23/09/2024 493comments  |  Jump to last

Farhad Moshiri's Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group have issued a joint statement confirming that the Texas-based firm have agreed a deal for the purchase of the Anglo-Iranian's majority stake in Everton Football Club. 

The announcement comes after Sky Sports correspondent, Alan Myers, reported earlier today that Dan Friedkin was in advanced negotiations with Moshiri for the takeover of his stake in the Club, just a couple of months after he had withdrawn from talks due to concerns over the complexities of Everton's various debts.

The Friedkin Group are one of Blues' three major creditors, having fronted the Club £200m earlier this year to pay off another loan from MSP Sports Capital. They were initially granted exclusivity by Moshiri in June and, just as was the case with their negotiations with AS Roma prior to completing a $700m purchase of the Italian club, the Americans came back to the table to complete a buyout.

Myers said that it was his understanding that TFG were prepared to make an equity investment of £400m-500m into the Club and that the deal had accelerated following a "huge change in the situation over the weekend". Meanwhile, in The Times, Paul Joyce claims that deals have been struck with Everton's major creditors, Rights & Media Funding and A-CAP, the backers behind previous bidders, 777 Partners.

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This came after a claim from Bloomberg last week that Friedkin had revived his previous interest in the Blues, with a possible agreement thought to be much closer than it was before. 

Missouri-based billionaire, John Textor, appeared to the front-runner to buy the Blues having also held extensive talks with Moshiri while also attempting to find a buyer for this Eagle Football Holdings' 45% stake in Crystal Palace.

Last week, it was claimed that Textor's proposed takeover of Everton was 'progressing well'. However, Myers clarified the situation with Textor, who was unable to be granted true exclusivity due to his involvement at Selhurst Park:

"Textor’s agreement was never exclusive, just an understanding with Moshiri, they agreed a certain time to get things done, nothing to do with anything else, just a personal agreement between the two."

A statement posted on evertonfc.com at 2pm read:

Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group confirm that they have reached agreement over the terms of the sale of Blue Heaven Holdings’ majority stake in Everton Football Club. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval, including from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.

A Friedkin Group spokesperson said: "We are pleased to have reached an agreement to become custodians of this iconic football club. We look forward to providing stability to the club, and sharing our vision for its future, including the completion of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock."

Dan Friedkin, 59, is worth a reported $6bn and his firm, which owns Gulf States Toyota and has interests in resorts, golf courses, aviation and cinema, double that.

In addition to Roma, where TFG attracted protests from supporters this weekend following the sacking of manager Daniele de Rossi just four games into the new season, have a controlling interest in French fourth-tier club AS Cannes.

The process of vetting Friedkin via the Premier League's Owners and Directors Test while also getting approval from the Football Association and Financial Conduct Authority is expected take a matter of weeks rather than months, with the hope that the takeover could be completed by the end of the year, perhaps sooner given that TFG are existing owners of another club from one of Europe's biggest leagues and Dan Friedkin himself is on the board of the European Club Association.

 

Reader Comments (493)

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Paul Hewitt
1 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:19:21
I don't understand why Friedkin is standing back, he's already paid off MSP for £200M. All that's left is 777 Partners at £200M and R&MF at £150M.

Moshiri only wants £50M payoff, so that's £600M for a Premier League club with a new stadium in 6 weeks. It's a bargain. Why's he waiting?

Fred Quick
2 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:31:25
Paul,

It looks like The Friedkin Group are now in pole position, but as always, the news of the takeover is subject to change.

The Friedkin Group are ‘closing in' on an Everton takeover, reports suggest.

According to Bloomberg, the American firm – headed by Dan Friedkin – are at an ‘advanced stage of negotiations with Toffees majority owner Farhad Moshiri's 94.1 per cent

Friedkin pulled the plug on purchasing Everton in July after being handed a period of exclusivity. That was reportedly due to a £200 million loan provided by former prospective owners 777 Partners.

Sam Hoare
3 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:39:46
The Friedkin Group coming back to the party, as always looked likely in my opinion. I thought they may wait till the Leadenhall case sorted itself out but perhaps they felt that Textor was getting a bit too close to the pie that they had earmarked for themselves.

Bad news for Dyche potentially! TFG fired De Rossi at AS Roma after just 4 games this season despite handing him a new contract in June!!

Andrew Ellams
4 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:42:56
Well, it sounds like Friedkin is about to blow Textor out of the water.

I'm okay with that: too many ifs and buts or maybes with Textor.

Paul Hewitt
5 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:44:06
Dyche had better start packing then.
Fred Quick
6 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:44:08
Sam,

I read something, last week, about Textor making a breakthrough with the whole 777 / Leadenhall situation and perhaps with that roadblock possibly removed, Friedkin was minded to get in touch with Moshiri and attempt to broker a deal with the Iranian?

The Roma CEO also left her position, as a result of the manager's removal. Ciao Bella!

Paul Hewitt
7 Posted 23/09/2024 at 10:54:37
The nightmare of Moshiri is nearly over...
Paul Hewitt
8 Posted 23/09/2024 at 11:25:37
So does investment not mean full takeover?
John Chambers
9 Posted 23/09/2024 at 11:32:05
Paul, I think this means he will pay off a number of the loans, eg, £200M to clear the 777 Partners/A-Cap loan.

Somewhere in the deal there will also be a payoff for Moshiri but I believe that was about £50M in previous negotiations. At the end of it, he will own the club and we will have considerably less debt.

Denis Richardson
10 Posted 23/09/2024 at 11:36:12
Equity investment ‘into the club' could mean just buying Moshiris shares and/or buying the shares and putting more money into the club (presumably to clear some of the other 3rd party debt).

Total non-Moshiri debt is about £600M, between Friedkin, Rights & Media, and 777 Partners. Friedkin wouldn't need to clear his own debt and 777's isn't repayable until 2026 I think. I'd assume the R&M debt would need to be cleared at a minimum.

Ultimately all debt for debt and not clear what's available for the squad in the interim.

Competitive tension at least should get Moshiri a higher price and so gone sooner.

Kunal Desai
11 Posted 23/09/2024 at 11:42:38
Wasn't the inital stumbling block surrounding paying off A-CAP? Assuming circumstances around them may have changed or some form of agreement in place.

Probably makes sense for The Friedkin Group to takeover as they have already put equity into the club. Textor still needs to sell his Crystal Palace shares.

Either way, just get this done, the saga keeps on dragging and dragging and dragging. Stabalise the club and get it moving forward.

Steve Brown
12 Posted 23/09/2024 at 11:56:54
This is an amazing surprise.

The civil court case between Leadenhall and A-Cap/777 has become more complex now that 777 are counter-suing Leadenhall.

If the legal issues on repaying the loan and/or the risk profile of the club's commercial agreement with 777 Partnerss was the reason for Friedkin walking away, then the landscape is even more challenging.

Now that Textor has tabled a bid, those deal-breakers seem to have evaporated.

Brian Harrison
13 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:00:51
Reminds me of the film Spartacus: "I have exclusivity to buy EFC." "No, I have exclusivity to buy EFC!!" "No! I have exclusivity to buy EFC!!!"

Maybe the lad in the flat in Manchester who wanted to own EFC a few years back may get exclusivity.

I know Alan Myers is normally a reliable source but in the last 6 months he has said 777 are close… and the last few weeks he said Textor was close; now back to Friedkin again.

Neil Lawson
14 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:09:53
Taxi for Mr Dyche.

Just as Branthwaite returns!!

Jack Convery
15 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:11:51
Hurrah. Don't want Textor anywhere near EFC. His ownership of Lyon has put them under PSR pressure and selling off players like they were confetti.

I like the sound of Friedkin. Apparently Di Rossi and the Roma CEO were at each other's throats, so he sacked both of them. Only people working in tandem, to get Roma back where he believes they should be, and who can work together; otherwise, sling your hook.

Come on, Dan, get it done asap.

Paul Hewitt
16 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:11:59
Wonder who the new manager will be.

Any ideas or preference?

Peter Hodgson
17 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:15:05
I breathed a sigh of relief when I heard this news. Still, it is only a report and there is, despite the deal being described as "close", things to work out. I hope they do as, the longer things went on with Textor, I became more and more concerned.

I will keep fingers, and everything else for that matter, crossed and wait impatiently for a resolution.

Jack Convery
18 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:18:02
BBC reporting it too now.

It must be true then!!!

James Lloyd
19 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:27:52
I want it done, but will reserve judgement until the new owner has had some time. Let's just hope the ship doesn't sink while he gets things in place.

I'm confident a win and some players back and everything will be rosier. just don't want to be cut adrift before that happens.

Andrew Ellams
20 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:28:49
Even if this happens, I can't imagine the Premier League will rubberstamp it in time for the January window.

If nobody at the club is prepared to act on Dyche before then, it could be too little, too late.

Peter Hodgson
21 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:29:04
Of course it's true, Jack.

You heard it on ToffeeWeb!

Rob Halligan
22 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:32:53
Peter #21…

If loads on ToffeeWeb said it was dark, I'd have to look out the window to make sure!

John Jacques
23 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:34:57
As others have pointed out, the walk away and return at a lower price was The Friedkin Group's strategy used at Roma, so probably the same here.

Maybe they were surreptitiously managing Dyche all along to lower the price by having him make those subs and put something in Jordan Pickford's drink...

Rob Halligan
24 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:39:43
Blimey!

Alan Myers just saying on Sky Sports News that a deal could completed as early as this evening! 🤞🤞🤞🤞

Tony Abrahams
25 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:45:21
I wasn't sure if Friedkin was going to come back in but I did find Textor's wording very strange, so let's just hope this sale goes through pronto.
Kunal Desai
26 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:48:33
Rob, that was Alan Irwin.

Needs to get done quickly.

James Marshall
27 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:48:55
Excellent news!

I don't like the cut of Textor's jib one bit.

Howard Don
28 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:53:38
Paul (1), I don't think it was the level of debt owed to 777/A-CAP and reaching agreement over it that put TFG off. It was more the open-ended risk attached to it due to the ongoing litigation.

Word was at the time that TFG asked Moshiri to indemnify them against that risk and he was averse to doing that. Could be some agreement now close with all parties?

Paul Hewitt
29 Posted 23/09/2024 at 12:54:55
Scrap the deal!

Apparently, Friedkin fancies Southgate as manager.

Christine Foster
30 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:03:07
Well, that's no surprise. I think most of the good money was waiting for the moment he would return, à la Roma.

The fact that Textor was getting close to a final agreement made the game of chicken academic. He obviously would have preferred it on his terms but Textor has upset his plans, I think.

It will be interesting to see how the deal is structured though.

Christine Foster
31 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:07:23
Funny but what do you reckon we win by on Saturday? Bet you, if this goes through, it will be a good 'un...


Dyche will be looking at the game clock to see how long he has left...

Steve Brown
32 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:09:35
I agree, Christine.

The open-ended risk attached to the litigation mysteriously disappeared when Friedkin relalised Textor was serious about buying the club.

I would put my last penny on the fact that Moshiri will not indemnify TFG as part of the new deal, nor persuade A-Cap/777 to accept a reduction in their loan amount.

Roy Johnstone
33 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:11:39
Paul @29.

