“Honoured” Brands relishing the challenge at Everton

Wednesday, 23 May, 2018 102comments  |  Jump to most recent

Marcel Brands has given his first interview since being appointed as Everton's new Director of Football and he spoke about his short-term objectives as well as a long-term plan he will institute at the club.

The highly-regarded Dutchman doesn't officially start his new role until 1st June but he is already involved in the hiring of a new manager with a modern approach and willingness to work with young players as a high priority and he took time to speak to evertontv about the honour of joining the Blues.

Brands, who describes himself as “a people manager” who believes “in a strong structure with people working together in an open and transparent atmosphere” arrives from PSV Eindhoven in his native Netherlands where he helped the club overturn Ajax's dominance of the Eredivisie with three league titles in the space of three years. He also oversaw a hugely successful recruitment process that Everton's board hope he can replicate on Merseyside.

"After eight years [at PSV] I've taken the decision to go to Everton, to the Premier League, and I think that is another step in my career at a very special club," Brands said. "There are a lot of things to do at the club but that's also a big challenge for me.

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"It's an honour to be asked by a big club like Everton, in one of the biggest competitions, and I will do my best 24 hours a day in my new job.

"It's important for the club that we play football at the highest level with good players and, for me, the youth academy at the club is very important."

Having relieved Sam Allardyce of his duties as manager last week, Everton are searching for a long-term successor to Ronald Koeman who was sacked in October. Brands's arrival prior to any new appointment was seen as crucial and the 56-year-old is leading the process of bringing the new man on board as part of his immediate brief ahead of 2018-19 and in a transfer window that will close before the new season kicks off for the first time.

"The priority in the first month is the first team and to be ready for the start of the next Premier League season,” Brands continued. “The [overall plan] has to be long-term, though. That's also the goal I was given in the conversations I had with the club.

"What the people around the club will see is new signings but behind the scenes there will be a lot of work and, of course, the first thing is a new manager.

"I think it is important that he wants to work in the new philosophy, the new strategy of how we want to work with a football director. I think it is important that he creates the environment for the long-term, and I think it is important that he is a modern coach. If you think about what Everton's plans are, I think a modern coach will fit into that profile.

"Then, of course, his philosophy and how he wants to play is important. I think it has to be a coach who wants to work with young players. Then we don't have to only hire a coach who wants to buy players. It's also important that whether it's this summer or maybe next summer that our academy [has] an important [place] in that philosophy.”

Brands is in agreement with Everton's major shareholder and new Chief Executive, Professor Denise Barrett-Baxendale, that, “the most important aspect is structure and that we have good people who want to work very hard,” and he will also be undertaking a review and overhaul of the club's recruitment and scouting processes.

All the while, his focus will be on analysing the current Blues squad — The Telegraph report that he will be meeting with Ademola Lookman's agent to lay out his vision and convince him his future is at Goodison Park — and identifying potential new signings but he stresses that this will be done in partnership with the new manager.

"I have watched several Everton games and I have looked at the players,” he explained. “I also saw some who were on loan to other clubs but if we are going to take decisions about players — whether it's the ones that are here now, maybe new players or players that want to leave — it is important that the manager is involved in that because he is going to work with them every day.

"I will take care of the long-term strategy but the first job now is to find a manager as soon as possible and straight away go to work with the squad.”

Watch the full evertontv interview

 

Reader Comments (102)

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Carl Taylor
1 Posted 23/05/2018 at 17:48:25
I like this guy already, he seems to speak sense and have a plan. Two things sadly lacking since Joe Royle left the club.
Paul Hay
2 Posted 23/05/2018 at 17:57:37
I wish him all the very best and hope that he has a massive input into the selection of the manager. I'm sure that this must have been something that he drew a red line under when he accepted his role.

Of equal importance, I hope he gives the situation regarding the future of Bill Kenwright a serious analysis because I'm not convinced that his continuance at the club is really going to be of any positive benefit whatsoever.

He comes with fresh eyes for all areas and I'm really keen to see how he imposes himself.

Terry Davies
3 Posted 23/05/2018 at 17:58:00
I couldn't agree more, Carl.
Ajay Gopal
4 Posted 23/05/2018 at 17:58:59
Truly, a breath of fresh air. The young players must already be looking forward to working hard and proving their worth to Brands and the new coach. Broad hints also that it will be Silva as the ‘modern’ head coach.
John Pierce
5 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:01:56
At first glance, one of the very few professional hires we've seen at Everton for years, encouraging.

‘Half-arsed' is a common refrain at the club but Brands and to an extent Denise Barrett-Baxendale look like they are modern thinking people.

Both favour open communication styles which sadly the club has manifestly failed to accomplish in my 40-odd years of watching them.

My only disagreement is the desire for a long-term coach. Whilst laudable its not sustainable in the current environment of the cut throat top flight.

Brands is deluding himself here, Everton will keep changing the coach until they can meet the expectations of both club and fans alike.

Terry Davies
6 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:02:11
I couldn't agree more, Paul. I think I'll bow out now as everything I was going to say seems to have been said! I suspect a lot of the comments to come will be of a similar nature.
Jerome Shields
7 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:05:05
I hope we get a manager of the same level as Brands. It's a long time since we had someone with a clear vision of what his plan is at all levels in the Club.

