Kean completes Everton move from Juventus

Alan Myers: done deal 5-year contract!!!!

Signing announced!!!

Excellent!!!!

Done - finally!

But wetill need another goalscorer

Official EFC announcement!!!

Done deal. Announced on club site.

Everton sign striker Kean

Signed, sealed and delivered!!

Everton's new Number 27!

Panic over! He’s ours. Let’s hope he bangs them in and solves our toothless issues.

Get in!

Excellent news!!

I can't see him displacing Caalvert-Lewin tbh …………………..

Wow, didn't expect that to be wrapped that quickly. :-)

Still won't detract any previous allusions to Riaola being a limbless reptile, I was beginning to think the worst to be honest, and I don't believe I was alone in that.

Welcome aboard lad, no pressure, but anything less than a Hat-Trick against Watford will be deemed as failure. :-)

Welcome, Moisey Mk 2.

Wonder if we'll see him on Saturday. Must be worth a punt with the options we have. Calvert-Lewin off the bench.

Man City were after him in 2016, Pep reported to have said something to the effect of, get him - whatever it costs.' Man United were after him too previously.

M & M have really pulled out a miracle. This kid is apparently the real deal, he's feisty, energetic, and has point to prove.

Great news.

From the Old Lady to the Old Lady!

The great thing here is that it confirms our move to being a club that can attract big names, not has-beens or never-wills.

Good one, Neil!

Brent, agreed - huge statement of intent. We’re coming to get yer!!!

Since Brands came on board, look at where he is shopping, the quality and potential of the players, and the prices he is paying.

Barcelona (×3), Man City and now Juventus...and - ehrm - Watford and Huddersfield.

Steve Walsh he ain't!

I told you lot first, he was in the Titanic hotel last night around 9:30 but my boy wasn't in to help me put the pic on the site.

I am an old git from Scottie Road, hope he does the business on the field. COYB.

If you watch his first interview on Everton TV, about 10 seconds or so from the end, Marcel Brands is sitting there with the biggest grin on his face, clearly satisfied with this signing. Brands knows a good player when he sees one!

Brilliant News - who next - five days to go?

Neil - or young one from the young one?

Sky Sports saying that no buy-back clause has been inserted into his contract.

"I am used to winning and I want to bring this winning attitude to the team."

This for me. The rest of the statements/speeches don't matter.

Fabulous. He's going to be loved and made to feel at home. It's crucial that he's given room to breathe and develop.

Superb work by Brands, and he's not finished yet.

The level of players we are targeting is quite something. Brands is an ambitious man. Wonderful.

The last 2 signings have really changed the complexion of the squad.

At least one more in, maybe another 2 loans also.

This is an exciting signing, Kean and Richarlison up front has to be among the most exciting young forward lines in the league, my dream is of Cebolinha joining on the left. And with Brands at the top, why would they move, all their ambitions can be met here.

I enjoyed some of the last-minute conspiracy theories being spouted on here yesterday/today. Like I said yesterday, I’ll wait until Jim White officially announces it.

Bienvenuto, Moise.

Great signing, I have to say.

£92m spent so far and still more to come!

To the "glass half-empty" brigade on here: Oh ye of little faith!!

To the rest of the Premier League: We're coming to get you!!

Glad that we've signed a forward who can hopefully add to our goal tally, if not immediately, than in the future.

If I'm honest I know nothing of this lad and hadn't even heard of him till we showed interest.
What sort of player is he? I've heard mention of a younger Lukaku. Anyone on here seen him play? What's your opinion of him?

As excited by this as I was for Lukaku. If he can bring the same amount of goals = happy days. I can start to see the Brands Dutch approach starting to take shape. Just the 'deadwood' and a centre-back & wide forward now please...

I'm really looking forward now to this season. The two signings this weekend have been a real boost for me after the disappointment of my fuck-up going to Bremen.

Finally! Get in!

Can we now bin any more talk of Bramley-Moore Dock announcements just being an obvious smokescreen for lack of activity elsewhere?

Brent, you missed out Jean-Philippe Gbamin..!

Superb news.

A class signing with loads to offer and more potential besides.

I've been pretty happy so far with our summer and it just got loads better and still five days to go to wrap things up nicely.

BBC now reporting that he's signed, pictures of him in his shirt etc.

Welcome Moise, this lad will be a superstar.

I can't wait to see him in the coveted Number 27 shirt, as worn by so many great strikers in the past.

I wonder if he'll make his debut at Goodison Park in the Watford game?

It is done — what a fabulous signing!!!!

The interesting thing Colin, and looking at Brent's post above, is that we've re-couped almost £70M too.

And, in the process, we've steadily chipped away at permanently or temporarily, ridding ourselves of the dead or never-to-be wood; an exercise desperately needed and not yet over.

So, right now, the net spend, at face value, doesn't appear monstrous. The big difference is that unlike the years of having to sell to buy, we are doing sound business that improves the quality of the squad.

I've said before and will boldly say again; United are all over the place, Chelsea have taken a gamble with their emotionally charged Lampard decision, Tottenham could be psychologically effected by last season & being nearly men for the past 3 seasons (cue Pochettino outburst this wee), whilst Arsenal are well Arsenal (inconsistent & unpredictable). Top 6 is realistic; top 4 dare I say, is achievable. just don't do an Everton!!!

Interesting times ahead (I hope!!).

Sue! Of course! Looks even better. You are now appointed as my Editor-in-Chief (fee undisclosed).

Michael - that raised a huge laugh in the Stephens household.

Mike, I’ve seen him play a few times. The lad has it all and the potential to be another (Portuguese) Ronaldo. He’s got the ball skills, mentality, physique, determination of Ronaldo. He’s also strong-minded and thick-skinned after all the racist stick he’s been getting off the Italian oppo fans.

He’s going to need time to adapt and we need to be patient but, if he fulfils his obvious potential, we could have our first £100M+ player on our hands.

Michael — the Number 27 shirts makes him 3 times a Number 9 in my book.

You missed out on Gbamin, Brent!

Good summer so far - youth and quality in, some old folk moved on and we haven't exactly broken the bank:
c. £85M spent (plus add-ons could be up to £94M)
c. £68M recouped

So as Silva has said I really can't see the spending over by a long chalk yet, be surprised if he doesn't get another 3 in as he's said.

Judging by some of the bids (and the apparent genuine interest in Zaha/Malcom alongside these others), I reckon there's another £50-60M in the kitty before we consider offloading some assets.

Talking of which, as teams get desperate this week there's got to be at least another £40M between some of Bolasie, McCarthy, Tosun, Schneiderlein, Onyekuru, Besic and Niasse), if we could move on 3 or 4 of these to lighten the wage load all the better.

Or think of all the LBs we've signed, Chris.

I love the signings so far, we are looking like a side that is really going for it this season.

Another couple of players, a central defender and a versatile winger of the same ilk as our last signings and I think we will have a serious chance of a top-six place.

Should be interesting at the very least.

I assume he's had a full pre-season training with Juventus? Dare we throw him straight on against Palace next week, or bring him in off the bench?

Thanks, Colin. Hopefully this plays out like that and we've signed our next centre-forward legend!

Liverpool is a city full of perfectly bi-lingual Italians (just go to Bella Italia in town to see) but Everton tv have to go and get a “translator” who could’ve been talking in mandarin as far as I could hear.

My Italian isn’t great but I could’ve done a better job than she did.

In terms of style, he reminds me very much of another 19-year-old we picked up a few years ago and who left with a Championship medal burning a hole in his pocket. Fearless, a penalty-box poacher, and a born winner. I rue the day Brian Clough stepped in and stole him away.

Great signings this week. Both put the signing of Delph into perspective. In isolation, that was a disappointing signing; now, it looks like good business.

All that flappery over nothing. Patience is all that was required.

Yessss! I haven’t been this excited about an incoming striker since Sandro. Hopefully he’s better than that guy.

Rob, Rangers (Gerrard) get more coverage on Sky Sports News then most of the other 14 teams in the Premier League combined! I wonder why?

I think Everton and Leicester are going to be the two teams that break the Sky 6 monopoly this season; 5th and 6th respectively.

The domino effect, you watch the Dybala/Lukaku deal go through now this has happened. We also get £5m from the deal so that's a nice sweetener.

Great news on Kean, personally I think this kid is gonna set the Premier League alight next season. Super happy!!! :-)

It's in the bag! I, like all the rest of us, hope he slots right in and starts producing the goods.

God knows the offense has been stuttering for a long time and sadly Calvert-Lewin, Tosun, Niasse and Walcott have not cut the mustard. Mirallas and Bolasie are two others that are not up to snuff and Sandro was a waste of time.

Sigurdsson behind this lad and Richarlison may just do the trick so let's keep our fingers crossed that it all comes together sooner than later.

Get in. No buy-back clause either. If only we'd been able to get him in sooner... But what the hell, good window and will get even better. I fully believe Zaha will be next with McCarthy and maybe Tosun going in the other direction.

The Echo is reporting reference to Juventus official website confirming transfer value as €27.5M with a potential addition of €2.5M if certain conditions are met. A lot less than the reported potential fee of €36.5M.

Colin, you're probably right. Already the BBC football website have moved the signing of Kean to a smaller story while the Rangers game at Kilmarnock is now their big headline.

Kevin, apologies for my memory lapse but which 19-year-old striker are you referring to? Mind a complete blank and I can’t be arsed Googling it.

Excellent — just get Zaha and Zouma now and it will be an okay transfer window... haha.

No, even now it's been a good window. I'm sad Gueye went, he was a good player, but we've defo been compensated!

John, Zouma and Zaha would be a great signing. Imagine if we get to the top of the league, the chant will be "ZZ Top – of the league."

I'll get me coat!! 😁😁😁

I think Chelsea will be looking at us now and thinking we could rival them for a place. Maybe they will be tactical with Zouma and hold on but not play him.

Rakitic is a good shout.

Kean looks very promising but will require patience. He’s also not great in the air so we will need a different game plan if he is to play centrally. I think there’s a chance Calvert-Lewin might still play centrally with Kean and Richarlison playing off him and expected to get more goals. This would be a little like RS where Firmino often works hard making space for Mane and Salah to cut inside.

Rob,

We've talked before extensively about your perceived sense of humour, let's keep to our strengths now.

Rob, good question regarding Kean's inclusion against Palace, although Silva has been fairly predictable last season, with both team selection and tactics.

I'm not sure whether he will pitch him in from the off, or wait, and depending on what's happening, introduce him from the bench, or, save him till the Watford game.

I would imagine a lot will depend on what happens at Finch Farm in training this coming week, and also whoever else we bring in before the window slams shut.

This looks an absolute steal of a signing. Could be the catalyst we need and I think with Calvert-Lewin playing in the foil alongside him, he will create plenty of opportunities.

For the life of me, I just don't get Juventus letting this lad go at 19 with all ahead of him. Just does not make any sense...

Except for sentimentality, I'd bring in an older experienced Premier League-proven centre-forward, about 29, to also mentor young Kean. We are still short for competent strikers.

Sam, that's not a bad call, I don't know why I hadn't thought of that. Calvert-Lewin can carry on doing what he does best, and Kean and Richarlison can bang in the goals.