A like-for-like replacement then. Overly negative, poor use of subs, and previous for being relegated.

I would be very surprised if Southgate takes any club job.

Rob Halligan
34 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:12:46
Sorry, Kunal…..yes, you're right.

I was just looking at a Twitter from Alan Myers when Alan Irwin said that, and I put Myers by mistake. My excuse and I'm sticking with it! 😅😅

Joe Corgan
35 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:18:39
Fair play to those posters who, a few weeks ago, predicted that TFG's withdrawal was little more than a bargaining tactic – the same employed during their takeover of Roma.

I do now expect a deal to be done post-haste though I'm still uncertain as to the level of their investment. Whatever it is, I just hope it spells the end of Farhad Moshiri's involvement in the club.

Christopher Timmins
36 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:18:52
Let's hope our Moshiri nightmare is about to end!!!!!!
Lester Yip
37 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:24:08
Nice!!

If a 3rd bidder comes into the fold now, I'm sure Friedkin will sign anything straight away.

James Marshall
38 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:28:33
Someone on here said this could be buttoned up by tonight.

Myers reckons it'll be a couple of months at least

Michael Lynch
39 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:34:17
This is exciting.

Please get it done.

Rob Halligan
40 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:45:03
James # 38………..It was me who said by tonight. This is what Irwin said. Forget that it's on Goodison News:

Friedkin Group set to agree Everton takeover deal in next 12 hours – Sky Sports

Christy Ring
41 Posted 23/09/2024 at 13:54:51
Hope everything goes through this time without any hitches.

Myers is confident, and it would be huge, and take massive pressure off the team.

Rob Halligan
42 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:01:01
Agree, Christy.

I do think Alan Irwin is being a tad optimistic saying a deal could be conluded by this evening, but hey, stranger things have happened.

Nick Page
43 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:02:34
It's done!
Soren Moyer
44 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:03:15
Done and dusted!

Jacob's ladder (in terms of Sun rays penetrating dark clouds)!?

Stu Gre
45 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:04:47
Let's hope this gets over the line now!
James Marshall
46 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:05:15
Joint statement from the club and Friedkin: https://www.evertonfc.com/news/joint-statement-

I clicked it and it throws a 404 Page Not Found error.

Welcome to Everton!

John Raftery
47 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:05:39
It's Friedkin — marvellous!
Donal Armani
49 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:06:46
Deal!!!
Eddie Dunn
50 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:07:15
That January transfer window looms large but who would want to join us with Dyche in charge?

A young bright coach might inspire players to come but nobody decent would want to play Dycheball.

Michael Lynch
51 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:07:16
Done deal! Sweet baby Jesus!

Come on!

Roy Johnstone
52 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:08:43
It's done, subject to approval.

Website down… reporting on Toffee TV.

Stu Gre
53 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:09:01
Blue Heaven Holdings and The Friedkin Group confirm that they have reached agreement over the terms of the sale of Blue Heaven Holdings' majority stake in Everton Football Club. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval, including from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.

A spokesperson for The Friedkin Group said: "We are pleased to have reached an agreement to become custodians of this iconic football club. We are focused on securing the necessary approvals to complete the transaction. We look forward to providing stability to the club, and sharing our vision for its future, including the completion of the new Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock."

Steve Hogan
54 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:09:42
Mike Hughes of Radio Merseyside claiming a joint statement between the club and TFG will be issued shortly.

The beginning of the end for the Moshiri reign.

Michael Lynch
55 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:10:49
I love how the announcement has crashed the Everton OS.

Moshiri going out in the same way that he's run the club – incompetently, chaotically, amateurishly.

James Marshall
56 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:11:24
The statement is up on Twitter/X and the OS on phones.

The Official Everton Website has gone into a bit of a meltdown on my laptop.

James Marshall
57 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:13:01
It's up again now.

I can't edit my post on here so I suspect TW is also about to go into meltdown mode!

Colin Malone
58 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:14:08
Seen on NewsNow, he wants Southgate.

Please, No!!!

Soren Moyer
59 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:14:51
Any relations to William Friedkin, the Exorcist director lol?
Rob Halligan
60 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:15:36
James, the News pages on the official site is the only one that cannot be viewed. Everything is fine.
James Marshall
61 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:16:42
Rob - yeah, it's working on the OS now anyway.
Ed Prytherch
62 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:21:04
This is very good news.

Now we just need to pick up some points.

Brian Harrison
63 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:22:20
At last, a deal has been done and The Friedkin Group are now the new owners of Everton Football Club.

I think I will wait a year or two before I pass judgement, as I was over the moon when I heard Moshiri and Usmanov had bought the club, and look how that turned out.

I guess Sean Dyche and his coaches may be fearful that the first thing new owners usually do is change managers; after all, Friedkin hired and sacked Mourhino… so, if he is quite happy to sack a high profile manager like Mourhino, I guess he won't be afraid to sack anyone, mind he does seem a bit trigger happy, yet time will tell.

Jack Convery
64 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:24:26
Does this mean we can now keep hold of Jarrad Branthwaite?

Or if Southgate gets the gig, he sells Jarrad and brings in Maguire and Shaw…

Aaaaarrghhhhhhhhhhhhh – I want my mummy!!!!!

Trevor Bailey
65 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:26:39
Could we have a Live Forum up for this?

I think it could be fun.

Danny Baily
66 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:26:56
Credit to those who called this when the initial deal fell through. I believe there's precedent for them returning to deals.

Great news.

Sean Kearns
67 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:27:45
Sounds a bit mad but he must keep Dyche for rest of this season… we can't go taking risks now with a new owner who wants to be in charge and show he's got big balls etc.

We don't need a foreign manager who wants to play good football until we have a better squad or more confidence within the current squad. We've led in the last 3 Premier League games, just need to close them out and we are okay.

Ray Roche
68 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:28:10
Christ, it's not official yet and people are complaining about who the new manager is going to bring in!!!

You couldn't make it up!! ;-)

James Marshall
69 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:31:50
I've never got anything right in my 51 years when it comes to predicting football!

However, in the last week, I predicted we'd lose on penalties, and now this!

Jack Convery
70 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:32:19
Di Rossi for Everton!

And Dyche for Roma!

Ed Prytherch
71 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:33:11
Dyche's best chance of staying on board for a while is to start winning games…

But even that may just be a stay of execution.

Paul Hewitt
72 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:34:09
Everton have confirmed the deal.👍
Ernie Baywood
73 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:35:20
End of an error.

There are no guarantees with the new era either but there's hope.

Andrew Clare
74 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:37:25
Good news. Hopefully now we can operate like a proper football club and put the disastrous Kenwright and Moshiri years behind us.

I just hope we get full clearance before the January transfer window.

Si Cooper
75 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:38:00
So is this really a done deal or just something Moshiri and Friedkin have ‘shaken hands' on?

If we really did use Textor's influence to get in some additions from Lyon, then I imagine he is spitting feathers now.

Brendan McLaughlin
76 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:38:50
Out of the fire and into the Friedkin pan perhaps...
Jarmo Rahnasto
77 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:39:05
Sean #67,

Exactly my thoughts!

Mike Gaynes
78 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:39:23
From the moment Friedkin's first try fell through, I was sure he'd be back in, and I said so here. This is exactly how he bought Roma. In, out, and back in strong to close.

I'm ecstatic. The right guy at the right time. And a Jewish American! Yeah, baby.

Mazel tov, Dan. And thanks. We've been waiting a long time.

Mike Gaynes
79 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:43:02
Soren #59, nope, no connection.
Christy Ring
80 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:44:54
Things are looking a lot better, new owners with money, and Branthwaite back, can see Dom signing new deal now?
Howard Don
81 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:45:54
Sean Kearns 67, absolutely spot on.
Andrew Ellams
84 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:56:33
Before people get themselves in a knot over the Southgate rumours, I've also seen Twitter rumours that he wants Potter and Rangnick.

It's all just nonsense.

Bill Watson
85 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:57:51
Ray #68,

It's confirmed by the club. Do you think I can cancel my counselling sessions for mental abuse or maybe, just put them on hold?

John Wilson
86 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:57:55
I said Friedkin would come back. I also said The Esk was entirely wrong as his bleak view was clearly not correct in that Paul said the situation is not resolvable, even yesterday his forecast was incredibly bleak.

Was there some morsel of truth in what Paul states? Yes, but lacking balance and alluded TFG may get Everton by default, if not being able to pay the loan owed.

Pat Kelly
87 Posted 23/09/2024 at 14:59:32
Textor is still waiting to begin the process of assembling his funds. That was a disaster waiting to happen.

Let's get the Friedkin deal done and back to footie instead of crisis management.

Mike Hayes
88 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:00:40
All good news so far. Hopefully things will start to settle down and stabilise.

Fingers crossed we are run professionally and I have to say Dyche isn't the answer for our future with his dire Dycheball, regardless of keeping us up.

Upward and onward!!

Christy Ring
89 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:01:13
For once, the Everton Official Website has up-to-date news on the sale.

I'm just wondering with Textor trying to buy the club, did he do us a favour, and The Friedkin Group have done a quick deal because of his interest?

David McMullen
90 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:04:44
Something is afoot…
Mike Hayes
91 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:05:24
I can't see Calvert-Lewin signing a new contract to get the same non-service – it's not fair on him although he has missed a few sitters.

Maybe a move elsewhere in January or summer if anyone wants him?

Danny O'Neill
92 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:05:45
Same here Mike @78. I kept saying he / they would be back.

Bill, just hang on. It is all positive, but subject to Premier League approval and we know what they are like.

But I can't see the club and Friedkin making an announcement if it isn't going through.

Good to hear talk of looking to the future.

Fred Quick
93 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:08:52
If there is a change of manager, and that's not a foregone conclusion, I would expect Potter to be a strong favourite to be offered the job. However, Steven Naismith has become available.

I do think that Dyche will remain in place, at least until the deal has passed all of the regulatory hurdles.

Pat Kelly
94 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:10:37
Potter spotted at Finch Farm.

That was bloody quick.

Fred Quick
95 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:13:26
It was one of the players Pat, as the meaning of Potter is to move around without hurrying, and in a relaxed and pleasant way.
Jack Convery
96 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:15:41
If we bring in a manager who wants these players to play it out from the back and move it quickly through midfield, we will get relegated.

The majority of the players do not have the ability and, more importantly, they do not have the confidence needed, to play, in such a way. That sort of game plan could only be introduced during next summer and with much better players.

Michael Kenrick
97 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:17:31
For reference, it looks like it took Jim Ratcliffe 2 months from the date he acquired 25% of Man Utd (24 December 2023) to the official announcement that all approvals had been granted (22 February 2024).

Just saying.

Brent Stephens
98 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:18:27
Mike G #78 - spot on.
Kunal Desai
99 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:20:39
Welcome news this. Nice early birthday present for me ahead of Saturday and it would be all the more sweeter to make it 3 points on the day I celebrate.

Let's get some stability back into this club. No gung-ho style siginings or managerial appointments. Sensible and shrewd appointments required.

I would take a couple of mid-table or Top 10 finishes to build the club again both on and off the field whilst we settle into our new home.

Fred Quick
100 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:21:06
Michael @97,

That would also match the timescale that Textor had put on his possible ownership of Everton, around the end of November.

