? How do they manage to get to places like Ipswich away? Who taught them to speak?" etc.

Soon as we sat down yesterday it was..

"AYYYY FUUUCCKKGGIN COME ONNNN!! GERRIN T' DEEZ MANC CUUUNTS!!!

(After kick-off, even worse.)

So of course when Bolasie went down..

"YER FUCKIN LAZY FUCKIN SHIT-HOUSE FUC..." etc blah.

Recently the feller who sits behind told us about a song he heard about Sturridge on his coach going down to Chelsea.

I won't repeat the (staggeringly racist) words but it would have shocked me in 1973.

Oh yeah... they're deffo still about.

Sam Hoare
54 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:40:34
The lad has worked hard since getting here and has been one of the better players in a poor bunch. He's got a few assists and has looked considerably more threatening than Deulofeu, Barkley and Mirallas.

Wish him all the best and a speedy recovery.

Brent Stephens
55 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:40:54
Bobby (#48), "Don't like to see any player get injured Brian. I just don't particularly rate him."

But you didn't say that first off, Bobby. All you said was "One of the most overpriced players I've ever seen." Still, if you feel no empathy...

Gordon Crawford
56 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:43:13
Some people are truly animals. Just reading some horrific comments on social media, saying that he is no great loss, and that who cares that he has injured himself. Shame on those so called Evertonians.

Get well soon, Yannick. :)

Brent Stephens
57 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:43:41
"How do they manage to get to places like Ipswich away?"!!

Superb, Eugene! Choked on my cocoa.

Kevin Rowlands
58 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:43:48
Real shame. Despite some of the headless chicken stuff, he's easily been our best offensive player this season by a mile. I hope he makes a swift and full recovery.

I thought there would be transfer activity in January but surely this means there definitely will be. Welcome aboard, Memphis?

Oscar Huglin
59 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:44:33
Stephen Kendrew (#11),

I am so happy to have found someone else speaking sense on this forum. So many fans are painfully impatient. It's embarrassing.

Darryl Ritchie
61 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:47:54
From what I've seen there are two types of injured players. Those that cover their faces, or turn their faces to the ground: usually faking, or not serious. Those that scream, face uncovered, at the sky: the trainer had better get there quick.

There wasn't any face covering with Bolasie. Lying on his back and screaming.

The amazing thing is, he got up and played a bit, before coming off.

Michael Lynch
62 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:48:11
Disappointed we won't see more of him this season. I saw the lad play in the lower leagues when he was 18 and he looked special then. To be honest, I think he's never going to be a world beater, but he can be exciting in short bursts.

On the bright side, we can recall McGeady from his loan and it'll be like a new signing eh.

Ian Jones
63 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:48:17
Seems Mike Gaynes, John Audsley and David Barks were amongst the first who called Bolasie's injury correct. Apologies to those others who also felt it looked bad..

Pity that some were too quick to criticise Bolasie about his 'injury' on the live forum yesterday.

I guess they know who they are...thanks to a quick google of 'live forum ToffeeWeb' I know who they are too..made for interesting reading...

Hope Bolasie recovers well and is back playing.

Brent Stephens
64 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:49:46
Gordon #55, if that's being said on social media, then I'm embarrassed by these "Evermonians". As others have commented, the level of vitriol on TW and at GP against [supply your own name] is depressing.
Paul Holmes
66 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:53:03
Bad luck for Bolasie but let's be honest: if a player is getting millions a year for playing football and he's playing rubbish then the fans who PAY to watch the team can say what they want. If he's playing great then the same fans will give him praise, if he's playing rubbish then he will get stick. That's the way football works.

Footballers can't have it both ways with the amount of money they earn for kicking a ball around for 90 minutes, FFS!
Eddie Dunn
67 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:55:17
I saw some stupid posts on the live forum and one or two on other threads questioning not just his crossing (which was better on Sunday) but his price tag /attitude etc.

It is a symptom of the modern age and in particular social media that people spout off with such vitriol. It is often totally uncalled for.

Let's all remember that the manager, his staff and the players are all trying to win games for EFC.

We can all get a bit too cynical at times, so let's all try and be a bit more positive and constructive in criticism and support our team. We all want the same thing.
Peter McHugh
68 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:57:05
Gutted for him. I didn't go the game or see the live forum and just watched on Sky Sports. I'm sure the commentator said something about whether it was fake too.

Very annoying but not as bad as our own fans giving him stick. He seems like a top humble bloke to me and best of luck to him coming back strong.

Michael Lynch
69 Posted 05/12/2016 at 22:59:45
Eddie, I'm happy for you to be as positive and constructive as you like, that's great. Me, personally, I like to spout shite in the heat of the moment at a match, and on here too. It's fun and it's harmless (unless it's racist etc). And, particularly in this age of the massively over-paid and at times over-arrogant footballer/manager, it's often called for.

I don't think it's unreasonable for the average fan to call into question a winger's crossing ability when said winger cost £30m and is being paid tens of thousand of quid a week to cross a ball?

Each to their own?

James Doran
70 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:02:54
Cloud / silver lining thought: Moshiri digs deep to bring 2 world class wingers in in January and Bolasie comes back strong next year. COYB!!
Eddie Dunn
72 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:04:55
Yes Michael, I get passionate too, but we can be constructive.

Gordon Crawford
73 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:08:54
Yeah Brent they sicken me and I don't want to be associated with such people. But anyone who wishes anyone a serious injury is sick in the head.
Mike Green
76 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:24:44
I've been more than happy with Bolasie, he's one of the few players we've got who can engender any kind of excitement, has got his head down and stuck to the task of trying to win some games for the club.

It's inevitable that you're going to get injuries but ones like this are a sickener because they take a whole season out of your career and threaten to dull the rest of it completely. I wish him a speedy and full recovery. Maybe it might inspire the rest of the team to step up in his absence.

Gavin Johnson
77 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:31:29
Very bad news. I really like Bolasie. He's a complete enigma. Sometimes sublime, other times naïve in his decision making and final ball. But he is always exciting to watch, always a threat, and plays with a smile on his face.

The only positive, if there is any, is that he would miss January playing for Congo. So we have the chance to bring in a replacement in January when he would have been absent anyway. We should make a big offer for Mahrez... You never know?!

I also think Jack Wilshere is the central midfielder we need to get, albeit in the summer.

Andrew James
78 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:37:23
I think Bolasie has been disappointing as our record signing. It's also become annoying that he's become an almost politically symbolic pawn in Koeman's stubborn insistence he knows best when Bolasie's performances have been no better than Barkley's but the latter constantly gets dropped.

However, the player's pain and welfare are what I am concerned about now. Looking at the positives, I hope this gives Geri the time on the pitch to improve him. But as for Bolasie, I wish him the best.

I have similar thoughts about Cleverley but cannot understand why our own fans mocked his substitution. They're our players. Every other club's fans will be slagging them off and giving them abuse. It's up to us to support them.

Gareth Clark
79 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:40:44
Andrew (#77),

You're delusional mate...

Bolasie is one of the only players on the pitch that looks like he gives a fuck.