As you say, it works for the fuckers across the park. Play Kean inside left - Digne does so much work down the wing, we don't need an out-and-out winger there, keep Richarlison at inside right linking up with Coleman, which he did pretty well last season.

Can I say that I think his goal celebration is 'boss' and hope we see plenty of it.

So much (already proven) potential in this boy at just 19. Hard working, hard running, not shy to mix it when defenders get physical, great touch and control in tight situations, good anticipation in the box and no messing with his finishing.

It's about time his agent Mino Raiola did us a favour.

By the way, he says his name is pronounced 'Mois' (sounds like moist without the 't'). Mind you, that won't stop the EvertonTV commentators calling him 'Moyzie Kean' all season, since they're still calling Lucas Digne 'Loocas Deenyay' instead of 'Looca Dean'.

Since I was a boy, I have always dreamed of having a top Italian striker as our centre-forward and now we have one. This boy is dynamite — just give him time to settle and we will see what a top-quality player we have.

Well done to Brands. What an asset he is to Everton.

Brent, 😬

Chris, does that make it the hat-trick shirt?

Andrew, I agree with him being potentially dynamite, let's hope we have the right service to 'light his fuse'... He could be the best striker on the planet, but needs to be complemented.

Then, when he scores, complimented.

If he's as good as everyone tells me he is, Brands has done a great piece of business with this one.

As in other walks of life, the impatient, gobby people who clearly don't negotiate are very quick to criticise the patient, diligent people who are clearly very good at it.

We could be fun to watch this season!

Now who was the miserable fucker who posted that this wasn't going to happen?

I’m not snitching on anyone Bri, but DAJ did it!

And PH!

Michael,

That's not entirely correct, it's pronounced as per this Link

Haha. Pair of bastards!

And the excitement hasn't reached it's peak yet. 🤐

James @699 you'd better tell Moise that then:

https://twitter.com/Everton/status/1157991825115738112

Come on, Everton, it's been 3 hours 20 since we signed a top player.

I just watched the lad himself saying his name and it IS as earlier posted: 'Moist' without the T and just 'Kean' as it's spelt. That female in the link is pissed.

Who would have thought my source, YouTube, would be wrong?

I feel shattered.

James, I just played that link and my 2 dogs went mental. Don't know if it was the woman's voice or the fact we have just signed him.

Delighted to see the boy finally put on the Royal Blue and did his "woah dance". I hope he does it another 30+ times this season, particularly at Anfield where a hat-trick would make him an instant legend.

Delighted, Brands is some operator – has he any pre season training under his belt?

Brian @ 703, so are you saying the lady (?) translator was moist, saturated, completely sozzled off her Barnet?

Like Colin Glassar mentioned before, what do you expect getting a translator fresh out of Wetherspoons, when you could have got one in the Bella Italia for a penne or two! Load of Bolognese eh!

Phew! :)
Welcome lad to a club that will appreciate and get right behind you, Well done, Brands, on this – no buy-back if I am right. Great stuff! Very forward-thinking.

Now let's Free Zouma and buy Zaha (not being greedy but I only want to see Walcott coming on this season if we are 3 goals up).

COYB

Hell Yes! Brilliant, got to hand it to Mr Brands, it's just a shame that Steve Walsh got paid by us. But onwards we march.

Richarlison on the left, Calvert-Lewin in the middle, Kean on the right.

Bernard on the left, Kean in the middle, Richarlison on the right.

And maybe one more to come. Exciting times

Just to remind everyone why we are happy:

Link

Fran - Kean primarily plays from the left, or centrally. My gut feel is he's going to play central, with Richarlison on the right, Bernie on the left with Sigurdsson behind.

Calvert-Lewin to play there sometimes, rotated with Kean.

Magician Marcel keeps us moving on up?

Thank you God!

Welcome Moise, bang ‘em in son.

Announced on a Sunday? Odd. Don’t care though, just glad we got him.

Brilliant news - also a huge, huge thank you to Marcel and the Mosh for such a varied and excellent group of newcomers

Let's go Blues!

Everton have gone overboard on twitter! Interesting that he is number 27, no reason given as to why, like Gbamin or Gomes. I would have thought he'd get 9. Instead, the cursed number goes to Calvert-Lewin, I guess. Let's hope he changes the luck of that shirt and starts scoring.

A few things of note from the videos. Firstly, he speaks through a translator. Second though, on twitter, he says a few things in English. Not just the "come on you blues", which i'm sure we could all repeat in Italian if it was us in his shoes in a reverse type situation, he is asked about Enlgish Culture and replies "cup of tea"! He also says a few other things. Therefore, my takeaway is a lad who does know English and just needs a bit more confidence and will quickly be conversant. That means no communication issues on the pitch and in training. Which is very important.

Also, he confirms his name. In Evertonian terms, it is MOYES KEANE. I assume that he was polite and let the Italians butcher it and now he's told us the correct way we will say it correct. Lucas Digne let the Spanish say his name wrong as well.

Laurie@3 - from that video he does have a touch of the young Ronaldo about him (dare I say it). Exciting talent. Juve fans seem bemused by the whole affair and not overly happy about the prospect of Lukaku over Kean.

Jamie # 7 - Amen 😉

My name is ...

A lot of money for a 19-year-old.

Interested to know how much other fans know about him.

With Everton rumoured to be going after Dacoure, this transfer leads me to feel that Silva definitely wants to play 4-3-3 more often.

Is this potentially the death knell for Sigurdsson? I’m increasingly concerned whilst his output is good but at what expense? He rarely impacts the games in other ways. Everton are desperate for more rounded players.

This feels like evolution.

This is a significant signing.

On paper at least, this is an insane coup. Would love an older head to join him in attack and we'll put all these drab friendlies to bed.

John #17 Have we ever known a head coach to be flexible/daring enough to change his system though? Has Marco Silva played 4-3-3 in the past?

Not bad really...

If we can get rid of Onyekuru to Monaco for £12-14 million we've only spent about £10 million so far

With more deadwood to get rid of we might finish up in a positive!

Moise will part the Red sea of defenders at Anfield. He can also lead our exodus to Bramley-Moore Dock.

Josh, he deffo has played it. The better sides in the league have moved to this formation, it’s definitely the trending approach. It appears that’s the kind of players that are produced nowadays, far more suited this style of formation and tactical flexibility.

Gomes is not a 90 minute player, Delph has not played regular football for 2/3 seasons, Sigurdsson can only play 4-2-3-1.

Midfield still a problem for me. However it feels like he wants to have the 4-3-3 option or totally change it.

You never know how new signings will fare but if at the end of last season someone had said we’d get Delph, Gomes, Gbarmin and Kean I think most of us would have taken that.

I’m sure we’ll still in the market for a centre back and a loanee right-back. Getting the CB in will complete a good summer’s transfers but, if not, we can always hope Mina steps up.

John # 21 - only if we don’t sign a couple more. Either way I bet you our owner is happy with his best signing so far - Marcel Brands.

He is what our club has needed for years.

John K, I think the net spend is probably less than that, of course Sky have us down as the third largest spenders thus far, but what they fail to mention, surprise, surprise, is what we have already recouped from outgoings.

They even have the eventual cost of Moise Kean, not the initial fee, (eventually rising with add-ons) to make it more dramatic, you'd never have thought that with Sky would you? :-)

Steve, I'm hoping the number on his back is the number of goals he'll score next season. For starters.

I just get the feeling this young man is going to be class for us and we are on the brink of of some very good times ahead.

Josh, Silva is a 4-3-3 man. He only used 4-2-3-1 as a horses for courses measure. Ergo, he's already shown his flexibility. Don't forget he even tried 3 at the back when it's not something he's like to do before.

John, I think Gueye and Sigurdsson could only be played in 4-2-3-1. I like Sigurdsson. He seems a nice guy and he's got a lot to offer, but I think Marco won't be shy to remove him from the line-up and play 4-3-3 when it's the better formation to beat the opposition. Sigurdsson then being a Plan B from the bench with a change of formation.

Gbamin is the key man here and a lot depends on him and how he adapts.

So all I had to do was not check for three hours? Right, now that’s clear I’m going to stop checking at all, we’ll have signed Zouma, Zaha and Mbappe by Thursday.

Paul T, how are you mate?

The shirt number being indicative of the number of goals he will get would be fantastic, and would surely earn him Freedom of Bramley-Moore Dock!

Now there's very few with that accolade. :-)

Steve & John,

Thanks for that. I didn't recall if he played 4-3-3 at Hull or Watford. I could see it at Watford actually with their pacey attackers.

Maybe... just maybe, I am starting to believe again, Ladies and Gentlemen.

Josh,

Estoril: 4-1-3-2
Sporting: 4-3-3
Olympiacos: 4-3-3 league, 4-2-3-1 Champions League
Hull City: 4-1-3-2 / 4-2-3-1
Watford: 4-2-3-1 mostly
Everton: 4-2-3-1 mostly

Excellent signing. Talented player and if you can score goals in Italy you'll score anywhere.

But we need to remember, he's only 19.

He will improve if guided right within a positive atmosphere. But I can't see him being the 30 goal striker in his first season that many are craving.

Mistakes, sloppy play, missed chances and all the usual mistakes young players make will be a part of his game. But, as a general improvement as a striker, he's a more natural finisher than Calvert-Lewin.

Hopefully it may spur him on to improve his finishing too but I expect Kean to also play on the wide roles whilst he develops his game.

Look at this Moise kid... this in HD just a year ago. Enjoy:

Steve, I can only try mate. After the weekend I've had, you need a sense of humour.

Yeah Steve, removing Gana and Sigurdsson I think is the evolution, both have a special skill and work very hard but they are not rounded players, maybe harshly, one dimensional.

Three in the middle the players need to be multi-faceted. There is no hiding place in 4-3-3.

I've not seen us play 4-3-3 once under Silva. I hope we do. He's had the option to drop Sigurdsson deeper and push up the full-backs and not used it.

Whether Siggy is involved in games as much as we want him to be, take out his goals and assists and we will be going backwards. He's our most productive player. We are already carrying players that don't score. We can't look to drop the ones that do.

I'm hoping Silva can show he knows what he's doing and can change things around better than he has. The best thing about Silva is the players seem to like him.

David, we've played 4-3-3 a few times. But as stated above the players don't suit it. Sigurdsson just drifts into a number 10 position.

As for playing him deeper, been tried and failed. He lacks the box to box game. It's more than just running. It doesn't come naturally to him and he drifts back up the pitch instead of holding position.

I really like Sigurdsson. He's a good guy and speaks well about us. He's got a goal in him and like against Leicester, he can turn a game out of nowhere. However, he's never going to run a game or just grab the midfield and boss it. So we're stuck with 4-2-3-1.

Silva will start to play 4-3-3 more. Which means the wingers being a bit further forward and less defensive duties.

The soon to be crowned King of Moisyside.

Welcome.

This may be Brands best signing for us so far. The statement signing Moshiri reportedly wanted. It has made this window, even if Silva doesn't get all he wants, and let's face it he won't.

But there's more surgery required on the current squad. There always is. I've still got concerns over Mina, huge doubt that Delph will do much over a season and we will need another striker as all those tried to date have been woefully ineffective. Who was it used to say we're in transition ? And when we gel, watch out !