Of course, the ex-Everton players and squad have expressed their support. But he has decided to start with the backroom staff. They were far too cosy for too long. He has already assessed the first team squad, who need to be sorted out, and the youth development. The loan boys must be glad someone from Everton has contacted them. Speaking to Lookman's agent is a big plus.

Brands at least has a clear idea where the new Manager should fit in with his plans. All of this is a welcome change at Everton.

Dave Abrahams
8 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:09:46
Paul (#2), if Mr Brands is a realist, he will see through Kenwright immediately.
Ed Fitzgerald
9 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:28:52
What he says is common sense and is in full alignment with many who have posted on TW arguing about the importance of developing youth. Let's get Lookman back – his treatment under Fat Sam was appalling.
Mike Gaynes
10 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:34:02
Now that's how you introduce yourself to a new club and its fan base. What a refreshingly gracious and professional approach to a new position! Certainly, in expressing his "honour", he nicely contrasts himself from the last incoming hire, who never stopped telling us how lucky we were to have him.

It's also a key point that Brands not only has a plan but will hire a manager who aligns with it. While Silva remains the most prominent candidate, it seems obvious to me that he'll only get the job if Brands is confident he will hew to his vision, and I wouldn't be surprised if Brands is casting a much wider net than has been reported up to now.

And may the Lookman discussion go well – we want that kid back with us!

Colin Glassar
11 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:36:59
If he's got any sense, he'll stay well away from Boys Pen Bill, Dave. That's now become a poisoned chalice.

Good luck, Mr Brands

Eric Paul
12 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:52:12
Up to now, I like what he is saying, but I've been impressed by every new manager's (or DoF's) opening speech for the last 50 years (not Allardyce's) because I want to believe in them, but only time will tell. Here's hoping.
I don't see what difference it makes if he sees through Kenwright as he is his boss.
Bill Gienapp
13 Posted 23/05/2018 at 18:59:01
Seems like a sharp guy and is saying all the right things. Love that getting Lookman on-board is already being highlighted as a priority (BS, no doubt, would have already been fielding offers). I think we're all hungry for someone we can put our faith into – time will tell, but at first glance, Brands certainly fits the bill.

I also think people should stop obsessing over CVs and become more open to the idea that Silva might just be the right man for the job. Not because he's the greatest manager on the planet... but because he's the right fit for this particular squad at this particular moment in time.

Dermot Byrne
14 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:03:03
After the miserable chaos of Koeman and Allardyce, this cheers me up.

Clearly a much more important role than Walsh had.

I think John #5 makes a good point re managers changing more often but I hope this appointment is the long-term one so we stick to a plan and see realistic improvement year by year.

Seems part of a big restructuring at the club and, even if still around in some honorary role, I cannot see Kenwright having much influence anymore.

Finally, I like the way he presents himself.

John Kavanagh
15 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:03:12
Possibly our best appointment in years. Statement about the importance of the academy and young players is the best thing I've heard all season.

If there is a path back to a place at the top table, it can only be achieved by most of the players coming through the youth system – we simply cannot afford to compete with the super elite and take risks on £75 million plus duds.

The priority being given to keeping Lookman shows real intent to back up the words. It is the first step towards reversing the damage done to team morale by Koeman and Allardyce?

Tony Twist
16 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:06:26
The way he is talking then it will have to be someone like Silva, Howe or that ex Leipzig manager. So he is talking sense. Can't see Conte being happy with the set up talked about. Never thought I'd say this but Eddie Howe it is then! No I'm joking it will be Silva! Please hurry up Everton.
Lev Vellene
17 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:09:27
Mommy, I'm scared now! Someone is talking sense at Everton! Tell luvvy unca Bill to make him go away!!! I was so happy wallowing in our ages-old cozy mediocrity until cousin Bad Brands appeared in our family life... *sobs pitifully*
Derek Knox
18 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:17:12
Like many have already mentioned, I do like the positivity and the focus for the future. It is also encouraging that he includes youth in those plans.

It was a travesty the way Lookman was treated by both Koeman and Allardyce. The only thing left now is the appointment of the Coach. I just ponder who it will be.

Sam Hoare
19 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:19:19
The ‘big’ teams can afford to keep recycling managers and players at great expense. I don’t know if Moshiri can. Perhaps. He has done so far.

But the talk of a long term manager may be an admission that stability is needed now, even if the results do dip. Or perhaps it’s just good sounding sound bites.

Martin Nicholls
20 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:22:15
Eric (#12) – I know where you're coming from but I can't remember any opening speech from Walsh and I certainly wasn't impressed with anything Koeman said.

This guy is making all the right noises and if he follows through, small steps will lead to big progress. Just waiting for Phil Walling to come on now and dampen my, and on this thread, everyone else's positivity!

Jamie Crowley
21 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:23:33
Of equal importance, I hope he gives the situation regarding the future of Bill Kenwright a serious analysing because I'm not convinced that his continuance at the club is really going to be of any positive benefit whatsoever.

How in the world does Marcel Brands, a Director of Football, have any say whatsoever about the future of a part-owner on the Board?

He has zero authority over Kenwright and has nothing to do whatsoever with Kenwright's involvement in the Club.

I wish the man luck. Seems to have his head screwed on straight.

David Israel
22 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:36:49
Very pleased. Marcel Brands comes across as a clear-thinking football man with 'a vision', but also with his feet firmly on the ground.

I hope that people don't start having a go at him the moment one of his signings goes awry. Like the new 'head coach', Marcel needs to be given time.