Always gives 100%, and has added a lot of energy, passion and aggression to the team.

Mike Gaynes
80 Posted 05/12/2016 at 23:41:04
Ian (#62), I saved those posts too.

Michael Lynch (#68), your contribution was "I think Bolasie may have broken a nail" ... that's not questioning his crossing ability, it's questioning the courage of one of our own who's obviously injured.

I give you credit for being the only one of yesterday's offenders to have the cojones to post on this thread. Too bad you don't have the stones to express regret. Excusing it by saying you "like to spout shite in the heat of the moment" or calling out the player's oversized paycheck won't wash.

Kevin Rowlands
81 Posted 05/12/2016 at 00:00:48
Gavin, are you fucking kidding mate? His injury and appearance record makes Darron Gibson look like Gaz Barry, steer well well clear of that little gobshite.
Matt Williams
83 Posted 06/12/2016 at 00:13:56
I've never understood the criticism of Bolasie on these pages. IMO, his unpredictability is one of his strengths. His direct approach to the game has, for me, been one of the few highlights of our season so far.

I've liked him since he tore us a new one at Goodison in Martinez's first season. I wish the lad well and a speedy recovery. We're going to need him.

Kase Chow
84 Posted 06/12/2016 at 00:14:47
Bolaise is a super player who has started his Everton career well and was getting better. Despite the fact we look one-paced, he's been one of our more threatening players.

I just hope he can come back 100% cos knee injuries can impact mobility and speed.

Good luck Yannick. Most Evertonians rate and respect you.

Colin Glassar
85 Posted 06/12/2016 at 00:23:43
I was on and off the live forum yesterday and must've missed the Bolasie comments (I did at one point say I thought he was a waste of money though). When he went down I thought it looked serious so I was surprised to see him get up and play on.

It looks like he'll be out for the season so I wish him all the best for a speedy recovery. As for the live forum, well it's become a bit of a cesspool thanks to 2-3 fellas who only appear once things start going down the toilet.

Gavin Johnson
86 Posted 06/12/2016 at 01:14:15
Kevin, I'm not joking mate. I think Wilshere is class. He would have made a big difference for us in midfield this season had we got him ahead of Bournemouth.

I agree with you that his injury record isn't the best. But so far this season, he's got his fitness back and is playing very well. He's still relatively young so if he's still fit and on form at the end of the season I think we should have a look, if Arsenal are willing to do business.

He would be no more of risk than Strootman, who incidentally I would also be happy to sign, that is, as long as we offload our own sick note in midfield – Gibson! I still don't know what the board were thinking giving that joker a new contract.

Peter Gorman
87 Posted 06/12/2016 at 01:15:21
This is not great news. Hoping for a speedy recovery.
Jack Cross
88 Posted 06/12/2016 at 01:17:38
Does that mean we will have to get an extra player now in January, to cover is place? Because if he's out we be a man down, won't we?

I mean who in the squad can replace him? Even though his performances have been below par? Was it just a money position?

Christine Foster
89 Posted 06/12/2016 at 01:26:21
I try not to post much these days, sometimes it's harder to praise than ridicule so I leave it to much better and articulate contributors!

But I attended the West Ham game a while back, the ticket a birthday present from the family, and seated high up in Goodison Road, my restricted but expensive view was only marred by a foul mouthed abusive, racist father who increasingly made me blush and cringe at the same time.

After just 25 mins of near non-stop abuse, he turned on those around him who had asked him to tone it down, before one gentlemen asked a steward to have a word. He did, and was told to fuck off for his trouble. I moved to a much worse seat at half-time, but at least I could enjoy the game.

"So what?" I hear you cry... in all my years of coming to the match, and I have seen sooooo many games, this was the very first time I felt threatened and ill at ease in MY club. (Apart from the time I was refused a ticket at the ticket office because of comments I had made in ToffeeWeb about our leader, lol!)

My opportunities are still limited to go to the game but my desire has been diminished by the disgraceful behaviour of not just this individual but by the fact it was all around me. I stopped and listened to it... tuned in... some of it was from drunken idiots but not all.

For those who say they pay their money and have a right to abuse players, you don't have the right to abuse me, or the kids or the fans. Would you use it at home? Sad thing is, they probably would...

Mick Davies
90 Posted 06/12/2016 at 01:34:14
The way Man Utd played, we were lucky to lose just one player; if the amount of savagery meted out by Moanios Mancs yesterday had been inflicted on them, he would have been on his SSN channel screaming for lifelong bans faster than you could say "Self-assessment form". Someone in authority needs to tear into these dirty bastards (not physically) before someone's career is ended... worse than the '70s Leeds side.
Kristian Boyce
92 Posted 06/12/2016 at 02:46:38
It reminded me a bit of the Dan Gosling injury a few years back. Didn't look that bad when he first went down, but he ended up being out for 9 months and he didn't come back the player he showed initial promise as.

At least Koeman didn't force him to play on like Moyes and Rathbone did. I'm still convinced that played a part of him leaving under the dodgy circumstance. He clearly was in agony but was forced to keep playing.

Bolasie's injury is probably going to put to bed the rumours of Geri and Lennon leaving in January. With a guaranteed starter now out for a while, it will be interesting to see if Ross will come back into the team. I thought Mirallas played okay behind Lukaku, but Cleverley being absolutely dire, it would be an indicator on Koeman's thoughts of him if Barkley still can't get back in.

Jay Harris
93 Posted 06/12/2016 at 03:46:39
Hope the lad gets better soon and all the moaning fuckers who just move from one hate figure to the next feel ashamed of themselves.

Also thought it was disgraceful to treat Cleverley like that.

Okay, these lads get bundles but they don't deliberately play bad and they feel it more than the fans.

David Pearl
94 Posted 06/12/2016 at 04:09:40
I had an idea it was a bad one. I recognised his pain. It's what finished me, second time around. My knee still locks now having bits floating around in there. My growls woke the dead. It could easily mean his season. I have a feeling he will be back soon though. Anyway, opportunity knocks, Enner Valencia!
Ernie Baywood
95 Posted 06/12/2016 at 04:26:07
Onto this thread, I can't believe what I'm reading. Now he's injured he's been our best offensive player, never lacking in commitment, a hard worker...

I just don't see it. He's a show pony. He just does tricks. For his own ego. I've never disliked an Everton player as much as him.

The only reason he gets near that team is that we are so lacking in imagination and creativity that his showboating provides the best way to at least 'look' like we have something going on. I still think we'll look far more like a team without him.

But if course I still wouldn't wish a serious injury on him.

Douglas McClenaghan
96 Posted 06/12/2016 at 05:43:36
Best wishes for a full recovery, on behalf of Everton fans downunder.
Darren Hind
97 Posted 06/12/2016 at 05:55:02
Only been on the live forum once or twice. The thing that struck me was how difficult it must be to control/monitor. The speed with which the comments appear often make it impossible to follow. I just don't know how people manage it if they are watching the match.