Tegs R.
101 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:22:57
Potter all fired up!
Joe McMahon
102 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:24:45
James @69,

Predicting Everton lose on penalties is like predicting Dita Von Teese is gonna turn me down.

Danny O'Neill
103 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:25:32
If, and it is an 'if', we change manager, then for me, no to Potter. It sort of reminds me of Mike Walker.

Good at a provincial club, but struggled on the big stage.

I'd rather see us be more ambitious if we do decide on a new manager.

Tom Bowers
104 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:29:29
When it is etched in stone, then we can make plans (I hope).

So many things still to happen on all fronts going on past experience.

If it's completed 100% then the first priority is to get away from the bottom tier of the table and then and only then can they hope to attract better-quality player.s Then of course certain players have to be available and Everton will hopefully have better finance in place to afford them.

Like all true Blues fans, I have become skeptical of a lot of dealings over the last few years but surely there is now light at the end of the tunnel.

Eddie Dunn
105 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:31:59
Mike G, you did say he used tactics like that with Roma and I was hoping for Larry David but he will do!
Alan McGuffog
106 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:34:01
Joe, just as well as we've never had much luck with Dutch players.
Steve Griffiths
107 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:35:21
Delighted a deal is in place for the sale of the club. 👍🏼

Also, TFG would have been my preferred choice ahead of Textor, who talked a good game without walking the walk.

However, I don't know why people are talking up Potter? What has he ever done? Ask any Brighton fan what they think of his football: pass, pass, pass without an end product, his teams don't score goals and they were bored stiff at the end.

He was also bombed out of Chelsea, apparently due to player power. Not for me. I also don't think the Goodison faithful will take too kindly to the goalkeeper and defenders having more touches than anyone else in the team?

I've advocated Thomas Frank in the past as my choice if we are to make a change; nothing has changed.

Bill Fairfield
108 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:35:41
Hopefully the nightmare is almost over and we can look forward to having an owner who knows how to run a football club.
David McMullen
109 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:35:56
Potter is a No for me.

Even with his wand.

Jay Harris
110 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:36:55
Just to reinforce what Michael said, it is being reported that the approval from the Football Association, the Premier League and the FCA will take around 8 weeks so we are still looking at towards the end of November.

Fake news all over the place about Dyche being sacked and Potter, Southgate, Moyes etc all being lined up for the job.

Clickbait being taken to new levels regarding EFC.

Jerome Shields
111 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:39:40
Far prefere a Friedkin Group takeover. They were always further down the process of negotiating an Everton takeover than Textor, who seemed to be more telling us what he was going to do than having hit any negotiation milestones. It was more a drumming up of funds exercise..

I don't expect that changing the manager will be a priority and expect Dyche to turn the corner in the coming weeks. Friedkin I expect will concentrate on the commercial side of Everton, leaving the football side to run itself this season.

It would make such a difference to the club to be run properly commercially.

Bill Gall
112 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:44:16
Well with the Friedkin group being associated with a well known car company we know what the new ground will be expected to be called.

Regardless of the ground, until the takeover is signed on the bottom line, I don't believe any of these lazy journalists' reports who look for headlines.

I just want someone with a reputable profile to rid us of past and present bad management and have a genuine interest in taking Everton FC to what it has been known as, and that is a top Premier League club with a support that is the envy of other clubs, as they back the club not only in the bad times but in the good times.

Remember, the average investor invests to make money.

Duncan McDine
113 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:44:56
I remember the expectation of a lot of fellow Blues when Moshiri arrived with all that money. As it turned out, his ownership has been a very dark period in the history of Everton. His appalling decision-making has left the club in a dreadful state.

So, whilst this news sounds promising, we will just have to wait and see if the takeover happens. And if it does, can the new owner make a positive impact on the club?

Michael Fox
114 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:51:36
Edin Terzic has left Dortmund.

Does anyone know anything about him?

Martin Berry
115 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:53:15
It will be interesting to see if The Friedkin Group are able to fund the stadium completion and wipe out any debts that we have without any loans.

Obviously, this is potentially great news but we don't want a Glazer-type outfit running up huge debts to enable ownership.

Fred Quick
116 Posted 23/09/2024 at 15:55:31
Michael @114,

I only know that his Dortmund side lost heavily yesterday, at Stuttgart, I think.

Craig Walker
117 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:01:59
This is good news and TFG were my preferred bidders.

In terms of Dyche and a possible change of manager, I've been thinking lately about whether the manager really makes a difference.

Is it not just a case that all managers (with a few exceptions) have bad runs and good runs but the deciding factor in how well a team does is the playing resources available to him?

Moyes is an example. Had some good players and did relatively well for us. Moved to Man Utd and couldn't handle their egos. Failed at Sunderland and in Spain. Had relative success at West Ham but they craved a more enterprising style of play.

They got Lopetegui who a lot of Everton fans wanted. He's getting a lot of stick off West Ham fans at the minute. Nuno Espirito Santo is currently on a decent run with Forest and managed to keep them up. He did well at Wolves but failed at Spurs.

O'Neill at Wolves was doing well but has hit a rocky patch having sold a few good players and faced a tricky start. Graham Potter is another. Good run at Brighton and was fancied by a lot of pundits to get a bigger job. Goes to Chelsea and makes a hash of it.

The manager picks the team and sets the style of play, but I'm starting to think the choice of manager is not as important as people think and, like prime ministers, nearly all management jobs end in failure.

David McMullen
118 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:02:09
Sean (67),

Dyche won't make the rest of the season; if he stays, I think we might be relegated. I don't think I could cope with repeat win-less runs.

Bill Fairfield
119 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:06:36
Doesn't look good for Dyche.

De Rossi sacked at Roma last week after losing first four games.

Raymond Fox
120 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:11:13
Let's hope there's some money to strengthen the team in the next window, that would be a big plus.

It's all about the quality of the players where success is concerned for me; we had a few chances to put Saturday's game to bed in the first half.

Calvert-Lewin needs to be sold if anybody wants him because he can't hit a barn door lately, he is getting chances but is poor unless the ball is in the air.

Noleen Daya
121 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:13:45
Oh boy! I just don't have an easy, peaceful feeling about this.

Are we going from frying pan into the fire into the brimstone of hell? I don't trust Americans. There, I said it!

Bobby Mallon
122 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:18:46
This is well a buy-out…

Let's let it roll!

Sean Kearns
123 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:20:27
We ain't going down with Dyche!! The proof is in the pudding…

You probably said the same things last season as many on here did, and I said all along we'll be okay… We have 3 of our (already weak) back 4 missing!! Get Branthwaite, Coleman and Mykolenko back we'll be sound.

I like the fella and happen to think we play okay, but I don't like the divisiveness of the fanbase and how many of us disagree on here about him. And for that I'm willing to bin him at the start of next season for someone we can all get behind. But now ain't that time.

Pat Kelly
124 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:25:19
Thelwell can pack his bags as well.
Lord Hughes
125 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:26:25
About Friedkin time!!! 😄
Fred Quick
126 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:26:50
Noleen @121,

As with Bill and Moshiri, we won't know how The Friedkin Group will manage the club until at least a couple of years have elapsed; we can only hope they improve the internal workings of the club, with the aim of helping the playing side.

I'd liken today's development as someone switching the light on in the cellar after it's been dark in there for years; we all think we know what lurks in the cellar and what needs doing, but that is secondary until the team starts to pick up points and achieves safety in the Premier League.

I'm hoping we move to the new stadium with a great deal more optimism than we've had in recent years.

Frank Thomas
127 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:27:18
The press are suggesting that The Friedkin Group will try and sign Southgate… no, No, No!!! Don't start with a manager that has basically won sweet fuck-all! Someone who can choose from lots of top class English players and still can't win the Euros.

Moyes does not deserve a second chance. He was practically laughing at us when he left the meeting with Kenwright and left us in the lurch to join Man Utd.

Follow Liverpool's example get a manager who has been at the very top — it has to be Edin Terzic. He at least has been to the Champions League final. Don't hire players who were very good 10 years ago and managers with poor performance history.

Keeping us in the Premier League is not that hard if you learn from your mistakes… unlike the current manager.

Terzic has a 62% to 66% win rate. He does a lot of homework checking on other teams' players and tactics. If we could get Terzic, he would be very loyal to a club and fanbase like us.

Paul Hewitt
128 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:29:18
I think Dyche has got till the Premier League give the approval to turn it around.

I don't see Friedkin sacking Dyche before that.

Si Pulford
129 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:38:12
I was destroyed on here a few weeks back because I had the audacity to say The Esk isn't the messiah and he does get stuff wrong. Look how that turned out.

This is my ‘remembering a great come back for an argument days later in the shower..' moment. Wish I could remember the name of the person having a pop. lol.

The Esk regularly chats absolute wham and everybody takes it as 100% infallible inside info.

On a serious note, we can't judge negatively or positively yet. We've all been there before. But we can look at track record, precedence etc: the guy is wealthy, professional and deadly serious.

But the huge difference from Moshiri is – he knows football and has done this before. Someone on here said he's had ‘relative' success at Roma. Well. I'll have a slice of that relative success, please! Up the Toffees!!!

Jack Convery
130 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:38:47
Frank Thomas - I fully agree. No more yesterday's managers.

Terzic is a really good shout but Friedkin may want him for Roma.

Kevin Edward
131 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:39:03
This must be good good news, not another cock-up please.

Some sensible club and asset management decisions please, no chucking money away at poor overrated players, and non-progressive managers.

I don't really want to see Everton trying to get into the Champions League. I just want us to be competitive in the Premier League, have some players to be proud of, and have a real chance to win a cup or two.

And on the way, have no fear of the ‘shitty six' and take their scalps on a regular basis.

UTFT! Come on, Friedkin, get it right.

Ray Roche
132 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:41:13
Bill Watson @85

🤣 Just lie down in a dark room with a large G+T whilst cuddling your comfort blanket, Bill, it works for me!

How are you, mate?

Paul Ferry
133 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:42:19
What lovely news to wake up to on a sunny morning. Too early to take fully on board all the implications and consequences but the main thing is that we are in a better place than we were this time yesterday.

I suspect that the hard-boiled egg is not.

Raymond Fox
134 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:44:00
Sean @123,

'So we can get someone we can all get behind'

You mean like all the other managers we have had in the last 10-11 years!

Dale Self
135 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:44:06
Wrong, Paul, Dyche was just using his credit to get rid of Moshiri. Viva la Dyche! It's like a new appointment for him, he can now get the players he wants. Hee hee.

Driving the price down on purpose like that, he is the chrome dome Cromwell.

Niall McIlhone
136 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:46:35
Bill #119:

I heard on the radio earlier that the manager's sacking has gone down very badly with the Roma fanbase, some of whom have made known their displeasure in the Italian media.

Today's ownership announcement is very encouraging. All being well, the Premier League will not need to prevaricate too long on Friedkin's fitness to own the club, and the club can finally start to reset itself.

As for the Dyche, I, myself, think he needs to be given the chance to turn things around, as players come back from injury, and signings like Ndiaye and Lindstrom "bed in" to the Premier League and the playing style.

