James set to miss Saints trip

Thursday, 22 October, 2020 187comments  |  Jump to most recent

Everton face being without two of their most important attacking players with the news that James Rodriguez is a major doubt for Sunday's clash with Southampton.

The Colombian could miss the trip south along with Richarlison after Carlo Ancelotti revealed he has been struggling with a knock sustained in the Merseyside derby from a "mis-timed tackle" from Virgil van Dijk in the early stages of that game.

Rodriguez played the full 90 minutes of the controversial 2-2 draw in which Van Dijk was injured himself just a couple of minutes later in a collision with Jordan Pickford who clattered into the Dutchman.

The Liverpool defender had to undergo surgery on his anterior cruciate ligament, sparking an unprecedented backlash and vilification of the Everton goalkeeper in the media.

Ancelotti indicated that Pickford was regretful of the incident and the Italian extended an apology, saying:

"To be clear, we are really sorry for the injury [to] Virgil van Dijk. Every one of us hopes he can recover soon and well.

"There was this contact with Jordan Pickford: it was mistimed contact. But the fact the Premier League is so fast, it is not so difficult to arrive a little bit later.

"Jordan arrived a little bit later but his intention was to try to reach the ball. It was not to hurt Virgil van Dijk.

"To say it was premeditated, and this and that, in my opinion, is too much. Virgil van Dijk knows this. Jordan is really sad, really disappointed.

"It was a strong contact, maybe mistimed, but sometimes in football it can happen."

Richarlison, meanwhile, begins a three-match ban for a poor challenge of his own on Thiago Alcântara in the closing stages of the derby, one which saw him shown a red card and pick up a suspension that means he will miss the Southampton, Newcastle and Manchester United matches over the next month.

Club captain Seamus Coleman is also out with the hamstring injury he aggravated against Liverpool and which forced his substitution during the first half.

 

Reader Comments (187)

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David Ellis
1 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:23:12
Oh no. VanDyke deliberately left one on him in my opinion. Losing both James and Richie is a major challenge. Hopefully others can step up and the overall confidence of the side will take us through.
Will Mabon
2 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:29:48
I hope we don't get too much previous Everton creeping in.
Kieran Kinsella
3 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:34:45
Surprised to hear that JJK is available for Sunday. I thought he was expected to be out for at least a month. If James is out, I wonder if Carlo might try Docuoure in the 10 role as more of a Tim Cahill type, a position he played sometimes at Watford. Or if he'll do the obvious and stick Sig there. I am hoping he is just being melodramatic and in fact James will be OK for the game.
Will Mabon
5 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:36:32
Keiran, I hope so too. Bit of gamesmanship maybe.
Kieran Kinsella
6 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:43:40
Will,

What was it Fergie bizarrely said about such gamesmanship from Italian managers, "Every time I go to the Italian restaurant I check under the spaghetti." What a peculiar practice. Why even go a restaurant if you're thinking there's a nasty surprise hidden under the food.

Jay Harris
7 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:45:59
Kieran,
I cant see JJK being ready for Sunday. Where did you hear that?

I can see a change of tactics for Sunday being more defence based so I would see Doucoure and Allan in the middle with Gomes playing left and Siggy and Iwobi completing the lineup.

I would like to see Nkoukou give a chance in front of Digne but cant see it happening.

Eddie Dunn
8 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:47:10
I wouldn't surprised if Carlo was being cute with this one but if so I expect the most we can hope for is James on the bench.
DCL has been sensational so far but the service from James in particular has help enormously. For England it was clear that DCL benefited from Grealish's distribution and hardly had a sniff with the defensive midfielders in the next game.
Gordon seems to have slipped down the rankings so we could see Iwobi in for Richarlison and Sigurdsson would be most likely to come in for James. Of course Gomes could be pushed further forward but as he has been so pedestrian of late, he is probably just lucky to still be considered.
Derek Knox
9 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:48:38
We would have made a big song and dance about this had we not had more class than another team close by. Hopefully he may pass a late fitness check but I doubt it.

Richie's absence was expected, and to a degree self imposed by a rash late tackle, but he did have the genuinity to make a public apology to Alcantara.

The other side of my thinking is this, if we are to be genuine contenders for a top four finish we can't just rely on our conceived best starting eleven. Injuries and unfortunately suspensions are going to happen, but I didn't expect them this early.

We should have enough strength in depth, with Siggy/Bernard/Iwobi/Gordon, to either start or give options from the bench if needed. I don't in anyway underestimate Southampton either.

They have shown enough already to be taken as a team to be wary of, especially at home, they have some decent players too, in Ings, Redmond, Adams and Ward-Prowse. All capable of causing an upset if given time and space.

With Villa facing Leeds, and the RS at home to Sheffield United we can't let our position slip or concede points, keep the momentum going at all costs.

COYB

Nicholas Howard
10 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:49:42
Jay Harris

News Now mentioned JJK back to training on Tuesday and could possibly feature for Coleman

Will Mabon
11 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:53:37
Kieran, could be once bitten twice shy.

He got pulled by the cops for driving urgently up the motorway shoulder in traffic with an impending diarrhoea ejection some years back. Word was, he didn't make it. Funny as f*ck.

Tony Everan
12 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:54:38
Virgil Van Dijk was going for the ball, but was a bit late and resulted in flattening James Rodriguez, who has now been sidelined because of it.

Pickford was going for the ball, was a bit late, and flattened Virgil Van Dijk.

The difference was that VVD looked like he was putting an intentional marker onto James at the start of the game. “You won’t have it easy with me mate”

Whilst Pickford was just a dog going after a bone incident, stupid but no malice whatsoever.

Will Liverpool now be apologising for us being without a key player whilst we are trying to to stay top of the league?

Don’t hold your breath

Kieran Kinsella
13 Posted 22/10/2020 at 15:56:52
Will

That's hilarious

Pat Kelly
15 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:04:32
Looks like the depth of the squad will be severely tested. We're lacking forwards and creative mids. It was always going to happen but this early in the season is worrying.
Derek Knox
16 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:06:19
Will, No shit, he went into involuntary liquidation. :-)
Lyndon Lloyd
17 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:07:03
This game suddenly looks a lot more challenging (although it wouldn’t surprise me if James travels and comes off the bench) but it provides a very good opportunity to see if the likes of Iwobi, Bernard and Sigurdsson, with much to prove, can offer enough to keep our momentum going
Jay Harris
18 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:08:36
Thanks Nicholas,
I didnt see that.

I will still be pleasantly surprised if he makes the Southampton game though.

Will Mabon
19 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:09:18
Derek :)
Steve Ferns
20 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:09:47
I would like to see Godfrey deputise ahead of Kenny, unless Kenny is 100% and showing well in training. I would like to see us continue in a 433, rather than go 4231 and push Doucoure forwards as Kieran suggested.

So, in for Richarlison, I would select Gordon. Then either Bernard or Iwobi for James. I think Bernard is better at emulating James by cutting inside and finding space and playing those passes. However, Bernard (and Iwobi) are right footed and so you'd need to inverse this by playing either of them on the left and then Gordon on the right.

Pickford
Godfrey Keane Mina Digne
Doucoure Allan Gomes
Gordon Calvert-Lewin Bernard

Kieran Kinsella
21 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:11:54
Digne should have a good game since he'll likely be up against walcott
Will Mabon
22 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:11:56
Challenging is certainly the word, Lyndon. We might have to go a little tighter as a needs-must, which rankles a little, not having the same potency up front.
Christy Ring
23 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:13:11
Hope it's not serious, it was a tackle from behind, but the redshite and VVD don't do dirty tackles.
Kieran Kinsella
24 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:13:15
Derek 16

lmao that's horribly funny

Brian Harrison
25 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:18:14
I am sure that the pundits and commentators at games for at least the next couple of weeks will mention the tackle on VVD by Pickford. Also managers looking for a narrative will now have a ready made excuse if they have a player sent off, well how come my players was sent off for this offence which was nowhere near as bad as the Pickford challenge.

I understand from someone who watched Liverpool against Ajax the commentator mentioned VVD 5 times and he wasnt even playing.
So I guess we had better get used to these senarios for at least a few games until something else becomes the talking point. All of a sudden we are being painted as an over aggressive side, maybe they much preffered the Everton of last year were we really didnt do tackling in midfield we had more of an after you Claude approach. So I quite like the fact that we are no longer considered push overs, and we arent a side now who will lie down and be walked over.

Alan J Thompson
26 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:21:58
I would imagine Godfrey would continue at right back and would consider pushing Gomes further forward and Sigurdsson into midfield if James fails a fitness test. The bench might make interesting reading.
David Pearl
27 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:25:01
As Steve mentioned l would liken Bernard more to James but not anywhere near as good, especially on that right hand side. Tricky finding suitable and capable replacements. I wouldnt be surprised to see Siggy out wide in one of those positions and Carlo sticking with Gomes.
Joe McMahon
28 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:25:37
Unfortunatley looks like Kevin Campbell was right about squad depth/quality. Down to one striker for 3 games and our most creative midfileder out. This is gonna be a tough game on sunday. I assume Walcott cannot play.
Alastair Donaldson
29 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:25:46
Definitely going to be a tricky game.

Hate to say it, but JP clobbered Ings at GP last year or the season before, "following through" on a clearance high up on his thigh.. and it actually looked pre-meditated.. he got away Scott-free that time.