My main worry is that modern football is not suited to patient planning and proper sowing and harvesting. Alex Ferguson would never have won the league at Man Utd, these days. The season he arrived there, we won our last league title. It took him another six years for his work to bear fruit.

Dermot Byrne
23 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:37:23
You are right, Jamie, but isn't Moshiri sorting that out in a shares purchase? It won't be a huge fallout with Kenwright totally ignored. It will be a more gentle handover, I think.

Having said that, looking at changes in club structure in last few weeks, it may be slightly less gentle than Bill would like!

Dave Abrahams
24 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:37:28
Eric (#12) and Jamie (#21), if Mr Brands has the ability to see the phoniness of Kenwright he can turn a deaf ear to anything he says about football, he seems knowledgable about what is going on at Everton, so knowing Kenwright brought Rooney back to Everton gives him a big clue about his ability.
Paul McCoy
25 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:39:22
Certainly saying the right things (despite a lot of the dreaded 'philosophy' word'). Walsh always struck me as the wrong person for a DoF position, this guy on the other hand is the real deal. He certainly isn't here to be a glorified head scout.

Let's hope Moshiri listens to him when it comes to hiring a manager.

Paul Ellam
26 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:40:29
I like him. He has swagger!

I reckon he's the type of guy who takes no shit.

Ian Burns
27 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:44:06
Great interview, given me hope this just might be the right appointment. Positive posts for a change! Feels good.

Mike (#10) — well said.

Eric Paul
28 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:47:07
Dave @24,

I am by no means a fan of Kenwright but, on the other hand, I don't share the hatred of many ToffeeWebbers, but I do hope Mr Moshiri has realised Bill Kenwright is no football guru and only has football-related dialogue with Mr Brands.

Brian Williams
29 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:47:31
Paul (#2).

I think you're a bit confused as to the hierarchy at the club.

Bill Kenwright's a director; Brands an employee. Kenwright "could" have influence on Brands in his position but not vice versa.

Barry McNally
30 Posted 23/05/2018 at 19:49:36
Hope everyone is on the same page as Brands.
George Cumiskey
31 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:02:16
Bill @ 13 — your last paragraph was spot on, totally agree.
James Hopper
32 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:09:38
Well, he’s saying the the right things!

A very sensible interview posted eight days before he officially starts in the role.

What a contrast to Koeman, who we had to chase around Europe for half the summer just to get him to sign a contract!

Kevin Tully
33 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:12:30
After the crap we've had to endure for the past few seasons, the only way is up. What a great position for him, and any new manager to be starting from. A drunken monkey couldn't have done a worse job than Martinez, Koeman, Walsh and Sam "Are you not entertained?" Allardyce — all enabled by a stale, and clueless board.

Doesn't seem the type of guy to listen to stories about Betty's hot-pot. Hopefully.

Colin Glassar
34 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:22:34
Moshiri must’ve given him guarantees that uncle Billy won’t be allowed to interfere in his work and distract him with his bullshit, stale stories.
Rob B Williams
35 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:25:00
All this talk of restructuring, emphasis on Academy, coaching for a 5-year plan are very plausible and I sincerely welcome the breath of fresh air that is currently blowing through the corridors of Goodison Park. There however several cobwebs that have to be blown away before we are able to fulfil the dream.

All the suffering of years of supporting Everton will only be worthwhile if we have a team of Directors, staff players and academy all pulling in the same direction and marching to the same tune.

It will require a monumental change of course and attitude, throwing money at the problem will not in itself solve it; it will help, but we need to adhere to a fully agreed mission statement and have the fans backing to see the job through.

I am now almost an octogenarian – I look forward with enthusiasm to the coming season, under new management – I only hope I live to see the results!!

Paul Rimmer
36 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:31:21
I get the feeling that Everton are entering the modern era here. A director of footy advocating youth and forward thinking coach, with a new stadium on the horizon. Won't go that smoothly on the playing side but steps in the right direction.
Joe McMahon
37 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:33:32
Like everyone, I'm lovin' what he's said. I just hope this is the start of a new page, 'cos Hell do we need it.
Phil Walling
38 Posted 23/05/2018 at 20:34:55
Speaking what he knows Moshiro (and us) wants to hear. Could be bullshit, of course, but we'll see how the early season shapes up before hailing him as the Messiah or damning him as a needless level of bureaucracy.

Total baloney about seeking out a new manager. That die is cast. It's Silva for five years – Moshiri looked nowhere else.

We all wish them well but no bullshit, please!

Brent Stephens
40 Posted 23/05/2018 at 21:20:49
I think it has to be a coach who wants to work with young players. Then we don't have to only hire a coach who wants to buy players. It's also important that whether it's this summer or maybe next summer that our academy [has] an important [place] in that philosophy.”

Not sure I understand the issue of timing re the academy's place in the philosophy.

," I think it has to be a coach who wants to work with young players. Then we don't have to only hire a coach who wants to buy players. It's also important that whether it's this summer or maybe next summer that our academy [has] an important [place] in that philosophy.”

Not sure I understand the issue of timing re the academy's place in the philosophy.,,michael.kenrick@gmail.com ,1,21:18:34,,90.197.137.207,ok,10701,05/23/2018 21:18:34,Brent,reader,, 920841,36695,toffeeweb,23/05/2018,Brent Stephens,brent.stephens@sky.com,"Darren, out of interest, who and why are your preferred picks for manager, in order of priority?