Laurie @ 20 (and others). Good link, mostly of last season when playing for Juventus and Italy, most of the later for the junior, rather than senior, national team.

Check out this YT compilation of his season loan to Verona when he was just 18. It shows more of him and his all-round game against Serie A teams. The likes of both Milan clubs, Florentina, Roma and Sampodaria.

Link

Given that he was just 18 in most of that reel, given that he was playing against Serie A defences who would cut their own mothers off at the knee rather than let them go past them, he looks very, very impressive.

How he controls and retains a ball at close quarters under pressure from 2-3 defenders.

How he runs at speed with the ball under his control at his feet.

How he 'stands up' defenders, feigning one way then the other, then going past them either side, leaving them sprawling on the floor.

How combative he is at close quarters and able to come away with the ball.

How aware he is of the possibilities in possession, playing in other players, NOT just playing for himself (as some accuse him of).

How he anticipates where the ball coming into the penalty area will land to give himself a chance of scoring.

How clean and clinical he is with his finishing.

All very...

Link

Phew!!

Just a word of caution that he may take time to settle into a new country, a new language, a new league and a new club. In other words he may not hit the ground running. We may need to be patient while he adjusts to his new environment.

Why are people quoting Sky News or even subscribing, they're poisonous in their backing for their favourites and are rammed with ex red sh*te pundits. Don't give them a penny unless you want the stale monopoly to continue.

I can’t wait to see what this guy can do, plus all the other signings in what has been a productive window that still isn’t closed yet.

I’ve just read the Sunday Times’ assessment of all teams this season and the prediction is that we will finish one place behind West Ham. Given our form at the tail end of last season and the new signings, I fail to see how on earth the journalist arrived at this deluded conclusion. Clearly smoking the wacky!

John Wilson, thanks for the link, looks good in HD, would like to see him in 3D, scoring similar goals starting Saturday at Palace, or maybe Watford at home.

The Red Echo are saying that Juventus have confirmed the initial outlay of €27.5M will be paid over three years, which includes a bonus of €2.5M. So that's basically €9M per year. How does Brands do it?

Kevin #14- who??

I don't want to piss on everyone's chips but he's an unproven 19-year-old... it could go either way for him.

Chuffed we finally signed him though!!

Just Zaha, Zouma and Doucoure next please!

Rob H,

Especially when you consider how Man Utd negotiated £55M for Wan-Bissaka [lolz] and £80M for Maguire — no wonder they were sniffing around Brands at the end of last season!

Daniel, he is indeed unproven but all the signs point to him being a good 'un.

I recall a' profile' interview he gave shortly after his Juve debut in which he spoke about having a very, very unpleasant childhood. History tends to indicate such people possess extraordinary drive, which is the most key component required to succeed at this beautiful game.

Neil #18, best one-line post of the weekend.

John #34, damn straight and damn straight.

Rob #133, hope you've managed at least a small smile, mate.

Paul T #122, I think the number on the shirt is irrelevant, but I love your interpretation.

Steve #107, the name thing is incurable. Digne's been with the club a full year and on yesterday's broadcast Snods was still pronouncing it Deen-ye.

Rob H & Daniel A J

Even more amazing is they've (United) apparently agreed to sign Mandzukic for £15m, he's 33 years old and they're giving him a 3-year deal on £6.2m a year!!

Brands is quickly becoming one of our most important appointments in the last quarter century.

Daniel, he has scored twice for his country, has three caps and has a League winners medal. He's hardly a kid from the youth team. He might not be a veteran, but he's far from "unproven".

Yes, he plays with his head up, Jay @139. Thanks for the link.

I am so relieved.

I was panicking over the last couple of days that something had gone wrong.

As well as kudos to Marcel I think we ought to give some credit to Mosh for allowing us to dream big.

Daniel #149, and Steve #155, he also scored 6 in 6 (in just 300 minutes) for one of the biggest clubs in the world on their run-in to the title.

This one's so big that even ESPN in the US is reporting on it, and they never post Premier League news that isn't Big 6.

Mike, I cannot remember a bigger transfer for Everton. Perhaps Lukaku. But Lukaku on loan was us nipping ahead of West Brom and signing him outright was us taking a player a big club considered not good enough. So I think this one is bigger.

There's more press coverage about it, and far more upset Juve fans than there were upset Chelsea fans. I think we have to go back to Kanchelskis but that was 1995, before the internet allowed mass communication like it does now, and we had just won the FA Cup.

Steve #158, I think the Pickford signing got this level of coverage over here as well. But this is big, no question.

Tony #155, what I like about him also is the way he moves off the ball. He makes very intelligent runs for such a young player.

Great news and on, up and away for the next week – in terms of agents and loans. I can't see Silva rushing him in. He will want him to get used to the system first.

Moshiri's money and Brands's football knowhow seems to be a potent mix at the moment.

I'm now convinced Marcel Brands is 100% the real deal. Cool, calm, professional and oozes charisma.

Mixt that in with Marco Silva a modern young raw coach who wants to play attacking football, then it's exciting times at EFC. I feel there has been a massive shift in the perception of the club and its almost as if players genuinely do actually want to come here now as they see a club on the rise.

It's the hope that kills you but at the moment the future looks bright...…….and its looking Royal Blue.

Never in doubt, he would sign.

He looks a natural, Mike @159.

Let's just hope that Silva knows what to do with the 'Italian Boy Rooney'! Shall we see him from the start or will he have to compete with the likes of Calvert-Lewin, Tosun and Niasse for the coveted centre-forward berth ?

But, not before time, we seem to have someone who knows where the goal is. I have a smidgeon of optimism about this guy!!!

Daniel A Johnson,

"I don't want to piss on everyone's chips but..."

Love it, mate!

Steve
Sorry for the late reply. Sigurdsson is a funny player, loads of talent but he doesn't seem to fit in that well with what's around him.

Honestly l cant remember seeing us play 4-3-3. He certainly would not suit it but l can't see Silva looking to drop that production. Then again we could play a diamond with Gbamin at the base Sigurdsson ahead of Gomes and Dacoure (or Bernard) if that rumour is true. That would allow us to play 2 up front, which l would love to see. I hate seeing Walcott and Bernard wide and tracking back, they don't look naturally suited to the roles they've been given. I actually preferred us with 3 at the back so that they had less tracking to do.

We have options, lm not overly confident in Silva. As l said, the players trust him so that says a lot. I think Brands might need another couple of windows but the way he's going l recon we can make the Champions League in 3 years.

OK, Rob, c'mon now, give us a little smile. Forget the Bremen thing.

Tell ya what, I'm so happy that I'm almost ready to forgive Mr Brands for selling Robinson.

Almost.

Great news.

Someone said you pronounce his name 'Key-ann'. Is this right or have we got two Keanes (phonetically speaking)?

BTW, I can't stop looking at the new stadium clip on the TV. Awesome.

I have to agree that Brands appears to know what he's doing and is not using the scatter-gun approach that our last Director of Football used.
However, I think I will reserve judgement when I see the bloated deadwood shipped out by him, and, if we get some financial return, then even better!

Gordon, see the link at 109 and listen to the man himself.

Essentially it's 'Moise' as in 'Moyes'...
And 'Kean' as in 'Keane'.

Which is contrary to how the commentators and experts said it in Italy.

Mike #154, aw shucks - thanks

What a great week; season ticket arrived, got a ticket for Palace and 2 class new signings. Can’t wait for the game at Palace and hoping Moise and Gbamin get at least some minutes on the pitch.

David, we played 4-3-3 but our players gravitate to more natural positions. So before you know it Sigurdsson is back where the Number 10. Maybe I'm wrong though and that was where they were meant to play, but a few times it started as 4-3-3 and ended up 4-2-3-1. Other times it looked like 4-4-2 but was 4-2-3-1.

That’s the spirit Rob, you just keep on smiling mate!

Great signing. I don't care how his name is pronounced. I will call him 'goal scorer' — week-in & week-out! 😊😊

Calm down lads, we are due some excitement for sure but lets take a deep breath or two. There's one thing puzzling me, why only £27m?

I'm also feeling very optimistic about the coming season and the future beyond, but time will tell if we are indeed truly on a roll to the top table.

Rob, just to add to that Lewis Hamilton won the Hungarian GP and I am just about to ditch Dish network.

After yesterday's concerns, we have a bright new day.

The proficiency with which posters pronounce European and foreign names on here astounds me.
Oh yeah, it is some signing. I hope it works out well for all concerned. -))

Can't wait for Saturday. I'm 71 but feel 8 years old. It's exciting again to be a Blue and that will do for me.

Amid the joy about Kean, I hold to the view that Calvert-Lewin will thrive this season. He's another fine young man and he will no longer be under the spotlight to the same extent. Once he relaxes and recovers confidence, I'm convinced he will deliver. Let's not forget about him.

I know it's a long way back but, Rob #52, I posted on Tuesday that he only returned to Juve that day, having been involved with the Italian Under-21s in the Euros. The Italian season also starts a week later than the Premier League.

Tony #180: your first para just made me so glad to support the same team as you.

Just a youngster at 59 but isn't that what it is all about.

Ups and downs no doubt for a few months but if we don't share your feeling, we have given it all away to the billionaires.

John #33. My cup runneth over.

I've always considered myself a well balanced guy without too much avarice or jealousy in my make up (we all have some I suppose).

However, I feel like a spoilt child after today.

Having successfully brought in Gbamin and Kean this week, I must admit to being frustrated and disappointed when I look at the TW rumour section, that we are not now being linked to another one, (or two, or three) exciting new additions to the squad, before next Friday.

Having lived through the "will he / won't he" saga of the past few days I think I have become an adrenaline junky and I liked it so much, I want another dose.

Please, Mr Brands?

Paul Wilkinson.

35/1 to be golden boot

Dermot @182, I'm sure we all feel the same: the pure thrill of it, at whatever age.

Dermot #182, hear, hear mate - I thought exactly the same when reading Tony’s post at 180. I am also a youngster at 58 and feels great to be blue.

It feels like the start of something really special. The man Brands seems like he is in full control and nothing is going to stop him. What a time to be a blue.

Zaha for £52M and Zouma for £25M by the end of the window with Niasse for £3M, McCarthy for £8M, Bolasie for £5M, Mirallas for £3M, and Besic for £3M out the door!

I'd say this is achievable from Mr Brands!

Rob #184, no worries, buddy. I knew you were grinning even though I couldn't see your post.

Hugh J #185, I think you're showing the first signs of Transfer Addiction, the insatiable craving for more and more signings. We'll know for sure if you experience withdrawal symptoms when the window closes on Thursday.

Do you not think there is a Mr Zaha somewhere in South London watching all these goings on, and thinking "I would I like to be part of that. Or shall I stay at Palace"?

Who do we think is next? Zouma or Zaha or Rakitic (what position does he play?) or Everton or Doucoure?

I see Man Utd were being linked with a move for Neres but Ajax wasn't £75-80 million apparently. Can't see us getting involved at that sort of price.

Funny thing, Zaha's name has never appeared on the TW Rumour Tracker. Obviously Lyndon never believed it.

Neil #194, doesn't matter what position Rakitic plays, you just put him on the pitch and watch the side win. No way it will happen, however -- not conceivable that he would go to a non-CL club. Nice dream, though.