Hope he has the right mindset this weekend.

COYB

Bill Watson
30 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:30:43
Kieran #21

Walcott is on loan so, as far as I'm aware, he can't play.

Martin Berry
31 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:33:29
Godfrey, Sigurdsson and Iwobi in for the absentees its a squad game and no worries with the replacements.
Wishing the injured players a good recovery.
John Crook
32 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:35:57
With James and Richarlison out I think we will see a slightly different formation. I would go with a 4-3-2-1 xmas tree formation. The first thing for Carlo to decide is when is the right time to try the new keeper? I would say that is now. I think Pickford needs to step out of the limelight for a good few weeks (surely his already muddled head will be worse after hearing of multiple death threats and so on). I thought Andre Gomes was well off the pace last week and also needs to drop out.

GK Olsen
RB Kenny LB Digne CD Mina CD Keane
CM Dacoure CM Allan CM Sigurdsson
AM Bernard AM Iwobi
CF Calvert-Lewin

Subs Pickford, Delph, Gomes, Godfrey, Gordon, Davis & Simms.

Colin Battison
33 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:46:08
Walcott is not eligible to play against us as he's on loan.

As Lyndon says, this game becomes even more of a test now, it was going to be tough to get 3 points anyway but, with no James and Richarlison missing, that's our main threat gone and the link up with Calvert-Lewin.

I think Iwobi has to play in Richarlison's position as he seems to be better on the left side than the right and has had a couple of assists from there. If James doesn't make it, then who goes in for him? Tough one...

Kieran Kinsella
34 Posted 22/10/2020 at 16:59:38
On Sunday, We'll likely only have four survivors from the team that beat Soton at their place less than a year ago. No Walcott, Schneid, Rich, Sidibe, Holgate, Tosun or ( I assume) Davies in the starting 11. That's a lot change
Dan Nulty
35 Posted 22/10/2020 at 17:25:03
Personally I think the James injury story is to deflect attention off Pickford and say even Van Dijk mistimed one and injured a player.it happens.

At least, I blooming hope so as what do I do for my fantasy football team now!?

Frank Crewe
36 Posted 22/10/2020 at 17:39:35
We should only make changes that are absolutely necessary. Pickford needs to be taken out of the firing line for a game or three. Godfrey in for Coleman if he isn't fit. Our next best passer is Sigurdsson so he should replace James and Iwobi in for Richarlison in the wide attacking positions. I wouldn't tinker with the midfield three at all as they have done well for us so far

Olsen
Godfrey, Mina, Keane, Digne
Gomes, Allan, Doucoure
Sigurdsson, DCL, Iwobi

Bench. Pickford, Bernard, Gordon, Simms, Delph, Davies, Kenny

Kris Boner
37 Posted 22/10/2020 at 17:49:15
Taking Pickford out of the firing line could been seen as an admission of guilt from Everton on Pickford’s behalf, and the media will take it as such.

Several important match winning saves and a need to look resolute and behind our player has him in goal against Saints for me.

And obviously screw the Kopites for injuring our star man. Dirty team them lot, have always said it.

Brent Stephens
38 Posted 22/10/2020 at 17:52:38
Disappointing news. I don't think Southampton will be at all easy.
John Kavanagh
39 Posted 22/10/2020 at 17:53:09
We will be heavily dependent on Allan and Doucoure to keep the new Everton moving forward. As we are likely to have three changes to Saturday's starting line up (assuming James isn't fit), I'd be keen to avoid making further changes that might let the old Everton back in.

Sigurdsson is not a natural replacement for James - he just isn't forward looking enough and no longer provides the goal threat of his first season. I'm hoping that Gordon comes in for James, Kenny for Seamus and Iwobi for Richie. As 'like for like' as possible with the available players. To keep the momentum going we must maintain the forward threat and not retreat back into last season's shell by playing too deep and leaving DCL isolated and feeding off scraps.

I'd not drop Pickford, just on the principle of never, ever giving the RS what they want. I'd also give Gomes a final chance to recover some form, but have players ready to come on at half time if there's no improvement. I'd bring Nkounkou onto the bench with Simms.

Jack Convery
40 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:03:05
If Carlo is using a slight knock to deflect from the St VVD incident that is brilliant. The phrase - from a mistimed tackle - is wonderful too. The guy wins hands down on the diplomatic front whilst letting the RS know he's taking no crap from them in a subtle understated way - brilliant.

We will have to be tight, give sod all away and work our little socks off with everyone on it from the off on Sunday. I believe we are now capable of that. Go to it boys. Bring back 3 points and here's to Lundstrum stunning the RS too.

Pickford, Godfrey, Mina, Keane, Digne, Allan, Doucoure, Siggy, Gomes, DCL, Iwobi.

Benjamin Dyke
41 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:10:49
Brilliant by Carlo. He's class. He knows the bollox that has been all over the media.
Won't be easy this game. We need to Allan and Doucoure to step up a gear. Iwobi will be starting and probably Kenny. We need Godfrey as CB cover. Right wing I'd start Gordon.
Ajay Gopal
42 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:18:37
I like what Ancelotti has done here - he emphasises that Pickford’s tackle was ill-timed, nothing more. And to make that point, he says that our best player James was also injured due to an ill timed tackle by Virgil Van Dyke! Carlo, you are one wily old fox 😉

I am not doubting that James will not play this weekend, I think he got injured in the tackle, but Carlo has used the situation to Everton’s advantage and taken the heat off Pickford.

Southampton will be a very, very tough game. They ran circles around us in the game towards the end of last season, they were almost Liverpool good. Our midfield was pretty much non-existent that day, only Davies came out with any credit.

I would go 3-5-2 with Godfrey, Mina and Keane as our CBs and Digne and Kenny as wing backs. Or maybe Davies instead of Kenny as our right wing back to provide additional solidity and attacking intent.

Pickford
Godfrey Keane Mina
Davies Doucoure Allan Gomes Digne
DCL Siggy

Subs: Olsen, Kenny, Delph, Nkounkou, Bernard, Iwobi, Gordon

I would feel pretty confident about this team, hopefully we can get the points from this tough fixture.

Brian Williams
43 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:22:04
What Carlo said was very carefully orchestrated I believe but the bullshit media are widely reporting it as "Ancelloti apologises to Liverpool for Van Dijk injury" which I don't believe he actually did and didn't mean to either.
He said "we are sorry he's injured," the subtlety of which could (and has) been lost on lots of people.
If it pours oil on troubled waters though then that's a positive.
Stan Schofield
44 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:39:55
Brian@43: Spot on. Sometimes I think most journalists are not the brightest kids on the block, and easily get things wrong. In this case, either that or it's deliberate deception amongst the media bias.

If I met van Dijk, I might say "Sorry to hear about your injury" (or I might not!), which is using sorry in the context Ancelotti used it rather than as an apology.

Kieran Kinsella
45 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:50:13
Brian/Stan

I interpreted it the same way you did. It wasn't an acceptance of guilt it was "sorry for your luck" type thing.

Tony Everan
46 Posted 22/10/2020 at 18:54:56
Southampton will be down our throats from he first whistle and this game will be a big test. These are the games the top 4 or 6 win by hook or by crook. They find a way, we will have to if we are serious about an assault on the top 4.

Sigurdsson, Iwobi, Bernard are all senior players, fresh, fit and should be reading to go. They can make their claim to be integral to the season. Also, Gordon and Nkounkou will be ready to step in if Carlo thinks they are flying in training.

I think we will have a more of a defensive look to us for this match. With Carlo knowing we can pick them off from a corner , free kick or one sublime cross from Digne and win it narrowly.

I am thinking along the same lines as Ajay @ 42, with regards the 3-5-2, a set up where we can shut down the midfield battle and then grab the win.


Bill Gienapp
47 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:02:14
No James and no Richarlison feels like a bit of a death sentence, but all we can do is suck it up and get on with it. If Allan and Doucoure can control the midfield and the bench guys are hungry to step up, we should be able to navigate this match okay. Our defense hasn't kept a clean sheet since Salford City, so this would be a good place to start.
John Pickles
48 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:15:44
With news of James's injury, I think I'll just go and check the press condemnation of van Dijk that must be by now, pretty fervid.
Stephen Brown
49 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:30:54
I’d be really worried if DCL got injured or suspended!

Pickford
Kenny Mina Keane Digne
Allan Dacoure Sigurdsson
Iwobi DCL Bernard

That’s my team

Tony Abrahams
50 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:34:45
The pen is mightier than the microphone? Ancelotti has dealt with this as well as we could have hoped for, but these phoneys have their own agenda, and it’s up to us Evertonians, to help them change their narrative.

Big game, win this without a couple of our big players, and the confidence throughout the whole club, will become massive, and this would help create even more momentum for the players.

Ian Burns
51 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:36:21
Where’s Walcott when you need him? Personally I would love to see Ancelotti in midfield - but alas!

Both team and bench will be a lot weaker on Sunday but the new found confidence should be enough to at least get a point.

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

52 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:43:46
I'm pleased to see many fellow Blues interpreting Carlo's words as I hear them. This is NOT an apology to VVD or Liverpool FC or an admission of guilt from Everton FC on the events of last Saturday.

Once again, the media have isolated one phrase, taken it out of context, and put their own spin on what Carlo actually did say.