For an arl technophobe like me, it's a thing of wonder (even if I can't keep up) I still have trouble getting my head around exiled Evertonians watching the game from all four corners whilst being able to chat to fellow blues.

I like it when it gets feisty, especially at the match; I have no problem at all with fans shaking their fists at kick-off, shouting "Let's get into these fuckers" or jumping up and shouting "Send that dirty bastard off!" but there can be no room for personal abuse, whether it be racial, homophobic, bigoted or just plain hateful.

Never that impressed by Bolasie as a player, I can still feel pig sick for a boy whose career is now hanging in the balance. It's both tragic for him and damaging for us as a club.

I didn't see the comments on the Live Forum and I want to believe they were silly and ill-informed as opposed to the spiteful abuse being reported. The thought of people abusing a guy who is clearly in agony (even if it's an opponent) doesn't bear thinking about.

Steven Kendrew,

You seem to have trouble distinguishing the difference between people abusing an injured player who is clearly in agony and people who think they have seen enough of our wealthy healthy manager to believe he is the wrong guy for the job. You use a thread that's supposed to be about a seriously injured player as an opportunity abuse those who don't share your views.

What was it you called them? Oh yeah... "knobheads". How ironic.

Laurie Hartley
98 Posted 06/12/2016 at 06:13:48
Very bad news for the lad and us. I hope he makes a speedy recovery.

Dermot Byrne
99 Posted 06/12/2016 at 06:57:49
I think he may be missed for his spirit and effort. Surely a good influence on those with a tendency to stroll. Wish him well.
Anthony Dwyer
100 Posted 06/12/2016 at 07:25:51
Complete disaster; one of few attacking threats, and one of only two players within the squad capable of taking the ball half the length of the park.

He has his critics, mostly due to the fee he cost, but he's much more effective than any other wide player we have within the squad.

Trevor Lynes
101 Posted 06/12/2016 at 07:29:55

We have a pretty mediocre squad at the moment and that problem needs to be addressed during this January window.Bolasie has been one of our successes along with Williams and Gueye.Without these three additions to last seasons squad we would be languishing in the table.

Lets just hope that Bolasie gets back to his best quickly and comes back strong and refreshed.

Eugene Ruane
102 Posted 06/12/2016 at 07:50:30
Ernie (#95) ― 'He's a show pony. He just does tricks. For his own ego'

'For his own ego'?

Is that something you know or is it simply a bit of two-bob psychoanalysis you've spouted, maybe for your own ego?

Martin Nicholls
103 Posted 06/12/2016 at 08:01:50
Mick (#90) – fair comment but I was sitting close to where Bolasie sustained his injury and it wasn't as a result of one of the bad tackles Man Utd committed.
John G Davies
104 Posted 06/12/2016 at 08:13:27
Ernie (#95).

How do you work that out? I said to my mate in the game he was trying too hard, tried to play two or three killer balls into Lukaku when they were not on.

He is the best crosser of the ball, off both feet, at the club, when he gets himself half a yard.

Phil Sammon
105 Posted 06/12/2016 at 09:01:32
Ernie (#95)

What a load of cobblers. He's created far more chances than anyone else. He tries his tricks to deceive defenders. Sometimes they come off, sometimes they don't. He's a good player and, beyond that, a humble bloke who plays with a smile on his face. Get off his back.

Eddie Dunn
106 Posted 06/12/2016 at 09:22:57
Ernie (#95). I don't think Bolasie is a show pony, much less of that than Deulofeu for example. Bolasie often goes straight for the bye-line to get the cross in. Granted, he blows hot and cold, but most wingers do, but when they get it right, it is a joy to behold!

I hope the injury is not a complete mess, and more of a tear. As others have commented, the fact that he tried to carry on is a hopeful sign. I hope he still keeps his pace – it is pretty important for him.

I look less and less at the Live Forum, as it is so often just full of bile, and people having a go at each other. Might improve if we go on another winning run.

Mike Berry
107 Posted 06/12/2016 at 09:25:32
It was shameful that some supporters close to me were calling him for feigning injury. But they're not talking now...
Get well soon – the player and the idiots!
Stan Schofield
108 Posted 06/12/2016 at 09:37:31
Hopefully he'll recover quickly.

Bolasie is a very good player: unpredictable, blows hot and cold, frightens defenders. He's an asset we sorely need. He's also a genuine and enthusiastic footballer, and a nice guy.

Ray Roche
109 Posted 06/12/2016 at 09:42:31

Ernie Baywood (#95),

"I've never disliked an Everton player as much as him."

So the likes of Ginola turning up for one last big pay day and trotting through the motions while sucking the financial lifeblood out of the club were preferable to Bolasie who has at the very least got us up out of our seats on occasion? Or Blomqvist throwing his teddy out of the pram when he was hooked off for doing fuck-all all afternoon. Didn't throw his wages out of the pram though.

Darren Hind (#97),

The Live Forum can be an eye-opener. There have never been so many qualified (and top class) football coaches contributing to one site at the same time in the history of the game. It's useful for lads who are in work and can't get a stream though. You should have a look some time, it can be very entertaining.

Mick Davies #90

Man United "worse than the '70s Leeds side"?

Get a grip, son.

Alex Bennett
110 Posted 06/12/2016 at 10:03:06
This has happened to us before and we carry on. However, I'm not convinced by him yet and now it looks like he'll be out for the season so I still wont get to decide.

So far I personally think he hasn't been good enough for the price tag. He will often get in great positions only to cross the ball too deep. Yes, he has had a few assists but, with the amount of balls he puts into the box, it stands to reason that eventually one or two will find the right player. I was hoping he'd score a few goals too but sadly along with the rest of the team he hasn't chipped in.

Also, I thought we played better after he went off against Man Utd. Just my opinions, and we are all entitled to our own.

John Davies
111 Posted 06/12/2016 at 10:26:44
Gary Neville and all the morons who posted their crap about Bolasie – WANKERS all of you.
Sam Bull
112 Posted 06/12/2016 at 10:53:47
Very sad news... Martial kneed Bolasie in the back on the knee, not purposely I don't think, but it wasn't even given as a foul.
Nick Page
113 Posted 06/12/2016 at 10:59:28
Mike Berry (#107) – absolutely agree. Who are these so-called fans that turn up every week and spend 2 hours moaning like fuck at every player on the pitch? It's been like this for years. Are they the same morons who think Kenwright saved the club? Probably!

A team low on confidence... yea, let's slaughter them all afternoon, that'll help. No wonder we never get anywhere.

I doubt Bolasie will play for us again. Probably hates the place given all the shite he's given for not being Messi. FFS

Steve Brown
114 Posted 06/12/2016 at 10:59:54
Bolasie, show pony, mercurial, hit and miss. He tries to cause a threat every time he has the ball so he's okay by me.

That's more than can be said by about the vast majority of the squad. Zero threat.

As for "I've never disliked an Everton player as much as him". Ernie, have you been watching Everton for the last 25 years!