Jay (138), thanks for the link, hard not to get excited by this lads talents, I like the way you used the word ‘anticipates’ in describing him, I noticed that movement about him, he’s only nineteen, imagine him at twenty three and playing for us at Bramley- Moore, please let me see that. Thanks again Jay, also Laurie (99).

Kean is absolutely fantastic and WILL fire us to trophies and glory.

Thanks Kevin #186 I could remember the player (didn’t he score the winner in a derby match?) but couldn’t for the life of me remember his name.

Mike #195, thanks for the clarification.

I was just on the fantasy football looking at the Everton players, see if the new lads are there (not yet). But Nasse is not there.

I haven't read any of the above comments...

But why are we assuming this guy is the messiah? I hope he is but I don't know enough about him to say so. What I do know is DCL is the real deal – and he will put a shift in; goals or no goals, his kit will need washing.

He’s not the messiah, Eric, he’s a very naughty boy, especially when he was robbing balls off the priest, mate!

Eric! "What I do know is DCL is the real deal."

Have you been on the ale all day? Have you not heard Barca and Man City are fighting to sign DCL. We will be lucky to keep hold of our wonder kid.

Not.

Rob, something about getting to Schiphol airport and then giving in and not making to Bremen. Total lack of commitment.

Should be like the rest of us and not even try.

Worrying whether this is an omen. Wife is away so doing a wash and the washing machine door has started leaking. Hope our defence doesn't...

Does anybody know if Reinier Jesus has signed for us or it's still just a rumour?

Richard @ 201 funny that. When Silva was interviewed over the weekend and was asked about strikers he only mentioned DCL and Tosun.

Dave # 197 - it’s great isn’t it. I like the way he makes defenders fall over without touching them - I haven’t seen anybody do that for years.

Daniel A Johnson @144

Almost word for word what I was thinking. He's not Maradona and will need a network of skill and patience around him if he is to succeed.

Those 3 players you named... word for word.

I want Zaha. Period!

He's cunning, quick, skillfull, creative, unpredictable, entertaining and can terrorise any defender in the country. Even Man City have to mark him two up. If you think Moise Kean is dangerous then Zaha is a severe threat level!

Could you imagine the partnership?

If no Zouma then a loan move for Tomori. In defence or defensive midfield, Tomori has the capabilities to be a beast of a player.

Hope we don't sign error ridden Rojo or that piece of crap Phil Jones. Man Utd want to get rid for a reason... are we still that gullible?

4 days to see if we truly have ambition. I hope the best is yet to come!

I would like to see Elllis Simms paired up in training with Kean. A sought of under study if you will.

Whether it be weights, gym work, diet, fitness etc they need to be paired up. I would even make them room mates as they are of similar ages.

Simms is a clinical finisher who is hungry however he needs to mentally and physically mature in certain areas.

If he familiarises and identifies key missing elements which he see's in his gym buddy, then in a couple of years we might just have another young player in the making.

Jason (211) - I think the days of us taking MU and other teams "end of useful life" cast offs, is well and truly over.

Nowadays, if the player doesn't fit the M&M profile and template, there is no place for them here.

Hugh, I hope you're right.

Doesn't stop me reacting to those silly rumours though.

Message to self... turn off Newsnow!.

Steve 171
Thanks.

Hugh and Jason. If you want a good laugh, that rag the S-N are saying that if Silva can't get Zouma back, then he will make a bid to sign Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Marcus Rojo from Man Utd.

Unbelievable. I'd rather not sign anyone than any, or all, of those three.

Rob

I read that rumour as well. Completely deflated my chest.

If we sign 2 or 3 more and Delph (on paper) is considered the weakest of the lot then that is a bloody good window.

Rob, those three names alone can go a long way towards explaining why Man Utd was insane enough to splash £80M on Harry The Horse.

Dave @ 197. Just to pad out details of his loan period at Verona aged just 18, he scored 4 in 19 games not even playing the full 90 minutes in most games.

Add to that that from early March he never played again to the end of that season due to an abdominal muscle tear, missing 12 games, AND that he was playing for a team that was relegated with a minus 48 goal difference, finishing 19th in a 20 team league.

It makes at his performances aged just 18 look all the better IMO.

At last a proper striker! I wish the kid a healthy season. I am really excited about his potential and I hope he hits the ground running. I really like how the team is forming, a lot of deadwood still needs to go but we have proper transfer policy. Let's see what else is coming the next days

We certainly need cover for Seamus and central defence.
Holgate and Pennington don't give me confidence but as football has changed due to different formations being used by many clubs depending on who the opponents are, you can do well with only 3 at the back and five across the middle in some form or other.
Getting new blood is great but a lot depends now on Silva and the strategies he adopts to get his starting eleven working as a tightly knit unit.

Make no mistake, this signing will make the footballing world sit up and take notice of Everton Football Club.

Massive statement signing.

Genuinely shocked we pulled this one off to be honest.

Brands making moves in the transfer market like he's playing Football Manager. I'm loving it!

If this goes well and he starts banging them in and making the headlines, then it will start making us seem a very attractive option for more of the great young talent out there who are facing a few more years on the bench at some of Europe's top teams.

Big season ahead.

So pleased we’ve got a striker!!!

Wow! Well done all!

Great weekend of news! Not wanting to appear greedy but keep 'em coming and others, who need to go, going!

So I think I want to see this:

Kean DCL Rich
Bernard just behind them unlocking it all.

It's a tough one for Siggy, and I can already hear Mike Gaynes reminding us for the upteenth time that Bernard doesn't play centrally, but Bernard is gold with a ball, and I think he'll feed that front three like an all you can eat buffet!

Either way, this kid looks gold. Powerful, aggressive, a left tricep made of titanium as he bats defenders away protecting the ball. He looks like a Lukaku with speed, but more importantly magic feet and a drive I'd argue Lukaku lacked at points.

And he clearly doesn't mind contact. I thought, "hockey player on feet" after watching Laurie Hartley's clip on YT.

Youtube can tell any story, but Jesus this kid has me pumped.

Can anyone remember the last time we signed a teenager for the first team?!

John Stones, Dan? Was he 19 or 20?

I know he didn't just walk into the first team, but that's as close as I can get. He was a talent, and I think many were pumped about the kid early days. I was.

Another, random, thought.

The boy is not allowed to cut his hair!

The last dred-lock dude we had cut it off, and just like Samson, lost all his power.

I want to see those locks bouncing for years to come.

I can’t see siggy being dropped to be honest, but he may come off early in a fair few games now we have alternatives

Brands seems to be building a squad as opposed to a strong starting 11 where we have quality competition for places and alternative options for different assignments

Gana was great at what he did, and I suspect he has been signed at PSG to do the leg work to allow their attacking players to to have less defensive duties. They don’t need a holding midfielder in the french league. He was great for us, but Gomes had to drop deep too much.

For too long we have lacked creativity and guile in central midfield, now we are solid. We have two promising forwards, both young, and different players. But both are physically in good shape and capable of improving

The big thing, there are now options to change the set up, be it tactical or forced through injury or drop in form. I agree with those who say we don’t need cover for Coleman but a challenger for his place as the best teams have a quality 22 not 11. Every player should be fighting week in, week out for their place, that’s what will drive on performance

Finally, Brands. This guy is the real deal. Utd must be kicking themselves that they didn’t get in there!! If we finish 8 th again with this squad we are still quids in! He is managing the outlay and getting players in that, if they reach their potential, will either propel the club up the table or bring in significant profits in transfer fees that will help the club moving forwards even if the success in terms of league placement doesn’t improve

Very excited to see where this season goes

Jason @ 211, Zaha liked Kean’s ‘proudro be joining Everton tweet so you never know.

Oh, separate note, the dumb as shit fans in Italy who racially abuse players has put in to the spot light the progress British football has made.

Not to say in anyway it’s where it should be, but look at how Chelsea have acted on catching fans who act inappropriately in this regard. Banned. A small group of idiots compared to what our new signing faced.

I suspect he wanted out because of that treatment, and the PL is ahead of Italy and Spain in that respect

Great signing, well chuffed.

I’m hoping that Brands will turn us into the premier leagues version of Ajax.

Still want:
Dumfries from PSV
Zouma from Chelski
Neres from Ajax

Get shut of Morgs, Theo, Kev, Niasse, Bolasie

(4-3-3) Picks
Dumfries-MiK-Kurt-LD
Sigs-Gbamin-Gomes
Rich-MoK-Neres

Bench: Mina, DCL, Bernie, Lossl, Macca, Baines, Coleman

Well who says I can't dream, at least?

Jim #232, you may very well be right, and certainly Kean's despicable treatment from his own captain and manager after the Cagliari incident must have soured him on Italy even more.

Tamhas #234, of course you can, but if you really think Dumfries could displace Coleman, your dream generator has blown a fuse. No chance.

Jamie@226, i am with you there, i too feel Bernard could do a good job in behind that forward line. It would be worth having a look anyway because Siggi is, nt creative enough for me

Rob #217 "If you want a good laugh, that rag the S-N are saying that if Silva can't get Zouma back, then he will make a bid to sign Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Marcus Rojo from Man Utd".

Looks as if we're no longer a dumping ground, or a feeder club, for other clubs.

Always amazes me how much criticism Sigurdsson gets. I think he’s a brilliant player. He works his arse off and scores bags of goals. He also holds the ball up really well and rarely loses it. I don’t know if there’s much more you can ask of an attacking centre mid. Hopefully this year Gomes, Gbamin and Delph can help create some chances from the middle. As much as I love Gueye, that was a weak point for him.

Same here. I think Siggy is excellent and will rack up considerably higher assist totals with Kean and a rapidly maturing Richarlison putting his passes away.

He's also exemplary with his relentless effort at both ends of the pitch. With Gana gone he's the first name on every team sheet for me, and the clear choice for captain if Seamus isn't on the pitch.

And Annika, despite having the best first touch on the club, Bernard isn't half the passer Siggy is. He's certainly quicker, but he just doesn't have the accuracy or the vision Siggy does.

I'm with Mike Siggy under appreciated for his guile workrate and set pieces. The better players and pace we have the more he will unlock the opposition. Support him to the hilt!

Actually, Terry, my one sharp criticism of Siggy is his set pieces. At Swansea he was perhaps the best in the Prem. Last season for us he was really poor except for his corners. Digne largely displaced him on attacking free kicks. I'm looking for a big return to form from Gylfi on his free kick delivery this season. Especially with Mina now roaming the area.

Delighted on Kean. Looking forward to seeing him in action

For what it’s worth I also believe Siggy contributes a great deal. There’s a video doing the rounds on Twitter of all the chances he created last year that were missed by team mates often Walcott!

He works hard for the team and is a goal threat!

If Zaha’s stats make him an 80m player ( I don’t believe he is !) then Siggy’s certainly compare with those!

Maybe the nr 27 has something to do with the fee or more likely the expected amount of goals in his first season... :) I don't care as long as he is given time to develop and make mistakes. Let's not overdo it with expectations on the kid.

Welcome Moise. Now can someone tell us the correct pronunciation of his name?

Jason (215) - Rob (217) - Mike (219) - Even with his perceived frailties, Holgate would be a much better back up than any of the three mentioned.

If we don't get Zouma back I would get Gary Cahill in on a free for 12 months. I'll get my tin hat on.