Carlo Update

Whilst Carlo uttered the words 'We are really sorry about Van Dijk's injury and hope he recovers quickly', that doesn't equate to submissive subservience, accepting culpability, as some are trying to portray it. It is a football man expressing sympathy to an opponent. That's all.

He clearly goes on to defend Jordan. That it was not premeditated, malicious or stupid. That the resulting feeding frenzy is too much and simply not true. That it was a football injury that can happen at any time, to any player, in the high-speed game of the PL.

Carlo does a pre-match presser every week. Under the pandemic, this takes the form of a Zoom call with him on camera, answering the questions of 5-6 remote journalists you hear, but don't see. Comically, in recent weeks, the final journalist you always hear is an enthusiastic lad from Colombia who Carlo jokes with.

'Let me guess. You are going to ask me a question about James!'

Usually they go out live on the day. That has not been the case with this one. This is clearly a less-than-five-minutes section, lifted from what is usually a 15 minute broadcast, with Carlo answering a single journalist.

Everton has not yet posted the full presser yet.

This strikes me as the club - and Carlo - being discreetly pro-active over the inevitable questions about last Saturday that were going to arise. WE are controlling the narrative here.

They have put up a short clip from a fuller presser addressing THE talking point, as part of a weekly routine, without making any official out-of-the-norm statement.

And Carlo's and the Club's view is a very clear one.

'Sympathy for VVD (as we would have for any fellow professional out injured), but that's football. It was a football incident which can happen to anyone at anytime. Jordan Pickford is innocent, was not premeditated, malicious or stupid in his actions. The resultant feeding frenzy is unjust.'

To me, Everton and Carlo have played a blinder here.

'No case to, m'lud.'

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

53 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:43:46
I'm pleased to see many fellow Blues interpreting Carlo's words as I hear them. This is NOT an apology to VVD or Liverpool FC or an admission of guilt from Everton FC on the events of last Saturday.

Once again, the media have isolated one phrase, taken it out of context, and put their own spin on what Carlo actually did say.

Carlo Update

Whilst Carlo uttered the words 'We are really sorry about Van Dijk's injury and hope he recovers quickly', that doesn't equate to submissive subservience, accepting culpability, as some are trying to portray it. It is a football man expressing sympathy to an opponent. That's all.

He clearly goes on to defend Jordan. That it was not premeditated, malicious or stupid. That the resulting feeding frenzy is too much and simply not true. That it was a football injury that can happen at any time, to any player, in the high-speed game of the PL.

Carlo does a pre-match presser every week. Under the pandemic, this takes the form of a Zoom call with him on camera, answering the questions of 5-6 remote journalists you hear, but don't see. Comically, in recent weeks, the final journalist you always hear is an enthusiastic lad from Colombia who Carlo jokes with.

'Let me guess. You are going to ask me a question about James!'

Usually they go out live on the day. That has not been the case with this one. This is clearly a less-than-five-minutes section of what is usually a 15 minute broadcast, with Carlo answering a single journalist.

Everton has not yet posted the full presser yet.

This strikes me as the club - and Carlo - being discreetly pro-active over the inevitable questions about last Saturday that were going to arise. WE are controlling the dialogue here.

They have put up a short clip from a fuller presser addressing THE talking point, as part of a weekly routine, without making any official out-of-the-norm statement.

And Carlo's and the Club's view is a very clear one.

'Sympathy for VVD (as we would have for any fellow professional out injured), but that's football. It was a football incident which can happen to anyone at anytime. Jordan Pickford is innocent, was not premeditated, malicious or stupid in his actions. The resultant feeding frenzy is unjust.'

To me, Everton and Carlo have played a blinder here.

'No case to, m'lud.'

Jamie Evans
54 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:50:34
Very tough game without Richarlison and James. Yes we need to show the squad depth but the difference in quality with whoever comes in is huge.

Really is time for whoever comes in to step up - prove their worth and perform. Our goal threat looks instantly weaker in my opinion.

Hopefully we have enough to come away with the win - be a great boost for the players coming in.

Jim Bennings
55 Posted 22/10/2020 at 19:51:12
Under normal circumstances I would be seriously tempted here to have taken Pickford out for a fee games, his form and his head seems all over the place and it has done of truth be told since he dropped that ball on Origi's bonce two years ago.

But the last week has not been normal circumstances at all, I just hope we can have a week where we are not talking about Jordan Pickford again all the time.

Undoubtedly Richarlison and James are huge losses and it will deprive the team of a productive source.

Ancelotti seems to have no time for Bernard, something that surprises me because if the little Brazilian could replicate the form from when he first signed and linked up with Digne, there is a player there.

I don't know what's gone on with Gordon but he's another one that seems to have fallen out of favour, can only assume that Iwobi is training the best out of those three?

Sigurdsson for Gomes for me has to happen, Gomes has been a passenger for too long now, maybe the challenge could revitalise Gylfi?

Another thing I would like to see is Doucoure breaking forward a bit more than he did last week, I think there's more to come from him as we witnessed in his time at Watford, out of him and Allan, he's the one that needs to get forward more.

A tough game awaits on Sunday that's for sure.

John McFarlane Snr
56 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:03:50
Hi Brian [43] Stan [44] Kieran [45] and Jay [52] I too interpreted it as a balanced view of what happened, and although he expressed sorrow to have seen Virgil Van Dykes injured, he [in as many words] suggested what most players/fans are aware of, "Anything can happen in a game of football", or any contact sport.
Denis Richardson
57 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:22:39
Already mentioned above, will be tough without our two best players and will be interesting to see if the likes of Sigurdsson and Iwobi can step up.

We'll certainly be a lot blunter up front but with Allan and Doucoure in the midfield our defence will hopefully not revert back to type.

Would have predicted a low scoring draw under normal circumstances but given the crazy results this season, could be anything. Just can't see us creating that much without Richie and James.

steve lew
58 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:31:22
Well well..no breaking world news on Skysports..Bt sports..BBC national news...NO SURPRISE..
No players at EFC having sleepless nights NO SURPRISE
No phone ins on Talksport..NO SURPRISE..
Just a player injured..purposely to be honest within the first few minutes of a Premier league game..by Mr VVD..NO SURPRISE..

Class all round at EFC..NO SURPRISE...
Still top of the league..NO SURPRISE...

Deary me what moaning plastic so called supporters we share this city with unfortunately..NO SURPRISE...

Dean Ilott
59 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:31:33
If James misses games because of a tackle from VVD, then VVD should be banned for the same amount of time...oh wait a minute...
steve lew
60 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:40:18
Ha ha..love that Dean @59..unfortunately that card is being used..glad to see though other supporters elsewhere asking questions about the over indulgence of anyone that may have even sold a scarf etc showing support for LFC qualifying as a pundit on all of the media outlets...where are all the ex blues...
Eddie Dunn
61 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:42:03
Carlo is subtle and his measured response and mention of Van Dijk's own transgression is the perfect reposte. No drama, just fact. He is a class operator.

As for Southampton, I have watched most of their games of late and I think the blow hot and cold. The good news for us is that in their last outing Walcott was a catylist for many good things and his absense will frustrate them.

We simply have to avoid defeat. A point on the road would be decent, a win super, but we must not lose.

The competition for places should mean better performances from any that want to grasp their chance. We haven't had this for some time so it's up to Gordon, Iwobi, Davies, Bernard and Sigurdsson to stake a claim.

Brian Wilkinson
62 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:43:12
Need to stick with Pickford, drop him now and the media will have a field Day.

On to Sunday and I expect Siggy to come in for James, Richarlisons spot a little tougher, could be any from Gordon, Bernard or Iwobi, but reckon Gordon will be on the bench with either Bernard Or Iwobi getting the nod..

If it was not for having so many available on the left, I would have liked to have seen Nkoukou given a run further forward.

Peter Dodds
63 Posted 22/10/2020 at 20:46:54
I may have misheard but I thought 5Live's report of this match at around 15:30 said Pickford wouldn't be playing?! Can't see this anywhere though so maybe I did mis-hear.

Also I see BBC Sport is using the "Everton is 'sorry'" (in quote marks) headline, whilst the wording around James makes no mention of VVD's 'mis-timed' tackle - "James Rodriguez will miss Sunday's trip to Southampton with an injury sustained in a challenge with Van Dijk."

Bill Gienapp
64 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:00:04
Part of me would have loved to see us appeal to have Richarlison's red card rescinded/lessened. It almost certainly wouldn't have worked, but it would have sent a defiant FU to the RS and the media.
Kieran Kinsella
65 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:01:12
The Sun headline "Pickford "really sad" about Van Dijk injury but Dutchman also injured Rodriguez."

Surprising to see that rag report it in a fairly balanced way although maybe it's because their hatred of Liverpool fans trumps their dislike of Evertonians?

Will Mabon
66 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:05:17
So factions of the media reword Carlo for their preferred slant. Not a surprise. In fact that's their only expertise now across the board of "News" topics; rewording press releases. They are reporters not journalists.

Might have been better to acknowledge without that "S" word, as this has given them the ammo for their twisting.

Will Mabon
67 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:12:02
Brian, 62 - I agree, keep Pickford in there.
Peter Mills
68 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:17:35
It’s an elegant statement from our manager, a man who has seen and done just about everything in the game. It’s useful to have him around.

He will be rueing the absence of Richarlison and James on Sunday, knowing they are two players who are very important to us. But he won’t be having an attack of the vapours, he will assess his options and put out the best team, with the best plan, he can.