Mark Taylor
41 Posted 23/05/2018 at 21:38:04
I'm going to avoid the general over-optimism here. The fact is, none of us know much about this guy and even if we did and he was stellar, even the best have gigs that go pear-shaped. We don't even know the precise scope of his role. Does he report direct to Moshiri or our new CEO or, spare us, Boys Pen Bill. Who makes the major calls about football issues? Who will the new manager report to?

I believe the appointment being made, pleased as I am that we are seemingly clearing some very dead wood, is less critical than whether Moshiri has spent all he can and if he has, is his mate coming on board. Because no coach, however good, is likely to succeed without resources. And quite a few fail nowadays, even with them. Leicester may have given all us 'lesser' clubs hope but frankly, that is a once in a lifetime happening.

I've spent several decades watching average, if plucky, to poor Everton sides and getting used to it. Like many on here, I'm old enough to remember the great sides going back to the 60s and the only reason I feel as exercised about the current position is I sense a chance not to be mediocre anymore.

Neil Wood
42 Posted 23/05/2018 at 21:41:12
Sarri? Just saying!
Dermot Byrne
43 Posted 23/05/2018 at 21:48:09
I hope, Brent, that this means he knows next season we need new and the longer-term plan is to mix academy with buys and the progression for youth is better planned.

God, I am such an optimist!

Derek Thomas
44 Posted 23/05/2018 at 21:51:58
Talking the talk – tick.

Now the hard part... walking the walk!

Brian Harrison
45 Posted 23/05/2018 at 21:56:41
Well there is certainly a massive job to be done at Everton without a doubt. Players way past their best on lucrative contracts won't be easy to move on: the likes of Mirallas, Williams, Schneiderlin, Klaassen, Bolasie, Besic and Martina. Then you have those coming to the end of their careers in Jagielka and Baines.

So I don't envy either Brands or Silva having to sort the mess they have been left with, added to the fact that of those remaining they might not fancy 1 or 2 of them.

Added to the fact that with it being a World Cup year they will have a lot less time than in a normal pre-season. Also, I would imagine that they will have to put together very quickly their pre-season games. The problem with the upheavel of moving so many players in and out of the club can have a destabilizing effect as we saw from last summer's transfer business.

So I feel sorry for Silva if as seems likely he is the choice – not only will he have to get all his ins and outs done quickly, he will then have to try and build back the trust from the supporters. Many are skeptical about his appointment, so I wish him well.

On a personal choice, I like Silva, he is young with a young outlook on the game, plays the game the right way. Like all managers, he will need a bit of luck on his side, but I think some of those understandably skeptical will be pleasantly surprised by Silva.

Tony Abrahams
46 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:01:37
Talk is cheap, but the man comes across as both calm and intelligent. He sounds like he knows that he's been brought in to do a job, because the people who are employing him, have got a lot of confidence in him.

Good luck, Marcel, you're going to need every bit of that calmness mate, because it seems that you've been brought on-board to restructure the whole club, and I hope you get the patience you deserve and help bring this sleeping giant back to life!

Phil, I agree with you about the bullshit, mate, but sometimes that's exactly what browbeating imitates.

Danny Broderick
47 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:07:53
“Brands is in agreement with Everton's major shareholder and new Chief Executive, Professor Denise Barrett-Baxendale, that, “the most important aspect is structure and that we have good people who want to work very hard,”

This is the most important part for me. We need everyone (including fans) all working together and pulling in the same direction. Since Martinez's first season, there have been too many divisions at the club between fans, players, manager, DOF etc.

If we are going to get back on track, we need to hope the new manager gets it right and we all need to buy into this.

Steve Ferns
48 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:09:39
I like the cut of his gib. He talks a good game. He is the kind of guy I would want negotiating on behalf of my club and persuading players to come here. Certainly much more so than Steve Walsh.

As regards getting to the top, surely youth isn't the only way. I see 4 ways:

1. Spend your way to the top. Man City showed how hard it is to do this in practice as despite the money, they still couldn't get the players or the manager they wanted. Everton don't have that money and FFP wouldn't allow it anyway.

2. Short term planning with incremental improvements. I will call this the Ronald Koeman approach. We aim for 6th by purchasing players who are good enough for 6th. Older ready-made players, ideally 26-30 years old. We buy the best players from the clubs around below us, and players from abroad who are of this level. We tried this, it was very expensive and it failed. But with the right DoF and head coach it can work.

3. Long-term planning. We identify players good enough for the top 4 in 5 years time, not now, and develop them and drag ourselves up as they mature and get better, and keep adding newer and younger players to the fringes of the team ready to come in and improve us. This is the Tottenham model but, whilst it is the blueprint most of us like, it's also not yet resulted in any trophies for Tottenham and they are in danger of losing their coach and their players if they don't change that quickly.

4. A mixture of the above. What we did under Koeman and Allardyce where we try to do all at once and sign the wrong players, get bad results and it's the worst of all worlds!

I definitely want to develop our own players. Not just local lads from the academy, but players in the same vein as Calvert-Lewin, Holgate, Stones and Lookman. We need to play them though. We need to be patient. We need to coach them and we need to plan carefully.

Brands has made it clear he's been hired to go down the youth route. We will hire a coach who wants to do this. It will be someone young, it will be someone who comes in with the idea of building an empire. Sure, if he does very well, he might jump ship for brighter lights, or if he does badly he might be binned off, but, with Brands at the helm, the ship might change captains, but it won't change course.