Some hopefully fantastic signings have been made this close season and ideally we’d want most of them to be straight into the first team. It’s also a massive risk to do that as it’s oils be almost half the team!

Kean and Gbamin have got to be starters but would wait to introduce too many more. Delph could be seen as interchangeable, I guess?

Kean is a cracking sign of intent and expect our goal difference to go up!

Brian # 245. Never mind how you pronounce his name, how on earth do you pronounce Gbamin? Is it a silent G?

The moment Moise Kean steps on the pitch in a Premier League match he will create history.

He will be the first player born in this millennium to play for Everton's first team.

The moment Moise Kean steps on the pitch in a Premier League match he will create history.

He will be the first player born in this millennium to play for Everton's first team.

The moment Moise Kean steps on the pitch in a Premier League match he will create history.

He will be the first player born in this millennium to play for Everton's first team.

He is very talented but only 19. 10-15 goals this season would be excellent, let's not heap all the responsibility of scoring a goal for this currently goal shy team on his shoulders - though I think we will see another striker coming in this week (likely Zaha where it has all gone quiet, suggesting to me a deal has been made, we just need a sale or two).

Gbamin has a silent b apparently. Garmin.

Rob 249

I’m expecting the ‘G’ in Gbamin is very much audible.

A song to the tune of Bob Marley’s ‘We’re Jammin’ is surely not far away.

Kevin #55. I do like to pride myself on knowledge of Everton but I can’t remember Clough stealing a player from us. Who was it?

So Everton now have the young poster boy for Italy up front, the young poster boy for Brazil on the wing, the young poster boy of Colombia at the back. We must be looking very attractive to the next young hope. Thanks Marcel.

John (255), that’s got me scratching my head as well, only young player I can think of who went to Forest is Frank Wignall, but he was in his twenties and Clough was still scoring goals for Middlesborough and Sunderland then!!!

Maybe John McFarlane can come up with the answer.

He wouldn't be thinking of Gary Birtles, was it, who Clough signed from Vauxalls in the West Cheshire League, would he?

Cracking signing. Genuinely excited about it.

Deffo need another winger in. Zaha I cant see happening anymore. I wouldn't be surprised if Welbeck comes in on deadline day. If he could stay fit he'd be a great free signing.

Scratching my head on Clough signing. Did you mean to say Venables (Lineker)

Ignore my Clough comment... early start!!!

There was also Peter Withe who came from Speke but never played for us although there was the story about him scoring a hat-trick and asking Cloughie if he could take the ball home and Clough replied, "Not until you learn how to play with it".

I expect the same starting XI from Werder to play Palace but I’m fascinated to see the lineup in a few weeks time.

Will Kean play centrally or will his lack of aerial prowess mean that he takes the LW spot where his dribbling comes more into play?

Could Sigurdsson play the attacking box to box role or does that make us too slow in the middle? And if Zaha or another RW or LW does come in then who drops out? Presumably Bernard?

Good to have options but hope we don’t spend too long tinkering for the right system/lineup.

I think the much maligned DCL was a crucial part of our excellent end of season run. I think Silva might want to keep his aerial presence, work rate and link up in order to facilitate Kean and Richarlison getting goals, something like Firmino does for Salah and Mane.

Might this be our team (not including future incomings):

Pickford
Coleman Keane Mina Digne
Gomes Gbamin Sigurdsson
Richarlison Calvert-Lewin Kean

Alan #261
Peter With played for Southport along with a lot of ex Everton players old and young. I think the old South Liverpool club was a supply line too, even that redneck John Bishop played for the 'Port.

Alan J, I’m not sure Birtles played for Vauxhall mate? I reckon he played for a team called Long Eaton, which is probably a similar distance to Nottingham, that Vauxhall Motors, is to Liverpool.

Dave @257. Paul Wilkinson, maybe ?

Let's see his conditioning when he realizes how fast the league is and how Silva wants everyone to press when defending.

I'd imagine that will be Marco's first consideration.

We need a centre half folks, we cannot get by on Keane and Mina for the season ahead, after that we need back up at right back. Still a lot to do with just a couple of days to go.

Tony Abrahams # 264,

You're right, Tony. He signed for Forest from Long Eaton for £2,000. Long Eaton is only 7 or 8 miles from Nottingham centre, just over the border in Derbyshire.

Birtles, a carpet fitter before signing for Forest, went on to play for Man Utd but transferred back to Forest, then went to Notts County and Grimsby. No connection with this part of the world.

Tony, you’re right about Birtles. He did play for long Eaton as a youth. It’s on the edge of Nottingham.

I honestly can't decide whether we should get another centre back or not.

We always moan at young players not getting a chance, and in Gibson, we have a young, left footed central defender who looks absolute quality.

If we're sign a centre back, he'll be pushed even further back and probably another year of u23 or some pointless loan.

If he isn't our third choice, then he has a real chance of getting 20 games this season and could well be first choice come the end of the season.

But maybe is too much to ask?

There was talk of loaning Chelsea's young centre back, which is beggers belief (why develop their youngsters and leave ours?).

Maybe if we could get a loan of an old head, just to be sure

But Gibson looks a talent and worthy of 3rd choice.

Holgate not a bad 4th choice.

And Mina, well I still rate highly. But we only need someone if he doesn't reach fitness.

Think were in a position now where we shouldnt be blooding unproven youngsters in our first team.

They should be sent away on loan first to gain experience and make mistakes for other teams. If they the cut the mustard we should recall them.

For me the likes of DCl and Davies need to raise their game or they are going to be left behind. If DCL doesnt improve his goals to games ratio then he should be shipped out. When we didn't have a pot to piss in we had to wait around to see if players could come good now we don't. In the cut throat chase for the top 4 or 6 you need your first team 11 to be the best it can be that means if DCL doesn't start scoring then hes out I'm afraid.

Tony/Simon

Sure your not confusing Birtles with Davenport? Think he played for either Cammel Laird or Vauxhalls in the West Cheshire league some years ago.

(I'm too lazy to google sorry)

100% need a new center back now that should be a priority.

Although the jury is out on Mina I wouldn't trust the guy getting out of a bath without injuring himself.

The criteria for a top team used to be a top keeper, centre half and centre forward.
Nowadays of course positions are renamed but I still believe in those areas being the most important and hopefully Everton have done a lot to get that permutation.
Pickford is a top keeper, Keane is a top centre back and in Richarlison/Kean they may have a strike force that will get things done.

I think the forest player he is talking about is Dean Saunders, he spoke to us before Clough nipped in and persuaded him to sign for forest instead around 96, could be wrong though.

Steve (273), yes Davenport played for Cammel Laird and went to Forest from there.

I was in the players lounge at Forest, the year we won the league in 1985, talking to Alan Hill who was on the coaching staff at Forest, he said to me I’ve just seen Cloughie giving your manager, Howard Kendall, a playful smack on the face and telling him off for trying to poach Peter Davenport from Forest.

If the links to Doucoure are real, maybe Gbamin is seen as genuine centre-back cover - even if only until the January window, when a fresh approach for Zouma or another starting centre-back might be the order of the day. All wild speculation, but then that does seem to be the order of the day. I know others have been impressed by Lewis Gibson, and he may turn out to be the real deal, but right now I think he's prone to committing early and could be run ragged by top Premier League strikers. I think he's still two seasons - and probably two loan spells - away from being ready to step in to the first team.

As for Kean, he's got a lot of people expecting immediate returns. I'll go out on a limb here and say that come the end of the season it will be Calvert-Lewin that will have done more to further his reputation than Kean. I obviously hope Kean hacks up and scores 20+ this season, but I'd be happy to see him contributing to a successful season even if he's just a bit-part player to begin with.

It would appear from what we have seen and what is rumoured in this transfer window that Brands is buying specific players in the under 25 category that will all be first team regulars. If they are as good as they appear to be they are a major upgrade on the players that are coming through our development teams. If we are ever going to get back to being the best team in the league then this is exactly what we should be doing. We all love to see a local kid make it into the first team but if we are to compete at the highest level they all need to up their games. Would we get £25-£35 million for Dowell, JJK, Davies, Banningame, Holgate or even DCL . we all know what the answer is. So whilst these are all talented young players they are still miles behind the best young players who we now seem to be recruiting. The premier league is a tough place to succeed and "waiting" for these young players to develop is not going to get us to the next level.
Brands is now recruiting big proven talents from around the world, our stock is rising but our "kids" are more likely to be South American, Italian or African in the future.
However I don't think he will start against CP with either Gbamin or Kean in the starting eleven as they have had virtually no pre-season and do not know their teammates or Silva's tactics sufficiently. If Delph is injured I wouldn't be surprised if Schniderlin starts and I expect DCL to be leading the line.

What's with all the theories on him choosing 27? Surely it's just 2+7=9.

Derek (266), yes that is more than likely, Paul Wilkinson, left Everton, with a championship medal, for Forest but didn’t stay there very long.

The only thing wrong with the original claim was that the lad was nineteen, Wilkinson was around twenty one, so you’d be splitting hairs with the claim.

Russell (279) - "Would we get £25-£35 million for Dowell, JJK, Davies, Banningame, Holgate or even DCL. "

I think if transfers were made now we'd get around:

Dowell - £8-10 million
JJK - £6-8 million
Tom Davies - £12-15 million
Baningime - £1-2 million
Holgate - £10-12 million
DCL - £20+ million

I think saying that these players are miles behind some of our new recruits is a bit harsh. Having said that, I expect that at least 3 of them will have left Everton for good within the next 24 months.

Not Dean Saunders then if he was only 19, although Clough did sign him as well, after he spoke to Kendall, Clough nipped in and signed Saunders.

So we got mugged off twice with Clough, and Saunders also turning us down twice.

Probs is Paul Wilkinson then.

Phil @238 and Mike @239, sorry but I disagree with both of you. He is not and never will be a brilliant player. Good, but never brilliant. Lots of players work their socks off, Mike, but that doesn't create chances, does it? Otherwise, Gueye would have been our most creative player!!

I am clearly missing this wonderful passing you allude to. . . and "Siggi for Captain" is laughable! We need a vocal Captain, not someone you hardly know is on the pitch. He wouldn't be on my team sheet at all, never mind a first name. But, as he usually does, no matter how poorly he performs, no matter how little he creates, he gets a free pass from some people.

James Marshall. 9 was vacant. It seems DCL is intent on wearing it, and has been in Pre-Season. We have withheld our squad list as of yet, so nothing is decided. If Moise Kean wanted 9, then he could have 9. He clearly wants 27, so people can ask why, particularly as he had 18 at Juve.

Annika, I think all of you have points. Sigurdsson can play exquisite passes and has good vision. He just doesn't do enough of it. He can turn a game out of nowhere, with a great pass or goal from distance. But he lacks the ability to just take control of the ball and start dictating the play. He simply is not a playmaker. So, by getting Gbamin in to play the holding role, Gomes can get further forward and he can dictate the play. This is in his game, and it's what he does. Which means we Gomes can make Sigurdsson more effective by getting closer to him, and in turn Kean can make Sigurdsson more effective by getting into better positions and sticking the ball away from angles that DCL could not.

Annika, if it's a vocal captain your after then Delph is your man !!!
What's up.

Annika #285, Siggy is plenty vocal. Watch him, he's talking and directing all the time.