Stan Schofield
69 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:18:03
Will @66: I agree. Ancelotti is a diplomat and experienced operator with the media, but on this occasion I think it was a slight mistake to use the word sorry, because it was obvious it would be twisted to distort the truth.
Jay Wood
[BRZ]

70 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:20:50
Oh come on Will.

You yourself played the same game as the tabloids as soon as the video appeared in the public domain on the 'Richarlison Apologizes' thread, presuming the worst about Carlo's statement.

You described Carlo's words as a 'regretable precedent' and that the club has 'now folded under the pressure.'

Nonsense. Just like the tabloids.

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

71 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:31:41
Because some place a different interpretation on what is said by others, usually by focussing on a single word or by taking a sentence out of context, doesn't make it definitive and true.

Take the key word 'sorry'.

Possible definition of sorry:

1. expressing sympathy with someone else's misfortune.

"I was sorry to hear about what happened to our neighbour's and the world's best-ever centre back"

2. feeling regret or penitence.

"I am sorry that during the short time that the world's best-ever centre back was on the pitch that he saw fit to gratuitously foul our star player twice, which means he will be unavailable to play for Everton this weekend"

I have no doubts in my own mind which of the two definitions Carlo intended.

John Pierce
72 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:32:19
I can see why some want to stick with Pickford this weekend. Dropping him might be perceived as an admission of guilt regarding the incident.

The longer term view; the errors he made on Saturday are part of a prolonged poor spell of form. He deserves to sit and see if that provokes a positive reaction. I’d go as far to drop him for the Newcastle game too, he’s already proven he cannot handle particularly well. That might make him reflect further, Indeed his own mental health cannot be great atm, it’s sensible and measured, ignore the hysteria around last weekend.

Then go from there, if Olsen is error free then he should keep the shirt. If he fails to impress, bring Pickford back in.

Phillip Warrington
73 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:33:19
But he played for Colombia.
Will Mabon
74 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:37:24
Jay, it is a regrettable precedent. He used the word "Sorry", and look what's happened. To apologize was to fold, and leave the way open. You don't think the club will have extensively discussed whether and how to respond?

Next time there's a similar incident, RS or not, you may see why I said precedent.

Edit - it wasn't a video I saw, but transcript.

Allan Board
75 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:40:24
I have remarked before that Ancelloti is a class act and here is more proof. The dickheads in the media are just that and not fit to share words with our manager - and they know it.

I appreciate Southampton away is tougher than Brighton at home, but we were without Allan, Gomes and Richarlison was gone before half time versus Brighton and we stuffed them, so relax!

Even allowing for injuries, still expect the blues to win.

Will Mabon
76 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:42:50
Because some place a different interpretation on what is said by others, usually by focussing on a single word or by taking a sentence out of context, doesn't make it definitive and true.

Well there you are, Jay. You just outlined how it works. You have no doubt - but you are not the rest of the readership.

Patrick McFarlane
77 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:49:07
Sorry seems to be the hardest word? I think that the club and Carlo will have played this statement out 100 or more times, it's very hard not to include "regret", "apologise" or "sorry" when reflecting upon the unfortunate injury to a fellow professional. My reading is that Carlo got his message out perfectly and if the media want to twist his words to suit their own and Liverpool's agenda there's not a lot he can do about it.
Jamie Crowley
78 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:53:21
This was premeditated by the nasty Virgil "Dick" van Dijk! He was out to injure and should have been shown a red! That's our best player and this is a travesty!

Grab your torches and pitchforks! Let's scream to our friends in the press to take up this ridiculous injustice on our behalf!

Who's with me? We riot!!


Nah. Sorry. I've been influenced by the major media outlets to be dramatic and over-react wildly. Apologies.

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

79 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:56:09
Will, whether you only read the written word (and I have no idea from which source, whether it was the full transcript, or out-of-context selected quotes) or watched the full video so you could see and hear the 'tone' of Carlo's delivery in full context, is neither here nor there.

I have no doubts behind the scenes how the club responded (or not!) was discussed extensively. I cover that in an earlier post. Everton has not gone out of its way to make a standalone statement on last Saturday's events. The video is part of a regular weekly feature.

You presume the worst of the club and take the extreme position that they have set a 'regretable precedent' and 'folded to the pressure'. I don't.

As explained earlier, I consider the club has played this very cutely. You don't.

I'll leave it to others to listen and watch Carlo and reach their own conclusions of his words.

Stan Schofield
80 Posted 22/10/2020 at 21:59:49
Patrick@77: It's actually very easy to exclude any and all of those words.
Peter Gorman
81 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:01:02
As Peter Dodds notes, the BBC focus on the word 'sorry' and neglect to mention VVD's 'mistimed' tackle on James.

The bias permeates the national broadcaster, oh good. Who would have thunk it.

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

82 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:03:47
Will @ 76.

And thank YOU for helping me reinforce how manipulative others can be in misrepresenting the words of others.

You wrote: 'Well there you are, Jay. You just outlined how it works. You have no doubt - but you are not the rest of the readership.'

Convenient of you Will to exclude the second part of the full phrase I wrote: 'I have no doubts in my own mind which of the two definitions Carlo intended.'

That clearly qualifies that I am expressing my own opinion, not presuming to speak for all.

Brian Wilkinson
83 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:09:28
Last season Son saw the Red mist and deliberately went out to seek revenge on Gomes, he succeeded and received a Red card, now you would expect all the media and tv pundits to hang Son out to dry, what did they do, went all out to get Sons red card rescinded, no witch hunt, no pitchforks and burning torches, but seen fit to defend a pre meditated nasty tackle by Son.

Pickfords however was more clumsy but not pre meditated to hurt Virgil, yet now 5 Days later they are still going on about it.

On a final note we have had sly digs from Klopp, Souness, Wijamen whatever his name is about the tackle, do we do the same with Son, no our Captain Coleman led the Everton players into the Spurs dressing room to console Son, sheer class from one team, gutter treatment by the other.

Jason Li
84 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:11:11
If Allan is 100% fit, then would like to see the 3 at the back transition with Godfrey doing that from right back.

Digne to push right up with say Bernard to supply the crosses in for Calvert-Lewin.

Means Iwobe on the right, not his favourite position, but with Allan and Doucouré behind, might be a different player on the right for us this season.

In Calvert-Lewin, Keane and Doucouré, we've still got goals in us. I'll take a 1-0 Serie A away performance special.

Maybe Keane for the pre-assist or assist, with one of his Pirlo 30 yard specials we're seeing more and more of.

Goes without saying, Carlo's got a game plan already so can't wait to see how he works with what we've got.

Patrick McFarlane
85 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:15:14
Stan #80
Carlo could of course have said something along the lines of 'I sympathize with Jurgen and the player, but that is football!" The press would then have run with Ancelotti and Everton unapologetic for horrific Pickford tackle.
Stephen Brown
86 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:20:39
I feel this is now a massive game for us!

Win without our best two attackers and our captain and you’d got to say we are the real deal and serious contenders?!

I should know better but this feels different!

Danny Baily
87 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:24:33
Bernard for James, Iwobi for Richarlison. Although I find it hard to believe James has a knock that will rule him out. Something odd about the whole situation.
Stan Schofield
88 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:27:00
Patrick @85: Of course, but there are also many more possibilities, very diplomatic and subtle ones, which can minimise the media's potential for twisting.
Kieran Kinsella
89 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:35:52
Dutch people have a national hero who is famed for putting his finger in the Dyke but Pickford is crucified for a similar interaction
Will Mabon
90 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:39:13
Nothing tactically excluded, Jay!

How did you get that I accuse you of speaking for all? I was making the point that others don't see your take, and will fall victim to the media "Adjustments" that are their stock-in-trade. Perhaps it doesn't read so well.

I don't think the worst of the club, simply I think a mistake has been made by saying sorry. The video may accurately convey but that's not the issue; the potential headlines based on extraction from the video may be.

The precedent part simply means that similar will now occur every time a player gets hurt.

Christy Ring
91 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:40:45
Bernard and Iwobi/Gordon, to replace James and Richarlison, but hopefully James makes the bench, can't see how Siggy would work, as he doesn't have rhe pace to play wide.
Mike Gaynes
92 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:40:46
Danny #87, James appeared to be moving sluggishly at times during the Derby... could be he picked up a bad bruise in a sensitive spot from VVD's challenge.
Brian Williams
93 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:41:04
Using the word sorry in a statement doesn't necessarily constitute an apology.
"We're sorry he injured you"-apology.
"We're sorry you're injured."-statement of compassionate empathy.
The English language is full of subtle nuances which can put a different meaning on a statement not obvious to all.
Not everybody understands them, so maybe it's not surprising sections of the media have taken Ancelloti's statement as an apology.
Sukhdev Sohal
94 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:43:41
This is a big blow. I don't know what Ancelotti sees in Iwobi. Maybe just because he's much bigger in size than Bernard he gets games. I'm guessing Iwobi and Bernard will start on the wings, hopefully Sig in for Gomes too as Gomes isn't in good form and Sig is.
Will Mabon
95 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:47:32
That's a noble position in your last paragraph, Brian!

I think the British press understand very well...

Brian Williams
96 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:50:05
Well in that case Will.

Fuck 'em!