I think the comments about the signing and academy simply means that we can expect new signings this summer but, after the window shuts, he will be focused on revolution at the academy and remoulding it in the Dutch way. I hope we do retain what we have done well, though.

Andy Meighan
49 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:14:15
I remember Walsh on these pages last season being lauded as some sort of super scout / talent picker. That turned out great, didn't it. The only real gem he did unearth (Lookman) couldn't get a sniff under Koeman and the other fat idiot couldn't wait to ship him out on loan.

There's more dead wood in that squad than at Terry's Timber on the Dock Road... This fella and the new manager are going to have to graft 24/7 just to try and offload half the shite that currently occupies Finch Farm. Good luck with that... Just sayin', like!

Tony Everan
50 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:22:51
Are the stars aligning here for Everton?

A Billionaire owner, a seriously professional DOF, and a bright young head coach.

For the first time in ages, it seems like the management set is spot on. When Silva is appointed, the foundations for success will be in place.

The new season that could have been an interminable hell is now the promised land.

Mark Taylor
51 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:35:06
I suppose one concern I have about Brands is that Dutch football is dreadful at the moment, not good at national level and pretty hopeless at domestic level.

So, in response to Steve's #48 post, I'm not at all convinced that we are best implementing a Dutch way, even if I knew what that actually meant!

Dick Fearon
52 Posted 23/05/2018 at 22:41:33
He supports our academy which is good. A pity had he's thrown our babies out with the bath water.
Dan Davies
53 Posted 23/05/2018 at 23:19:28
Sounds good to me. Seems to have a confident professional attitude. I wish Mr Brands all the best.

Hopefully he won't get sucked into the 'Jobs for the Boys' – 'True Blue' – 'Comfort Zone' Bullshit!! He needs to smash that 'wall' down!!!

Which brings me to Phil 'Walking Dead' Walling.

What's Brands meant to say to make you stir from your fuckin coffin and actually be positive for once?

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

54 Posted 23/05/2018 at 23:38:15
The man certainly has presence.

And Brent @ 40, watch the link to the interview. He is misquoted. He says he doesn't know if the academy will contribute this summer or in future summers (plural) rather than the singular next summer he is quoted as saying.

The reasonable implication is it will take time to put the structure in place he envisages to have a steady stream of academy players coming through every summer.

Geoff Lambert
55 Posted 24/05/2018 at 01:40:03
I don't know what it is, but he just looks the part. If you know what I mean..
William Cartwright
56 Posted 24/05/2018 at 02:40:55
Do you mean in the way that Allardyce also looked the part as his appearance and general demeanor reflected exactly what he brought to the table, Geoff?
Gavin Johnson
58 Posted 24/05/2018 at 04:01:19
Brands comes across very well, and I like the idea of a young coach coming in who can work within the new system. People have called for big-name managers but I'm not convinced an experienced manager will be as malleable and will always want to call the shots.

Koeman had a huge ego and only looked in the short term. So did Big Sam, or else he'd have given more game time to the likes of Vlasic and Klaassen after we'd accrued 40 points and could experiment with younger players.

We need to build something from investment and the academy, rather than overpaying on players in their late 20s, early 30s who wouldn't get near one of the top 6 sides. I'm thinking of Bolasie and Williams in particular.

So it looks like it will be Marco Silva, with outside odds on Arteta or Howe.

Laurie Hartley
60 Posted 24/05/2018 at 04:27:46
Gavin – a very sound post in my opinion.
Alan J Thompson
61 Posted 24/05/2018 at 04:55:08
A good and proper opening statement but the proof of the pudding may be in the appointment and success of the manager although I think Silva is all but appointed.

The only doubt I have to that appointment is through Brands mention of the Academy which has me wondering what the record with youngsters is of the bloke who was at Leipzig.

Brian Cleveland
62 Posted 24/05/2018 at 05:01:08
Is it just wishful thinking or does he have an Indiana Jones look about him...
Chris Davies
63 Posted 24/05/2018 at 05:57:29
Steve Ferns @48,

I enjoyed your post but have to add that, while Man City were splurging cash on their first team, they were building an academy towards the 10-year target. I take from Brands (hope) that it'll be similar but on a PSV/Ajax-esque level.

James Hill
64 Posted 24/05/2018 at 06:12:54
Let's us pray.
Mike Dolan
65 Posted 24/05/2018 at 06:30:52
We have paid a high price for allowing our team to get old under Moyes. He actually predicted the hard time we would have replacing so many players. of course we compounded things by selling our best players Fellaini. Stones, Barkley, Lukaku.

Then Martinez pulled the wool by conjuring up a respectable finish which actually made the situation worse because maybe we just needed a tweak here and there but two wasted seasons.

Then, last season, the beginning of a major rebuild only to be thwarted by some devastating injuries and a club-wide funk that left us playing some of the worst, most cynical football I have ever seen. We were really flattered by our 8th-place finish.

The Club that Marcel Brands and his "modern coach" take over needs a just few key players. We need a lot of youth on the bench and if they have a future they need to play.

Welcome to the club, Marcel. I want to win things eventually but a good short-term goal might be is put out a side next season that plays with joy again. Here we are — now entertain us.