There is a lot of football still to be played… perhaps given some incomings and outgoings in January, and a bit more ambition and inventiveness in forward areas we will start to move forward.

Paul Ferry
137 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:48:22
Shite, I think you're right, Dale. So, as a good Yank, are you gonna do some franchise hopping and follow the hard-boiled eggs to their next gig? AFC Wimbledon need someone to fix the pitch.
Neil Lawson
138 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:48:29
Interesting scenario. Presumably Friedkin can't sack Dyche until he is in control. No one else is likely to come as an interim manager.

So Dyche soldiers on until the inevitable removal and we run the risk of remaining rock bottom in the meantime. (Thank goodness it's Wolves with a "W" who are as bad as we are.)

However, if Dyche were to have a decent run of results, what then? Still a taxi, I think.

Dave Lynch
139 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:49:09
Si @129,

Don't count me as being in The Esk camp... he's had us sold 5 times over according to his sources.

As for the takeover... in the words of a terrible Hollywood actor:

Yippee ki ay, motherfucker!

Dale Self
140 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:52:50
Ooh Paul, can I still get in on the Next Big Thing that is Wrexham?

I really love Ryan Reynolds! I think I just pee'd my pants a little.

Ed Prytherch
141 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:56:49
Dyche will be gone before the team rebuilding starts.

Friedkin could buy Bernardo Silva and Dyche would leave him on the bench and start Jack Harrison.

Dale Self
142 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:58:46
And the desperate daggers for Dyche are out! Mystery, intrigue, skuldduggery!

You might regret making Dyche your nemesis. He is a tough fucker.

John Chambers
143 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:59:33
Hopefully this deal goes through as it should bring some security around finances and ensure we get into the new stadium next August. My only worry about the deal is the relationship Friedkin will look for between Roma and ourselves and we must not be the junior partner in the multi-club model.

Realistically, given PSR is still in place, it will make little difference to the squad this season. So, from the footballing front, we need to concentrate on getting behind the current squad and staff to make sure we are in the Premier League next season and then re-assess if Dyche is the right man after May.

Ray Roche
144 Posted 23/09/2024 at 16:59:40
Niall @136,

I'm sure that I read today that the manager and DoF at Roma were always squabbling and arguing so Friedkin sacked the two of them.

Tom Bowers
145 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:00:54
Managers are in a no-win situation (excuse the pun).

Some little-known guys can work wonders for a season or two and others flatter to deceive. We have had some big names since the Moyes era and all have failed and mostly because of money powers.

For many seasons, the managers have been trying to make a silk purse from a sow's ear at Everton but too many mediocre recruits (ie, cast-offs and misfits from other clubs) have resulted in too many poor performances.

Money talks and some of these players forget what they have been signed for – except their pay packets.

Hopefully, this will be the start of a new era to take us into the new stadium.

Sean Kearns
146 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:07:15
Can you imagine someone comes in who hasn't really paid attention to Everton closely over the last 3-5 years and tries to get this team playing tiki-taka nice football? Championship here we come, for fuck's sake!

Seany boy gets us thru this season, then Danny can splash cash next summer (maybe Jarrad's £70M) on good players for another manager to work with.

All I'm saying… be careful what you wish for… the ball literally bounces off about half of our squad. Say Dom does his ACL the next game after a new manager signs, so he gets Beto up top to play Tiki-Taka… 🤣

Nicholas Ryan
147 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:09:56
I know it's a different Frieedkin, but having got rid of the evil ghost of Moshiri, our new man just has to be Dan "The Exorcist" Friedkin!

Some Roma fans are saying that the sacking of Daniele De Rossi was shocking and inexplicable...

Not if he's coming to Everton, it isn't!

Matthew Johnson
148 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:10:49
News just in:

Calvert-Lewin to AS Roma for £450M.

Tony Abrahams
149 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:13:30
I read it as the manager and the CEO were always at each other's throats, Ray, and for the reasons given by John C, I'm not interested in getting a new manager unless it becomes apparent that Dyche is taking us down.

We have had every different types of manager in the last 10 years and most of them haven't done any better, even though they have had a better squad of players. Until we can get away from the pressures that PSR brings, I'm not sure how much movement Everton are going to get with regard to signing new players.

I think we can all agree that our team has been playing under massive pressure since Ancelotti departed. So hopefully this news today can slowly help start releasing some of this pressure on us fans, and this might even help the players.

John Wilson
150 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:15:27
I think former AS Roma CEO will be made CEO of Everton now she has left her role, and Dan's son gets a place on Everton's Board, as previously reported.

The Bobble today and when live, laughed off Southgate as manager on his podcast.

Dan Friedkin seems to have acquired a philosophy for bringing in mid-20s players, as it was not always like that. He also learns from his mistakes, ie Mourinho and paying Lukaku crazy wages.

I believe The Guardian previously mentioned that had TFG taken over, at that time, the manager eyed for Everton was Thomas Tuchel.

He will now do a review, according to TalkSport, and then decide the direction. It's crazy that Friedkin has the type of money to wipe away the club's debts, but also according to TalkSport, that is the plan – to go into the new stadium debt-free.

Ed Prytherch
151 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:16:01
Sean,

Beto would only be up top until Broja is fit and perhaps the same for Calvert-Lewin.

Our PSR position will improve immediately after the high-interest loans are paid off.

Barry Rathbone
152 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:19:17
"Friedegg, get out of my club"

Oh sorry, 18 months and 3 managers too early.

Dave Cashen
153 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:19:32
Noleen

Americans don't even trust Americans. They're as bad as us.

Get on board. We've tried the Beast from the East and he didn't dare come out of hiding behind Moshiri. I'm more than happy for our American cousins to have a shot.

BTW; I wonder who Textor will be supporting on Saturday?

Steve Higgins
154 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:21:13
A new manager is absolutely the last thing Everton FC needs. It's insane to keep blaming managers for the appalling mismanagement of the club.

Burnley had no money to buy players, but they gave Dyche time and he got them into Europe. He's never had money to spend.

Let's hope the takeover happens and The Friedkin Group turns out to be competent owners.

I'm sure Dyche himself is financially secure and isn't at Everton for the dosh. After last season's heroics, we owe him thanks and some loyalty. No more turmoil, please!

Mark Taylor
155 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:22:33
The devil is in the detail. Has a deal really been signed by both parties that is irrevocable, subject only to approval from the necessary outside parties – which I take to mean the FCA (given they allegedly approved 777 Partners, that should be a low hurdle), and the Premier League with their new directors and owners test, and thus another brush with Murray Rosen. Is there anyone else? Other investors?

Someone said something happened at the weekend that helped unblock the deal. What was that? Something to do with 777's loan deal and whether it would create financial liability and/or be a problem with the new owner's test?

A couple of posters have suggested Moshiri is only looking to get £50M back. That would astonish me, given the equity and loans he holds is over 10 times more than that. This deal needed a haircut all round, I hadn't expected that it would be Moshiri getting a full Number 1. Is there more to it? Will he retain some of the equity? Or part of the stadium and any attached rights?

As for Friedkin and his prospects, one thing in his favour is he has a very low bar to clear. I hope the deal is structured in such a way to free us up a bit from PSR constraints. The last thing we need now is to be loaded with debt, à la the Glazers, and that deal actually would just about comply with the debt/equity rules of the owners test. We are as weak as a kitten compared to Man Utd's situation back then.

Noleen Daya
156 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:40:37
Dave @153, I sincerely hope they're the real deal!

Thanks for the encouragement.

Mike Hayes
157 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:47:49
I think Dyche has worn the loyalty badge out. Yes, he kept us up but we had an abysmal run of 13 games without a win – we are now P5 W0 L4 D1 and out of the Carabao Cup.

His picking of his favourites over the new lads, who have shown they are up to the task, his baffling subs, and his one-dimensional football is worn very very thin.

His man-management is baffling, his excuses even more so, and his blaming the fans for walking out comes under headlock-gate.

He's done what he's paid £5M to do and quite frankly I've had enough – watching his brand of football is mind-numbing.

I don't know who at this minute would be better but Dyche isn't the answer.

Frank Sheppard
158 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:48:03
An agreement is one thing…

A signed deal and Premier League approval are two other things that aren't guaranteed to follow.

Ian Jones
159 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:48:59
I had read somewhere that Moshiri would accept or was being offered £50M per year, I assume for a set number of years, not £50M in total.
Brent Stephens
160 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:50:20
Mark #155.

The FA also need to approve, I think.

Mike Hayes
161 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:51:55
Of that £50M, Uncle Ali gets £49,999.999 🥳
Finn Taylor
163 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:55:12
This is potentially great news for us.

The Dychosauruas lost me when he didn't take McNeil off vs Bournemouth... and I wasn't too keen on his substitutions vs Leicester City.

If there is to be a new manager, it has to be Moyes. Has to be. No one else understands the club and what is required.

All we need right now is good results and the rebuilding of our club. It's a 2- or 3-year project, get us safe and credible again, build foundations and see where we go. Moyes should be given a chance to finish the job he started. That's if he would come. Our third best manager in our history deserves another shot.

Potter isn't right for us, he would be a disaster of Walker-level proportion. As for Southgate... I'd be pulling my hair out. Why do people forget Southgate got a team relegated and then, when in the Championship, they went nowhere and he was sacked?

Let's hope we are finally on the road back.

Kim Vivian
164 Posted 23/09/2024 at 17:56:48
Looking forward to the team trotting out onto the turf at the Supra Stadium in a year's time.
Steve Brown
165 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:00:24
Finn, it definitely doesn't have to be Moyes. And it won't be.

As for third best manager in our history, how did you work that out? Carey, Catterick, Kendall, Harvey, Royle, Ancelotti to name but a few.

Mike Gaynes
166 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:01:49
To those commenting on Edin Terzic, Dortmund is the Bundesliga team I follow, and I'd consider him one of the best managers in the world. His teams play with style, flair and ferocity, and he's merciless about getting rid of players who don't get the job done.

But a guy who was just in the Champions League Final (they outplayed Real Madrid for long stretches) will not, repeat not, be moving to the bottom of the Premier League. No chance.

Regarding Roma, they've had lots of recent managerial upheaval. The fans were furious when Mourinho was sacked in January, then got happy when De Rossi was hired, now furious again that De Rossi was sacked, even though the new manager just got them their first win of the season.

The CEO got death threats, and she promptly resigned. I would not be at all surprised if Friedkin, who hired her away from Olympiakos to run Roma, decides to bring her to Everton. Watch the news for the name Lina Souloukou.

Denis Richardson
167 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:05:22
Friedkin will no doubt want to bring his own manager in. However, I hope Dyche gives him a bit of a headache by getting some decent results in the next few weeks.

It'll take a couple of months to tick relevant approval boxes so Dyche probably has until the November internationals to stake a claim. If he does, great for the team; if not, then he had his chance and change can be made before the January transfer window.

Glad the Moshiri saga looks like it's coming to a close but I'll reserve judgment on Friedkin until further down the line. We were all excited when Moshiri came in back in 2016….

Ideal for me would be Dyche getting some decent results and giving us mid-table safety next summer. Friedkin can bring a new manager in then to take things forward.