Will Mabon
97 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:50:12
Sukhdev, you probably hit on a big part of it there. Bernard is a skillful player but offers little physically, and seems to tire easily too.
Will Mabon
98 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:50:47
Brian - yes!
Stan Schofield
99 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:56:26
Brian@93&96: 😂
Jay Wood
[BRZ]

100 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:56:47
Stan, I'm surprised that someone like you could be so naive to believe that no matter what Carlo said, or how he said it, would not be twisted or distorted by the media to best perpetuate 'The Story'.

You talk of a variety of ways 'very diplomatic and subtle ones' in which Carlo could have spoken.

I suggest you watch and listen to the content again. He achieves just that.

The 'sorry', as I have suggested, is one of sympathy, not of contrition or remorse, an admission of guilt or of wrong-doing by his player or the club.

He subtly refers to VVD 'mistimed tackle' and a 'coming together' with James which means the Colombian is unfit to play this weekend.

He uses a similar phrase in describing the Pickford-VVD collison as 'mistimed contact.'

In doing this he has very subtly linked VVD to two similar football incidents - 'mistimed coming together'. In one, he injured our player. In the other, he got injured.

Why? Because, as Carlo goes on to say, PL football is high-speed and sometimes injuries happen. 'That's football', the Italian concludes.

He is also very subtle in denouncing the charges laid against Jordan Pickford. He refutes that our keeper was 'malicious', 'premeditated' or 'stupid' in his play.

Without naming names, he very subtly, but directly, is calling out pundits, journalists and Liverpool's Wijnaldum who labelled Jordan such.

I repeat, Carlo and the club have played this very cutely. IMO, of course.

Stan Schofield
101 Posted 22/10/2020 at 22:58:49
Jay@100: You really shouldn't make personal comments, about my naivety or anything else, whilst discussing something of substance. It's just unnecessary.
John Boon
102 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:04:18
Because James finished the Derby the general population have totally forgotten the TWO vicious tackles that were laid on him. He probably could have limped off to be the injured hero. Unfortunately there has been so much about VVD that he alone is viewed as some heroic Red who was sythed down by our vicious frenetic goalie. It was an unfortunate collision in which neither player drew back. Pickford himself could have easily have been the injured party. The game is a contact sport and quite often the contact ends up in an injury.
Stan Schofield
103 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:08:26
Jay@100: But putting my comment @101 to one side, I'm sure that Don Carlo could be quite impressed by the quality of this debate if he ever read ToffeeWeb. He'd probably think it's orders of magnitude better than the quality of LFC's handling of matters. Perhaps Jürgen could benefit from a reading of all this, he certainly needs some tuition in restraint.
Jay Wood
[BRZ]

104 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:15:25
Erhm...Stan.

Like 'Sorry' is an appropriate word to express sympathy (as Carlo does), 'naive' (IMO) is an appropriate word to describe your position if you truly believe Carlo could have used alternative words that would have excluded any possibility at all of the media miscontruing his words.

You have clearly signalled in your time on TW your contempt for the media as harbingers of truth. Nothing Carlo could have said or done would have prevented them from fabricating a headline and presenting 'The Story' in the manner that best serves their interests. 'Truth' is incidental.

Suggesting you are naive because of what you have expressed in this thread goes against the profile you have built for yourself on TW is a legitimate observation.

Nothing 'personal' about it, at all.

Justin Doone
105 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:16:47
Law suit against Wini for defamation.

Moving on, James is a massive miss. Gomes came into the club as a passer, a creator but James clearly shows the difference between world class and very good.

Both James and Ric will be missed.

I'd like to see Bernard start as a creator from the right and Iwobi or Gordon on the left as more direct runners.

I prefer Doucoure deep to help the defense but has energy to get forward when the opportunity arises.

Rob Dolby
106 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:24:33
This is terrible news, Rodriguez is worth the admission money alone if only we had the option to attend the game. Rodriguez always looked to me to be playing 2nd fiddle to other galacticos but he is an absolute Rolls Royce of a player and will be a major loss whilst he is out.

I expect Sigurdsson and Iwobi to replace Richarleson and Rodriguez. Hopefully Godfrey keeps his place. I expect a tight game with whoever comes out better between Ings and DCL winning the game.

Paul Birmingham
107 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:42:31
This is the biggest game in terms of squad and player availability, and will test the strength and spirit of the squad.

Godfrey looks a natural and also I’d swap Siggy for Gomes, and between Gordon, Bernard and Iwobi to take Richarlisons place.

Always a tough fixture, hopefully the players can take the chances and get 3 points.

Looking forward to this match.

Kevin Molloy
108 Posted 22/10/2020 at 23:52:23
the concern I have is how dependent we are on one player. Without James, it feels like we might be back to where we started, such is his influence. Of course other players are playing better, but will they keep it up when the supply line isn't there.I think the real test of managerial genius is when it doesn't matter if players drop out, the team still wins. What team is not much mentioned by Evertonians is the championship winning team of 87. And no wonder, who cares about Adams Langley Pointon Harper and Power. But Howard got that team to win the league against a formidable liverpool team, he just had inculcated a winning mentality. That is the test for Ancelotti.
Derek Thomas
109 Posted 22/10/2020 at 00:12:21
Ancelotti, facing a media horde that has every different version of the footballing...'have you stopped beating your wife yet' questions ready to ask about St. Virgil of the Knee, did all he could to play it down and move on.

There is no right answer...not for the press, who will write what they want anyway.

All we can do is hopefully beat Southampton which will annoy the rs even more.

The rs have an aging team (on massive wages) just on the wane - but won't admit it.
Again hopefully with Fenway not flush with cash poor replacements will be sourced and the slid will accelerate like Everton and united in the early 70s and klopp who is only only 1 smart arse ball boy away from a melt down.

Kieran Kinsella
110 Posted 23/10/2020 at 00:56:59
Kevin 108

I get your point and a shudder went down my spine when I heard James was out. But, in calmer reflection, we really haven’t seen the attacking side of Doucoure yet and while defensively he’s been excellent I think his offense is his strength. This is a chance for him to shine. Additionally, while there is pervasive negativity around them, we have won games with Sig, Iwobi etc. Michael Keane is having a Steve Bruce 92 season, DCL is on fire. So I’m confident we can put in a good performance. But Soton, are so unpredictable. They seem streaky going on terrible runs then good runs. On their day they are brilliant. If they perform we could lose even if we play well. I’m just banking on them being due for another dip in form but I think it will be an exciting game.

Ernie Baywood
111 Posted 23/10/2020 at 02:30:49
With Richarlison out I was a bit worried for a James. So much of his game so far has been looking for Richarlison out wide and either pinging the ball or buying time and space. Take Richarlison away and James will still be class, but won't have as many tools at his disposal.

Maybe it's best both take their rest at the same time.

Just means we have to show some real character and gring this one out. Creatively, we'll be back to a similar level of personnel to parts of last season. Now we see what a good base in midfield can do for those players, and what a good run of form can do for their confidence.

I'll predict 1-0 to the Premier League's hatchet men. Long range goal from Gylfi.

Si Cooper
112 Posted 23/10/2020 at 05:26:09
I don’t expect it will be an easy game as Southampton have been showing consistent resilience and Ings is in form, but I’m surprised at the massive lowering of expectations indicated by some just because we will be hindered by the absence of James and Richy.
Did people expect us to go all season without some injuries or suspensions?
I don’t think the likes of Bernard or Anthony Gordon have necessarily fallen out of favour. I think Carlo has a clear idea of his starting eleven and has been putting some of the more versatile players on the subs bench to increase his options for changing his tactics depending on how the games panned out. Some players have probably been kept fresh precisely because the manager expected he would need to mix things up fairly frequently.
Anthony Gordon is still very young and Bernard most useful against the less physical midfield set-ups. I’m sure they’ve been told they will be used in the rotation no matter what and to be ready to come into the match squad at any time if we have players who are unexpectedly sidelined.
Stan Schofield
113 Posted 23/10/2020 at 06:22:25
Jay@104: I didn't say 'excluded any possibility'. I said 'minimise the media's potential for twisting'. The latter is a basis on which many people who face the media try to craft their words.

But on the matter of personal comments, it doesn't bother me personally what is said, but there's simply no point in making them. A point being made should stand or fail on its substance.

Stan Schofield
114 Posted 23/10/2020 at 06:27:49
James' omission is disappointing, but we do have three other very good new signings, two of whom have transformed the midfield and have been very significant in our good results so far. So the situation is very far from reverting to last season's Everton.

3-1 to the Blue Boys.

Derek@109: Good post, that last line sentence was spot on and very funny.

Danny O’Neill
115 Posted 23/10/2020 at 06:58:15
Disappointing, but I agree with the sentiment that we shouldn't be lowering expectation. There is a different vibe about the club and that will resonate down beyond the first 11 throughout the squad. Those now squad players will be different beasts to what we saw last season when called in.

Yes, 2 very key players out, but that happens throughout a season. Only Liverpool have freaks last year hence their constant whining because St Virgil got whacked last week.

We still have pretty much the same back 4 and I for one have no concerns with Godfrey coming in for Coleman from what I have seen of the young man. One of our most potent sources of supply for DCL has been down that left hand side, so Digne is key. Also, we still have a very strong midfield 3 of Allan, Gomes and Doucoure with one of the most in form strikers in the country in front of them.