Nick Page
115 Posted 06/12/2016 at 11:03:50
Ernie Baywood (#95). Words fucking fail me...
Michael Lynch
116 Posted 06/12/2016 at 11:06:34
MIke Gaynes @80 for God's sake man, where's your sense of humour? Saying "I think Bolassie may have broken a nail" is hardly a hanging offence. I'm delighted for you that you have such incredible insight that you know an ACL injury as soon as you see it on a dodgy Russian feed of the match.

But I can't actually believe you have gone through the Live Forum noting down offenders who may have said something scathing or exaggerated about one of our players. Are you for real?

I have nothing to apologise for, and have absolutely no sense of regret for saying what I did. What I do regret is that Bolasie, a player I have high regard for (though I'm sure you already know that if you spend your time trawling through old threads) has such a serious injury. Next time a player goes down, I'll call an ambulance before posting on the Live Forum okay?

Peter Morris
117 Posted 06/12/2016 at 11:47:07
Get well soon, Yannick.

I've just this minute caught the news bulletin on the BBC News channel. They mentioned that Sunderland have lost Duncan Watmore for the rest of the season due to a serious knee injury, which is tough on him, and them. No mention of Bolasie's injury whatsoever – this despite it being equally serious and occurring 30 miles from their Salford studio, and in a game against their beloved Man Utd no less.

What is it with the BBC Sport Department? Why do they treat a club with Everton's stature with such contempt? I sort of understand Sky Sport's obsession with the favoured 4 – they are a commercial undertaking and care not a jot for balance and fairness, but the BBC is supposed to be a neutral public service broadcaster, and their behaviour has got materially worse since they moved to Salford (ie, Manchester).

Tony McNulty
118 Posted 06/12/2016 at 11:58:08
1. This is a real blow. I always thought Bolasie's strength was his speed. After an ACL injury do players ever get their full speed back?

2. The live forum always reminds me of being at the game. People sometimes make comments which make you cringe. I guess what makes the live forum worse is that these things are written down and recorded as opposed to just being said.

3. For me giving up the live forum because you don't like some of the comments would be like giving up driving because someone once cut me up at a roundabout (although admittedly, at times there might be some unlicensed drivers on the forum).

Marc Sansum
119 Posted 06/12/2016 at 12:14:24
I hardly ever look at the live forum these days, annoys the shit out of me with the abuse that gets chucked about, no wonder half the players seem completely shot confidence-wise.

So I've realised something recently – when playing previous versions of Football mManager on my PC, I had managed to lure Lukaku, Deulofeu, Williams and Bolasie to the club (way before we were ever linked to them). Even managed to get Depay although we don't have him yet. :)

Spooky, I know... so what players do people want, and I'll try to tempt fate by trying to get them in Football Manager 2017.

Dermot Byrne
120 Posted 06/12/2016 at 12:20:06
The Live Forum is what it says on the tin. It is worth bearing in mind different degrees of subtlety will always be there and thank god.

There will also be, to use posh term, very different levels of emotional maturity. Some will almost be unable to avoid the extreme or loud post. They tend to feel that the more extreme, loud and immovable they are, the more impact they will have.

Well not the case obviously and I'd hate to see the emotional 11+ brigade be blocked.

New Campaign: The Right to Talk Shite. Catchy?

Ernie Baywood
121 Posted 06/12/2016 at 12:26:53
Eugene (#102)... are you asking me whether the statements I made are my opinion? Then yes, they obviously are my opinion.

Surely they're as legitimate as claiming he is 'committed' or 'humble' etc?

To others who query how I can dislike him more than, say, Ginola... what did we think we were getting with Ginola? You can't sign a player who is quite clearly past it and then complain that he's past it.

With Bolasie, I see plenty of ability. Plenty of physical attributes. And an attitude that values style over substance. That's what winds me up. It's the Soccer AM generation. Shouting tekkers after a pointless bit of skill as though it's more important than actually putting in a performance.

Maybe I'm wrong about him and the many examples (let's just start with the ridiculous rabona) don't provide that insight into his character. Maybe I'm not. I've seen enough players and played enough matches to hold a view.

Michael Lynch
122 Posted 06/12/2016 at 12:31:08
I'm with you all the way on that campaign, Dermot. In fact, I live my life by that slogan. IMO the live forum should be viewed in the same way as Snapchat – once it's been posted, you've got about 30 seconds to read it, then it's gone. It really shouldn't be picked apart days later, that's just too anal for words.

The really good news is that Bolassie and all the other players are probably too busy to follow the live forum during a game, so me accusing Yannick of breaking a nail will be unlikely to affect his confidence or any other part of his skill set.

Scott Hall
123 Posted 06/12/2016 at 12:50:12
Hope the lad gets better and back to fitness soon. Yes, he blows hot and cold but so do most wingers. Even the brilliant Andrei Kanchelskis (one of my fave players ever) blew hot and cold. The difference was that, when Andrei blew hot, it was of volcanic temperatures.

A confident and in-form Yannick Bolasie working the wings and with players to aim at will be an asset to Everton.

Bobby Thomas
124 Posted 06/12/2016 at 13:11:43
Michael (#116),

I've noted down a couple of sentences in your post that I'm really most unhappy about.

James Morgan
125 Posted 06/12/2016 at 13:19:24
Ernie, did you not see Alex Nyarko?
Lewis Montgomery
126 Posted 06/12/2016 at 13:28:11
A real shame for the team, as he's a real talent.

My main reaction to the cowardly 'trolls', who see something like this is an excuse to spout offensive verbal diarrhoea, is pity.

And my deepest sympathy goes out to those poor sods they live and work with – all the best, my heart goes out to you hapless unfortunates.

Michael Lynch
127 Posted 06/12/2016 at 13:38:20
Easy now, Bobby (#124) – this is a very serious matter, no laughing in class.
Paul Holmes
128 Posted 06/12/2016 at 14:04:04
Bolasie started well at West Brom and Sunderland and looked like a player, but let's be honest, since then he has been no better than what we already have, and he cost £30 million, ffs!

If we had bought Sissoko for another £30 million, that really would have had the fans questioning the transfer policy at the club. Get loads of loan players in January and if they are rubbish we can send them back; we can't afford more £30 million Bolasies!

Dave Abrahams
129 Posted 06/12/2016 at 15:14:53
Christine (89),

I think your posts have been missed by quite a few on here; I know I've missed them. You underestimate how good they are. I hope you pick up your pen (so to speak) soon and give us your points of view.

Best wishes.

Brent Stephens
130 Posted 06/12/2016 at 15:17:42
I second what Dave says.

Christine. A poster I'll always read. More, please, Miss.

Tom Bowers
131 Posted 06/12/2016 at 15:38:48
More bad news on what has been an awful season so far. With bad injuries to Bolasie and Besic coupled with previous bad injuries to the likes of Barkley, Deulofeu and Oviedo, it seems odds against ever getting a consistent squad together.

Okay, Bolasie hasn't really set Everton alight this season... but who has? Even Gana has slipped in recent games. Perhaps, however, this is a chance for Valencia to seize the moment?

Certainly now more than ever, the transfer window becomes important for Everton, with so many players not doing their best work and Koeman talking of shifting some out. As the points are being dropped, so to is Everton's league position.