Regarding his creativity, we already know he led the club with 6 assists. With a similar number of overall passes, Bernard produced 3.

According to official EPL stats Siggy created 11 big chances for other players, second on the club to Digne (who led the Prem in crosses). Bernard had 4.

Siggy played 19 through balls last season. Again with a similar number of passes, Bernard was second on the club with 7.

Siggy isn't creative enough for you, but the fact is he is currently the most creative player on the club, doing much more with his passes than Bernard does. The numbers prove it.

There is simply no indication that Bernard, even if he wants to play centrally (which I doubt), would do as well as Siggy there.

Steve #287, I've never seen Gomes "dictate the play" in three years of watching him. I do hope it's in his game, because I agree that moving him closer to Siggy would make both more effective. But I've observed no evidence of it. His short passing just isn't incisive at all. One assist last season. One big chance created. One through ball played. For the whole season.

Andre is a pass-sprayer. Moves the ball around beautifully, especially in the air. But he dictates nothing.

Mike, he might be creative in that he is extremely effective with what he does create, the criticism is that he does not do more. When we're struggling to make the break through he does not demand the ball more and try to make something happen.

Sigurdsson is great Mike, he just does not dominate the midfield and run the game. He's got exquisite passing, vision, a great shot, but sometimes it seems games just pass him by. Of course, he's our most dangerous player and often they will mark him too heavily, but he doesn't drop back and try to find the space. Sure, we don't want him too deep, where he is less effective, but sometimes you just need to get on the ball deep and try to get some momentum, just get something, anything going.

Kieran - a water carrier? Is that a wind up? Deschamps couldn't kick the ball 5 yards, let alone put it on someone's foot from 40 yards. Is it any wonder that Gomes best passes where the diagonal balls to Digne, a player with the ability to control the pass without breaking stride, whereas the less technical players couldn't enjoy such passes as they wouldn't come off. With some confidence on both sides, and experience from playing more with him in training, expect Gomes to be doing more of that. Water Carrier my arse. He's one of the best passers in all of the League.

Gomes is a water carrier. He does neat and tidy things. He is like Deschamps he isn’t a playmaker. The tabloids lazily apply that term to anyone Latin or Iberian player who plays in midfield

Mike @289, so let's put Bernard in the middle and then check all the stats with Sigurdsson out wide. Remember how well he did there when he played for Spurs?

Your figures are completely meaningless given that Bernard plays a different position to Sigurdsson. As we have never seen Bernard play in the middle, what is the basis of your argument that he wouldn't be effective there?

You now think that Sigurdsson will look good because he may have more movement up front with Kean. As far as I am concerned, you are either creative, or not. Sigurdsson isn't. Tell me, how many teams were we fighting with to get Sigurdsson signed?!!!!

Mike, as you said yourself: "Andre is a pass-sprayer. Moves the ball around beautifully, especially in the air". This is it. Only he can do more of it, and he will do more of it.

The problem Gomes had last season was he was far too deep. He was getting the ball off the defence and was staying that deep. We need him further up the pitch where when we are camped on the edge of the box he can be the one dropping off and demanding the ball. When he was on a purple patch last season, he was doing this. Maybe you didn't see it as much on TV, but he would be on each flank as the man available for the backwards pass, and always trying to move into such a position.

His influence will grow this season. You will see more of the Benfica and Valencia Gomes. The Benfica Gomes in particular played a lot further forwards. Silva says he's an 8, but he played as a 6. He needs to play as an 8. Get him up the pitch so he can dominate the midfield.

Steve #291, agree 100%, he's not a dominant playmaker. He's just the best we have.

Kean probably wants 27 as he plans to get 27 goals. Watching his highlight reel he reminds me of Lineker with some of his deadly six yard finishing. I expect he will score 25 this year and 49 the next. After the next World Cup he will be the first 500 million pound player. I don’t want to weight him down with expectations but it is what it is.

There's a lot of optimism and I'm looking forward to the start of the new season. I really hope that this isn't going to be like Koeman's second season where we splashed the cash and were a laughing stock. There'll be a fair few new faces which will need to acclimatise to our expectations and Silva will need to work out his best XI. On paper, the squad looks good but we need to start winning more games away from home, particularly and I would love to finally see us beat the RS. My lad is now 8 and it's never happened in his lifetime.

If we can make Goodison a fortress and improve away from home then we could have a decent season. Even with Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United in transition, it's gonna be tough to get anything higher than 7th though. Would love to see us get favourable home draws and go on a cup run though. This needs to be a priority for Silva.

Irean, Well that's good news, there were quite a few occasions last season when a ball was played across the goal. Nobody there to tap it in.

Why did my posts end up back to front? The later one is now before the earlier one??

Just saw the lad himself on twitter explaining how to pronounce his name - not dissimilar to the late, great Moss Keane - one of the finest Rugby players ever to come out of Ireland

Steve #294, I did see Gomes' movement around the area towards the end of last season, and I was impressed. Would love to see more of it this season. The problem is, he almost never did anything incisive with the ball when he did receive it. Often as not he would accept a backwards pass and play it farther backwards. He doesn't see the cutting pass, doesn't try to play it. As I said, I hope you're right that he has it in his game and will show it when he moves farther forward. I just strongly doubt it.

Annika #293, Bernard had just as much of the ball as Siggy last season, just as far forward, and with a lot more space and time. He just did less with it. Moving him 25 yards to his right would make no difference. And of all the comments you've made about Siggy, I cannot think of anything less relevant to his abilities as a player than whether other teams wanted to sign him. (We didn't have to outbid anybody for Gana or Digne or Richarlison either.) So I'll just leave it there with you.

James #298, I noticed that too. And I'm hoping that with Kean on the pitch, a lot fewer of those will roll through untouched.

Mike, that's a confidence thing. He came here shot to pieces. He grew and grew, but he was still not at his best. Then he had a bad spell and he shrank before your eyes. He still has a lot of work to do to reach his best. He needs a lot of love and patience. I think our fans have shown him they will give it, and I bet that's why he only wanted to stay here.

Annika, you are clearly set in your opinion on the (as you see it) ineffectiveness of Siggy, the permanently injured Delph and the midfield maestro Bernard will transform into, if only played centrally. There is, then, no point in trying to convince you otherwise.

Personally, I consider Siggy's goal and assist returns AND the incisive passing of last season that - due to OTHER players' failings - were not converted into goals makes a mockery of your claims. The Ice Man will be first pick ahead of Bernard and Gomes all season long.

I'm in the camp that pre-season results and performances are not necessarily definitive of how the season will pan out. I'm also aware that players who perform badly pre-season is not necessarily an indicator of how they will play once the serious stuff kicks off.

That said, I consider that both Gomes and Bernard have been particularly poor pre-season. I side with the likes of Mike Gaynes and Sam Hoare who remain to be convinced by Gomes and don't see him as our playmaker, midfield general or whatever moniker you wish to hang on him (as per a recent thread discussion). Nor do I consider Sigurdson merits the title. We really don't have such a player in our squad, IMO.

I like Bernard. His partnership with Digne down the left is on a par with Baines and Pienaar at their height. But with the players we've already recruited, with hopefully more to follow before the transfer window shuts, I believe Bernard's place as a starter is the one most under threat going into the new season.

I primarily base that opinion on how in the impressive close to last season, with Richarlison on the right, DCL down the centre and Sigurdson just behind him, there was some scintillating football and interchanges of position and passing between them that bamboozled the opposition.

I am sure Silva will want to replicate that straight from the off going into the new season.

Anyone see Bernards miss on twitter that was trending in the last friendly

Bernard couldn't hit a cows arse with a Banjo and neither could DCL for that matter

Steve (286) - if he was 18 at Juve, is this the third club that he has been CF at? - If so it's add 9 to 18. Just another theory.

The only thing I wouldn’t agree to disagree about, is that Gomes, is a water carrier.

Jay, do you remember the Silva season at Sporting? When we had the central trio of Carvalho, Joao Mario and Adrien Silva. Joao Mario was the one you wanted on the ball, the one with the tricks and technique. Adrien Silva was the one who ran the most. William Carvalho was the one who broke up the play. They didn't really utilise a playmaker either. Counter attacking sides tend to play without one. I don't think Silva is that fussed, and I don't think he will be saying get the ball to Gomes, he needs to dictate the play. I think he will be telling them, as always, get it forwards quickly. And so he just wants players who can do just that.

When the opposition sit deep though, and ask us to break through them, like Burnley can do so well, it's important that we have a midfielder who can demand the ball and try to make something happen. This is where Gomes and Sigurdsson need to step up and show their talents.

Jay Wood 100% agree.

How anyone can slag off our best performing midfielder (goals & assists) last year is beyond me. H'e's also our hardest working player by a country mile. the only problem with Siggy is that no one else really pitched in apart from Richarlison. World class goals against Leicester and Man Utd also stick I the mind. Siggy's problem is that he can't be expected to do it every week he's not a one-man army.

Bernard for all his trickery has zero end product. As soon as he gets near the box he turns into a scooby doo parody. Either falling over his own legs or screwing it wide. But hey Bernard looks good on the ball so everything is alright then.

Sidibe from Monaco our new RB?

Steve @ 307. Agreed. That's why I didn't engage in the thread of a couple of weeks ago about the labels people were attempting to hang on players. I thought it was largely an academic debate on semantics, rather than one of football tactics.

A 'playmaker', 'midfield general' or whatever other moniker you wish to apply is for me your 'go to' man on the pitch who others look to for leadership when things get sticky or the side needs lifting, some inspiration. He is the metronome, if you like, that beats out the ryhthm the team marches to.

I honestly don't think we have such a player in our squad. Or rather, not so much the player (we have some very talented players), as the personality which is perhaps the more telling characteristic rather than pure footballing ability.

Nor should such an influential player be limited to just one of XI or only found in midfield. The more talented personalities a team has, the better chance it has of winning as you are not over reliant on a single 'playmaker'. You just have to look over the park last season to see how transforming that proved for t'other lot.

Jay @303, never once have a stated that Bernard would become our midfield maestro. I merely suggested it would be worth taking a look at him there. But you are right about Sigurdsson, I remain unconvinced by him and was in the "don't buy him" group before he arrived. But, as you and Mike are clearly top authorities on all things Everton, you think I should accept your take on things.

Mike @301, I repeat, you cannot compare the stats of 2 players who played in completely different positions. You can quote all the stats you want, but they played different positions.

Daniel @308, I can make those statements because that is my opinion. You have yours, which I feel is wrong, but we are all entitled to our own opinion. But Sigurdsson can't be criticised so that's okay then? Creativity isn't a strong point with our so-called creative midfielder, but that's okay!!

Annika, don't be silly.

If you want to get sniffy about attributing to you things you haven't said (verbatim) then don't, in the same post, make emotive and false claims that Mike (presumably Gaynes) and I are promoting ourselves as the "top authorities on all things Everton" or insisting that you should passively "accept [our] take on things."

Neither Mike nor I have done any such thing.

We are simply offering an alternative opinion to your own and in a civil way.

It is allowed, you know.

I think what Annika is getting at is that, in the flow of the game, Sigurdsson isn't as involved as you'd expect a Number 10 to be. If anything, I'll give him credit for his efficiency. His shots-to-goals ratio is good, his incisive pass-to-assist ratio is good. But his time on the ball is limited.