There is no falling out of favour for Gordon, Bernard etc. We now have better quality from which to select and although very different times, I think Carlo is very much like Howard Kendall. Most of the time, if his best 11 is fit, it starts, the rest have to live with that and wait their chance to be part of something on the rise.

Tony Hill
116 Posted 23/10/2020 at 07:05:19
I think Ancelotti has been elegant and subtle and retained the club’s dignity. Unlike the apes up the road.
Eddie Dunn
117 Posted 23/10/2020 at 07:52:10
If James is missing (and I still think he might make the bench) then it is a platform for one of the others to play the role. The system looks good and hopefully others will see it as their opportunity and step up to the challenge.
DCL is now the most important member of the team. We have no recognised back-up while Richarlison is banned, unless the boss has seen someone in the under 23s who could deputise. Spurs have this Vinicious lad from Benfica, a 6ft 3 Brazillian who had a good game last night. I feel that we really missed the boat not getting someone to cover DCL.
Brian Murray
118 Posted 23/10/2020 at 08:34:34
Gordon’s acceleration is something we seen he has but didn’t really know he had and it could be a useful ploy in the next few weeks. Far more trustworthy not to fade than a twenty minute Bernard huff and puff. Siggy is one of the culprits that eat us down and disappears when it suits him. Alternative the Iwobi Gordon and hopefully Simms axis for now.
Tony Abrahams
119 Posted 23/10/2020 at 08:45:18
Ancellotti has said he was sorry to see Van Dyke injured, but said the player himself knows that it wasn’t intentional, which is what parts of the media have tried to insinuate.

Parts of the same media have concentrated on sorry, because it fits the narrative of the way this incident has been reported, but the word sorry, is often used to tell people it’s gone now, so let’s forget about things that can’t be changed, and let’s move on.

Let’s concentrate on the next game, and stop arguing about something that’s gone, unless it’s with Liverpudlians of course!

I’d play Tom Davies on Sunday, because I want us to roll up our sleeves and scrap, just like we did to stay in the game last Saturday

Christopher Timmins
120 Posted 23/10/2020 at 09:08:17
Injuries are part and parcel of any season, we just have to get on with things and Sunday should be an opportunity for likes of Gordon, Iwobi, Kenny and Siggy to show that they can step when called upon. I hope we go with like for like replacements and not a change to the system to incorporate certain players.

Still expecting three points from the game!

Derek Taylor
121 Posted 23/10/2020 at 09:40:52
Rather fear the honeymoon is over as injuries and bans see the team needing to rely on last season's failures. 'Top six' finishes need at least 18 players of quality and whilst Carlo has 'done great' to recruit quality 'first picks', the back up roster is 'iffy' at best.

What a tragedy that no one was allowed to be there to see our greatest start in years which will soon be forgotten. Steel yourselves for a return to reality !

Brian Williams
122 Posted 23/10/2020 at 10:08:49
Oh Derek! Or should I say Victor?
You've got us beaten before the game's been played man.
Have a bit of positivity! :-)
Derek Knox
123 Posted 23/10/2020 at 10:17:20
Brian @122, " I don't believe it! "

Derek, getting us Derek's some bad street cred there dude! :-)

Mike Corcoran
124 Posted 23/10/2020 at 10:29:29
Wouldn’t be surprised to see James start Sunday. Maybe a little of the old mind games from Carlo
Jakub Kollar
125 Posted 23/10/2020 at 10:52:12
I just realized that both teams sitting at the top of the league table have the same main sponsor on their shirts. Cazoo must be happy about that.
John Pendleton
126 Posted 23/10/2020 at 10:53:49
Lyndon, I have a problem with your headline - James set to miss Saint's trip.

James didn't miss St Virgil's trip - he got knocked over - and that's why he's out against Southampton.

8-1 to the blues with Southampton scoring first, obviously.

Tony Shelby
127 Posted 23/10/2020 at 11:10:37
I'm hoping that Carlo's comments re: James were just a subtle way for the Italian to have a dig at the RS following the fuss about Dick Van Dyke and "mistimed tackles".

Fingers-crossed.

Jamie Crowley
128 Posted 23/10/2020 at 11:14:56
Personally I'm really hoping Gordon comes in for James. I'd really like to see the kid let loose and play, told to focus on attacking primarily and leave the folks behind him to defend.

This game against Southampton now is the barometer. How we play without James and Richarlison will say a lot about this "new look" Everton side.

Depth and health are the keys. With our two best players out of the squad, we're about to see if we can handle the challenge. If we can win games like these while depleted, the sky is the limit. We don't have the congested fixture list presently, and we need to take advantage of that and pile on as many points as possible.

John McFarlane Snr
129 Posted 23/10/2020 at 11:27:43
Hi John [102] I extend my sincere apologies to Virgil Van Dijk because I referred to him as Van Dyke, who was [a certain Dick] of some repute, but then again maybe it's a mistake easily made. I didn't see the tackles that he put in because as you will be aware, I am serving a self imposed TV ban. It was
however referred to during the Radio Merseyside commentary, but apparently not on the Match Of the Day programme, possibly an oversight?
Brian Harrison
130 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:04:55
I see even today on Talksport they are still going on about Pickfords challenge on VVD. I think the only way to put this to bed is for us Evertonians to have a candle lit march from our ground to the Cathedral were we can remove our shoes and socks and walk over hot coals so we can feel the same pain as our neighbours supporters. We can call it a vigil for Virgil.
Martin Berry
131 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:18:04
I don't see why anyone should be worrying about this game, yes they played well against us but that was last season.
They have a good manager and it will be tough,however with the talent we have within the squad I expect a win.
John McFarlane Snr
132 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:27:23
Hi Derek [123] our game against Southampton takes on a 'Saintly' aura following your canonization of Prince Rupert in an earlier post, and thanks to the subsequent canonization of Virgil Van Dijk by several ToffeeWebber's, it can now be classed as a 'Saints vs Saints and Sinners' clash.
Jerome Shields
133 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:36:44
It will be interesting to see Ancelotti selection. Good luck and hopefully a quick recovery. He could have been injured worse with a late tackle from behind.
Jon Harding
134 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:38:34
John McFarlane Snr @129- fair play to our friends at Sky Sports News yesterday when covering the Carlo "sorry" presser. They did include the James injury storyline and showed VD clattering into James. It was the first time I'd seen it because, and you're quite right, it was not part of the MOTD coverage last Saturday.
Christine Foster
135 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:44:54
John, no Dick Van Dyke is rather apt, as in Mary Poppins he led the dance of all the penguins which looked remarkably like RS back line.. I seem to remember the scatty admiral looking out to sea looked remarkably line Kipperty Klopp as well..
As for Mary Poppins I refuse to make her a figure of ridicule by associating her with any of that lot.
Santa Krsh
136 Posted 23/10/2020 at 12:45:55
We are tactically very flexible where Carlo seems to choose his tactics based on opposition.
For example, against the reds, there were no dilly dallying short passing between Panic Picks and the defense. Most of the Goal kicks were Long, though that would not please some, it was an effective way of looking to nick the second ball and send Richy thru.
So, in the same way, I expect Carlo to set the team based on Soton's style & more so, since we will be missing 2 of our flair players, we could possibly see Plan B or C where Kenny (if fit) and Digne dump crosses into our box & try to nick one in.
These are the games that will show our true character and also, these are the games which will determine where we finish this season.

COYB. We are Gonna win the League

Derek Knox
137 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:08:32
John @ 132, Thanks for highlighting my error in canonizing Rupert, from his Princely status, in an earlier article. At least my recognition of him was by way of respect, and not via an aerosol paint spray. :-)
Frank Thomas
138 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:11:47
So we beat Man Utd 4-0 and it maybe could have been more and yet the following season our performances go into freefall why? because we sold Idressa and our whole defensive line crumbled. Meaning last seasons attacks were constantly undermined in efforts to bolster the defence.

On Saturday we lost one defender (Coleman) who was very capably replaced by Godfrey and we did not fall apart even against an 'as usual aggressive lfc mob'.

The game against Southampton will be different and will under Mr Ancelloti's new 'take your chance to gain a first team place' spirit, give the other players an opportunity to show their pedigree.

Every player will be fully aware that Bolaise, Ramirez and even Walcott have not performed and have been shipped. This is a different manager if you don't perform, sign no signs of effort or simply don't want to be here you will be shipped out ask Kean. He in turn should ask Francis Jeffers or Jack Rodwell if you should leave Everton when they want to improve you.

James to be replaced by Bernard and Gordon and Richarlison by Iwobi and Tosun.

So tomorrow who ever comes in will hopefully amaze us with their previously hidden skills because they can concentrate on attack.
I think we might see Niels Nkounkou on the bench. To keep our defenders on their toes.

Justin Doone
139 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:18:27
My last chat about them.
Let them worry about missing their best defensive player. It's their problem, their pressure, their pre made excuse if they fail to win games etc.

Nothing to do with us or our next game. We have our own concerns.

James the creater is out, I'd pick Bernard to fill the void with the same licence to move infield when space opens up.

Ric the runner, the forward line engine also out. I think Boloasie may be the nearest thing to him in terms of pace, strength and goal threat but that's sadly not an option. So for me Gordon starts because of his energy and defending. Iwobi to replace either in the 2nd half.

Lastly a question. Who's turn is it to take out Ings and let the media moan about that whilst we get on with our title charge.