Franny Porter
132 Posted 06/12/2016 at 15:56:58
Some absolute throbber sits by me in the Top Balcony and he does nothing but slag the players off, week-in & week-out. If it's not Barkley, it's Mirallas.

The thing is with him, he must decide to slag someone off before he even sees how they play. Mirallas was getting it on Sunday despite this being his best game for a long while.

(He also equally annoys me by clapping like a fucking seal every two mins at fuck all.)

James Doran
133 Posted 06/12/2016 at 16:34:02
Tom @ 131,

Do you agree that Gana's shooting needs to improve, but otherwise he's been class/'set Everton alight' in the role he was bought to fulfil, ever since he gave that penalty away in the Espanyol pre-season friendly at The Old Lady? He was MoTM on Sun.

Tony Abrahams
134 Posted 06/12/2016 at 17:11:51
Sod's law really, because, if Koeman doesn't start playing two forwards in at least half of our games, then he needs his head testing.

Imagine playing on the wing and you have got at least two to aim for in the box? That's how bad it's been for most of this season, with the really poor formations we have been using, which have got very little out of the players, and even less out of Everton's most potent weapon... THE CROWD!

Mick Davies
135 Posted 06/12/2016 at 17:34:43
Ray Roche @ 109, YOU get a grip "son". I'm old enough to tell you about that Leeds side of the '70s: they were tough and liked to get stuck in if it came to fisticuffs, but the media jumped on this toughness to make reams of tittle-tattle.

Leeds were no worse than any other side at that time and other teams had players (Harris, Smith, Case, Rioch, McQueen – in his later Man Utd days – Souness etc) that were animals in comparison. My argument is, in these so called 'civilised' times, dirty, snidey kicks on prone and injured opponents, and two-footed tackles should be outlawed and punished from above.

Our own Dunc has a record number of red cards, because he openly and honestly retaliated against these cowardly digs, while the likes of Roy Keane's deliberate but disguised assaults often went unpunished.

If Coleman had suffered a fractured skull, or Gana a double leg break, would you be happy losing two of our most effective players? The Sky darlings from down the East Lancs have been immune to FA punishment for decades, so maybe THEY should 'get a grip'

Colin Metcalfe
136 Posted 06/12/2016 at 17:37:22
I feel sorry for the lad, he does give everything he's got on the pitch and against the more weaker teams he does create and cause problems.

He uses his strength and speed to get pass opponents he is not a box of tricks and so the better teams can pretty much work him out and mark him out of the game.

I hope he can come back next year as good as has been, he can still be an asset for the Blues. However, as he blows too hot and cold, I see him as an impact sub for the future when opposing teams are getting tired.

Get well soon, lad!

James Stewart
137 Posted 06/12/2016 at 18:18:08
Big blow. We have to change formation now. Geri and Mirallas are just not good enough to take over.
James Doran
138 Posted 06/12/2016 at 18:40:54
James @ 137,

The Mirallas of the last 20 minutes on Sunday, or who played at West Brom earlier this season, is. As is the Geri from last season's cup ties (except Man City away in the League Cup semi!). They both just need to put the work in – as does Lennon if and when he gets the opportunity to do so.

Steven Kendrew
139 Posted 06/12/2016 at 18:54:28
Darren Hind (#97),

I am happy to accept differing views to mine if they make some kind of sense. Plainly in this case, an argument to get rid of Koeman now does not meet this condition, and in fact probably harms the prospects of the club I support.

And yes, I would surmise that many of those slagging off Bolasie are indeed the very ones who also want Koeman out, which is why I linked the issues.

Raymond Fox
142 Posted 06/12/2016 at 19:21:14
We most definitely can't afford to lose Bolasie at the moment, he's one of our few dangerous attackers. It's a big blow.

As far as fans' behavior is concerned, along with too many of the general public now, standards have dropped a great deal since I was a young man.

Anyone effing and blinding around women and children would have been ejected by the men around them, they wouldn't have needed to call for stewards.

Dermot Byrne
143 Posted 06/12/2016 at 19:41:43
Michael (#122): we agree. It really makes me laugh when I read people saying things like "I am willing to give him a chance" or "I will give him half a season but no more."

There lies the delusion that anything we post has some impact or significance.

Mostly this is a place full of people with a shared interest who are at home with a partner or kids who don't find Everton interesting or of any importance. So psychologically good for us in our small little group but nobody else cares a damn what we say.

And maybe there lies the joy of TW. I mean Jaysus... imagine if the Live Forum carried weight. Sca

ry!

Darren Hind
144 Posted 06/12/2016 at 19:48:46
Steven Kendrew.

Congratulations. I didn't think your second post could match the stupidity of your first... but you pulled it off, fella.

Damian Wilde
145 Posted 06/12/2016 at 20:03:32
"...an argument to get rid of Koeman now does not meet this condition, and in fact probably harms the prospects of the club I support. And yes, I would surmise that many of those slagging off Bolasie are indeed the very ones who also want Koeman out, which is why I linked the issues."

An arrogant and quite frankly 'stupid' post.

Kim Vivian
146 Posted 06/12/2016 at 20:16:31
Totally off topic – but anyone watching Roberto on Masterchef tonight?

I'm rooting for him...

Darren Hind
147 Posted 06/12/2016 at 20:26:55
Ray (#109).

I cant cope with reading/ commenting while watching the game at the same time. Me fingers aren't quick enough.

I do read the OF most mornings to see what bollocks they have been chatting. Often very funny stuff from a group of blues who live and breath this club without taking themselves too seriously.

Martin Nicholls
148 Posted 06/12/2016 at 20:30:27
Kim – his food looks better than the team he produced!
Tony McNulty
149 Posted 06/12/2016 at 20:48:20
I think the Live Forum is an excellent feature that needs defending. I would hate Lyndon or Michael to remove the facility on the grounds that some posters occasionally go a little over the top in their enthusiasm, as they engage in robust exchanges with their fellow blues.

As the philosopher David Hume once put it, "Truth arises through disagreement amongst friends."

To extend the analogy I used above, you don't dig up all the highways because of the occasional drunk driver.

Colin Glassar
150 Posted 06/12/2016 at 21:01:39
The live forum must be allowed to well ...live. It's a great opportunity to discuss the game as it happens but my god there are a couple of miserable sods who are full of bile and venom. I try and ignore them.
Paul Tran
151 Posted 06/12/2016 at 21:24:20
There's nothing like the Live Forum, especially for us exiles. It's always there every game on my phone, next to the laptop in case the feed goes. If I'm travelling back from a job on the train, or sitting at an airport, it's the only way I can 'watch' a game.

Please keep it!

Kim Vivian
152 Posted 06/12/2016 at 22:44:22
The live forum is a must for me. There are some inexcusable rantings on there but, for the most part, quite entertaining banter and it's the best way to track the match if I'm out and about.

Always have the forum open while watching on TV (rarely get a chance to go to a game – distance the problem) and it feels like being part of the crowd while in the company of all you Evertonians... even the knobs who pop up now and then.

