Everton on the verge of Bernard coup

Hope this one is true.

Sam, he'll play in a midfield two beside a holding player.

The report states that Marco Silva's involvement was crucial in securing Bernard's signature, and the winger is excited to link up with his countryman Richarlison in the Blues' attack. The Blues beat Chelsea, Atletico Madrid and West Ham in their bid to land the forward.

This would be fantastic if we get him as Arsenal and the other lot were after him.

All other sources seem to be creating confusion over the Mina situation, citing Lyon's re-emerged bid. Confused.com, I am.

Hope this has mileage to it, as many top sides were seeking his signature, especially on a free.

Where the heck did this come from?!

Does he play out wide on the left (Richalrson's there?) or behind the striker (Sigurdsson might be nervous?)?

I wonder what the plan is for him in Silva's mind.

Either way he looks to be one hell of a good addition. This is a very pleasant surprise.

if this comes off, we get a CB, and we dump Bolasie it'll be a window on par with the Martinez Barry-McCarthy-Lukaku summer.

There will still be needs, but for a first window for M&M if those three things happen it's an A+ grade in my book taking all the circumstances into account.

Ah.

A quick tricky midfielder? Oh please let it be true.

I freaking love it. Tricky little shit who clearly has personality.

I want this guy - like now. This dude is the creativity we've been needing since Arteta left.

Get him!

I have more faith in Brands than anyone else who has been working for Everton over the last few years. I have more confidence than usual he can get Bernard and Mina signed .

We are a more professional outfit since Brands' arrival, an inspired appointment by Mr Moshiri.

Made up.

Replace Stoke with Burnley.

If this comes off then Brands will have pulled off a blinder here. Snapping up one of the most coveted free transfers under the noses of several CL clubs?

One in the eye for all the people on here lambasting Brands and Silva for not signing all and sundry in five minutes.

This one has 'come from nowhere' because, in my opinion, we have someone who is doing his job well and in the right way.

Just wanted to be first!

Seriously, this could be the link between midfield and potentially good quick strike force we have been crying out for.

Agree re defence but maybe this professional management team can do that too?

Interesting times.

https://youtu.be/cE99rrjQ7Y4

Connor @ 4 points out he could play in a midfield 2 next to the holding mid?

I wonder if Silva drops him and looks to him to be the midfield man pulling the strings and creating the chances and breaks?

I dunno, that' why they get paid the big bucks and I watch.

Think of the panto horse.
Now Digne reckons he can play centre half so if we put Digne on Bernards shoulders and buy them a really long top we could have a tall commanding centre half with pace.

Thing is would that count as one or two players on the pitch ?

Warm yer hands up mate, there's a pen & paper here ready for your John Hancock!

I yearn for a return of the days of yore when Brazilian players had such glorious names.

Biro Biro
Roberto Dinamite
Falcao
Socrates
Garrincha
Leonidas

Etc

Isn't that us fucked then? Have we ever, a single time, gotten a work permit for a player on a late-ish deal? That's like the death of this.

Swear to God if this falls through because of a fucking work permit I'm going to throw a chair through my fucking window.

It's actually Mick Bernard.

That'll put the squads average age up.

We got Bernard.

According to the Echo

I've the memory of a field mouse, I can't recall if Funes Mori needed one.

I do recall being disappointed numerous times as work permits failed to come to fruition.

Fingers crossed.

After we missed out on Malcom, we were always going to go for a Barnard.

Anyway... love how we kept this one totally under the radar. Brilliant stuff. We might lose a few games, but hopefully it will 5-4 every time we do.

And you know what I love about this? That there wasn't even a sniff of this in any of the rumors until a few hours ago.

Told ya Brands was working under the radar!

Yeah he is, an attacking midfielder.

Finally, Everton are shaping up like a proper club, making our intention known. The days of signing 30-year-olds have gone.

Club information
Current team
Everton

Must be true.

Bernard Hopkins
Bernard Madoff
Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery
Bernard Cribbins (who once saved my Grandad from drowning - true story)
Bernard Sumner
Bernard Breslaw

One or two new CDs and I can't wait for Southampton on August 18th.

Does this mean only one defensive mid, with Siggy and Bernard both playing in the midfield three, or is it an either/or?

The Manuel Fernandes deal was the one that killed me off the most I was a young lad then and thought he was quality I was devastated when he didn't sign.

You live and learn I'll get excited when he's at finch farm with the royal blue on.

Well done to M&M if it comes off.

Interesting to see where Bernard fits in- could it be centrally given the number of wingers we have?

A 'John Hancock' is slang for a signature - he famously signed the American declaration of independence with a MASSIVE signature right across the document.

I feel like if you put together a cartoon of the English, you'd have them be those seagulls but you'd replace the words with, "PUN PUN PUN!"

I've never seen such intelligent, witty comments based upon plays-on-words ever in my life from people such as those on TW.

You love your puns, and more importantly you always do them justice.

Back to work

Even in Martinez' first season and ever since, all of our attacking play relied upon certain attackers turning and running towards opposition goal. There was a lack of any build up play in the final third.

Since Pienaar, Arteta and Osman (at his best) we've completely lacked guile in the final third.

Really chuffed with this news. Totally unexpected!

"Giz a job"

Spooky

Jesus where do you get it?

Fan of Hendrix by the way, James?

Anybody who doesn't get that reference hasn't lived...!

On a serious note, this is a very exciting signing if we can pull out off!

Keith, yeah big Hendrix fan, well spotted.

Mark, I don't remember that but I do remember that Nursie's real name was BERNARD!

He can play anywhere in midfield. He naturally drifts inside when played out wide. He's a midfielder in the mold of Juninho / Coutinho and M&M no doubt envisage him pulling the strings from a deeper position.

I do tend to get overexcited whenever we sign anyone, but this signing is a different kettle of fish altogether. I think it could be the turning point that we've needed to take a massive step forward in terms of our identity and CL aspirations in the coming years.

That's the feeling I start every season with

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cE99rrjQ7Y4

I think he would be exactly what Tosun needs.

About Bernard Cribbins saving my long dead old Grandad from drowning? He was well old at the time, and loved fly fishing - he was at the Queen Mother reservoir one day and slipped over & fell into the drink. Knocked spark out and slid into the water, a passer by (Cribbins) spotted him and leapt into the water, fished (pun intended) him out and revived him on the spot.

The silly old bugger lived another 12 years thanks to Bernard Cribbins.

TY. I'm fucking jacked to the tits over this one.

Link

Anybody want to feel my goosebumps?

Right said Fred...

And don't forget, as BERNARD said, "it's a boy, without a winkle"

Nowt wrong with Mr Manning, Rob. Good clean fun. ST landed today too mate. Panic over.

Keith, I might have to dig out some Blackadder after this. I'm over excited and sweating like a fat girl in a disco over here!

Very interesting, I wonder where he'll fit in.

Richarlison - Walcott - Bernard

or will he be deployed behind Tosun in a No 10 role with Sigurdsson dropping deeper? Or could he be a deep-sitting central midfield creator.

I really know nothing of the player, tbh, but it's still exciting.

So you should be, mate. On paper, it's the best signing we've made since Kanchelskis IMHO. The lads World Class.