My answer, surely that should have been Besics role? Never mind..

Phil Smith
140 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:26:10
A few changes necessary:
Drop Pickford (he never will)
Start Godfry at right back
Siggy in for Gomes (who has his worst game in a blue shirt last week)
Iwobi in for James
Gordon in for Richy (playing exact same position, supporting DCL). 2 defenders on the bench (if Kenny is fit) as well, please.
Chris Williams
141 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:46:53
Carlo just announced that James has a chance for Sunday, after this mornings training.
Santa Krsh
142 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:50:54
Chris @141.. The week keeps getting better and better.. 16 points from 6.. we are gonna win the league!!!
Chris Williams
143 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:52:50
Yup!

And he made his point about Virgil the Martyr!

Joe McMahon
144 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:53:16
Phil @140, I agree with that, but we don't pick the team unfortunately. I'd love to, then Pickford and Gomes wouldn't feature in a long time. I also wouldn't have let Moise Keen go (but that's probably just me)
Rob Halligan
145 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:53:57
James has a great chance of playing on Sunday. He trained very well today, although not flat out, and will train again tomorrow before a decision is made. Also Ben Godfrey to start at right back.
Stephen Brown
146 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:53:57
We are witnessing a great manager at work! Pretend James is injured and name check Van Djyk as the reason!! Make a point that Van Djyk is no angel !

Next day James has miraculous recovery and should be fine !!

What’s the bets he starts on Sunday and scores🤞🤞.

Carlo has been around the block!

Ken Kneale
147 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:54:41
Phil 140 - to drop Jordan Pickford for this weekend would undo much of the classy low profile work the club and Carlo have done to stay above the animalistic mentality over the park. It would also be staff management at its worst - not something associated with this manager. Whatever our personal view on Jordan, we need a trench mentality here and support our own until natural selection process takes its course - on that point I am prepared to back the judgement of the manager as he plots our uprising and puts us back on the map
Derek Knox
148 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:55:39
Phil @140, I agree about dropping Gomes, not only last game against you know who, but he has been poor basically for some time, but doubt whether Carlo will, as he has enforced changes anyway. He will be reluctant to make too many changes.

I was very impressed with Ben Godfrey who slotted in seemlessly when replacing Seamus at the week-end, so would think that his name will be on the team-sheet from the off. Also doubt whether it would be necessary or counter productive to replace Jordan.

It would be like admitting he has done something wrong, which I don't believe he did, mistimed and a bit mindless maybe, but not in any way intentional. The vacant slot if James doesn't make it will most likely be Siggy or Bernard. Gordon or Iwobi for Richie makes good sense too, probably Iwobi, as he has been included more recently.

Ernie Baywood
149 Posted 23/10/2020 at 13:59:11
I don't know if the #prayforjames posts worked or if Carlo's playing games.

If it's the latter, then it's A grade stuff!

Rob Halligan
150 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:03:47
I couldn't catch the name of "the injury" James sustained, but it was an injury resulting in heavy bruising. I'm not surprised he's bruised to fuck the way Van Dijk went in on him full force with knees and elbows. He should get a retrospective three match ban for that dangerous challenge.
Ernie Baywood
151 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:08:30
Just watching the presser. The wry smile before answering and the fact that he released that few minutes yesterday ahead of an actual press conference should tell us a lot.

Some on here were asking for a response in support of Pickford. Looks like he went all out!

John McFarlane Snr
152 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:13:06
Hi Jon [134] although I have the Sky Spots news I tend in the main to rely on the BBC teletext, I know it's not described as such nowadays but old habits die hard. You may not be aware of my self imposition regarding the live coverage of football games behind closed doors, but it's water under the bridge now, and the only comment I will make is that I have no intention of attending games until it's considered safe for everyone. The idea that supporters will be allowed in by an increasing percentage, doesn't appeal to me, with approximately 30,000 season ticket holders it may take some time to guarantee entry, and at the age of 82 it's quite possible that I've seen my last ''live'' football match.

Hi Christine [135] I must confess that I've never seen the Mary Poppins film although I have seen a few clips over the years, and aptly the song "A Few Spoons of Sugar" has proved to be of comfort to me when it comes to the fortunes/misfortunes of Everton. I hope you weren't offended by my indirect insult to Virgil Van Dijk, it was the only way I could get my point across without swearing.

Hi Derek [137] I trust that you understand that it was a tongue in cheek post, and it led to my reference of the "Saints vs Saints and Sinners" quote, of which I'm claiming copyright.

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

153 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:24:08
Carlo once again controlling the narrative in today's pre-Southampton presser.

Carlo's Full Presser

First up, a Sky reporter asks him to confirm if James is definitely out. Before he completes the question, Carlo is breaking into a wry grin. 'No. His recovery was really good. He trained partially today. He will train tomorrow and he is better now and maybe he can play.' The injury was 'quite a big hemotoma (bruising).'

JJK not ready yet. Must train more.

Asked specifically about Wijnaldum's comments, Carlo dead bats him away. 'Did you hear what I said yesterday?' Pressed, he simply repeats yesterday's words.

Asked if Jordan Pickford is 'in the right frame of mind' and whether he is considering taking him out of the spotlight, Carlo is matter-of-fact. 'No. He trained well. Is really focussed on the game as are the other team mates.'

On Southampton, he acknowledges we didn't play well against them at Goodison and that we need to be at 100%. On being top of the league, he speaks of our new-found consistency and resilience which we simply need to maintain.

A lass from Premier League Productions then references NSNO and asks if Carlo has his own motto he asks the players to live up to.

Carlo says the club motto is a good standard to try to live up and is a good motivation for all.

She then asks how crucial is DCL to Everton. Carlo gives a little chuckle and shares a story from the training ground this very day.

'I was joking with Dominic what was his most important goal. Dominic started thinking, and I told him 'Don't think! The most important goal is the next one. The past is past. Because he has done so well everyone expects a little bit more, so that has to be his motivation - to show a little bit more.'

He then talks about Southampton's compact game and how we need to be clever with the ball to win the game.

The BBC guy was next up, Alistair Magowan. He always strikes me as the dullest, least imaginative journalist in these pressers.

'Has Jordan Pickford personally apologized to VVD?'

Carlo said Jordan spoke with Henderson after the match, tried to contact VVD, but really he has no idea if he managed to talk to him.

Asked about the absence of Coleman, Richy and possibly James, Carlo says all the players who haven't featured so much this season have trained really well, very competitively, and it is going to be a hard decision who plays.

Another journalist then asks about Ben Godfrey's performance. Carlo spoke that he was out of position and after initial adjustment difficulties against one of the best wingers in the league Mane he performed really well. He has trained at right back this week, Carlo has no doubts he can play there and he even confirmed 'He is going to play at right back' on Sunday.

And THAT is as far as I got!

The screen went blank and YouTube where it is hosted showed a message that this video is unavilable because it is 'private'.

Some temporary cock-up by some techie, I imagine.

John McFarlane Snr
154 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:25:48
Hi Christine [135] correction I've just remembered it's, "A Spoonful of Sugar", it's an age thing. A word of advice if I may, whether you grow old gracefully or disgracefully don't worry about it, the secret is to grow old 'slowly' unfortunately no one has cracked it yet.
Rob Halligan
155 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:39:57
Jay # 153. Thanks for clarifying the name of the injury, hematoma. Guess I should have googled what a bruising injury is before I posted. It's not a muscular or limb injury as such. Hematoma is a solid swelling of clotted blood within the tissues.

Bruises generally are not serious. In contrast, a hematoma is a leakage from a larger blood vessel. The mark that it leaves might be dark blue or black, but it can also cause significant redness. More severe traumas cause hematomas, which may be serious and require medical treatment. ( I googled then copied and pasted this bit. 😁😁).

Brian Williams
156 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:40:09
The presser on Youtube comes up as "private" for me and I can't watch. Anyone else seeing that?

Oops posted that before I read all of Jay's post.

The link to it has been taken off the Everton website too?

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

157 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:48:05
Keep watching the skies, Brian.

Temporary down. Be back up soon.

I always like to listen to the last journo who is a cheery Colombian since James joined us.

Carlo teases him: 'Let me guess. You are going to ask me about James, right?'

Ernie Baywood
158 Posted 23/10/2020 at 14:49:03
Sounds like he had a dead leg doesn't it? A deep bruise with a bit of blood pooling. You have to wait for the blood to drain away.

A decent dead leg can take a couple of weeks. Can also come good in a few days. Though I'd expect James gets better treatment than I used to get.

Neil Cremin
159 Posted 23/10/2020 at 15:01:16
As anybody who posts on TW knows, I am no fan of Jordan as a GK, but no way should he be dropped on Sunday. It would appear to be a submission by the club to media pressure. The tackle was a result of the typical way Jordan plays, impulsive and headless but not malicious just mistimed. If VVK had made contact with the ball and it hit Jordans hand it would be considered a great and brave save.
Jordan needs to be backed by the club and supporters until the media frenzy dies down. Then in our own time we reevaluated whether we have a better option. Ultimately we will replace him because (like with refs) he all too often becomes the topic of post match conversation. We need a keeper who has a steadying influence on the team.
Kieran Kinsella
160 Posted 23/10/2020 at 15:10:21
Gordon doesn't seem like a good option to me. He reminds me a lot of Eddie The Eagle Edwards both in terms of appearance, but also his performance. People love him and wish him to do well but every time we see him in action he seems to come up short.
Mike Gaynes
161 Posted 23/10/2020 at 15:29:49
Rob #145, that's great news.
Derek Knox
162 Posted 23/10/2020 at 15:32:21
Is there a Doctor in the House? I had to double check there Rob (155) thought you had been keeping it from us, until I read your Google admission at the end. :-)

Kieran, Regarding Gordon, your finishing statement would explain why he never made it as a porn star. :-)

Kieran Kinsella
163 Posted 23/10/2020 at 15:41:48
lmao took me a second to process that Derek
Jay Harris
164 Posted 23/10/2020 at 15:49:37
Personally I would try Nkoukou on the left instead of Richie especially if James is fit.