If the ends justify the means, you can argue he is in the mold of the old Italian teams. 89 minutes of defending, one attack, one goal, 1-0 win. But if you're looking at him being someone who constantly demands the ball and is continually creating, then he is not your man.

Silva said on the 28th July we need 5 players before the start of the season.
We have lost through transfers, Lookman and Gueye and from on loan Zouma.

We have signed Ghamin, (replacing Gueye), Delph who is a backup who can play in various positions Gomez who we had on loan last season, and a back up keeper.The only player we have signed to improve a position we struggled at is Kean, who we all hope, me included, becomes the prolific central striker we have needed for the last 2 seasons

My concern is that we have not improved the overall structure of the team apart from Kean and I am keeping my fingers crossed that we can bring in another winger, backup right back and central defender.
.

Jay@312, the way I read both yours and Mike's comments did not appear very civil to me. I accept an alternative opinion, as I expect mine to be accepted. But throwing ridiculous stats around to try and prove a point doesn't make me feel my opinion is taken as just that, my opinion.

William, you're right that we still need 3 players. Maybe we could get away with 2 and forgo the RB, keeping Holgate as backup for the season. But CB is a must, and if we are to crack the top 6 this season, so is another winger.

If we secure a Zouma and someone like Malcom, then we will have significantly improved the squad. I think we will replace Zouma (hopefully with Zouma), but a big name at RW seems less likely as the window clock ticks down.

Kieran,

I don't think now is the right time to even think about dropping our most productive player. He is also one of our most hard-working players, something that can go unnoticed as he doesn't always have a lot of time on the ball as you point out.

What Silva should be looking to do is find players or a system that gets the best of out of him and others. We are having an interesting window, Silva can't complain. We still have some improvements to go though.

In other news has anyone seen Zenit fans have made a banner apparently criticising their club for buying a black player. Fucking unbelievable.

David Pearl 317

Just to clarify, I wasn't advocating dropping Sigurdsson, I was just explaining how I can understand Annika's point of view. With that being said, sooner or later he will be replaced because of style/age but, as of this moment, he is the best option in my opinion.

Annika, I addressed you for the first time ever @ 303.

Highlight for me, please, where I was not civil to you.

Highlight for me, please, where I "throw ridiculous stats around to try and prove a point".

YOU, by contrast, accuse both myself and Mike as promoting ourselves as the "top authorities on all things Everton" by insisting that you should passively "accept [our] take on things."

Total fabrication on your part. I simply offered MY opinion, even acknowledging you are evidently not to be persuaded otherwise on your own opinion of the three players I mentioned.

Given the (uncivil nature) of your first reply, your latest post claiming you "accept alternative opinions" rings a bit hollow to me. Rather, you are taking umbrage at others for offering their own reasoned alternative opinions to your own beliefs, rather than (oh, the irony) passively accepting your take on things.

Oh! And while I'm replying to you, your further comment to Mike in your post @ 311 in reference to Siggy and Bernard:

"You cannot compare the stats of 2 players who played in completely different positions. You can quote all the stats you want, but they played different positions."

Yessss...and...? Invert that. You can say exactly the same thing about Bernard assuming Siggy's central attacking midfield role. You have little or no evidence, empirical or statistical, to confirm your own belief beyond your own 'hunch'.

Steve, maybe Kean has a kid brother who is learning his nine times table?

Kieran,

Yes, l got that. I just didn't want to direct my post at Annika directly, she's got enough on her plate.

I do see Annika's point too as some games he looks anonymous, not that he ever stops running. Seems to me that Silva is tweaking things a bit. Looking forward to the season, obviously.

It is going to take time for Kean and Gbamin to settle into the side when they get their chance. Different language, culture, different league, the list goes on.

It depends, but I don't see Silva being in a hurry to play them in our early fixtures unless injuries force him to. What's the news on Delph?

As William says earlier we aren't a stronger side at the moment, a lot depends who we can add to the squad.

Ed, one 8 is 9, two 7's are 9. He ain't getting very far with that one!

As for the number's adding up to 9, perhaps. He wore 9 for Verona, 18 for Juve last season, and now 27 for us. The only place it falls down is he wore 34 for Juve when he made his debut, the season before he left for Verona on loan.

Kieran #313, definitely true. He gets surprisingly few touches, so he has to be efficient with the ones he gets.

We haven't had a player like you describe since Arteta, and there just aren't many of 'em around. I'd say no more than a third of Prem teams have a midfield commander like that -- Eriksen, Pogba, de Bruyne of course, Ryan Fraser, Moutinho, young Maddison maybe. Hard to come by.

Only 12 months left on Ryan Fraser's contract Mike. We should have had a bid in for him, I think.

Annika, forums are all about people expressing opinions (shock).

Don't get so upset because people disagree. People on here disagree with me all the time but I don't get upset about it.

Football is an emotive subject; players getting slated on here soon get praised when they score a few goals. It's all fickle fun... but please chill. :-)

People don't disagree with you at all, Daniel.

Steve #325, I'm all for it. That li'l guy is a hell of a player. Does it more from a wide position than centrally, but the sheer number of chances he creates with his passing is staggering.

I'm not so sure, Mike, but with 12 months on his contract, he'd be cheap and so no risk. So why not? Still young enough to sell on if it doesn't work out.

I think Bernard needs looking at closely this season for the position he plays he needs to much more than link play and look good on the ball, we need goals from him badly. I just don't think he has it in him.

David #317, that's stunning, and yet sadly not so stunning after all.

I was saddened to see Malcom make that choice, and I think he'll regret it quickly. He should have talked to Hulk first. I predict he stays one season only.

I predict he wears gloves, Mike. Silly choice. Sad that these eastern European teams can constantly get away with such behaviour.

I cracked past / skim read all the bickering, but was intrigued at the Siggy - Bernard debate.

I think presenting Sigurdsson as a poor(er) player is well, well wide of the mark. He's an excellent footballer who does a ton for the team. He's just not a shiny, flashy player frankly.

I think discounting Bernard in the middle is also slightly off the mark, and this is the crux:

If you see Bernard's trickery, vision, and ability, do you think it's worth a try to put him in the middle?

I do. I think the possibility exists that we'd be a better, more dangerous side with Bernard behind the striker, rather than Sigurdsson.

If it doesn't work, scrap it. But I personally am stunned Silva hasn't at least tried it to date. I think that's because Silva thought if he did, he didn't have an adequate enough player coming into LM. But with the acquisition of Kean, and possibly (?) another winger (Americanism alert), I'd sure as hell just try Bernard behind the front line.

I truly believe he could be a revelation there.

I just want to see it once. Just one damn time. Surely Annika, I, and from memory a few others here on TW, aren't the only ones who've thought it could be an amazing set up?

Daniel, I think you would be very surprised to learn that in the Champions League, which I am sure you would agree is the very highest level of football, and no not the early rounds, but the later rounds, namely 6 group games and 2 knockout matches, our Bernard scored 3 goals in said 8 games. This was only the season before the one that just ended and he had double digits that season and a 1 in 3 average. He does have it in him, and you clearly haven't seen his pre-Everton highlight reel. You also did not give him credit for arriving injured, not having a pre-season, and playing catch up once he was fit enough to get into the side.

Like Gomes, I think we will see the real Bernard this season, and you will be surprised.

Mike, why not throw in a cheeky bid now and try to offer him a way out of this before it even starts? At a reduced price and on reduced wages of course!

I told you people disagreed with me Steve! Lolz

It's true the Bernard I have seen is the Bernard in Royal Blue and I would happily bet with you now he scores less that 5 this season :-)

Daniel, 5 goals for Bernard?

If they move him to the middle, I'll take your bet. ;0)

Jay @319 I consider your post at 303 as sarcastic in the extreme, being as I never once suggested Bernard would become our midfield maestro. Nor have I ever claimed to have any stats relating to Bernard playing in Sigurdson's position, as you again suggest.

But would you care to explain how you can reasonably compare the stats of 2 players who have played in entirely different positions? Maybe we should compare Pickford's stats with Sigurdsson's?

Nor am I forcing my opinion on anyone as you seem to suggest. I am merely giving my reasons for the opinions I have formed. But it seems my opinions are offensive to certain people if I don't accept their opinions as being the right ones.

With regards to the ridiculous stats I mentioned, I should have made it clear I was referring to Mike's stats.

Oh, he has it in him, all right. This is the Champions League goal against Man City that first made me want him.

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

Trouble is, what's in him just doesn't come out very often. I'm on Daniel A's side of the 5-goal prediction.

(Hey, that's twice I've agreed with Daniel A. today. That's more than I've agreed with him in years!)

But to me Bernard's goals are beside the point. I want to see him make more of them for other people. Doubling or tripling his assists would be a vital contribution.

Very well put Jamie, and at least people would have more than just assumptions on which to argue!

Who knows how many Sigurdson will score? Who knows how many Bernard will score? And who knows how well Everton are going to do?

I reckon all three will do better than last season, but that’s just my assumption, I just hope I’m right for once.

I thought youse Yanks, had more balls than that Jamie? Take the bet, you might get a few quid towards getting over here for Christmas if little Bernard gets off to a flyer!

2 interesting reports from Globo (biggest Brazilian broadcaster) today.

The first is that Gremio rejected a €45M bid for Everton from China, the bid was €5M now and €40M in January.

Another is that apparently Malcom has been victim to disgusting racist abuse since his arrival in Russia and may request a transfer.

Jamie/Annika

I too think Bernard's skill set MAY be suited to the central role and I am pretty sure Silva said after the Sharks game that Bernard can play there. But, it's a hypothetical as I haven't seen him there so he might be crap. On the other hand it might be like when center half Ian Marshall tried his luck as a striker, or Jagielka as a goalie.

I was hoping for a bit more detail than that Sam, give us a bit more detail please mate?

Have to question Malcolm’s agent for getting him a move to Zenit.

Talk about nit having a players best interest at heart

Does Glyfi influence or run a game from number 10 in the way that you would expect a player costing £45 million to do? Notwithstanding the goals and assists, I see him more as a niche player with a very particular skillset than a true number 10. He does also work very hard off the ball to close down defenders in possession, but I am ambivalent about where he fits in the team.

But then my sons both think I am talking nonsense, so there we have it - it's all about opinions on tactics. Personally, I'd like us to play 4-3-3 two pacey wide men supporting Keane. Where could Siggy fit in that set-up?

Daniel @326,

I am not angry with anyone about their opinions, everyone has their own and is fully entitled to them. I am not arguing with anyone about their opinion either, despite what Jay thinks.

What set me off was the sarcasm. Rightly or wrongly, I took the first paragraph of Jay's comment @303 as being sarcastic. At least that is how it reads to me.

TW wouldn't be the same if no-one expressed their opinion.

*sigh*

Entirely different positions?

They're both midfielders. Play next to each other, always within 20-25 yards of each other in the same general area of the pitch. Get the same number of touches, play the same number of passes. I cite facts that indicate one does much more with them than the other. And they're not my stats. They're the Premier League's official numbers.

Yet because you disagree, I'm "ridiculous."

And I'm the one being "uncivil"?

oooookay.

That'll do it for me. Back to other conversations.