Bernard Cribbins was the man mistaken for the hotel inspector by Basil in Fawlty Towers, Mike. And voiced The Wombles!

Or lines along that ilk.

If it's good enough for Glasstranamus, it's good enough for me.

He was quite a character, try Wiki, it may give you more info!

Our attacking and creativity have certainly improved over the summer, and with 2 Brazilians of this pedigree, Goodison should be a game fun place to watch football.

I am made up too because with 2 Brazilians in the team, we are likely to be regulars on ESPN Brasil this season, meaning less time going crazy with woeful streams on woeful Brazilian net services. Now just to convince the wife that ESPN is a wise investment for our TV service...

I can just see him scoring the winner at Anfield and becoming St Bernard.

Melchett: Ah, excellent. Just a short back and sides today I think

Darling: Er, that's Corporal Black, sir. Captain Blackadder is here, about the other matter sir, the secret matter.

Melchett: Ah, yes, the special mission. At ease Blackadder. Now what I'm about to tell you is absolutely tip-top-secret is that clear?

Blackadder: It is sir.

Melchett: Now, I've compiled a list of those with security clearance, have you got it Darling?

Darling: Yes sir.

Melchett: Read it please.

Darling: It's top security sir, I think that's all the Captain needs to know.

Melchett: Nonsense! Let's hear the list in full!

Darling: Very well sir. "List of personnel cleared for mission
Gainsborough, as dictated by General C. H. Melchett: You and me, Darling, obviously. Field Marshal Haig, Field Marshal Haig's wife, all Field Marshal Haig's wife's friends, their families, their families' servants, their families' servants' tennis partners, and some chap I bumped into the mess the other day called Bernard."

Darren okay mate. Must have a jar this year.

This will be a fabulous signing...but the work permit could be tricky.

The application rules for non EU players is they must have played in 30% of their national side's games in the last 3 years. It appears as if Bernard's last game for Brazil was in 2014!!

He played in Spain for a few years so could have some sort of Spanish papers. Let's hope this doesn't go pear shaped!

SURELY, SURELY the new regime which has it's head seemingly screwed on straight, would have vetted that minor fact PRIOR to the news being leaked??

Surely?

Take a bow. Drop the mic. Close the thread.

Unless we get Bernards mates Bert and Maurice to join us too. Hope you are well .

Followed by Lonnie Donegan - Does your chewing gum lose its flavour on the bedside over night
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6bFTVi0hHs

Man Utd, Lyon and Tottenham probably phoning his agent as we speak. Wake up tomorrow morning to

Everton Bernard deal Hijacked by

https://youtu.be/R_7Wh0iYr6g

Uli Jon Roth

I believe Marcel brands to be pretty astute in these matters, whereas the Everton of old could have easily overlooked such a trivial matter.

Bernard Anício Caldeira Duarte.

Wow, this thread is fun. It's like everybody's drunk/high on our transfer window.

Chris watts, you owe me a cone of chips lad. Had to throw mine out after you pissed on them.

Have you renewed your season ticket ? - not the one for park end, the one for the alehouse

Cheers, we needed someone to pop the bubble.

True though, he looks like a tiny monkey, like the ones they used to give you to hold in Blacklers back in the 60s so they could take a picture of you. Allegedly. I'm far too young to remember, but me dad told me.

Still, if nothing else, he can sit on Pickfords shoulder and entertain the Street End at half time.

Wonder what this means for gylfi? And Lookman

And Morgan. Need 2 monster centres backs now and can't wait for saturday

Pat - absolute classic!

No more hair related jokes please. Stop being a bunch of pussies!

Could play anywhere through the middle- including left of Holgate at CB.

Keith, I'd prefer Lindelöf as well.

Another Bernard was the Bass player in Chic (RIP) - he was super cool.

He doesn't qualify for that so can appeal on an exceptions basis, in which he needs 4 points.

He has no transfer fee, so no points there. Next one is his wages, so he needs to be in the top 25% of the top 30 players' wages at Everton. Should easily qualify there with about 80k per week, so gets 3 points. If the team he is moving from has played in the group stages or more in the Champions league in past 12 months and he has played 30% of games, another 1 point.

So, he should qualify for a work permit.

''sweating like a fat bird in a disco'' or a blind lesbian in a fish market.
Or Micky Quinn outside Greggs.

To have a nimble, mobile play maker, again, could release the full potential of these players.

James - brilliant!

You obviously know your stuff.

Excuse my ignorance, but did he play in the CL with Shaktar in the last 12 mths?

A shop that sells pasties, cakes etc. and a pie which is basically a cat's paw surrounded by pastry.
Heart attack central.

Taxi!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YrREC0SDMQ

Check 1.03 mins in.

As for how I think we will play. Well we have a middle triangle of Gueye, Schneiderlin and Sigurdsson. Gylfi is at the tip and Gueye and Schneiderlin are the "double pivot" at the base. I expect Silva to flip the triangle. Therefore, "single pivot" at the base, and two attacking midfielders at the other end. This means Schneiderlin to sit deep and Gylfi and Bernard to be ahead of him behind the striker.

Sorry guys, in this formation the single pivot needs to be disciplined (ie static), needs to be able to tackle and pass, and to have height. Gueye can't play this role. Expect Morgan Schneiderlin to be even more secure in his place as a result of this signing.

Pickford
Coleman ? ? Digne
Schneiderlin
Sigurdsson Bernard
Walcott Tosun Charlie

This is great news, as much as we like a whinge and a vent, so far the new management have brought in massive improvements over the dross we've signed under the previous regimes.

Mr Brands knows what he is doing and I'm very happy about that.

This is great news, as much as we like a whinge and a vent, so far the new management have brought in massive improvements over the dross we've signed under the previous regimes.

Mr Brands knows what he is doing and I'm very happy about that.

You seem to be playing 4 people in a triangle.

Mina must be looking more closely at this now. Hopefully he still comes in. Barcelona cannot keep him as they have used up all their Non-EU slots and so Mina has to leave. We're his only option.

Sorry for not being perfect!

However, this is a forum for discussion, where people can air their views and ask questions of fellow Evertonians.

On the face of things if we ended up with two attackers, a new left back and a couple of centre backs (let's assume Mina's coming) then you'd say we've addressed a lot of problems and had a successful window. Individually, you could make a great case for each of the players...

but...

Richardson is a raw talent. Mina looked very raw to me. Bernard has spent the last four years in Russia (hasn't worked particularly well for us before... Bily, McGeady, Missed).

Only Digne really comes with pedigree.

Feels like it could be great fun with talented young players emerging... or it could really blow up in our face. I'm not sure that this level of uncertainty was exactly what we needed this summer.

For example we passed up on Jonny Evans. Yeah we can do better, and Mina may well be better - but he's also riskier.

I didn't want Allardyce's version of stability but this is a little riskier than I envisaged with Silva. Let's hope... COYB.

Talk of Lyon for Mina apparently, but I would expect we are offering higher wages than Lyon with all the TV money. Fingers crossed.

He won the Copa Libertadores with his home town club Athletico Mineiro 4 years ago, alongside ex-Blue Jo and Ronaldinho, in the twilight of his career.