Gareth Clark
66 Posted 24/05/2018 at 06:50:32
Mike #69

I couldn't agree more – a few starters to be signed, just a Centre Back or two & a Left Back for me. Possibly a better back up keeper too – but I think Stekelenburg is alright as a backup & Hewelt will be a really good keeper too - maybe a loan for him. And then other signings depending on outgoings. I think Thomas Delaney would be a really good signing if Schneiderlin were to leave - but Schneids has been playing well.

Bertrand
Lascelles &/or Mawson

With Lookman moving into real contention to start.

Obvious it depends on who the new manager & Brands decide to keep – especially with regards to wingers - Sandro, Onyekuru, Bolasie and the rest of the squad too.

Pickford
Coleman(c), Keane, Lascelles, Bertrand
Klaassen, Gueye, Sigurdsson
Walcott, Lookman
Tosun

Stekelenburg, Mawson, Baines, Schneiderlin, Davies, Calvert-Lewin, Niasse

Would be our best line up – but most importantly – we have great depth, but it's important not to have too much.

Wingers: Onyekuru, Bolasie, Sandro

Attacking Mids: Vlasic, Dowell

Midfielders: Baningime, McCarthy

Centre Backs: Funes Mori, Holgate, Jagielka

Full Backs: Robinson, Kenny, Martina

Might need to get rid of some excess squad depth – through loan or permanents.

Tony Everan
67 Posted 24/05/2018 at 07:51:18
Is the replacing Romelu Lukaku debate still open?

It damn well should be.

These sea changes can't hide the fact that Lukaku scored 25 goals for us in the previous season.

This season Rooney was top scorer with a measly 11. Some of them were pens. The fact he was top scorer from a deeper midfield role is commendable in comparison to our other attackers.

In a full season I can see Cenk being a 10-15 goal striker. To break into the top six we will need more than that.

To break into the top six we will need a 20-30 goal striker. The biggest challenge for the recruitment team this summer is to pay through the nose for a proven one. Or preferably find a gem for reasonable money.

A tough assignment but possible, Salah was a measly £38M. At the end of next season there will be one or two premier league players that have excelled beyond expectations.

Next season, I want one of those players to belong to us.

Rob Dolby
68 Posted 24/05/2018 at 07:54:00
Marcel Brands certainly gives a great first impression. He has a tough job on his hands closing the gap to the teams above us.

Justin Doone
69 Posted 24/05/2018 at 09:06:57
Nice story but let's get serious. It took me him and PSV 4 years to win the league. This is in the Dutch league which is poor.

Will we Everton fans be that patient so we can slowly build and improve. I can but I don't think the majority will especially if we get off to a bad start.

Good luck to him but I can't get to excited. I'll judge him over the course of the next few years.

Jim Harrison
70 Posted 24/05/2018 at 09:38:31
dup
Terry Underwood
71 Posted 24/05/2018 at 09:57:51
I logged on, saw the picky of him holding the shirt, and thought we had just signed the world's oldest player!

Then read the caption and article. Nice words; make it happen and we will all be happy.

Paul Kennedy
72 Posted 24/05/2018 at 10:22:35
I see all the good managers seem to be getting snapped up!

So it's Silva or nothing. Feels a bit like Hobson's Choice to me...

David Ellis
73 Posted 24/05/2018 at 11:09:10
Walks and talks like a proper DoF. Unlike his "chief scout" predecessor. Both him and DBB are doing and saying the right things so far... but it's early days.
Colin Malone
74 Posted 24/05/2018 at 11:20:54
The cart before the horse, in my opinion.
William Gall
75 Posted 24/05/2018 at 11:37:52
Well he can talk the talk now lets see if he can walk the walk. With the new organization and set up he has no easy task, starting with the hiring of a new manager,a critical position that could bring Moshiris plans crashing if we do not get the right person.
Derek Knox
76 Posted 24/05/2018 at 11:38:26
Peter @90, I think we all appreciate the never say die attitude of Oumar, and even more so his goals, but if he is a disruptive influence on a regular basis, in the dressing room, it affects all the players.


As the reported source is usually questionable, other tabloids are reporting similar versions of the story.

Our own Brian Williams @88, knows someone on the inside at Grinch Farm, which gives credibility to the story.

I have always believed there is no smoke without fire, although sometimes, with certain newspapers you tend to dismiss it, until informed otherwise.

It is somewhat worrying and another problem for the incoming Manager to sort out. I expect there to be a few changes under the new regime, but with situations like this it makes the player harder to move on.


They always say, especially these days that news travels fast, but bad news travels even faster!

David Graves
77 Posted 24/05/2018 at 12:35:00
I have always believed there is no smoke without fire".

It's in The Sun. And with no attributable sources. There is no fire.,"I have always believed there is no smoke without fire".
It's in the Sun. And with no attributable sources.
There is no fire.,,michael.kenrick@gmail.com ,1,12:34:47,,51.179.168.178,ok,11143,05/24/2018 12:34:47,Glavesy1,reader,, 920966,36708,toffeeweb,24/05/2018,James Marshall,allanhobbs@gmail.com,"Niasse may have a never-say-die attitude, but this is part of the problem at Everton — we love a trier, and we've never happier than when someone shows us that 'get stuck in' attitude. What we lack though is actual talent, ability AND work ethic in our players.

Evertonians love a hard tackle or someone putting themselves about but does it win us anything? No it doesn't.

Niasse is a useless footballer, and I personally don't want players that try hard, I want players with talent & ability to win us football matches.

We still have a small club mentality which we really need to shake off - much like the millstone of our 'istory.