Peter Jones
168 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:10:31
I just think it's fucking great that something is finally happening. 🙌😂

Happy me, even if it turns out to be short-lived. 🙏

Finn Taylor
169 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:21:49
Steve @165

I can't speak of Carey. Way before my time. But I base it on duration in role, league finishing positions, economic background when in position, etc.

I go with Kendall, Catterick then Moyes. Harvey was an outstanding coach, but not a good manager. While I don't doubt Ancelotti is a great manager, I can't really call him a great Everton manager.

Mike Dolan
170 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:29:53
Great news. Our club will have to go a total reconstruction from board to boot boys. There is no chain of command.
I don't pretend to know where the reconstruction begins but the roles must be very clearly defined.

The Board's function is where we should start. The Football Director should be an active board member. The term 'manager' in a club is archaic – we need the Football Director to appoint the coach and so on...

The way we play at the moment is someone's fault; if we cannot see who should be replaced, how can we be improved?

Friedkin is a smart man and a well-respected manager of very big businesses. 23 October 2024 is a very big day for this club.

I am ecstatic!

Tony McNulty
171 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:30:57
So, soon to be all change at Goodison Park.

Is this where Dyche goes to give the next team talk along the lines of?:

"This is really great news. We will be able to afford better players now."

And an unidentified voice from the back mutters: "And a better manager."

Danny O'Neill
172 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:31:42
I think the FCA as well, Brent.
Jay Harris
173 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:37:26
Mike G,

The story I read was that Soulouku and De Rossi were bickering all the time and couldn't get on so he sacked them both. I can't imagine he would bring her to Everton after that, but stranger things have happened.

The only downside to Friedkin beating Textor to the deal is we won't be able to keep Mangala at the end of the season.

David West
174 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:48:11
Excellent news. Does this speak of their decent business sense that, while all the attention was on Textor, which he courted, TFG were quietly getting on with getting a deal done? I love it!!

We won't know how things will pan out but this change is needed so bad. Hopefully they have learned lessons from Roma and now can give us the benefits.

After all the talk and financial mess we've gone through to get the stadium built, I hope Moshiri never sees us play there!!

Sean Kelly
175 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:49:31
Dale,

Dyche is a tough fucker but a dumb one. Just look at his substitutions. Dumb, dumb and dumbest.

Terry Riley
176 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:56:00
Well… we'll not go bankrupt this season, thankfully.
John Houghton
177 Posted 23/09/2024 at 18:58:32
Potentially great news and, whatever else he or they do, can we just get back to Everton being run properly, by professionals who know what they're doing at every level, and with decisions being made based upon sound business logic and not sentiment.

If that means being ruthless on occasions, be ruthless.

Larry O'Hara
178 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:12:52
Jay (173),

Is not keeping Mangala really a downside?

Paul Birmingham
179 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:14:40
I listened to Alan Stubbs on the Radio Merseyside Monday footy show.

This does seem genuine by what was said but FCA Premier League and FA approval is required. They suggested 7 or 8 weeks to complete. So hopefully a proven and successful multi-club owner.

Hopefully genuine good cheer very soon for Evertonians!

Daniel A Johnson
180 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:17:06
I'd like to see Dyche get a chance with better quality players so he can't use that as an excuse when he still plays Dinosaur Dycheball – and Seamus Coleman.
Ian Pilkington
181 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:18:15
The biggest feeling of relief since the Moshiri takeover was announced, but on that occasion, the alarm bells sounded with the news that Kenwright would be staying on as Chairman.

This will be the bright new start we've all craved for at long last, with the added bonus of there being no possibility whatsoever of Moyes returning.

Like Mike Gaynes, I warmly welcome an American Jewish owner.

Paul Ferry
182 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:26:24
Mark Chapman on the 606 Monday social: "

'There's only one place to start ...

"Manchester City v Arsenal".

Andrew Heffernan
183 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:36:41
Si #129, I 100% agree, slated for questioning same months ago.

So much nonsense spoken about the club going into administration etc. Asset-rich companies with a positive cash flow don't go into administration, because there will always be someone wanting to make a deal.

I'm just glad we don't appear to have been sold to carpetbaggers – the guy at Palace had too much to say for himself.

Pete Neilson
184 Posted 23/09/2024 at 19:45:23
In 2016, along with a few thousand other Blues, I was at Villa Park the night we celebrated having a new rich owner. How we celebrated our rosy future. Little did we know!

At the same game, Villa fans had a walkout and protested against their absent owner Randy Lerner. Here's hoping that Friedkin can revitalise us in the same way that Villa have been.

Onwards and, fingers crossed, upwards.

James Marshall
185 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:00:53
Oh please, let's not start down the Moyes road again. He fucked us off at the end, and tried to buy our players on the cheap. All this nonsense about 'getting the club' is so tiring to read.

We need all that dewy eyed rubbish to be binned off along with all the old songs played at games, and this insistence on tradition being the most important thing - it's a curse on Everton, a pointless harping on about the past that does nothing for the here & now.

We need a new stadium, a new identity and a new future - not one that is obsessed with how good we were briefly in the 60's and 80's. Nobody gives a damn other than our supporters and it holds us back.

Can we please finally and at last, have a modern club with a winning mentality, instead of one that based entirely on being plucky little losers.

There's a good article here, well worth a read. Hopefully Friedkin will also look to build a new version of Everton:


What Friedkin’s Everton takeover means for the new stadium, Dyche and transfers

Martin Farrington
186 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:02:02
No matter what your thoughts or feelings regarding this takeover news, no one but no one could be worse than the Shambolics: Kenwright the Sham and Moshiri was Bollox.

Three decades of corruption, lies, dishonesty and ineptness on a monumental scale off the pitch (manifesting itself into a horror show on it) should never be forgotten, but held up as a dark and unsavoury lesson to the new owners. I do hope that they plan to strip out everything that is linked to or from the previous catastrophe.

I appreciate that a new regime takes time to take shape. With some luck, they already know who the new board are. Where the quick easy fixes are and a proper, decent fans liaison with a credible forum fit for purpose.

I think Dyche has done a credible job, better than so-called superior managers before him. He saved us from the drop. And he did it without a strengthened, but weakened squad. Thelwell doing him, and the club, no favours.

Get rid of him now and either bin the dreadful DoF role or, if it has to be kept, employ a name that attracts names and they can see the priorities required (right-back, left-back, wingers, strikers) all with pace and know-how to score.

Whilst our start has been woeful (woeful squad – what else can you expect), I don't believe sacking Dyche gets us anywhere. His contract expires at the end of the season. That is decision time about his future.

Good luck and good fortune to our new owners.

Mike Dolan
187 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:02:26
I am grateful for the job did initially when we were in a bit of a death dive. I do not think that his style of play would give any fan any encouragement that a Dyche team is likely to entertain though.

It is my belief that, while the current side generally lacks pace and the squad is dangerously thin, it is at least a mid-table side that is underperforming in results and pathetically boring to watch.

It is all in the wash, I know, but let's hope the first name on the manager potential list is Davide Ancelotti.

Trevor Bailey
188 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:03:00
James @105.

Seconded and thirded.

Sean Kelly
189 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:04:07
Paul,

Surprise, surprise – with that lad having his tongue firmly embedded in the arses of the sly Big 6. Tongue-in-cheek like.

Andy Meighan
190 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:08:06
Steve 154.

Last season's heroics? Er, we went 4 months without a win.

If that's heroic, I'd hate to see failure.

Some of our fans have set the bar so low it's astonishing.

Ian Riley
191 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:10:10
Still time for this to go pear-shaped.

Let's wait till the new owner is strolling and waving on the Goodison pitch!

Ryan Holroyd
192 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:15:40
I think and hope the news will lessen the gloom over the club and lead to better results.

Personally, as long as we're in no immediate chance of going down (and I don't think we will be), I'd leave Dyche in charge until the end of the season and have a complete reset. 12 or more players will leave.

Thomas Tuchel would be my Number 1 target.

Martin Farrington
193 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:15:54
Pete @ 184,

I knew from the off. Why? Kenwright. Russians.

After so long dodging his way out of his promise and leading us towards the forlorn ending, Russians!!!!

Only an absolute crook would pull such a scam. Sadly, this proved to be correct. If Moshiri had sold out the club to 777 Partners, I would be issuing a similar warning of impending doom.

I do believe The Friedkin Group have our interests in their sights. Whether they can resurrect us, and lead us to past glories that have long since faded over time, only time will tell.

Paul Ferry
194 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:18:16
Just turned it off, Sean mate. They talked and talked for an hour and, although we were mentioned, there was not one word about Friedkin.

And after 8pm/2pm, the big thing is a long interview with some ex-red-shite footy director or something who has just published a book.

Mike Gaynes
195 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:19:54
Martin #186, I could not disagree more on Thelwell. He has been brilliant. He's been dealt an unbelievably bad hand, with crap cards and no chips to play.

Yet he repeatedly pulls in good players for minimal outlays. He has cleared out most of the deadwood and brought in badly needed cash with his sells.

I can't wait to see what he will do for this club when he actually has money to spend and doesn't have to worry about selling players like Godfrey and Dobbin to prevent points deductions. I am certain Friedkin's CEO (whoever it is) will keep him on.

I agree with you on Dyche, although I've been disappointed with his decisions this season. I'm confident he will keep us up, which is all that matters, and any change on the touchline will happen next June, not before.

Ralph Basnett
196 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:27:41
Yeah, got ourselves a billionaire.

Hang on a minute……🤔

Robert Tressell
197 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:37:06
I am so pleased about this. Mike Gaynes and others said watch this space after Friedkin initially walked away.

We can't survive with Moshiri at the helm and we need him gone asap. This is a fresh start.

Friedkin isn't a sugar daddy so there won't be a big spending spree – but it looks like we can expect sensible, stable, professional club management.

It should give the club a big lift and that feeds through into Dyche and the players.

Will he sack Dyche and install someone else? Not sure.

He will look at it like a businessman and not a fan. I think that means looking at performance against level of investment. By any metrics, Dyche has done an outstanding job so far and, other than boring Moyes, there aren't really any obvious candidates to keep us safe.

More than change of manager, we need a decent right-back in the January window and cover at left-back.

Next season might be another matter, but I hope we line up some deals because, with high quality full-backs, I'm excited at what we could see from Ndiaye and Lindstrom.

COYB

Jerome Shields
198 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:38:37
Moshiri was a figurehead for Usmanov and a certified accountant who never ran a business in his life. The Friedkin Group has legitimate finances and owners who have successfully managed businesses for years.

Everton has not been managed as a business or commercially for years. All of those who have worked in the club have not been held accountable for their performance. They will be now.

On the football side, it will be the same. I expect Dyche and Thelwell to be listened to. But they will have to produce.

I expect the performance of the team to improve, because the uncertainty of the Moshiri era is bound to have had a really negative affect on the players. The certainty of new owners, who know how to run a business with experience in club management, will have been reflected in the team's motivation.

The cheats within the club will become aware that change will come. There are always cheats in an under-performing club.

But there is a underlying core within the whole Everton family that has made survival against all odds a basis of Evertonian confidence, even during the darkest of times, that is admired by a lot of people out there.

At last, the sleeping giant is about to wake. I am so happy.

Danny O'Neill
199 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:52:49
Mike @195,

I think Thelwell has pretty much been running the club in the absence of leadership.