Put Siggy in for Gomes and then we have Nkoukou covering defensively for Siggy when necessary and making the overlaps for Siggy to feed and give DCL a chance for a hat trick.

Simple isn't it (If only).

Will Mabon
165 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:01:53
Simple maybe Jay, but I agree. I'd like to see that.

Depends if Carlo feels Nkounkou has the nouse and experience for it. It's an option for part of the game also.

Richard Mason
166 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:03:11
On YouTube, the presser went into a little bit of the papers questions, Paul Joyce was up first.

Asking carlo why he named van dick in the James injury and one or two more nasty questions.

Carlo wasn't fazed. Joyce is obviously a Liverpool supporter and should be banned from Everton pressers

Jay Wood
[BRZ]

167 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:04:15
Full video back up:

Carlo Saints' Presser

To continue where I previously left off, a different journo asks about Everton's away form this season. Carlo speculates that in general it is maybe easier to play away without spectators, but our improved ambition and motivation is also a contributary factor.

The same journo flags up that Michael Keane will play his 100th PL game for Everton and Carlo praises his performances and the fact that he is scoring goals as well.

Finally, Carlo beams a big smile when the Colombian journalist comes on asking his inevitable question about James. Where is the hemotoma and will he play on Sunday?

Carlo says he can't answer the first and if he plays will be determined by how he trains Saturday and if the swelling goes down further. The Colombian journo follows up with a question about Mina's performance last week and Carlo expresses his satisfaction with him, whilst noting he did 'a little mistake' which allowed Salah to score. No throwing his player under the bus.

Brian Williams
168 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:04:24
Hey Derek, when you were in hozzy did you have Bernard Manning's sense of humour transplanted ? ;-) Lol.
Michael Barrett
169 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:07:39
Richie 166 I heard that last reporter...you could feel the hatred through the screen...I cannot believe know one else heard that...I was fucking screaming at me phone.
Richard Mason
170 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:14:37
Michael #169. That's exactly how I would describe it. Hatred in the questions. Full of venom.

I think carlo acquitted himself well. Although I see a few comments on YouTube. People saying carlo said fuck off.

It cut out before I heard it

Brian Williams
171 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:21:42
Last reporter I heard was the Colombian guy. Wonder if it's been cut?
Jay Wood
[BRZ]

172 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:29:50
Like you Brian, whilst there was a long pause with a silent Carlo on screen as they waited for non-newspaper journos to leave, on the video now posted we didn't hear any of the questioning from print journos.
Dale Rose
173 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:34:08
A lot about Dick Van Dyke. He has now embraced political correctness and will now be known as Penis Lorry Lesbian. Thank you.

The Thought Police.

Brian Williams
174 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:40:52
I see that wonderfully gifted and articulate ex player Perry Groves has stated that he knows for sure that Pickford set out to hurt Van Dijk because he (Groves) did it himself to an ex Spurs player. He said it was obvious that Pickford didn't go for the ball too.
What the complete knobhead doesn't realise is that Pickford actually GOT the ball first.
And to claim you know somebody's thought process and decision making because "I did it" makes it absolutely clear you're a fucking idiot.
In addition to that it's now the turn of Adrian to condemn Pickers via Sky Sports. They must have picked the names out of the hat because they're not doing it in alphabetical order by the looks of it.


Guesses please for the next rs player to come out and have a whinge on it?

Will Mabon
175 Posted 23/10/2020 at 16:45:15
Brian - it's gonna happen. They're going to get a full week out of it. Ridiculous.
Kevin Molloy
176 Posted 23/10/2020 at 17:02:23
Paul Joyce is supposed to cover both clubs independently for the times. isn't that marvellous, the guy covering our games actively looking to criticise the club. His match report of the game was an absolute disgrace.
Kieran Kinsella
177 Posted 23/10/2020 at 17:05:39
After dealing with the Madrid media, Carlo eats up the likes of Paul Joyce with a couple of slices of toast for breakfast each day.
Martin Mason
178 Posted 23/10/2020 at 17:06:45
I once had a bike crash coming past Breda one day rushing to get to Dover for the ferry. Totalled the bike and after being thrown high I manage to land on my backside and lower back. I fractured my Coccyx which believe me is painful but had a hematoma all over my arse. My wife said it looked like one of those mandrill baboons at Chester Zoo.
Chris Williams
179 Posted 23/10/2020 at 17:13:34
Adrian going out like a good little boy, to try and refute Robert Green’s objective analysis earlier in the week.

I really don’t understand why they’re persisting with this. I mean, what could they be trying to achieve?!!!

Dave Abrahams
180 Posted 23/10/2020 at 18:23:29
Are these press conferences compulsory,Carlo looked as bored as the questions asked, wasn’t any of those reporters interested in Sunday’s game.

Well done Carlo you could have asked those people a few more like the one you asked “Didn’t you hear what I said yesterday”? He kept his composure well and never looked uncomfortable or ruffled, Klopp could learn a lot off Carlo, staying nice and calm and agreeable, he goes off on one when the questions don’t suit him, I think he will be getting asked some of those questions in the next few weeks.

Kieran Kinsella
181 Posted 23/10/2020 at 18:27:42
Dave 180

Yes they are compulsory unfortunately. Other than injury updates they're vey tedious

Kim Vivian
182 Posted 23/10/2020 at 19:19:58
Can someone not remind these fucking journos how many goals the appropriately initialed VD let in in his previous league game?
Rob Halligan
183 Posted 23/10/2020 at 19:33:55
Derek # 162. I actually suffered a hematoma injury many years ago (although I didn't know it at the time), when I took an almighty whack to my leg. I carried on playing, but after the game when we were back in the changing room, after taking my sock off, the leg I took the whack on was literally black from the knee, all the way down my calf to the ankle. The team we were playing, Liverpool Medics, one of them said I needed to go to hospital as he thought I had broken my leg. Obviously this was incorrect, I had in fact got burst blood vessels which caused the blackness. I went to hospital anyway who just recommended physio treatment. If I remember, I was back playing within a week, two at most. So all in all, I think Rodriguez will deffo be playing Sunday.
Michael Barrett
184 Posted 23/10/2020 at 19:38:26
Jay, after the long pause, Joyce asked a question. He treated Carlo with absolutely no respect... horrible kopite cunt.
Bill Watson
185 Posted 23/10/2020 at 19:58:31
Thanks for your link, Jay.

It was the same You Tube clip I watched on the Everton web page but the sound was excellent.

Every week I have the same issue. I can hear Ancelotti just fine but can hardly hear the questions. Does anyone else have this problem?

Darren Hind
186 Posted 23/10/2020 at 20:01:03
Michael.

I wouldnt worry too much about Carlo. Joyce wouldnt have even registered.

My reservations about Mr Ancelotti are well documented, but you could land a 747 in this fellas back garden and he would shrug his shoulders and give his customary "tis normal" answer.

The guy simply doesn't do flustered

Stan Schofield
187 Posted 23/10/2020 at 20:02:35
Guys, I think the RS are having a real mental problem with Everton at the moment (no shit Sherlock, you might say). I received this from a red friend, a good friend and decent bloke who’s never done this kind of thing before:

Rhys Williams - 19 years old. Champions League Group appearances 1

Everton Football Club - 142 years old. Champions League Group appearances 0

Obviously this is very sad, on a number of levels. My only response was, if Everton had won the CL and then the PL, the last thing I’d do is think about Liverpool. I think you should focus on Liverpool, not Everton, and enjoy the moment, you don’t know how long it might take to get another such moment.

There’s clearly a fixation with Everton, and it seems the derby has increased that fixation. The derby, plus us being top of the league.

This is good, we’re clearly a threat.

Dave Abrahams
188 Posted 23/10/2020 at 20:10:17
Bill (185), yes, Bill,I have the same problem, thought it was me, my ears are going on the blink, but like you I can hear Carlo quite clearly but not the questioners.
Stan Schofield
189 Posted 23/10/2020 at 20:51:38
Bill@185: Don Carlo is a diplomat and shrewd operator. He minimises what he says, and this comes naturally to him. He no doubt thinks some journalists are idiots, but being a natural dilplomat such thoughts are hidden. He has his own momentum, which derives from his qualities, and it isn't something that would be at all disturbed by media people. He plays with journalists, and it's entertaining to behold. Compared with him, people like Klopp are like children. But of course Don Carlo would deny any of it, and would say that he is just a simple man who wants to do the best job he can for Everton, whilst enjoying the delights of living in Crosby and walking his dog on the beach whilst enjoying beautiful sunsets. He is the perfect fit for Everton, and it frustrates others, especially our neighbours across the park. Just enjoy it.

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