Very promising youngster and a player of whom much was expected. Was selected for the home World Cup in 2014, but hasn't had a sniff of the national team since moving to Ukraine. He never shone for Brazil and I have no idea how he has performed in Ukraine. He kinda disappeared as far as Brazil is concerned.

If we land him, he MUST play central midfield. Who for, is open for debate. Although of similar build and style to Juninho, he of the 'Boro, he has yet to display similar quality or consistency to that very good player.

So the guy must know that this is not a 'flash in the pan' move. Hopefully too getting him on board will attract other players to us.

Tom @275 remind me who that was, I was thinking Bernie Wright, but that was Birmingham, or Walsall!

I realize you know entirely more than I regarding all things football, never mind all things Silva, but,

I think Gana should play the holding role in lieu of Schneiderlin.

He has an engine that doesn't quit, and he is a ball winner and a much, much better tackler. He will actually win the damn ball back and shut down the opposition. All he needs to do, after doing what he frankly does best, is move the damn ball off his feet to someone - anybody - else and get the play moving forward.

Schneids isn't fierce enough in front a a currently weak back duo of CBs to play. The back end of the spine will be as tough as butterflies in the park!

Make of that what you will.

I hope you and your family are well friend.

If Gueye plays the holding role, and the opposition run through the middle, past Sigurdsson and Bernard, because that will be a very soft centre, then they are running straight for Gueye. He will always come out of his position and attack the player, just like the even more undisciplined Besic. Schneiderlin would hold position and drop backwards making the player slow and give others time to recover. Sure, he'd probably skin Schneiderlin regardless, the way he's playing, but we need the holding midfielder to hold. Gueye cannot hold. He never has, he never will. He loses most of his game if he holds as well. He's better as a heat seeking missile racing around intercepting, closing down, harrying and tackling, but to do all of this, we need someone to sit in there and be static. Who does static better than Schneiderlin?

Steve Ferns, glad you are back after all the sad time for you and your Mum.

I'd rather have a player who attacks the ball and has a penchant for winning the ball via interception or a tackle, rather than a player who holds shape for the sake of holding shape.

I see where you are coming from. Might be the gun-toting American in me to favor the more aggressive player and you may be right.

Schneids just drives me nuts to be honest.

One thing we can agree upon - Schneiderlin is indeed very static!!

That made me laugh more than all the Bernard puns put together.

No worries m8😀

I've checked him out since posting.

Yes he did score against City.

Could be a catalyst for other quality signings! Now and in the future.

Schneiderlin has been a good player for us in the past but his tackling is poor, he doesn't have mobility, and he rarely passes forward. That last point is all the more frustrating as when he first signed for us there were quite a few games when his passing was excellent but that was some time ago!

Who is Bernard Cribbins?

Bernard Cribbins is a National Treasure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge_4SlJWfl0

Mike, I don't know how. It was from this game though: Newcastle (h) May 2012 the photo had a time stamp. It was either just before or just after he retired. I thought the game was more like 2014, and I thought my dad retired in 2010. Oh well!

I think there is an element of the two getting in each others way when Schneids and Gana play together, and lord knows many on this forum have called on previous Everton managers to play with only one defensive CM, perhaps as you say Silva will be the man to do it.

In your opinion would Silva play the inverted triangle all the time, or is he likely to adopt a different formation when facing say, Man City away?

I am hoping that he can play on the left and add balance similar to Pienaar.

Drinkwater and a newer version of Jags would do before the deadline.

At the moment it is all about Everton. It's about fitness, tactics, positioning, shape, and familiarity. Getting everyone to know their jobs.

Now, we are into the regular season. He will be studying Wolves. He will workout how they will play, he will set us up in a way to exploit the weaknesses that he sees and so he will adapt the formation and tactics for that game.

As for Man City, Silva is bold enough to look for weaknesses in the Man City side and will seek to exploit them too. He rolls the dice and tries to win.

So yes, he will adopt many different formations, and so will utilise different players for different games. Read about when he played arsenal and decided to move the left winger over to the right and doubled up on the fullback at 1-0 down and exploited Arsenal's weak left whilst Wenger watched on scratching his head and doing nothing.

4-2-3-1 is by far the formation he has used the most. He used a very narrow 4-1-3-2 (4-4-2) mostly at Estoril, then 4-2-3-1 in the final season. He played a proper 4-3-3 at Sporting, with the midfield 3 in a V shape, with Carvalho at the bottom. At Olympiacos. he played a 4-2-3-1 in the league, but Cambiasso often dropped into the back 4 and sprayed passes from there, trying to get them forwards on the counter quicker. However, they played a 4-3-3 when the fast Greek No 10 was missing from the side.

Hull was a variety of formations from the Estoril 4132 but mostly the 4-2-3-1. At Watford he played a back 3 in a 3-4-3, a 4-2-3-1, 4-3-3, 4-4-2, he tried a variety again, but 4-2-3-1 was the one he used most. But as I said above, because it is more 4-2-1-3, which is a 4-3-3 with an inverted V shape, he calls it a 4-3-3 not 4-2-3-1. You'll notice how compact everyone has been in defence. He likes to play very narrow. Which is why we need a static holding midfielder.

Don't know if Silva will give him that chance, but it's in his game. At least it was in those three games in Russia.

As an aside, has anyone explained UK tax to him? I don't want to see footage of him at John Lennon only for him to do a u-turn like when we signed Muller!

The 4123 with Schneiderlin sat in front of the defence does worry me though, especially with our current crop of CBs. There is so little pace there.

You seem to be suggesting that Schneiderlin can not only defend but also pass.

Whenever I've seen him he is indeed in the frame but pretty much always not actually influencing the action. Maybe he is keeping a beautiful 'shape'.

As for passing, the less said about his ability in that regard, the better unless we think passing 10 m sideways is passing.

I'd sooner drop Siggy, not play Bernard, train up Gana or Big Bang to hold better, re-build McCarthy as the bionic man, anything than play Schneiderlin in a role where he is theoretically suited to but in reality, would be hopeless.

I have only seen one game where Schneiderlin played well, against Man City, where we won 4-0. That's a poor return on what he's getting paid.

I can't wait for the day where we see this parasitic stroller bite the dust!

Mark, his passing has been erratic in the extreme. The sad fact is that none of our central midfielders can kick the ball further can 30 yards without bouncing, except for Schneiderlin. Their passing is atrocious. Schniederlin is capable of hitting a 70 yard pass perfectly to feet. Check out his YouTube highlights for confirmation. Sure, he's not shown that for us for 12 months at least, but he keeps getting in Koeman's side, Allardyce's side, and now Silva's side because he is the only passing midfielder we have. Like it or not. And most of us are "not". But Silva, for whatever reason, is keeping him, and he will play. He will play nearly every game when fit. Sorry Mark, but this is what will happen.

DK - notice Gueye didn't play that game? Notice most of Schneiderlin's best performances have come when Gueye was not playing?

As I said, Bernard 'disappeared' as far as Brazil is concerned when he left for the Ukraine.

He is no longer mentioned as a possible selection for the national team and I can't recall a single feature on Brazilian TV on him. And they LOVE a success story of their overseas players.