So keep it up guys and gals. The camaraderie is priceless.

Ray Roche
153 Posted 06/12/2016 at 22:47:48
Mick Davies (#135),

The 1970 side contained Reaney, Bremner, Charlton, Giles, Clarke, Hunter, Lorimer even Jones, and before them, Collins, yes OUR Collins, and were, collectively, the dirtiest team I can remember. Not only were they sly bastards they were openly dirty, sorry, maybe I should call them "hard but honest", would that suit you better? They are not known as Dirty Leeds because their kit is minging.

On Saturday United were sly and, in Rojo's case, openly, crudely dirty, but they would and should have been punished if the referee had any balls. That tackle was par for the course in Leeds 1960s side.

Tell me, were you at the 1964 match versus Leeds? When Brown was sent off after 4 minutes, and the ref took BOTH teams off to cool down? I was.

If you were, you might reconsider your opinion of Leeds, and just for the record, you may be able to tell me about 1970s Leeds team, but I wouldn't bother, I saw them myself. Would you like to hear about the 1959-60 team? Son.

Brent Stephens
154 Posted 06/12/2016 at 22:55:42
Leeds of the 1960s – dirtiest team I've ever seen (in the UK).
James Doran
155 Posted 06/12/2016 at 23:18:43
Mick @ 135 is now revising / researching the Leeds 1959-60 side.

I predict that after a couple of posts more on this thread from both Ray Roche and Mick Davies, at most; we will all know exactly how old each of them is.

Relax gentlemen.

Dave Williams
156 Posted 06/12/2016 at 23:49:32
Leeds by a distance... though many teams could mix it back then. Reaney, Charlton, Bremner, Hunter, Giles (what a dirty player he was), Clarke – they were sly, devious and sometimes blatant... but were all afraid of Johnny Morrisey!!
Colin Glassar
157 Posted 07/12/2016 at 00:29:56
Leeds were a dirty team but they could also play some great football. Giles was a genius at picking out a pass and Clarke was ice cool in front of goal. Dirty? Yes. Talented? Absolutely!!

The only two Leeds players I really hated were Charlton and Hunter – two gobshites.

ps: The Chelsea side of that era were just as good/bad. Harris, Webb, Hollins etc. Tough sods but great players.

Ernie Baywood
158 Posted 07/12/2016 at 00:30:08
Live forum used to be a must for me as an expat but I got sick of the over reactions. Barkley was shit every game regardless of his performance.

In any case, Australian coverage moving to Optus has put paid to having any kind of mobile device close to me during matches. We track something like two minutes behind the live action.

Ian Jones
160 Posted 07/12/2016 at 07:25:42
I can just about remember the Leeds vs Chelsea 1970 FA Cup replay. That was feisty! Google it or YouTube it if you like hard but fair tackles!!
Colin Glassar
161 Posted 07/12/2016 at 07:48:31
I just heard that Ronnie Goodlass is in a bad way with stomach cancer. Get well soon, Ronnie lad.
Tony Ateman
162 Posted 07/12/2016 at 07:53:50
Maybe not Colin (hopefully). As I read this it's fundraising.

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/help-former-everton-star-ronny-12283264

Colin Glassar
163 Posted 07/12/2016 at 08:17:11
Tony, I totally misread the headline. Apologies Ronnie.
Eugene Ruane
164 Posted 07/12/2016 at 08:54:25
In an episode of Porridge, Mr McKay informs 'young Lennie' "I'm hard but fair."

Fletcher, hearing this, sarcastically chips in "Yeah... like Leeds United."

The gag, at the time worked perfectly, got big knowing laughs, didn't have to be explained. Something tells me this joke (or in a modern context, similar 'they're fucking filthy' gag) wouldn't work with any side today (including Man Utd). Leeds were absolute fucking dogs and every present Premier League side looks like Big Tart Softy Walter FC by comparison.

John G Davies
165 Posted 07/12/2016 at 09:05:07
Horrible bastards to a man, Eugene. But what a side. I would take that approach every day of the week.
Guy Hastings
166 Posted 07/12/2016 at 09:20:54
Fantastic Bill Tidy cartoon from Foul fanzine.

Leeds (it is safely assumed) Utd coach is pulled up a kerbside as a suited player scythes down a passing pensioner from behind on the pavement. The manager is saying, 'There's another hour before we get to the ground. Is there anyone else who can't wait?'

Chris Williams
167 Posted 07/12/2016 at 09:31:11
Totally agree about Leeds. It started in the old Second Division and they converted it into an art form once promoted. Invented gamesmanship single-handedly. Fucking terrible.

Incidentally, regarding Le Tissier's comments about naked soapy massages, does anyone remember a documentary about Leeds around that time showing Revie doing the same to some Leeds players?

Although they weren't kids, it felt a bit weird at the time.

Tony Hill
168 Posted 07/12/2016 at 09:56:06
Ray (153), Brown was sent off for punching that horrible little bastard Giles. as I recall. The games against them in the title year of 69-70, when we beat them at Goodison and they beat us at their place, were as tense as I can remember, derbies aside.

I still loathe them and their gobshite support.

Ray Roche
169 Posted 07/12/2016 at 10:49:11
Tony, wasn't it for the chest high tackle on himself by Giles, after which he got up and delivered a left hook towards the little shit. Horrible shower.

Anyone too young to recall this, just put "Battle Of Goodison" or "Dirty Leeds" into Google.

And then, see how last Saturday's afternoon picnic compares.

Chris Williams
170 Posted 07/12/2016 at 10:56:55
Ray and Tony

Sandy had studmarks high on his chest and tried to show the referee, to no avail. That was the start of him losing control of the game. Cue Roy Vernon spending his time kicking the shit out of all and sundry.

Willie Bell's waist high tackle on Derek Temple was an assault that laid Derek out and led to the punch up which ended with both teams being taken off.

Near riot outside the Player Entrance on Goodison Road after the match too.

Ray Roche
171 Posted 07/12/2016 at 12:07:17
Chris, what you'd call a good day out in those days, eh? Just how much has football changed... I wonder if Mick has finished looking up the Leeds match on Google yet?
Chris Williams
172 Posted 07/12/2016 at 12:48:28
It was horrible, and could bring out the worst in you. It was tribal and stimulating.

How a team breaking every rule in the book and stretching the spirit of the game, thuggish and snide, can actually help create a spectacle.

And we remember it vividly 50-odd years later.

Who will remember the game on Sunday for very long? Not in the same league and thank Christ for it.

Martin Nicholls
173 Posted 07/12/2016 at 13:21:25
To be fair to Mick, I don't think he was likening Sunday's game to the infamous "Battle of Goodison", more he was likening Man Utd's general approach to that of "dirty Leeds".

I personally think Leeds were infinitely worse but the principle of the two teams' approach was at least arguably similar.