Mike Gaynes
200 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:53:07
Folks, it's important to note that Dan Friedkin is in an entirely different financial stratum than Moshiri, or anybody else who has ever owned this club.

Forbes maintains a real-time log of the world's billionaires and their changing net worths.

Friedkin is currently listed at #383 with a net worth of $7.6 billion, roughly a billion less than Todd Boehley at Chelsea but richer than John Henry at Liverpool, and well ahead of famous folk like George Soros, Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, Gordon Getty and Mark Cuban.

When this deal closes, we will be in a whole new world.

Mike Gaynes
201 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:57:09
Danny #199,

It wouldn't surprise me a bit, although I have always assumed he spends lots of time in meetings with Colin Chong, grinding on those financials and figuring out how much sales money they require to avoid those deductions.

Jack Convery
202 Posted 23/09/2024 at 20:57:33
Getting the poison out of the club will take time as everybody looks to take care of themselves but it must be done and soon. The days of the left hand not knowing what the right is doing have to be over. We need to have a club where all who are employed pull in the same direction. Onwards and upwards from now on.

It won't be easy. PSR is a real enemy of ambitious clubs, just ask the Barcodes. They've got £billions behind them but can't seem to spend it and sold Minteh to help meet PSR limits! That's how well the Sly Six and Masters run things to keep everybody else in check.

So welcome to TFG and be prepared to meet some down right shysters, out to do you no good.

Anthony Hawkins
203 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:00:56
Whilst there's a promise of 'good times' with Friedkin, the report just below the link to this thread has me a bit worried.

It's suggesting after the initial investment in Roma, there was limited further investment – which would leave us exactly where we are today. A team staying afloat through player sales, diminishing returns and a silent owner. Sound familiar?

I preferred the rhetoric of Textor, but will back whomever takes over as this is the way.

Michael Kenrick
204 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:04:42
Mike,

When this deal closes, we will be in a whole new world.

But will we really?

Massive wealth came to Newcastle but all they seem to have done is bitch that they can't spend it.

While Friedkin's record on transfer spending at Roma seems all too similar to our own parsimonious ventures in recent years!

If Everton have perfected loss-making and are balls to the wall regarding PSR, I'm curious how Friedkin's wealth is really going to help us turn this around. Unless we can find a few hotels to sell to ourselves?

Maybe that hydraulic tower is worth a fair penny now that we've repointed the brickwork?

Jerome Shields
205 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:06:14
I also expect the whole attitude to Everton by the Premier League will change with the arrival of the new owners. The Premier League involvement in the takeover process will be fast tracked.

I have no doubt that the P&S rules and their scrutiny of attempted takeovers saved the club, which had no effective self-management or leadership and the Premier League stepped in and provided as part of their regulatory role.

Fred Quick
206 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:06:38
Mike @200,

I would be interested in your opinion on Lyndon's article (Moshiri years might finally be over), about the criticisms of TFG from people who support Roma and others.

Grant Rorrison
207 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:12:14
Does anyone see Dyche getting a higher league position than the 12th place he would have had last season but for points deductions?

If not, what's the point of him?

Tony Abrahams
208 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:18:58
Jerome @198, gives a sensible and honest assessment of the last 25 years, regarding Everton, and hopefully soon that sleeping giant can awaken!

None of us know what tomorrow brings but we can all remember yesterday. When you look at the shite that the club has endured over many seasons, it's clear to me that not many clubs would have survived with top flight status.

I don't believe we could have survived much longer (not after reading some of Robert Tressell's posts, explaining how we are getting outspent by quite a few Championship clubs) but the fact that we have survived for so long hopefully means we are going to really enjoy the good times.

There's a long road ahead of us but hopefully soon the nepotism will be gone and anyone working for Everton, will only be chosen on merit. Going back to Jerome's post, the most exciting thing is when I think about what can be achieved at a genuinely professional football club once everyone realizes they are going to be held accountable for their work.

Paul Johnson
209 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:21:07
Our new owner's website!

https://www.friedkin.com/

Focus definitely on quality and look serious.

Andy Crooks
210 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:26:05
Mike G.

I was sitting today in Bushmills with our mutual friends Derek Knox and Peter Moore when the news came through.

All of us thought: "Mike Gaynes might be happy!"

If you're happy, Mike, that'll do!! Hope all is good. 👍

Jason Li
211 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:26:22
I don't think it's time to let Dyche move on. In the last 3 games, the football has been way better with more goals. Substitutions have been the problem.

Sitting in on a lead only works against teams with a maximum 3 fitter players to bring on. Today, it doesn't work in 2024 when you can bring on half a team of fit players because teams have seen the Bournemouth game and no club will take a draw if the other team can't get forward at the end of a game.

Maybe tell Ndiaye to walk around like Messi in the last 5 minutes so we have someone that can carry the ball. Get the points first and foremost keeping the same momentum. The team already did the hard part getting a lead in the last 3 league games.

The last 3 league games is enough data to say being overly defensive is unbalanced at the end of games. The positives is that a tweak at the end of games is all is required.

As for the new owner. Not sure if there's some kind of opening ceremony at the new stadium, but Tom Cruise outdoing the Olympics or some other Hollywood celeb friend would really put Everton on the world map as a football club. Might seem wrong as Cruise has nothing to do with football or the Olympics, but then it's a very positive new era with an owner who owns a Hollywood movie business!

If change is inevitable, different football, a different image, probably glamour is coming, for some of us it's going to be interesting times to look forward to.

Keith Slinger
212 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:26:47
Personally, I would let Dyche stay until the end of the season, as that is when his current contract expires.

It would save some money anyhow?

Stu Darlington
213 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:31:03
As supporters we have absolutely no say or control about who buys the club.

I know it may seem churlish of me to pour cold water on the enthusiasm of many of the contributors to this thread, but I must voice caution about becoming too ecstatic about this deal.

I confess I am not a fan of the multi-club ownership model. TFG are an American financial group, their bottom line is profit, not the quality or style of football. If profits fall, there will be no hesitation in selling our most valuable assets or leveraging loans against against the stadium etc.

Friedkin has a track record of interfering in football matters – pretty good that,expert in finance and football!!

I know football ownership is going this way all over the world, either high finance or oil state control, so it's no good me bitching about it, especially when we have a chance of some financial stability which hopefully will steady the ship for a while.

I suppose the point I'm trying to make is be careful what you wish for, it may not be the perfect marriage many people on here seem to think!

Mike Gaynes
214 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:32:16
Michael #204,

I don't mean we'll be in the world of Newcastle and Chelsea, drunkenly pouring out tons of cash on ten players in a summer transfer window. I'm just saying that we'll be able to stop worrying about spiraling down the financial toilet and not being able to buy enough good players to be competitive.

And we'll never again find ourselves staring down the barrel of points deductions. We will, for the first time in a couple of decades, be financially stable. What a difference that will make.

Fred #206, I think Lyndon's article is a good, balanced view, although I put more weight on Marcotti's assessment than the views of the notoriously bigoted and violent Roma fan base.

I believe that, whatever TFG's imperfections, the bottom line is performance. Since Friedkin took over Roma, they have finished 7th, 6th, 6th and 6th in Serie A, won a Europa Conference title, and made a Europa League Final. They're back in Europe this year as well. Every Everton fan on the planet would take that right now.

Mike Gaynes
215 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:38:28
Andy #210,

I've been watching for you to post, mate! So glad that you were having a dram with Derek and Peter when the news came down. Wish I'd been there with you lads to share a toast to the departing Moshiri, with all the appropriate obscenities.

Here's to the dark clouds finally parting.

Paul Hewitt
216 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:39:04
Mike @214.

They where the league position we would finish regularly with Moyes. Apparently to some, that wasn't good enough.

Bill Gall
217 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:39:23
Jason # 211,

If you you think that Tom Cruise has nothing to do with the Olympics, I guess you never seen the closing ceremonies in Paris with the lowering of the flag, and the transportation of it to America that was based on a number of his movies with him carrying it.
Jason Li
219 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:44:05
Bill #217,

Yes, I loved that bit. I wasn't referring to that and more about being a sportsman in the Olympics or football. However, he is allowed to do something at the ceremony as a movie star and not known for being a legendary sports person.

Hope this extended explanation makes up for my bad writing in that passage of text.

Alan Corken
220 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:46:48
Mike G and Michael K When this deal closes, we will be in a whole new world.

Fuck that! I am too battered to be that ambitious. For now, I would settle for getting back to when we weren't fighting relegation every year. Perhaps beating the Redshite at home and having a good run in the cup.

Being able to watch MotD again would be great. Waking up Sunday morning and feeling like having a pleasant breakfast with my missus. Ahh Bliss!

Fred Quick
221 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:51:38
Stu @213,

I think the idea of a perfect marriage between ownership and us mere mortals died a long long time ago. If we go back to the Moores years, he had to keep the fans onside because that was his main source of cash to keep the club going.

Today's sporting landscape doesn't really need to consider what fans think about how a club operates. Sport is more like the stock-market than it's ever been: a deal here, a deal there, helps to keep it all interesting to those who have money to invest.

Of course, from a financial and sporting perspective, many owners want to be associated with success, but if it doesn't come, they'll ship out and sell to the highest bidder.

Everton and its fans should be thankful that there is at least an interest in purchasing the club, and new ownership may help to smooth the choppy waters we have been sailing in for a long long time, but a path to success on the sporting front is going to take a great deal of money, effort, good fortune and a massive amount of time.

I'm happy to move on from the last few stressful years, but I'm under no illusion that many of the issues on the playing side will persist for quite some time. I also share your dislike for the multi-club model, despite what some say are advantages to the model, I fear our identity such as it is, might be lost.

Brian Clough would have been loathe to believe that those meddling owners and directors, which he abhorred getting involved in first-team affairs, would see their descendants eventually get to play fantasy football with real football clubs and their players.

Mark Taylor
222 Posted 23/09/2024 at 21:57:11
Ian @159,

That would make a little more sense, though the big question is, how many years at £50M? It makes me wonder if it is some form of structured buyout, ie, Moshiri retains equity for a defined period.

Brent @160,

People often say these deals need FA approval but I've not seen any evidence of that, at least for the men's team. I think it is needed for the women's set up, because that is not a Premier League matter.

However I imagine if we pass the Premier League's new, quite detailed ownership test, it would be strange indeed if the FA stopped the women's franchise. At a push, I imagine Friedkin might just settle for the men's team, and spin the rest of it off. Not likely though.

Like Mike, I don't see this a turbo boost situation with a supposedly rich owner turning us into Champions League regulars in a year or two. That ship has sailed. But it will bring a sense of stability and mean we don't face bankruptcy which I felt was a very real threat with Moshiri. Maybe some imminent bills that need paying have focussed the latter's mind at last.

All that said, I can't really see how this is going to be a debt free operation with a brand new stadium, as a few have suggested, nor do I think it will be all Friedkin's money, he will surely have external investors along with him.

Derek Thomas
223 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:03:58
Greeting and welcome Danno la, any chance of a 'mates rates' price on a radiator for a 2017 Corolla.

Potter *taps nose.