With Atletico Mineiro he played widish midfield, often on the right, from where he would cut inside when approaching the penalty when he would get a shot off with his left foot.

I'm familiar with the player because I used to live in his home city and my first team in Brazil is Cruzeiro - Atletico's big city rivals.

I really don't know how or what position he played in the Ukraine. But for me, based on what I know, he needs to play central midfield.

Steve #322 Always enjoy your posts. However, I am confused. Was he playing a 1234 or 1232 ? 2132 or 3321 ? a 1122 or a 2213 . Where is the inside right?

Surely deep down you know Schniederlin is I'll fitted to Silva's methods of play.

A player who on numerous chances has blown his audition. He simply is not mobile or nimble enough to help press, because the whole team has too. One of the key reasons Everton have looked as leaky as Delilah's bucket.

Do not get me wrong the centre halves are in the same boat. I've observed our pressing, such as it is, being started by the front four and the rest of the team sitting there. Many of the goals scored against us in pre-season have come from teams beating our press, your basically in from there.

Schniederlin 28 peak years, potentially a leader and bags of game experience, not a jot from him. It's very much his mental capacity to deal with not being a United player, won't argue with you on his passing etc.

Energy and synchronization is what's missibg from the press. He ain't the answer.

Silva plays a compact (narrow) back 4 99% of the time. He prefers a single striker. Whereas the wingers were right in line with the other midfielders in Allardyce's side, Silva pushes them right forward, almost alongside the striker. So you often see a front 3. The two wider forwards have a task to track back and to close down. The midfield 3 is always narrow and compact. The main question is are there 2 defensive midfielders or 1.

I am saying with Bernard's arrival, assuming it happens, then expect Richarlison to keep his left forward slot, and Walcott the Right Forward Slot. Therefore, Bernard either drops Gylfi to the bench or we play one defensive midfielder and an extra attacking midfielder.

To balance having two attacking midfielders, the defensive midfielder needs to be extra disciplined and hold position. The two attacking midfielders are to track back and close down and put tackles in too. Bernard played under Paulo Fonseca and so should be used to this (I only saw the Champions League games). He played Left Wing or no 10 in a 4-2-3-1 under Fonseca. MyY best guess is that he plays off the striker on the left, with Gylfi off the striker and to the right.

Therefore, to offset having an effective front 5, we need an all-out defensive midfielder and so Gueye on his seek and destroy missions is going to be a liability, leaving a big hole and our creaking back four could not cope. Instead expect to see Schneiderlin play there.

I wanted to bring Carvalho in for this reason, but clearly Silva has seen something in Morgan. Let's hope Schneiderlin ups his game fast.

Hey JP, Schneiderlin is one of three players who are not meant to press. The centrebacks and the holding midfielder keep position. The opposition try to pull these players out of position to create space, they need to resist that and hold position.

Despite the crap, the press is shaping up. But I cannot have it that Schniederlin can be part of it.

A high, squeezing press requires excellent one-on-one defenders and defensive midfielder. Schniederlin is not that guy or even close to it.

We love a trier, not a cryier like so many of our recent signings. Sure does look like we will be an attacking side to start out with until the center players from back to front can learn to defend. The makings of a future team. Would restore our faith in EFC after the first good Martinez season. Suggestions for his nickname or chant? Burner, Nursie, Bear, Nardo,

Well ARD, "He comes from Brazil with a crappy name but he's gonna burn defences alive with his game". "We are Brazil and all shall fear now that we've binned off all the money grabbing queers". "Burnie hot! Burnie Shot, scores cracking goals, Opposition lose the plot". Work in progress.

A Richarlison song could be tricky unless we call him Richie...

But I do see the profile of what he wants and how Schneiderlin ticks those boxes far more than gueye. And that's why, if Silva really does think Morgan is his guy, he will play. Let's hope next summer we identify a world class player to take him out the side.

I think you nailed it with your last sentence, next Summer. It's an important role but not that easy to fill. This has always been the position that I felt would most likely be filled by a loan signing from a top club, but that usually comes with being done at the last minute. That player has to see that he won't get game time at his club and that club has to know that they came through preseason without losing anyone to injury.

I think he knows he has a couple of players in they position, whereas he had nobody for the left side of the attack, knew Baines can't be counted on at LB, and I think he's made clear his desire for a top CB. This latest Brazilian joining us will only help our attack and make us more exciting, hopefully bringing back the atmosphere to Goodison and taking some of the pressure off our defense.

Maybe we'll see that central midfielder come in on loan before the end of the week. Maybe next Summer or January. But I can't honestly say the players we signed weren't massively needed.

But it also means Lookman is likely going to leave.

One has limitations and plays within them. The other can do it but doesn't have the balls to give it a go. One is limited, one is a coward. Both end up playing slow, simple, sideways balls for different reasons - but it's the same outcome.

Gueye is the more dynamic. Creates more on the ball by virtue of being willing to carry it at pace and break lines. Does more of a job defensively and in attack by being willing to press the opposition and win the ball.

It's been a no brainer for me even when people were lauding Schneiderlin in his first season. They shouldn't play together as they play exactly the same role - but Gueye offers so much more in that role.

But I can see why a new manager would see Schneiderlin in pre season and think "I can do something with a player of his ability". For the exact same reason that every manager thought it about Mirallas in pre seasons past. Then come about January they see why these players aren't regulars.

Silva came out and said he's our player and that he ain't going anywhere.

It would appear Bernard will play as No 10 or No 8. Lookman is backup/competition for both Richarilson and Walcott.

If Bernard gets in the way of anyone's development, that would be Dowell's.

I see a heck of a lot of 4-3s, 3-2s, with some problematic defending and a desire to score more than the opponent. I think Silva does not, in any way, seemingly neglect the defensive side of the equation.

But I have a feeling the first season under him may have a bit of a "Martinez" feel to it. Not in the possession football or "phenomenal" style, but in the final scores.

We're going to be prone to blowing a lead or two. We need to be very patient in my opinion with Silva and the team.

And Christ above help us if we lose to Wolves. I'll read TW if we do, but it'll be akin to watching the proverbial train wreck.

Schneiderlin, on the other hand, lumbers around in slow motion with the game passing him by and when in position passes sideways. Maybe Schneiderlin will be better suited to this position with more attacking options going forward for him to hit a more direct pass. I just worry about his defensive duties because I just don't see him having the pace or positional sense to be effective in this role.

Having said all of that, if we land Bernard it should make a huge difference to the style of football we play. This latest signing along with the other two is going to convert me from being a pessimist to the proverbial optimist!!!

Anyway, one thing we have lacked under the last two managers is the ability to be unpredictable with a substitution that completely switches the tactics of a game going wrong. Given his stark difference between Sigurdsson's and Bernard's style of play, this may be a nice card to be able to play.

It's only because Gana knows Schneiderlin is acting as an insurance policy that he feels he not only can but must hunt the ball. I'm not a great fan of either; both are far too happy to sit down when faced with a Coutinho type who will want to ghost past them.