Dale Rose
78 Posted 24/05/2018 at 12:51:36
Is this Everton he is talking about... or am I dreaming?
Jon Withey
79 Posted 24/05/2018 at 13:11:26
How about players with ability that try hard.

Players with ability that don't try are pretty useless.

Kieran Kinsella
80 Posted 24/05/2018 at 13:44:09
Brian, with the younger kids and Niasse, are we talking just ribbing or Jimmy Saville?
James Marshall
81 Posted 24/05/2018 at 13:49:23
John 105

That's exactly what I said.

Justin Doone
82 Posted 24/05/2018 at 13:52:09
Another top manager we have missed out on joins Roma. Gutted. That's my top 3 managers all snapped up by other clubs. At this rate Silva will be the only remaining manager available, maybe that's the ploy all along.

Other than that a slow news day. So let's exaggerate a disagreement into full-blown trench warfare. Whilst I wouldn't say there's no such thing as bad publicity we are at least newsworthy. This thing goes on everyday at most clubs. Look at the crises that is Utd or Chelsea. Almost forgotten at Chelsea with the FA Cup win.

Back to Brands, wishing him and Everton all the best. I said in getting rid of Sam I'm happy to stay still or even take a step back is it means watching proper football whilst avoiding any relegation scraps.

Like the stadium, real long-term improvements will take 3 to 5 years to bed in. I'm just not sure the majority of Evertonians will be as patient as I'm willing to be.

In bad times, just remember' at least it's not Sam, playing awful negative football and talking from his rear about his great ability to win games almost single-handedly.

Jamie Crowley
83 Posted 24/05/2018 at 13:56:58
James @102,

The paucity of resources over the last few recent years pre-Farhad have dictated grabbing a "trier" or two.

How else do we get the legendary Denis Stracqualursi? Ya gotta love a player who realizes he doesn't have the skill, but attempts to make up for that lack of skill with heart, desire, hustle, and effort.

I don't think Brands is going to bring in anyone without the needed talent level, or the potential to attain the needed talent level. We won't see any Count Stracq's under Marcel Brands.

Kieran Kinsella
84 Posted 24/05/2018 at 13:58:44
James,

I think people latch on to the triers when the “stars” down their tools. Case in point the Joe Royle era. At first, it was great to see some effort but, when he played the same long-ball crap after getting better players, the mood soon changed.

James Marshall
85 Posted 24/05/2018 at 14:39:54
I get that, Kieran & Jamie – looking ahead though I'd like to think we (Everton/Evertonians) will look to shake off that old-hat thinking and look to recruit players with talent and the right work ethic in the way that the top clubs do without having to resort to triers who get people excited by running about a lot and showing willing (Niasse/Naismith).

You don't see the players at Utd, Chelsea or City downing tools do you? Why? Because they buy players with the ability and mindset to work hard and win games every time they play.

This is the difference when you look at players like Mirallas – talented but of questionable work ethic and mentality. The opposite can be said of say, Gana – a hard worker with less talent but he's good at his job because he puts in the groundwork.

I would suggest Siggurdson is our only player with ability and workload (he runs about a lot).

Messi, Ronaldo et al are the best because they work the hardest (coupled with their obvious ability).

We may 'love' the Niasse's and Naismith's of this world but they aren't going to win you anything.

Kieran Kinsella
86 Posted 24/05/2018 at 14:55:52
James (#113),

I get your point. We don't want to become like Scotland where they wheel out a bag piper to play "The Flower of Scotland" and we here from Haggis McTavish how they are 11 brave warriors about to take on the might of Lithuania. It's like they have turned failure into a noble art. Nothing brave about it just 11 men doing their job.

Brian Williams
87 Posted 24/05/2018 at 15:24:40
Kieran (#107).

Jesus, not Jimmy Saville style, mate, God no.

Paul Kossoff
88 Posted 24/05/2018 at 15:26:58
James (#107),

"You don't see the players at Utd, Chelsea or City downing tools do you? Why? Because they buy players with the ability AND mindset to work hard and win games every time they play."?

Chelsea downed tools twice and got one manager and soon possibly a second sacked! The so-called class players are the experts at making things happen as far as getting a move or having a manager removed. Lukaku at Man Utd refused to start in the FA Cup final despite being fit, didn't he down tools?

The Man United squad is full of class players who hardly ever put the effort or commitment in. No, James, if you want to find the "don't give a toss" brigade, look at the top teams, bar Man City.

James Marshall
89 Posted 24/05/2018 at 15:49:39
There's always someone on here desperate to shoot down your point of view.

I give up. I have no argue left in me.

My point stands, even if you do want to shoot down my examples to make yourself feel more relevant.

Danny Broderick
90 Posted 24/05/2018 at 16:05:10
James,

Don’t you think there is a place for triers even in the best squads? As far back as I can remember, even trophy winning squads had players that were not good enough to win silverware really, but who contributed through energy, enthusiasm, versatility etc rather than their ability? We had Alan Harper in the 80s, and the likes of Graham Stuart when we won the cup in 95. Arsenal had Perry Groves and the likes of Ian Hillier. The great United teams always had a John O’Shea or Phil Neville, and at times they relied on the likes of Mark Robins to get them a goal.

I personally like Oumar. I think he is a wild card and I would keep him for nuisance value alone when he comes off the bench.