Brent Stephens
224 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:06:17
Mark, TBH I can't remember where I read about FA approval so I note your point about not ever having seen them get involved (in the men's game).
Fred Quick
225 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:14:58
Brent @224,

It was in the main body of Everton's statement:

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval, including from the Premier League, the Football Association, and the Financial Conduct Authority.

Robert Tressell
226 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:18:08
Mike # 214,

Before you get carried away with Roma's 6th and 7th place finishes under Friedkin's ownership – that did not come off the back of 5 relegation battles (3 extremely serious) in the preceding 8 seasons.

In Serie A, Roma have tended to be there or thereabouts for Europe and have had fairly regular (I think) Champions League qualifications.

We need between £300M and £500M spent on the playing squad before we're realistic contenders for the Top 6 or Top 7 in the Premier League.

So, whilst I am delighted with the takeover news, there is no short term route to even the top half without some significant spending.

However, for the time being, I'd be very pleased if they just release about £20M to £30M to buy a right-back and (reserve) left-back in January.

Brent Stephens
227 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:18:55
Fred, a fine point perhaps.

But Mike might be pointing up the difference between the formal requirement of FA approval and the reality that they perhaps haven't got too involved.

Paul Smith
228 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:22:42
Brilliant news this; now get rid of Dyche immediately just for that run of 4 months without a win… 4 months, for fuck's sake. He's only here as we were so skint and desperate; and now we're not, we can cut our cloth accordingly.

Ditch Forever Everton at half-time and Archibald Letch, wooden seats and obstructed views and songs about candles and tanners.

Let's reinvent ourselves and be a modern team in a modern stadium.

Brent Stephens
229 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:25:41
Robert #226,

"We need between £300M and £500M spent on the playing squad before we're realistic contenders for the top 6 or 7 in the Premier League."

Robert, that sounds an excessive amount. If we're "only" talking Top 6 or Top 7, and not Top 3, then I'd have thought 3, 4, maybe 5 top signings (I know! assuming they'd come!) would make sufficient difference.

So, £300M tops, especially if we can pull in some of the good cheap chappies you often point us to?

Fred Quick
230 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:35:27
If and when this deal gets the necessary approval, the only thing the new guys need to do is put a large sign in the boardroom, reading "What would Farhad do? We'll do the exact opposite!"

Slightly unfair on the British-Iranian perhaps, as he did lose a lot of dough, and did provide an opportunity, if not the cash, to build the new stadium.

Dean Williams
231 Posted 23/09/2024 at 22:46:54
Anyone for Potter?
Stan Grace
232 Posted 23/09/2024 at 23:03:49
Friedkin is an anagram of 'knife rid'…

So that rules out the return of Moyes.

Grant Rorrison
233 Posted 23/09/2024 at 23:04:36
231 Dean. No thanks.

11th with Chelsea.

John Raftery
234 Posted 23/09/2024 at 23:25:28
Absolutely no point in changing the manager at this point.

It will be 2 to 3 months before the new regime is in place. By then we will have climbed the Premier League table and the new owner can take stock of where we are and where we are heading.

Ed Prytherch
235 Posted 24/09/2024 at 00:31:39
From the BBC:

"The group have provided Everton with a further cash injection and would have no trouble clearing further external debt of around £400M.

An agreement has been reached with Rights and Media Funding who are owed £225m by the club, while there is also agreement over a £200m loan from 777 with financial firm A-Cap, who have seized 777's assets."

What is there not to like!

Mark Taylor
236 Posted 24/09/2024 at 01:08:41
It's very odd that Sky are claiming a deal has been reached to buy the club for £400-500M. But I'm not sure what that means.

Does it mean that is the total, to acquire it debt free and get the shares? That means Moshiri gets virtually nothing and essentially Friedkin gets the club for less than the build cost of the stadium.

It's significantly less than half the total amount invested and even if you took off Friedkin's loan, pretty much exactly half by my calculations.

I've had a bearish view on our value and I am personally keen for any new owner to pay closer to our real value, the better to have funds to invest later. But even I'd say, Everton at 'half price' looks like a fair deal.

Or does that £400-500M go to Moshiri for his equity and loans and then the debt is re-paid or re-structured on top? That's not such a good deal and I think they'll be sweating the asset a fair bit, things like ticket prices etc.

If it's the former – which I think is the least likely – I would not like to be Moshiri breaking this news to his man Alisher. Better stay in Monaco and even then, hire some security…

Lyndon Lloyd
237 Posted 24/09/2024 at 01:18:48
Mark, all indications are that Moshiri has realised the poverty of his position — that his equity is almost worthless — and, as such, the deal is almost entirely to cover the debt.

Moshiri will get something out of it, of course (but likely not the £50M - £80M he wanted) and there are even suggestions that he might stand to benefit financially down the road if we're successful under TFG but it looks as though deals have been done with Rights & Media Funding and 777/A-Cap to substantially reduce the club's debt.

I'm not sure it makes sense for TFG any other way.

Karl Masters
238 Posted 24/09/2024 at 01:28:30
To those ‘going all giddy' at this news, just bear in mind:

* Americans invest to make money and, while EFC may be a status symbol for Dan Friedkin for a while, ultimately he won't want to be pouring cash down a black hole.

* To get out of the stranglehold that is PSR, the club has to generate substantially more income. That will mean the enhanced facilities at the new stadium will cost you more. The poster that called for ruthlessness may not be so keen on that when his season ticket doubles in price!

* Financial stability yes, but it's not like winning the Lottery. Just ask Newcastle fans.

As he prepares his departure, for all of Moshiri's faults (and the biggest one was not getting himself fully involved and instead leaving it to Kenwright) we should always remember that he got the stadium built — and for that, if nothing much else, we should be grateful.

And finally… Those calling for Dyche and Thelwell to leave: As some others have already said, in our current position, Dyche is the man for the job. Longer term, who knows? But, you could say that about every Premier League manager or coach.

I think Thelwell has done a pretty good job with the hand he has been dealt and he certainly deserves a chance to see what he can do when not ‘looking down the back of the sofa' for finances. Imho, of course

Bill Watson
239 Posted 24/09/2024 at 01:39:42
Dean #231

No!

Ray Roche; fine thanks. Hope you are, too.

Nicholas Ryan
240 Posted 24/09/2024 at 01:51:16
Dean [231]

'Anyone for Potter?'....

Depends whether it's Graham or Harry!

Mike Gaynes
241 Posted 24/09/2024 at 01:55:40
Alan #220, that's the whole new world I was talking about! It's been a looooooong time.

Robert #226, not getting carried away at all. As somebody else pointed out, years ago we were regularly 7th. If we can just get back to that level, Blues everywhere will be delighted. And a whole lot less stressed.

Mark #236, I would wager anything that Friedkin has made a very, very good deal for himself. He's rich off selling cars, not finding oil or trading bitcoin. This is a guy who can negotiate the hair off a bear, and he's up against a desperate failure who once deliberately paid over the asking price for a player just because it made headlines. My bet is on your first scenario. Half-price sounds about right.

Ed #235, yep.

Laurie Hartley
242 Posted 24/09/2024 at 02:09:48
Michael K # 204

“But will we really?”.

I think we will and here are my reasons why:-

I have felt a weight has been lifted of my shoulders with this news. I am pretty sure most Evertonians will feel the same way. That being the case, surely it will have a similar impact on the players, and everyone else employed by the club.

Newcastle haven't gone through three seasons of darkness like us – we have survived that up to now and we can see the light. ;). The shackles are off.

My hope is renewed - we will be great again!

Jonathan Oppenheimer
243 Posted 23/09/2024 at 03:54:00
I'm not getting carried away too much, but this American Jew has a little Everton pep in my step that I haven't had since my journey to Goodison last season.

Every last one of us deserved some good news, and when we beat Palace on the weekend, we can begin the slow journey out of the depths of hell we've been living as Blues these past few years.

May the Moshiri era, the only one I've known as a die-hard fan, die a quick and sudden death.

Frank Wolfe
244 Posted 24/09/2024 at 04:49:17
Karl (238) - 100%.

Good news but it's not a silver bullet. We are still subject to PSR but, even if we had big money to spend, I'd say that we need to be cautious about who and how we spend it.

There's no quick fix. We need to move forward in a planned and methodical way – both on and off the pitch.

Ian Jones
245 Posted 24/09/2024 at 05:19:35
Captain Tom Moore summed it up a few years back
'Tomorrow will be a good day'.

Let's hope we have many tomorrows and that they are good.

In the meantime, let's not get too excited... the deal hasn't been finalised. If Textor comes to Goodison at the weekend, it'll be interesting to see which part of the directors box he ends up in considering he assumed the club was his.

Of course, it might still become his if the Friedkin deal falls through. I hope it's a case of 'let's have a look at what you could have won'!

Mike Gaynes
246 Posted 24/09/2024 at 05:27:25
Jonathan #243, yep, and our Mourner's Kaddish will be quick and insincere!
Jeff Armstrong
247 Posted 24/09/2024 at 05:44:49
Karl #238, very good balanced post.

We all need to cool our jets and concentrate on beating Palace on Saturday, then at least a point against the Skunks next week, before another international break… baby steps.

Steve Brown
248 Posted 24/09/2024 at 06:36:03
Liverpool's net spending for the last 5 years is £253 million and Villa's is £217 million; Man City's is £139 million after accruing a net profit of £98 million in the 2024 transfer windows.

Therefore, Robert's point is broadly right although the range might be a bit excessive. To build a Top 8 competitive squad will take north of £200 million + if you push hard. The alternative is to take a longer term strategy like Brighton and build incrementally. I think this is the basis on which the club wants to improve.

Everton's net spend over the last 5 years is £27.66 million. We have to look at Thelwell's and Dyche's performance on that basis.

Paul Hewitt
249 Posted 24/09/2024 at 06:44:03
Ian @245.

Don't be saying things like that, I'm certain it's not going to fall through.

I'm sure Friedkin wouldn't have put out the statement they are taking over if the deal wasn't done.

I woke up today with a little smile on my face. Don't put a downer on it.

Danny O'Neill
250 Posted 24/09/2024 at 06:54:42
We used to call them lessons learned, but in reality, they were lessons identified as we never learned them and repeated them two years down the line. It's not how much you spend; it's how you spend it.

I don't want a repeat of the reckless and unplanned transfer strategy that is symbolic of the Moshiri era. Calling it a strategy is stretching it. Invest sensibly. There is a lot of uncovered potential out there.

We are all scarred after the last few seasons, so hopefully this is a new start. And I didn't realise he is a stunt pilot, flying a Spitfire in the film Dunkirk. I only saw that on the news this morning.

Maybe he can fly a banner over Goodison Park, or Bramley-Moore Dock… or both.

Martin Farrington
251 Posted 24/09/2024 at 07:18:11
Mike @195,

Thank you for your response. However, I disagree with you. Thelwell has not pulled in good players – let alone repeatedly.
Name the goalscorers. Name the pacey players. Trickey skilful wingers. The right-back and left-back we oh so desperately need.

He has sold players of that ilk however. He wasn't dealt a bad hand at all. He knew exactly what the hand was when he took the job offer.

The squad clearly hasn't improved hence our league position and we instantly hit rock bottom and are looking at a further relegation scrap for this season. We are arguably worse off in size and resilience.