We need an upgrade, but we have more pressing issues elsewhere on the park, so, for now, at least, it has to be Gana for me. Schniederlin can pass a ball when we are comfortable and he has the time, but that won't happen often and when under pressure his distribution is worse than Gana's, I think its a lesser ask to get Gana to hold his position, than to get Schnieds to improve his passing under pressure.

Unfortunately, Schniederlin has offered very little throughout the past 15 months. Put simply, he doesn't deserve a starting place

Good to see you back, Steve.

Difficult to assess Bernard, I've seen him play a few times, but he was playing for a guy who expected his players to carry out his instructions to the letter. I would like to see him play with a little more freedom. Think Steven Pienaar as opposed to Steven Gerrard, He is intelligent, protects the ball well and draws fouls in dangerous areas.

Free, experienced and wanted by other top clubs. Whats not to like ?

One thing that surprised me is that no one mentioned the fact that James Marshalls' granddad once was saved from drowning by our new signing!

In this day and age when every player is like a mini business, coming to a club with a modern-day record like Everton from a club where he has been used to winning cups and leagues... and having the choice of Champions League, doesn't make any sense...Maybe he has heard Usmanov is going to be bankrolling Everton.

Mina sounds like he wants a Champions League club but if Lyons can't pay him what we are offering he'll end up with us after declaring himself a lifelong Blue.

Maybe about to join his good friend Mr Moshiri on the most exciting project in world football.

Very exciting times if it comes together, the stars are aligning for Everton Football Club.

This could turn out to be a very interesting day. Mr Usmanov will be a very welcome addition to our club!

A very interesting close to the window

My mate has supported City for years and when they became mega- rich it was so bizarre as he went through a period of resistance and wanted his old club back.

I think if it happened TW would become like that Python sketch.

"Think you had it tough. We used to have to get up out of the shoebox at twelve o'clock at night, and LICK the road clean with our tongues. We had half a handful of freezing cold gravel, worked twenty-four hours a day at the mill for fourpence every six years, and when we got home, our Dad would slice us in two with a bread knife before going to Goodison."

https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/45094538

"На моей голове"

Russian for "on me 'ed"

But perhaps we are getting ahead of ourselves. Wait and see...

Cue Coca-Cola xmas trucks, lit up in blue leds.

What can possibly go wrong?🤔🤔🤔🤔

Even if we don't sign him, he's given us more excitement on this thread alone than most of our squad has over the last year.

Another for those over a certain age.

But you just never know. Even when a player is in the building he may end up walking away.

I would think this has been going on behind the scenes for some time, hopefully everything is in place for him to step in today and spend 300 million in the next 2 days...

We can dream can't we?

I know I'm massively simplifying things saying that but a boy can dream can't he? We could build a gigantic mega-stadium for 100,000 people with his very own steel.

Best steaks I can remember !

They, the Beeb, are giving him and his shitty team more coverage than 80% of the prem teams.

Fits TW to a tee. Ha-ha!

Fingers crossed.

Just need a defence now!

"could this get any better for Evertonians?"

Have you watched any of our pre-season games?

Bernard isn't unfashionable, its only given to living legends.

Watch your step TW ;)

Toff! I'll still think of you as “Posh Bernard” with a stress on the first syllable!

It would be worth it just to see the look on the red shite fans' faces when they come to terms with the fact that they have become the small club in the city.

Used to be another guy who served there, Robert. As camp as Tawd Vale or a scout jamboree.

The signing of the Bernard may have helped Mina make his mind up. He can see we are a team that is going places now and he can be an integral part of that.

It would be an amazing 48hrs for the club.

And that's without the game changing possibility of Alisher Usmanov joining Farhad and getting involved with the project.

Keep your hats on though, none of the above is real yet!

And, as a minority owner, have to follow the lead of a guy he ordered around for 20 years?

I say we stick with the guy we got.

Naming rights etc are simple ways of siphoning massive amounts of money into the club.

Are you sure we are not signing a Yorkshire Barrel maker ?

“Ay-up young Bernard, is that barrel finished for the Arkwright order”

I even have hopes to break into top 6 if we get that no-nonsense guy at the back, considering the situations at the 4 of the big 6 clubs. Only City and Liverpool are at different level. Man Utd are struggling and Mourinho is moaning about it. Chelsea are depending on Morata to get them goals with future of Willian, Hazard and Courtois out of their control. Spurs are playing in new stadium and Arsenal have Europa to deal with it. I believe 2 of these teams will fall apart.

Usmanov wouldn't come in as Moshiri's second, he'd take control. Remember, the paradise papers purport to show Usmanov gave Moshiri the money to buy arsenal and then he sold those shares and bought Everton. Panorama was implying that Moshiri is spending Usmanov's money. So if it's all true, Usmanov can come out of the shadows and take full control of Everton.

Why would anyone want to invest £Ms and not have a controlling interest?

Why would anyone want to invest £Ms and not have a controlling interest?

Why would anyone want to invest £Ms and not have a controlling interest?

Why would anyone want to invest £Ms and not have a controlling interest?

I have had this problem, it's quite technical, I think there maybe a rice crispie trapped under your return button.

Cue the hope that he'll be backing his mate at Everton with the funds.

It's the second time it's happened on this thread!

The odd thing is the apology just posts the once.

(This post is from my phone).

Not much of an apology, then, Bill!

Dave #447 - I'm watching you, lad!

If you think Usmanov isn't already involved at Everton, I would suggest that was wide of the mark, even if oddly under the radar. It's a bit of an open secret if you like.

I'm looking forward to the day we have USM emblazoned across the front of our Champions League winning jerseys.

Anyway, I knew that we could still sell players to overseas clubs up until 31st August but I didn't know we can still sign players from any club on loan right up until the end of August. So, this week is only the window for permanent incomimgs and there is nothing stopping us from bringing players in on loan with a future option to buy agreed.

Apparently they've outbid us for Bernard but he's on a free transfer so how does that work?

3rd Aug: West Ham beat Chelsea to signing of Bernard.

6th Aug: Everton clinch deal to sign free agent, Bernard.

Welcome to modern day journalism and the transfer market.

This is such an important window for us. A few good signings and top six – no more mid-table.

Grrrrrrrr.

If he goes to Chelsea in the end I'll be so disappointed.

Mina off to somewhere today too, hopefully us?

And Usmanov might dump his millions into Everton?

That's your Everton Daily. Nothing concrete, lot of speculation.

Can we please hurry this along and start the season! All this soap-opera bullshit is killing me.

It's the fear of losing what looks like one hell of a playmaker - something we've needed since Arteta left - that creates the impatience.

For me it's not Everton dragging their feet, it's the desire to see the deal done and dusted before we lose him to some other predator.

You've raised some very important points there that people need to take into consideration.

If he does pass his medical short of his 90th birthday, Shneids is still going to be the slowest player in the squad by a stretch.

So there.

Just like the Richarlson signing didn't happen?

Best thread ever on TW.

So there too

The Media keep us all guessing with their mostly fake news which is in keeping with the Trump era.

However, Bernard seems like a go subject to a good medical and perhaps a central defender may also be a day away.

The problem with many clubs doing multiple signings during the window is having them integrated and some take longer than others.

Wolves have a slew of new (mostly Portuguese) imports and just perhaps they may not all be on the same page for the Everton game.