James Marshall
91 Posted 24/05/2018 at 16:41:38
I see your reasoning, Danny. Does modern football at the top (trophy winning) level allow for that these days? I'm trying to think of recent cup, league, Champions League or Europa League winners to see if they have such players in their teams...

I guess it's open to debate as to whether they do. It strikes me that the game has changed, and quite a lot of replies on this subject hark back to bygone eras, which ironically is what my posts are often about shying away from.

Brands himself has asked for a 'modern day' manager, and Moshiri warned against us being happy to run a museum. Everton is a relic.

Phil Walling
92 Posted 24/05/2018 at 16:49:47
So the failure of the Everton team to impress under Moyes, Martinez, Koeman, Unsworth and Allardyce (and at least three managers before them) is because we have had too many triers and not enough players of real quality.

If this is fact, we should not be expecting the new 'dream team' of Brands and Silva to put everything right in the coming season. Indeed we may still be waiting for total deliverance from mediocrity when the pair get to the 4th or 5th year of the latest 'Project Transition'.

Of course you may feel, as I do, that this is just the latest attempt by the 'new' owner to lower our aspirations of what we can expect on the field whilst he builds them a new field to play on. Having said that, transition has been the state Everton have existed in for the last 30 years so no point in getting angsty about it now, is there?

Well briefed, Mosher and 'She of the many names'!

Brent Stephens
94 Posted 24/05/2018 at 17:02:26
Jay (#54) just seen that. Thanks for the link.
Darren Hind
95 Posted 24/05/2018 at 19:08:07
I like that Brands took his time to make up his mind. He had a nice little number and did not need to move on.

The fact that he has taken so long to make his decision would suggest he was having a long hard look at us. The fact that, after taking a long hard look, he decided to come, would suggest he sees an opportunity to fulfill his ambitions.

Unlike Walsh, Koeman, Allardyce and Martinez, the guy did not head for Goodison Park travelling at warp factor six because he was offered the big bucks. He clearly wants more.

I won't be joining any crusades to canonise him before he has his coat off but I'm really glad he is here.

James Hill
96 Posted 24/05/2018 at 19:29:39
Maybe he's looking for a "Modern Manager" who is a women. That would really make us a progressive club and appease the current fan base. It would also be very entertaining which would also be a bonus.
John Roberts
97 Posted 24/05/2018 at 19:34:33
Thanks for the heads up with the direction the club is taking as not always the case in the past. When Silva arrives, I'll be a happy man again and good luck to all.
Mike Gaynes
98 Posted 24/05/2018 at 19:41:49
James Marshall #107: "I have no argue left in me."

James Marshall #108: "If you want mediocre, crack on."

Must be two of you lads. One of them unnecessarily unpleasant.

Len Hawkins
99 Posted 24/05/2018 at 19:43:58
James #117

Not as far fetched as you think, the Head of the Severn Trent Water Authority was on tv this morning a fairly attractive young blonde lady. The reporter asked her what her dream job would be and she replied "Managing Everton".

Phil Walling
100 Posted 24/05/2018 at 20:22:26
He's looking for nobody, James. If I'm not right about Silva already being signed up, I swear I will never post again!
Brian Williams
101 Posted 24/05/2018 at 20:48:55
Be careful what you swear to Phil, your namesake doesn't agree with you:

Everton's pursuit of Marco Silva set to run into next week as tensions with Watford continue

Brian Harrison
102 Posted 24/05/2018 at 21:43:29
How nice to hear his ideas and plans for the future, and we all hope that in maybe 5 years time we see the fruition of those plans. I like his idea of trying to encourage more players from our academy to break into the first team. But when you look around the top 6 clubs, very few have nurtured many from their academies.

Obviously Alex Ferguson was an exception, but most top sides can't wait for these kids to develop, everybody wants instant success. To be honest, we havent produced many Premier League regulars from our academy, so how we change that will be a huge task.

I know Chelsea have a plan of buying the best young talent around and farming them out on loan to some Premier League clubs. And yes, they probably produce more Premier League players than most of the other Premier League clubs, and it certainly is a profitable income for them. I don't think we have the money or at present the kudos to attract the brightest young talent.

Alex Carew
103 Posted 25/05/2018 at 04:57:35
I think this is a breath of fresh air and something we've missed for so many years. I, along with many others, love the fact that we are The People's Club however, I will be much happier that we are making progress with our team, management and board and doing things correctly as a proper operated business, rather than seeing videos of Dunc delivering Janice the tea maid her free half season ticket every week.

We all like that we are a People's Club but time to turn ruthless and make things happen differently if we are gonna progress.

Blue Bill needs to step aside now and become just a fan again, we need to stop living in the 70s and 80s and accept that we've been mediocre for years now and this sort of change is needed. I have to admit it, I'm actually quite excited for the first time in a while... but we haven't got a manager yet. ;-)

Onwards and upwards; let's do this, Blues!!!

Andy Crooks
104 Posted 25/05/2018 at 19:10:57
Jim @71, whilst you are entitled to support the Democratic Unionist Party, surely this is the wrong thread!
Drew O'Neall
105 Posted 27/05/2018 at 20:57:53
Let's have a couple of experienced winners in to the squad to lead the youngsters around them. Vincent Company springs to mind.

A younger, tough athletic mean-spirited centre-half and an uncompromising centre-midfielder to shore up Everton's soft underbelly would also help.

Jeff Spiers
106 Posted 28/05/2018 at 06:38:03
Drew, would a Sergio Ramos do???!!!

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