Jamie @333, excellent post. Maybe I should have tried your method of explaining my reasons for giving Bernard a run there!!

Kieran, Bernard played on the left of a narrow 3 in a Fonseca's 4231. He did play central, and he also played on the right. It was a fluid system that allowed Bernard, with no10 on his back, to wander where he wanted. He's obviously been far more disciplined for us, and perhaps those constraints have hampered him somewhat.

Steve 350

Not that it "helps" the case but didn't he also play centrally as the fill-in for Neymar in the world cup semi final?

Think it will be Sidebe to cover right back, a push for Docoure and a centre half (hopefully Zouma). Then back for Zaha if we have time and provided Palace have signed a replacement.

No player should be undroppable, this has been a problem for us for so long. No matter the form, certain players played no matter what simply because we had no other options.

Now finally it seems we will have options, if Gomes is poor, Davies and Delph are ready to come
in. If DCL is fluffing his lines, in comes Kean. Rich is having a bad day, in comes Kean or whoever we sign next.

And with Siggy too, I think Bernard is an excellent alternative to games where Siggy isn't quite at the races.

Siggy, at this moment, is still our best player for 'goal from nowhere'. The one player we have who of he's got the ball within 25 yards of the goal the fans are on their feet.

But Bernard, with his intricate skills and quick movement could be ideal on games where there are 2 back lines of 4 to break through.

They are both quality, an de I hope to see Bernard really push on from
What he showed last season.

But it is not a question of one or the other, it is a question of one and the other. Siggy for 70 then in comes Bernard or vice versa. Options, players knowing they have to battle to keep their positions.

Do city fans sit there worrying if it is Sane or Sterling, or Aguero or Jesus.

Mike @348, you can quote all the stats you like and I don't care where you got them from. One plays wide, one plays centrally. If you consider them to be the same, you think entirely differently to me.

But, if you insist they are the same, then check out Sigurdsson's starts from his Spurs days, when was played out wide. Or, indeed, when he played wide for us. I think you will notice a difference.

But who am I to question anything you say? Sigh!!!

I think Bernard will have a big season for us and be as affective as David Silva at city and Pedro at Chelsea resulting in being recalled into the Brazil squad

I hope you are right Eric.
He has the talent but fluffs his lines in front of goal and his passes... l don't know if he doesnt concentrate or is just sloppy but a few hospital balls off him at times. Good we have number of players with a lot of improvement in them.

Hope you are right Eric if he has a cracking season I will happily tuck into the humble pie :-)

All the Siggy bashing is ridiculous, the boy is class and should be played at all times

In your opinion, not mine

He has the talent, he is similar to the players I’ve mentioned and he’s had a season in the prem. he is definitely one of our more watchable players.

Off the topic I know but maybe of interest to see unbiased views on our chances

Betting to finish in top 4:-
City 1/80
Reds 1/14
Spurs 1/2
Utd 1/1
Chelsea 1/1
Arsenal 7/5
Everton 13/1
Wolves 14/1
Leicester 16/1
West ham 40/1
As you can see they are just favouring us to finish in front of Wolves in 7th. I think we look good to finish above them because of their Europa commitments but you would have to be super optimistic to think we can achieve a top 4 spot.

Kirean, I thought it was on the left of a front 3, but I may be wrong.

Ray, I saw us tipped for the top 4 on some PL journo predictions. What’s going on there!! I think it’s recognised we mean business and we’ve assembled a side, need a couple more before Friday, but we’re expected to get them and capitalise on others slow starts and our favourable start and build from there. Feels like a wave of optimism not seen for a long time.

Whoa just read that we are going to meet Crystal Palaces valuation of Zaha, surely not. What about a CB? Also if we did, where on earth is the money coming from and are we going to end up getting a transfer ban next season?

Ray@362, I think those odds are not far wrong though I think West Ham will be closer. A lot depends on how quickly Haller adjusts but in him Anderson, Lanzini and Fornals they could have the best front 4 outside the top 4.

I’d also put Arsenal above Chelsea currently.

Again we have quite a few new players. Don’t think we’re top 4 ready next but this squad/team is in much better shape than it was 2 years ago.

Frank@342. Apparently the Zenith fans have made a banner complaining about signing coloured players. Why Malcolm went their I will never know?

You rate Fornals that highly Sam? Lanzini barely played last season, there's no guarantee he can get back to what he was. Also seems like they have 3 no10s and no width. I don't think they will be as close as you do. I also think Wolves will fall off. I think it'll be us an Leicester challenging.

Sorry, I mean Fran@342.

The Independent is saying that Zaha expects to be an Everton player before this week's deadline.Be a massive coup if this one comes off.

Graham, it’d be one hell of a statement. I’d feel better about it if we fill that Zouma sized hole (preferably with Zouma). That’s a must and a concern. But then again, it’s up to Brands not Walsh, and silva won’t piss off golfing if Zouma falls through.

Is there any coincidence that its approx 12 months since Usmanov sold his shares in Arsenal?

Malcolm’s second stray move in the last 2/3 years, blinded by Barca first time around then takes the money this time. Either he makes poor decisions and or those around him have erred in advising him.
Only a handful go to Russia at that age and come back better for it. It feels like a billet dodged.

Steve,spot on.I naively thought that Sky might have mentioned this tonight but as per usual their collective obsession with Manure continues unabated.Time to load the dishwasher with Talk Bloke on.

Bernard is probably my favourite Everton player at the moment. Obviously not for his goals but for his consummate skill with the ball at his feet, his sense of danger and willingness to track back, and his attitude. He might be diminutive but he has got a heart as big as a lion.

Having said that, with the introduction of Keane into the mix, I think it is his position that is most under threat because of this potential front three

Richarlison (left), DCL, Keane (right)

That is my head over ruling my heart.

I might get a hammering for this but I also think Kean’s signing could rejuvenate Walcott’s situation.

If DCL is not firing then Kean can take the central spot and the front three then becomes:

Richarlison, Kean, Walcott.

I think Bernard will have to compete with Sigurdsson for the spot behind a front three.

Steve 364, I think your right in that we seem to really mean business this season. If we can sign Zaha as is being rumoured then watch out, we will have some serious attacking options.

Sam 366, you follow the game more than I, so I will not disagree.

Not for the first time I've lost the thread of this discussion. Who is Malcolm ?

DT, Malcom the guy who turned us down last summer and joined Barca, only to turn us down again this summer and join Zenit, only Karma is a bitch and his "own fans" now have protested with racist banners against him!

Thanks, Steve. That's Russia for you !

DT, if Usmanov is behind all of this, I won't have a bad word said about Russia or his mate Putin. Lovely guy, bit of a character.

Derek#377 - thought you were being a bit tongue-in-cheek about repeated mis-spelling of the name Malcom!

Can Steve Ferns or anyone else more knowledgeable than me give me their thoughts on Sidibe? Is he any good? Would he offer good competition to Seamus or is he another Martina? Be interested to know. Thanks.

Craig - he's a World Cup winner. Enough said?

Not me sorry Craig. See Sam Hoare’s post on the plyer’s rumour page. I was limiting my commentary to how it’s smart to loan in an international whilst loaning out Jonjoe Kenny to get the experience he needs. It then allows us 12 months to re-evaluate the situation and see how Jonjoe got on. Furthermore, if it does indeed have a buy clause in the loan then playing well will not push the price up. Very smart move by Brands.

Everton Twitter - what a man Brands is. Looking after the mum is the best way to get the lad on side!

WOW, Steve!

That short Twitter video is a very telling insight into how Brands operates and how deeply researched he is on all aspects of the player.

The hug Kean's mother gives Brand after being gifted the shirt is heartfelt, plus Brands' words to her: "We will take good care of your son and we hope to see you often..."

This is a master of his art at work.

VERY impressive.

As long as Brands doesn't branch out into any "how's your father" then we should be good

Amazing touch from Marcel

Marcel signing of the decade !!

Brilliant touch from Brands.

Master of the game.

"We will take care of your son."

Contrasts sharply compared against when Steve Walsh and his cronies turned up in Italy with a massive posse. All out for a work jolly funded by the club all looking like rejects from Reservoir Dogs that had been hitting the beige buffet.

Did anything ever come from that visit or were they just all there for one of Berlusconi’s bunga bunga parties?

We genuinely appear to have a professional in Brands. A long cry from the Mike Bassett days of Walsh, dining off his Jamie Vardy lucky punt.

Randomly going back to the number conundrum; there's a pattern and link to the number 9. I notice someone used the 2 + 7 = 9 theory earlier.

Well, apparently in his last 3 seasons it goes like this:

2017-18: Number 9 with Hellas Verona (yes his Juventus number that year was 34, but stick with me)
2018-19: Number 18 with Juventus
2019-20: Number 27 with Everton

All multiples of 9. So either next season he'll be 36 or the next club he plays for he'll be 36!! Either way, he's a number 9 (or multiples of!!).

I'll get my coat and order a taxi. Good night

Danny O'Neill

Didn't Yakubu turn out to be 36 during his second season?

Brought a little tear in my eye, welcome to the people's club! COYB.

..

From #226 JC and onwards About Bernard playing centrally, first I imagined it would be like putting Pienaar there behind the striker.. but Bernard is a bit more pacey? Whereas Pienaar would draw freekicks, Bernard would dribble past the opponent more often than not, and then it'll depend on his passing skills from there on..

None the less, it's exciting times of how when they play, Delph, Gbamin, Kean and eventually other new signings, how it will pan out, it could be a somewhat recognizable, but way different kind of game we're about to see this season (would be awesome just if the CB slot is sorted out - if not, maybe Gbamin is up for it?).

Danny 393..Spot on first paragraph...I recall it all and we all got excited...for what. In a low moment btw today I tuned into TslkShite..guess what...usual shit that Keane has sold himself short signing for such a poor club..no ambition..blah blah etc..I actually love it. We've started to rattle the bid boys club set up. No longer plucky old "punching above their weight" crap (god I hated that sound bite). Let's start making a big noise of our own now. No more nice guy Kenwright /Goebells propaganda. As Dylan stated..The Times THEY Are A CHANGIN'. Go forth and regain the high ground Blues. Yours Tangled Up In Blue...😁

I'll refrain Kieran. I think Moyes (Scottish ex Manager type) almost caused a diplomatic incident on that subject once!

Brands’ comments were excellent, very shrewd. He and the club now need to follow through on them, and look after the 19 year-old lad coming to a foreign country.

Remember Fergie's noisy neighbour soundbite Chris. It's haunted United since. Condescending & belittling remarks by the elite of the day should always be stored for future reference!

Just watching sky sports. The side bar showing how much each club haha spent on players and made through sales. Highlights what a good job Brands is doing.

Utd have released a ton of players for no fee

That "People's Club" crap has got to go as well, meaningless drivel that basically owns up to being what's left when everything else is gone.

Nil Satis Nisi Optimum is our motto and must be rediscovered and acted upon.Those who don't, have to be held to account.

And let's kick out that "We're not 'poolies" rubbish as well, an excuse for putting up with any garbage without a bit of dissent while the club crumbles.

Hope he brings some luck

Everton the unluckiest team in the Premier League last season?

ESPN’s Luck Index shows we were robbed... robbed I say!

Chuffed to bits. Someone pinch me.