Some players may start out on the bench and be introduced slowly over the first few games.

Peter Ustinov was one of my favourites, very funny - but a crap footballer.

We're deffo going to win the lot this season

But his shirt fits him better now.

He also does a lot of work on CBeebies, along with his dog Salty. He tells lots of tall stories, he would be great for TW!

You couldn't make it up.

Well as Madam Cholet would say "Sacrebleu" which loosely translated into Wombleese is, "fuck me sideways".

Now, how's Peter Ustinov involved again?

Your having a laugh, surely? Well, his mother thinks so - she's reported as saying "signed for Brighton, my Arce".

He says to tell you that Ustinov was a brilliant athlete, and have you never seen Blackbeard's ghost? 😬😬😬

"Bernard remains Everton-bound, with the Brazil international expected to sign on a free transfer having let his contract expire at Shakhtar Donetsk last season, but his medical is not expected until Wednesday now. It had been initially pencilled in for today after Everton moved ahead of West Ham United, Chelsea, Milan and others in the race for the winger. Bernard will also need a work permit to complete his move to the Premier League.

Central defence remains the priority for Marco Silva and director of football Marcel Brands – as it appears to be for a host of Premier League clubs – but the long-standing pursuit of Yerry Mina, Jamaal Lascelles and others remains “on-going” with only two days remaining of the window."

Fingers crossed.

I've never seen him play like... and it seems today the more tatts you have, the poorer the player!

"Bernard's medical at Everton has been pushed back to Wednesday, and he still requires a work permit."

Hopefully there will be no hick-ups. I wonder how his fitness is. Hopefully he hasn't spent the last month doing bbq's and drinking poor quality beer.

Anyone any idea on where he has been training?

I guess he'll be a substitute for the first month or two while he adapts and regains fitness.

Newsnow, (I know), are reporting that Medical is underway, and an announcement will be made shortly, we are all like expectant fathers in the room adjoining the Maternity Suite.

Is he hitchhiking over for the Ukraine?

Something doesn't seem right about this one. Plus Mina is clearly not coming. So 2 days left to deadline and were back to Morgan, Keane and jags in the starting 11.

Who'd want to be an Everton fan?

I remember when the shite signed Fabinho. It was totally out of the blue, so maybe this could be done and duster today after all?

This is not the best thread ever on TW.

Kev Johnson playing up top for Everton will, forever, be the greatest, most hilarious thread on TW.

A little like our own Barkley, head has been turned and although talent remains, determination and sheer will to win has taken a back seat.

For me Richarlison is the best piece of business since Cahill. He's still driven and focused to succeed.

Where exactly did this rumour come from it's starting to stink. And Mina wtf is happening on that front.

2 days and counting? It hasn't even been 24 hours!!!

One thing is for sure, Silva and Brands are working to get us the best players possible and with a clear idea as to what they want.

Things are looking up

Over 550 comments and RSI from all the Googling he better bloody sign.

I remember that Kev Johnson thread well. Was a blinder.

Don't worry about it. My sources tell me ex-Suede lead guitarist Bernard Butler has been lined up in case we strike out on Sumner.

Silva has stated that all signings must be So Young in order to lower the average age of the squad whilst simultaneously getting rid of the Trash signed by Walsh & Koeman.

I get the impression Bernard's a done deal and Man Utd will sign Alderweireld, so looks like Mina will come to us. The Brazilian signings and his mate Digne have tipped the balance hopefully.

McNulty is a decent journalist though. I think he knows his stuff. He's written some favorable stuff about us. But he's not as critical of the RS as others might be. There's clearly a lot written about the RS these days and it's all with rose tinted specs.

Gotta say this is a pretty spectacular thread, however -- nearly 600 posts based on a player who hasn't even signed yet. If you printed this out it would be taller than Bernard.

http://thepeoplesperson.com/2018/08/07/marca-manchester-united-target-yerry-mina-on-the-verge-of-joining-everton-201003/

'Unattached players are free to join a new club outside the transfer window.

But Premier League clubs must name a 25-man squad at the end of every window.

That means that if a player signs, they will only be able to play in the Premier League if a club has not named a full squad or if they are under-21'.

For the record, McNulty lives in Oxford now. Currently, I don't think it matters an awful lot where journos live now, as long as they have access to the web.

Not sure how old you are, but do you remember McNulty falling out spectacularly with Joe Royle in the '90s over his reporting of Everton affairs?

I think he was banned from Bellefield for a while, until tempers cooled. It must be hard for anyone to have a row with Big Joe as he's such an amenable guy.

Don't think they're talking yet. I've Tweeted a few times to McNulty asking him if they are on 'speaking terms', but he just ignores me.

Think the local journos now based on Merseyside are just hunting for 'click bait' all the time, or the likes of the LFC correspondent James Pierce who hangs onto Klopp's every word, and NEVER poses a question that may upset or annoy him

https://everythingbarca.com/2018/08/07/barcelona-lyon-hijack-mina-deal/

Report says both Barca and Mina have agreed terms with us, but Lyon's president wants in, and "He will not refrain from such a deal based on ethics."

Give it a rest already, mate.

Better yet, have a toddy and hit the sack. By tomorrow morning your time, we should know more.

Hope all is peaceful with you and yours.

Thanks for what you did, means a lot.

I'll be over there this season for the derby. Hope to drink a toast with you to our dads. And their sons.

For older readers who could forget this 'slight' chappie signed to fill the vacant spece left by Alan Ball some 18 months earlier. A man whose greatest talent was to simply fall on top of opponents and they'd be seen no more, such was his tonnage. A man who – when under pressure, could simply deploy his huge arse to become that 12th man when under the cosh when he reverted to full-back.

In the days when men were men, our Mike could be found on Friday nights at Ellesmere Port dog track riding scrambler bikes (image that now!!). For younger readers (and all I say to be convinced of his pedigree) go watch the Everton v Leeds 3-2 game - Sept 74 to witness this bull of a man plod around the pitch hardly breaking into second gear!

Apologies if he isn't in that game but it's a good excuse to witness Mike Lyons header competing with Norman Hinter's boot to score in the Park End and break Leeds's great run. (Oh for him to be wheeled out on Saturday at the back... could do a lot worse!!)

However, Clatterbridge, the Royal, and Southport Hospitals were terrible. My father starved to death. The hospital didn't do anything to help him. He had cachexia and he should have had a PEG feed but they don't do that here. My father was incapable of eating, his brain wouldn't let him.

He was also the fittest 67 year old in the world. If not the fittest he was close to it. He'd murder most 20-year-olds in a 10-mile run. He was running every day up til Christmas, when his symptoms first really came to the fore. As recently as four weeks ago, he last played golf. He was going to the gym everyday until about 6/7 weeks ago. He was still riding his bike more recently than that, doing a five-mile circuit. The guy was a picture of fitness that stretched back a life time and included a stint as a semi-pro footballer (only St Helens town, but they were in the fifth tier in the 70s). He played football until he was into his 40s and his knee went playing in a dads and lads match with myself (straining to catch a wayward shot to stop the keeper running miles to retrieve the ball).