Chris Williams
174 Posted 07/12/2016 at 13:25:50
I'm sure you're right, Martin, but it's a bit like comparing Farage to Hitler. A matter of degree.
Martin Nicholls
175 Posted 07/12/2016 at 14:25:19
Absolutely Chris!
Brent Stephens
176 Posted 07/12/2016 at 14:28:37
Ray (#169), "Wasn't it for the chest-high tackle on himself by Giles?"

I remember one of our lads getting a chest-high kung-fu-style tackle right on the halfway line, Bullens Road side, against Leeds. I think that was Shirley Temple.

Anybody with similar memory? And don't tell me I'm getting old and the mind is going. I seem to remember one of our lads... ah, sorry, I think I've already said that.

Chris Williams
177 Posted 07/12/2016 at 14:46:47
Brent

It was a terrible foul by Willy Bell that I mention above. It led to both teams being taken off the field having provoked a mass brawl.

Happy Days?

Ray Roche
178 Posted 07/12/2016 at 14:53:44
Brent, you're right, it WAS Temple, I started to write a post and then changed it, not realising I'd left "himself" in. It was the incident that led to both teams being taken off (I think!) Brown was also tackled across the chest and had the stud marks to prove it but the infamous halfway-line tackle was on Temple, as you say.

Martin, it was me who mentioned the so-called "Battle Of Goodison" in an attempt to prove to Mick that Leeds were in a different class to the present Man Utd side when it comes to dirty play. A different class regarding football brilliance as well, I might add.

And Mick DID say "worse than the '70s Leeds side." Light blue touch paper and retire etc.

Ray Roche
179 Posted 07/12/2016 at 14:58:31
Chris (#177),

In some ways I'd sooner watch a game with old fashioned values where a proper tackle, not a leg breaker, was acceptable and no one rolled around on the floor like they'd been shot when someone brushed against them.

Then, if they were down, they were hurt. The length of time lost through play acting and unnecessary stoppages due to a broken nail or lost eye lash is now getting silly.

I blame the parents.

Chris Williams
180 Posted 07/12/2016 at 15:02:50
Ray

Totally agree. But I blame the coaches.

Darren Hind
181 Posted 07/12/2016 at 15:41:22
"but they were all afraid of Johnny Morrisey"

Worse than that Dave. They refused to even speak about him, He never even got into Jack Charltons "little black book" even though he err . . volunteered

Ray Roche
182 Posted 07/12/2016 at 16:01:44
Darren, that's one of my favourite stories, Morrissey clattering Charlton and then telling him to "Put that in your black book"! One of my favourite Everton players, Morrissey.
Brent Stephens
183 Posted 07/12/2016 at 16:11:27
Chris, Ray. Thanks. So I'm still compos mentis, thankfully (or compost mind, as my wife would say).
Darren Hind
184 Posted 07/12/2016 at 16:14:45
By all accounts it wasn't just Leeds who were scared of Moggsy (a brilliant player as well as being nails).

Colin Harvey reckons he was always first picked for 6-a-side in training despite the world class talent in the squad at the time.

Apparently he didn't go any easier on his team mates, so whoever got first pick made sure he was on their side.

Chris Williams
185 Posted 07/12/2016 at 16:23:32
When Everton were drawn against Leeds away in the FA Cup (who were still in Division Two at the time), we went across the Pennines in pre-M62 days in thick fog.

We were by the touch-line halfway between the halfway line and the corner flag.

Morrisey got clattered and landed on the path just in front of us, spark out. Egglestone (I think) came on with the magic sponge, and must have administered smelling salts or something because he came around and sat up straight and demanded who the fuck did that. He was told it was Reaney and said he'd sort the twat out sharpish. And he did. Several times!

We drew and won the replay. Jimmy Gabriel played centre-forward and scored a great header. Great cup tie but don't recall too much thuggery on the night.

Chris Williams
186 Posted 07/12/2016 at 16:26:21
On reflection it might have been Wilf Dixon not Egglestone.
Steven Kendrew
187 Posted 07/12/2016 at 16:51:15
Darren (#144 and #145). Call my post "stupid" if you feel it adds to the debate ... but would love to hear any reasonable rationale for getting rid of Koeman now, I really would. He needs at least two seasons to make a reasonable impact, not to mention the compo we would end up paying if he was sacked now.
Darren Hind
188 Posted 07/12/2016 at 17:43:01
Steven,

To lump those who you claim abused a player who was clearly in real agony with those who want a different manager into the same pot is the rationale of an idiot.

When I want to debate the merits/shortcomings of the manager, I will do so with people who have the mental capacity to understand the difference.

Steven Kendrew
189 Posted 07/12/2016 at 17:49:22
Darren.

It's a reference to knee-jerk reactions and using mouth (or keyboard) with little use of the brain, but never mind (sigh).

Alan Bodell
190 Posted 07/12/2016 at 18:02:31
Johnny Morrissey, I remember it well at Old Trafford in the semi with the penalty against Gary Sprake. After the game, our support totally removed the turf around the spot of the launch, great days.
Mick Davies
191 Posted 07/12/2016 at 18:16:50
Ray Roche, I was too young for the 63-64 games but I heard all about the 'Uruguyan style' thuggery at the Goodison game. I'm referring to the unfair tag in the late '60s/early '70s side who played some good football but of course – along witht the times – they could tackle hard and as Bremner shown at Wembley against Keegan, they could have honest fights on the pitch.

To compare Leeds to the present Utd side is like comparing '70s TV comedy shows with their blatant racist, sexist and homophobic gags, to the politically correct shows of the '90s onwards. They were different times, and I wouldn't have expected a side to play like Man Utd did in today's more 'civilised' times and with the saturation Telly coverage...

As for the 'son' I'm willing to take a DNA test if you want to risk all the pocket money arrears.

Ray Roche
192 Posted 07/12/2016 at 18:30:33
"Willing to take a DNA test" Nice one!

Mick, I think the tag of "Dirty Leeds" was well earned and started when they were in the (old) Second Division. The '60s/'70s side could, as has been admitted above, be a superb football team when they wanted to. But they just couldn't resist the urge to play dirty.

Of course, when a team knew they were coming up against Leeds, they behaved accordingly... you need only look at the 1970 FA Cup Final for proof that other teams could mix it, but most teams didn't have that side of their game as their first option; Leeds did.

And, to be fair, it was you who compared Leeds Utd of the past to Man Utd of the present.

"Have honest fights on the pitch" I LOVE nostalgia.

Guy Hastings #166

Funny, very funny!

Peter Mills
193 Posted 07/12/2016 at 19:50:57
I've enjoyed reading recollections of the match against Leeds, I was there as a young lad and absolutely loved it.

As I did the FA Trophy match last night at College Rd Crosby, Marine came from 0-2 down to win 3-2 with a last minute penalty in a raw, full blooded but skillful cup tie. It was much more enjoyable than anything I've watched at Goodison for quite some time.

Mick Davies
194 Posted 07/12/2016 at 21:11:44
Ray, ""have honest fights on the pitch" I LOVE nostalgia"

Nothing nostalgic about it; did you see the Man City v Chelsea game at the weekend, or the Preston match, where our former striker Jermaine Beckford had a scrap with his own team mate because he wouldn't pass to him?

Pity none of our present players care that much about the results

Andy Crooks
195 Posted 07/12/2016 at 21:34:30
Darren (#188), that is an interesting and pertinent post. Everything is not black and white. I suspect you liked some of Martinez, a little bit of Moyes and a smidgeon of Koeman but detest a lot of all of them. We are not in two camps here.

I get mad after an abject showing. I can see the faults of Koeman, I support him, but the notion that those saying "Koeman Out" and "Bolasie faking injury" are all on one side is seriously mad.

Lev Vellene
196 Posted 07/12/2016 at 22:37:08
Inconsistent, but lively. And he will be missed!

Now my big fear is that Koeman will look for a slowsaurus, already aging, to fill the gap permanently!

Koeman himself said we'd probably stay shit for a year or two (my extrapolating his views...), so he should help us do even half-way what SAF did, let the youth get blooded!

I'll never let go of that while our main chosen players stay as AVERAGE as they've proven to be this season...

Laurie Hartley
197 Posted 07/12/2016 at 05:10:58
I was at the battle of Goodison also. I was standing down the front of the Goodison Rd terraces.

If my memory serves me correctly (I'm waiting for it!) the incident took place near the Park End / Goodison Road corner flag. Sandy Brown had Giles on the deck and punched him in the ribs with a thunderous right hook. I can see the look on Brown's face – he was livid. He look totally dejected as he trudged off the pitch.

Sandy, by the way, was one of the toughest characters I have ever seen in an Everton shirt – Morrisey included. Fred Pickering was another from that era.

My other recollection of that Leeds game was of the very one footed Norman Hunter (gnashes teeth) trying to set himself up to take a free kick and a wag in the crowd shouting "Where's your fucking parrot, Hunter". Hilarious.

As has been mentioned above there were plenty of hatchet men knocking about in those days. One of the most dastardly tackles I recall from that era was McKay on Jimmy Husband.

I feel the worst thing about that tackle and Willie Bells on Derek Temple where that it wasn't a case of fighting fire with fire – Husband and Temple didn't have a malicious bone in their bodies between them.

In more recent times Nolan on Anichebe was a bad one. Nice to see Victor doing well for his old Boss.

Rojo's tackle was terrible and Ibrahimovic meant it. As a team you have to be able to deal with that sort of thing.

The Chinese have a great saying "In battle, only a sword will do". The Moyes teams had a few who could look after business on the pitch if called upon to do so. Regrettably, I don't think we have any such characters in the present squad with the possible exceptions of Barry and Mirallas.

We must be fed up – All Our Yesterday's time again.

Darren Hind
198 Posted 08/12/2016 at 05:28:16
Andy,

We are all a little guilty from time to time of lumping everyone who disagrees with us into the same bracket.

My problem with Steven's posts is, by using the outrage felt by some on a thread about an injured player as an opportunity to label everyone who takes a different view to him about the manager as "Knobheads", he was quite clearly doing the very thing he claims outrages him.

I have never seen a post by Steven on a Koeman related thread, so I look forward to his posts when the next one comes along.

I sincerely hope he has a stronger case than "Anybody who thinks Koeman shouldn't be given at least two years, is a knobhead."

If that's the case for the defence, I'm not sure the prosecution would be arsed turning up.

Derek Thomas
199 Posted 08/12/2016 at 07:57:34
Mick Davies @ #191;

I alas, was not too young to see the 'Battle of Goodison' as it was labelled – and I'm sorry to say, mate, you are either ill informed or have bought into some sort of revisionism about the era in general and Leeds in particular.

Yes, it was a different game then, and yes every team had 'hardmen'... but none were outright dirty, deliberately snidey dirty... the ball was there to be won and if you were in the way... tough – those were the 'breaks' (no pun intended). Though serous Injuries were rare. A booking was rare and sending's off rarer.

Leeds were, as mentioned just promoted from the 2nd Division. Many of the teams in that division, were never going to get out and didn't want to drop down any further... so it was said that you had to 'kick your way out of it' as well as play enough football to win it... and avoid the drop straight back effect.
To say that Revie and Leeds took this to heart in a big way... is a massive understatement.

Until then, with the exception of 5 mins some grainy B&W coverage of the 1962 World Cup, nobody had seen this sort of behaviour... and, well, it was foreigners so what do you expect.

Revie assembled a good team that could play a bit... and where our own 'hard but fair' Bobby Collins fitted in with all that, is a bit of a mystery... My own take is that he was the 'real deal' of a true hardman, he didn't have to become a faux hardman cos he couldn't play or the worse still like Giles and Bremner who could play...buy into the Bosses ethos due to some lack of moral fibre in their own character... They revelled in it.

So Leeds proceeded to kick their way out of the 2nd Division. and kick their way onwards and upwards of the 1st Division. It was their point of difference, it was a 'new' tactic, it unsettled teams and players, It drew them in, made them forget their Plan A.

It all came to a point in November 1964. It has to be said that there was a bit of history from the previous seasons cup game that were won after a Goodison replay with the crowd in full 'Bear Pit' mode.

That Saturday they were in full snide mode...and we fell into the trap... A stronger Reff might've nipped it in the bud, but it was so far off the wall he just couldn't cope.

I missed the actual tackle that set Sandy off, so I can't comment on just what started it... but I did see Sandy 'finish' it...given the tackles of the day, it must've been really bad...over the top in more ways than one. Sandy obviously thought – nah mate you're not on, that's out of order and decked him.

The whole blatant cheating/unfairness of it and the Reffs lack of punishment raised the crowd from 'Bear pit' to 'Total Apeshit.'...hence the cooling down period... and that + the Dart Throwers led to the 'Iconic' circles behind the goal... which tbf, Improved my view no end.

Any way Mick, that's you basic early Leeds, later on they just got better players and hid the dirt better.

Also, on another note, right into the '70s the rs and Leeds fans got on like a house on fire. At St Ambrose Speke where I was based for a time the rs half would have reciprocal visits and host their opposite Yorks numbers late into the night...y ou are known by the company you keep, writ large.

The fallout from that is where you might've read the revisionist stuff. Leeds just hid the snide better.

Tony Abrahams
200 Posted 08/12/2016 at 07:59:25
Peter (#193), good point about the football we are presently watching. I enjoyed the last 25 minutes on Sunday, because by simplifying things and playing to our present strengths, we got the crowd involved, which is what is supposed to happen when a team plays at home.

I thought the players then responded to the crowd, and looked like they had real belief for the first time in ages, and people left the ground thinking we are not as bad as we have been looking lately.

Maybe this can be the start of the case for the prosecution, Darren!?

Ray Roche
201 Posted 08/12/2016 at 10:04:32
Mick Davies (#194),

Yes, Mick, I saw the Louis Vuitton hand bags being given an outing at the Man City - Chelsea game. Apart from the initial tackle, it was much ado about nothing.

At times like that, instead of jumping in, play ground style, everyone should stand back and let them punch themselves out, and then the ref can get his pack of red cards out. Simple.

I didn't see the Preston fiasco though.


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