Anyway, sorry about the rant, but I'm so angry right now. I feel so let down by something I was once so proud of. Things are happening at Everton and I can't chat to my dad about it and that really drives the point that he's gone forever home.

Steve Ferns, just so you know, I've loved reading about Silva; you have convinced me he is the right man for the job and him and Brands will be great. I love talking all things Everton so can't imagine losing someone you do that all the time. RIP, Mr Ferns.

I don't get to Goodison much as I'm from Taunton... any ToffeeWebbers from down this way. Take care, Steve.

My condolences to you too Graham. You should also contact the club and ask them to mark your father's passing. They're happy to do so and so they should be after a lifetime of devotion and recruiting offspring to the cause.

As to thoughts and comments re. the NHS. I'll summarize mine as saying the NHS in not changing, it's aggressively being changed. It's not insurmountable lack of funding, there aren't "Too many" of us, we aren't "Demanding" too much, and it doesn't need to be "Buckling under the strain" (or any other of the psycho-babble PR crap they incessantly push). An agenda is afoot.

Manny: “Pet Surprise”? What's that?
Bernard: Oh you know the thing, they take the dog out for a walk, it thinks it's a normal walk, but when they come back, the kennel has a patio and french doors.
Manny: Yeah, yeah, and they take the blindfold off…
Bernard: Yeah and he's like “Oh my god”, you know.

I know we don't know each other, but I read your posts regularly, and on here you kind of feel like you get to know people.
Just like to also offer my condolences along with many others on here. It shows ToffeeWeb is an online community which is far more special than social networking.
Thoughts are with you

Anyway, this bluenose sends best wishes to you and your family.

Funerals are never easy or nice but I hope your dad gets the send off he deserves and the funeral can be a celebration of his life (a term I've always found to be strange)

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on him in such an articulate manner, one I think we can all relate to. Please don't ever apologise again for such a “rant” as you call it because it's nothing of the sort.

Jim - that "Celebration" term can seem misaligned but sometimes it's spot on. After an incredibly emotional service, the wake at a nearby country pub evolved into a warm and uplifting event in fabulous June weather. Expected guests and people not seen for years had made the effort. Some of the memories and conversation were incredible.

It's an oft said irony that it can take funerals to bring people together, but it was a fitting end to things best summed up by my sister, who said "Mum would have loved this gathering".

Steve - very best of luck with it all. Laugh, cry, talk, be silent, however it happens, it's all good.

Like so many ''big'' Everton signings over the years they start well and then usually get injured and never seem to regain what they had before.

I watched Ross Barklay with Chelski and I see a player who just doesn't exude the confidence that he had a few years back. Seems just to get the ball and pass it a couple of yards and that's it.

Everton have had many young starlets who burst on the scene and then for some reason fizzled out quickly ( Jeffers, Cadamartari, Vaughan etc.)

They have a bunch now and I wonder if they will go the same way as big money signings seem to be in vogue and many young lads get ignored unless they are really special like Rooney.

"Things are happening at Everton and I can't chat to my dad about it..."

Trust me Steve, those dialogues with your dad will continue.

Heartfelt thoughts to both your mother and yourself.

In the days and weeks that followed his death it was the contact from people who knew my father - friends, work colleagues, acquaintances, whoever - that brought real comfort, and on occasion made me learn something new about him that I never had the chance to discover when he was alive.

Obviously I do not know you or your father, but your description of him makes me believe that he was a very good father to you - and that in itself is a wonderful thing. I wish you and the rest of your family the absolute best - and the same goes for everyone else on here who has lost someone recently; sadly, reading this thread and others, there are a large amount of people in that number. Wonderful compassion on here from everyone.

Having lost my mum after a pretty horrendous few months (topping off a rough few years with her health), it's only now we're getting past he practical stuff. If you haven't already, I'd really recommend some counselling... I appreciate it's not very blokey to suggest, and it doesn't have to be months or even weeks and weeks - but it sounds like you've had a shit time of it. All I can say is that I feel it helped me.

It isn't McNullty ( who is chief football writer for the BBC).

Ray was referring to the chief football writer for the Guardian who is Barney Ronay.

Mike #642 I will certainly look into PALs. I will be contacting my MP, my Dad's MP, and the new Health Secretary to try to get the NHS to spend more than 1% of their cancer research budget on the most devastating (and brutal) killer of all the cancers. I also want to the NHS to make a change so they PEG feed (IV) patients rather than let them feed themselves. My Dad had cachexia (similar to anorexia) and could not be fed orally. He effectively starved to death, and this must change. It does not happen in America where nutrition is a vital part of fighting cancer.

#638 I hope so. I know when I'm in the gym (my dad's wish is for me to get fit) I talk to him all the way through it. I will miss our conversations about Everton, and the way he having played at a high level could explain the game to me. A wayward 60 yard pass to no one by Sheedy was not his fault, it was the fault of the winger who should had made the run and then looked, knowing Sheedy's quality and he should not have looked and then casually jogged after it. He had a great eye for things and sat next to him in the ground was always an education.

John Charles great to hear from you and hope you contribute more in future.

Andrew Keatley, you're so right and we're amongst friends here. We should never suffer in silence and seeing as we communicate everyday (well some of us) about football, people should get stuff off their chest instead of bottling it up.

Thanks again to everyone.

Rumours now that Mr Kenwright to step down . Are we about to introduce a new investor and board member?

I believe you're implying Usmanov. I can't remember where I read it, but I read something last night that said Usmanov is going to buy an Italian side. Now that doesn't make sense to me. Sure, a top Italian side like Juve makes a lot of money. He can't buy them as their effectively a family owned club now, and the family have assets worth more than Usmanov. Maybe he can resurrect AC Milan, but the Italian TV deal is worth nothing, so the returns on his investment will be less than he'd get for owning Everton, especially if he can get us in the Champions League.

Who else can he invest in? Germany is a non-starter due to the fan ownership rules. Spain you can't get hold of the big two, the others will never bring the return on investment. France is a one club league and you can't usurp PSG financially.

Hopefully, Usmanov can consider it all carefully, and then decide that we are the best chance he has of building a club that he can then sell for a massive profit in 5-10 years time after we've won the Champions League!

He may well have already made his mind up to join Mr Moshiri and embrace the project. It is one of the most exciting things to do in World football at the moment . At Usmanov's age he can see an inspired project through from start to finish and see his investment bear fruit. What more could a billionaire want!

Not that I am biased in any way.

Is Usamanov any good at CB?

Remember the Digne deal taking what felt like ages - same scenario here, deals in place, fees and personal terms all agreed, just got to sort out medicals and work permit (for Bernard) and film/edit the intro videos for them.

Reports in Spain say Mina is a done deal and will be announced today.

Marcel knows what he is doing, I'm sure.

Mina - has anyone seen or heard any real evidence of his arrival? Medical?

Are either at Finch Farm?

The only activity at the time going into the premises, was a Hanson Ready Mix Cement/Concrete wagon, which I must admit has me puzzled.

Has anyone any idea?

Given the time difference, about 5 or 6 hours, and the time it takes to fly here (probably to Manchester), around 10 hours, I reckon he caught a flight around 4am our time, about 10pm - 11pm Brazilian time, meaning he should be in Manchester about now!!!

Hopefully be on Merseyside by about 4pm. So there you go, sorted!!👍👍👍

Rob, he'll go direct to LJL as he won't be on easyjet! We'll have sent Moshiri's private jet that we use for all the big players.

I can see Sheikh Yabooty handing over telephone numbers of cash to buy Everton when they are Champions League Winners.

Anyway, some highlights:
- He's a fan of Bernard
- He used to play with Mina and is mates with him
- Everton are a big club and can achieve big things
- Everton should aim for higher than last season

Charlie, you're my boy!

Aidan, Alan has his picture (selfie) with him, and a caption "Welcome to Everton Beranrd" and no it's none of the Bernard's listed above, particularly the lifeguard from the council who saved James' granddad before becoming a movie star.

So it looks like this is happening!

Link

That ain't Bernard Cribbins, that's Norman Wisdom we've signed!

I hope Myers is keeping those Chelsea guys chasing him through the airport away!

FFS, I hope not as that will be passed the TDD.

My Grandad really has risen from the grave due to us signing Bernard.

Isn't the Internet wonderful?

Good news about the arrival of Bernard!!!

Now that would make Bramley Moore a bit different. Just the place for Speedo Steve and during January and February we can have Ice Skating. And we could build one of those infinity pools so it looks like it is the Mersey flowing in and out.

And can somebody post a new picture of Bernard. Let's get his arms down and with a pen in hand and a contract underneath them. I am sure that 48 hours with his hands above his head there will be no blood in his hands to hold a pen and sign the contract.

I live about 30 minutes from the Jaguars stadium.

As circus-like as that pool may be, it's exceedingly popular.

Yes, he's going in to fill up from Schneids' boots.

Need some tips of anything to see in Jacksonville. Is there anything?

And at $150-200 per person, no wonder it is popular. Mind you, until this season there was more enjoyment in the pool that watching the game.

Anyway, fuck central defence, the opposition are going to have get double figures just to draw with us.

"Roger Moore is at Chiswick Roundabout as we speak".

"ROGER! ROGER!"

On top of that, where is he going to play as I have understood Richarlison and Walcott will occupy the wings, with Sigurdsson in the middle. And I guess this also spells the end for Lookman who is not going to be getting any game time with the other 3 wingers well in front of him.

I think we are screaming out for a player that can replace Schiederlin in the centre and link up the defence with attack, so I'm scratching my head at this signing as it seems to be a huge amount of wages on someone we don't really need?

Somebody help me out here.

I read that previous forum just now and realise your dad passed 4 Aug at 11am. So glad he had a peaceful end. My prayers and stuff go to your and your family. Don't mean to remind you of this loss, just wanted to acknowledge the situation.

So my old Grandad was out fly fishing one day...

I agree we need to replace Morgan but surely you'd agree we haven't had a genuine play maker since arteta?

There's some speed there, for once they won't know where we are coming from. Ha Ha Ha!

Steve you have had great support in the last week from lots of Bluenoses on ToffeeWeb, I hope everything goes well on Friday for you and all the family, I'll be thinking of you and saying a prayer in memory of your dad on the day. God bless.

Just got in when I posted that and I see it's already old news!! lol

Im hoping he plays central or thats were Silva has him marked in for. Do we really need two defensive midfielders playing at Goodison? Hopefully he plays well enough to be a permanent starter and he picks himself with his performances.

Not seen much of him, but I assume the type we want/need?

From what I have read his natural and most effective position seems to be attacking on the left side, where we have just spent 40 million on Richarlison. It feels to me like the Klaassen/Sigurdsson thing all over again.

Sorry to hear mate. Condolences fella

Everton's new boys may not have an immediate impact on early results but if they can get the defence sorted out early it would be something to build on.

A lot depends on attitude which was very poor last season so they need to come out positively and not sit back waiting for things to happen.

Will be very interesting to see what effect Silva can have on them if any at all especially after the lousy pre-season.

If wolves start about 6 or 7 of their new signings on Saturday, it may just benefit us.

Chat with CEO and them time to celebrate.

Yaaaaay!

Link

In the meantime Teamtalk are claiming Mina will be announced 'within hours'

Firstly, size isn't everything. First touch, quick movement, accurate passing can go a long way. Iniesta seemed to have an ok career despite his midgetness. Also, we won't play against Pogba and co every week.

Speed maybe but these "premadonas" have more chance of injury in shower in Head and Shoulders ad'.

https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/yerry-mina-transfer-everton-manchester-13020787

Plus Richarlison isn't a traditional winger, he will end up as a striker. So happy days, enjoy it for once!

We are chasing Andre Gomes for the Schneiderlin role.

That week two game this year we have the Higgins Clan traveling down from Boston from my Aunt's side of the family. Like 15 to 20 of them. There will be an Irish-Bostonian contingent of very drunk people destroying Jacksonville.

We've already notified the local authorities.

When you come to Jax, stay near the beach. I'd suggest my little hamlet of Ponte Vedra Beach. Stay at the Sawgrass Marriott. They have a beach club and a shuttle to get you there. Nice place - actually ate in their bar last night with a son. Save your pennies

If that's a bit too steep price-wise, there's some excellent places to stay on the beach in Jacksonville Beach. A lot of restaurants and bars there too.

In short, if you're coming to Jax, stay near the beach. It's what's wonderful about this area. And bring golf clubs if you golf - it's golf heaven here. The TPC Stadium course is a once in a lifetime thing. Teeing it up on the 17th and trying to hit the 130 yard shot to the island green is surreal.

If and when you get to Jax, hit me up on TW. I'll have you over for a beer or a glass of wine. And I sincerely mean that, not the English, "come over for dinner" conundrum I've never understood! Hit me up and I'll feed ya a couple of drinks at the homestead for an hour or two.

Do not forget your swimming trunks mate! Pools abound, oceans beckon. As you've been here previously, you knew that already. ;0)

OH! AND! Lynch's Irish Pub in Jax Beach - footy 24/7 on the tubes. Great Pub. Highly suggest hitting that place! If you go, I'll join you there. I'd live there if it were possible. Great food, and an authentic Irish breakfast which is a rarity to find here in 'Merica.

Cheers.

My 'Everton mad' old fella died at 64 of cancer, and his NHS treatment was diabolical. Also MacMillan wouldn't come out because of the weather!!! (Which wasn't too bad...) Dad never complained once. I will look out for the photo in the Southampton programme. COYB.

Also no surprise we're seeing Portugese speaking players all suddenly showing up at Everton - the Andre Gomes thing looks like a goer too.

I cant help thinking too that maybe these signings should have all been done months ago and the new arrivals could have settled in...doesn't seem like a proper thought out plan to me.

Schneiderlin is a shoe in to start unless Gomes can sit deep.

I,m glad we've started at last to get rid of the unnecessary surplus and untalented, and also that we are trying to sign players (eventually) but there still residual whiffs that make me nervous for the new season...two of them being Schneiderlin (stinking attitude) and Jagielka (ability & poor leadership)

I wish I had that optimistic outlook that seems to prevail but the last few seasons have crushed it out of me