His acquisitions are what Dyche has to mould into a winning a team. Do you think this has worked? There are many players identified by TW's on this forum who would clearly have been way better, but alas were never considered.

The deadwood has raised us £253.6M. He has spent £169M. This is a matter we will never come near to agreement over. However, we have a new owner. May this be the change of fortunes Evertonians of all opinions richly deserve.

Steve Shave
252 Posted 24/09/2024 at 07:18:42
This is a welcome announcement and the first time I have felt optimistic in a long time. I predicted this would happen and had everything crossed. I was not impressed with Textor's gobshite tendencies, Friedkin was quietly going about business. Toyota Stadium anyone?

When the news broke I actually noticed an unpleasant acidic feeling leave my chest, I think it was all stressing me more than I realised. We, the fans, deserve some grounds for optimism. If they come to a game soon, I hope 40 thousand sing their name and make them welcome.

The stars are aligning for my other prediction (please ratify this soon Premier Legue!) which is for the FA to not have the balls to employ Carsley and he comes home to us ready for the transfer window.

Thelwell absolutely deserves a chance to shine, I believe he is one of the few staffing assets we actually have. 100% agree, Danny, that spending must be done cautiously and add only a few players each year. I hope they go for the slow plan personally.

New contracts for Dom and Jarrad on the table before the window opens. A right-back, a back-up left-back, a top drawer central midfielder (well, the best who would come to us right now) and another striker. Is that a flicker of light in the distance? COYB.

Paul Hewitt
253 Posted 24/09/2024 at 07:26:51
Having just signed a deal with Red Bull, I wonder if Ralf Rangnick is likely to come on board as an adviser or even DoF?
Steve Shave
254 Posted 24/09/2024 at 07:28:58
Paul 253,

Now that would be something; however, Thelwell deserves his shot.

Andy Duff
255 Posted 24/09/2024 at 07:52:15
What does him being Jewish have to with anything? A few comments celebrating this fac,t so what?

Why do we need to make this point? It has nothing at all to do with football or what type of person you are.

John Houghton
256 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:16:22
Karl (238)

The need for Everton to become more 'ruthless' as a club and organisation in a number of ways is, whether we like it or not, the only way they're going to compete both on the field and commercially (a necessary consideration unfortunately). I also think it may help shake off the losing 'mentality' which is so obviously endemic within the club and change the perception of the club from the outside. For example:

Don't extend the contracts of ageing players clearly beyond their sell-by date.

No more 'bring a Blue home' sentiment-based purchases (a past-it Rooney)..

No more fat contracts or over-the-top transfer fees for middling level players.

Sell high.

Employ the best person(s) for the role, ie, no longer 'jobs for the boys and girls'.

Place a (literally) higher value (shirt and sleeve sponsorships etc) on partnering with the club.

As Jerome (198) states, there has been insufficient accountability throughout the club for a long time which has helped fuel an acceptance of low standards and no expectation of success on the pitch.

With regard to season ticket prices at the new stadium, whether Everton is owned by a rich incompetent or rich hard-nosed professionals, price hikes are coming regardless. Partly because that's what owners do, partly to accommodate the requirements of the 'Top 6' placating bullsh!t that is PSR.

Football has long since gone 'through the looking glass' when it comes to complacency towards fans – and it isn't coming back.

Liam Mogan
257 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:24:33
Keep hearing negative comments about Everton being run like a corner shop.

My corner shop is very well run – they can't do enough for you – is open 24/7 and stocks everything from tinned butter beans to American candy and 6 types of slushies. It also has a whole wall dedicated to Vape products.

It has the iconic name 'Mr Blue' and it's lighting is so bright and vibrant it can be seen from Mars. Boy Pen Bill thought he was the OG Mr Blue, but this guy knocks him out the park.

Tony Abrahams
258 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:26:32
If this gets Everton back to the dizzy heights of 7th, then I genuinely don't see the point.

I know things have changed… but we are fucking Everton – or at least we used to be until Kenwright got his hands on the club.

Want Moyes back? Listen to him eulogizing in the television studio the other day about his time at Everton and talking about his squad of players.

They won nothing, got to one cup final in eleven seasons, and couldn't win an away game against any of the Top 4 teams in over 44 attempts.

This might be okay for a club like Stoke City but we used to be fucking Everton!!!

Robert Tressell
259 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:27:29
Steve # 248,

I stand by that £300M to £500M assessment. Due to our very low spending since Moshiri pulled the plug in 2021, I think people have lost track of Premier League spending levels.

Brighton spent £220M just this summer – more than we have spent on our entire squad. Man Utd are struggling to make the Top 6 with absolutely astonishing year-on-year spending.

Before we can crack the Top 6 or Top 7, we need to catch up with the likes of Bournemouth, Brentford, Forest and Palace whom we have fallen behind. All of these clubs have invested between £200M and £350M more than us in their squads in the past 4 years.

It is not just the first XI (which is weak), it is the squad depth (which is absolutely pitiful). This will become very acute next summer when we lose Calvert-Lewin, Doucoure, Gueye, Keane, Coleman, Young and Virginia to free transfers.

If you want to catch up with a club like Spurs, then take a look at their bench when they played us. Only Pickford, Calvert-Lewin and Branthwaite would get on their bench. Even Branthwaite wouldn't start because they have Van der Ven.

We need to get to the point where the bench is stocked with players of the standard of Garner and McNeil and better.

The Moshiri era has been a disaster and absolutely wrecked the playing squad. So nothing will change overnight. Indeed, even if Friedkin has the money (which he doesn't), PSR would prevent us from spending this in one go.

So it has to be continued sensible recruitment of talented cast-offs like Ndiaye and Lindstrom, a few cheap steady eddies like Tarkowski, and youth development of players like Calvert-Lewin and Branthwaite.

Bob Parrington
260 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:31:14
After reading the previous 255 postings, exhausted, all I can add is "Thank Fuck we fans won't have to be worried where the next dollar (pound, euro etc) will be coming from."

Phew!!!!!

Danny O'Neill
261 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:38:12
Tony, you are hitting the nerve this morning mate, more than once.

We are Everton and we have expectation because we know where we can be.

I don't want to live in the past with Moyes. I know for many of a certain generation, 7th was acceptable.

Not for me. With proper management of this club and with its fantastic support base, we can challenge.

It is only Tuesday and feels like a long way to go until Saturday.

James Hughes
262 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:51:03
Tony #258 — Best post of the thread.

I just don't get this hankering for Dour Dave's (thanks Eugene) return.

He bottled it in the big games regularly.

John Chambers
263 Posted 24/09/2024 at 08:56:42
Robert, I totally agree with what you say.

Too many people seem to think the fact that we are being bought by a billionaire is like finding the magic money tree and we will have unrestricted spending.

Whilst this will be a massive benefit to the club as a whole and will lift the threat of administration on the playing front, there are still challenges. This season, we are still subject to PSR, so I can't see January being an active window for us.

Next season, new controls based on revenue are being brought in. So there will still be restrictions on what can be spent on the squad.
This is where we will start to see the benefit of the move to the new stadium with the increase in revenue due to increased attendance, prices (yes, we are going to have to pay more) and commercial activity.

Whilst initially that will definitely not put us in the same league as the top revenue earners, it will allow us to be competitive with the likes of Newcastle, Villa but means it will take a few years to build a renewed quality squad.

The one thing that may change that picture significantly is if Man City win their case around associated parties funding clubs that would then release Friedkin to add significant investment at the club, although that would also apply to Newcastle etc.

Bobby Mallon
264 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:09:43
Their company logo goes well with the stadium logo
Jim Potter
265 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:11:35
Like him or loathe him, it's a pity that Blue Bill is not around just to get Dan Friedkin truly enthused about our history and what it means to all of us to be Evertonians.

He may have been a divisive character but he could certainly talk all things Blue and draw the listener in.

We need Friedkin to buy in (in so many ways) to our club and we seemingly no longer possess that kind of character to wax lyrical about what makes our club so special and unique.

I hope Dan goes on, in time, to 'get us'.

(I'm not forgetting Bill's negatives, just missing his positives.)

Mark Murphy
266 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:15:47
Bloody hell, Jim, I hope you've got a strong tin hat!
Mike Hayes
267 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:27:01
Good grief, Jim, give your head a wobble!

He's the main reason we are in this feckin mess, bringing in the greatest billionaire ever!!

Bill Fairfield
268 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:30:27
To TFG, I say welcome to our club, I wish you every success for the future.

To Farhad Moshiri, thanks for a world class football stadium. As far as football goes, it’s been a disaster.

Good luck for the future.

Nick Page
269 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:30:52
Jim, it's exactly that sort of misplaced (and fake) sentimentality that got the club into this mess in the first place. It's tiresome, and we need to move on from all this “gets us” bullshit.

Modern football clubs are professional organisations, and we're still playing catch-up.

Joe McMahon
270 Posted 24/09/2024 at 09:57:00
Jim, are you serious?

The new owners won't give a toss about the Boys Pen or the cheesy songs constantly played at Goodison. As Nick says, it's held us back.

And no, we don't want Unsworth, Ferguson or now Naismith as manager, it's bad enough having Dyche.

Colin Bell
271 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:07:13
Absolutely love ToffeeWeb. The posts in the comments section of the Echo are dominated by R/S with little to commend their knowledge of the game; and they call us bitter?

I have read, with interest, the many and varied posts, some adding to my understanding of the position we are in; thanks.

Right now, I just want to be in my seat at Goodison throwing my weight behind the team and the club and hoping that this really does herald a new dawn. COYB!

Steve Dowdeswell
272 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:09:38
Can we look forward to a massively overinflated stadium naming rights payment, a la the Ethiad stadium down the road, once Man City get away with their PSR charges?
James Marshall
273 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:09:39
I'm so glad to see other people looking to a new, modern Everton. It's about time we moved on from all the old cheesy Everton bullshit that Kenwright whined on about for years.

Get rid of all the stupid old-fashioned songs, bin off all the matchday shite around Grand Old Team and all that, along with this obsession with players and managers who 'get us' as a club.

Nobody gives a shit whether we were good for a couple of years in the '60s and '80s (as I've said before). Literally only Evertonians care, it's such inward thinking and really holds us back.

Change it all, scrap all the old songs, move forward, grow, modernise… and maybe, just maybe we can progress, become a 21st Century football club with forward thinking people running the show, instead of old fuddy duddy's stuck in the past who think our 'istory is what will make us win things. It won't.

Tradition is merely stuff that dead people once did. Move on.

Eddie Dunn
274 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:23:03
Jim – I don't want any sentimentality at the new home.

Onwards and upwards.

Fred Quick
275 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:24:30
James @273,

I totally understand where you are coming from, but isn't what you want tantamount to throwing the baby out with the bathwater?

Where would we stop if we got rid of all of the traditions? Orange kits at home? Change our name to New Everton? Not all of the old-stuff is detrimental to how the club performs on the pitch.

Forward-thinking leadership is what we need, not a complete change of identity, it's bad enough that we may play second fiddle to an Italian club.

Brent Stephens
276 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:24:35
Tony, Danny, 7th in the league might not sound very Everton-ish. But we can't, and surely won't, leap, from 20th to Top 3 in a season, or even several seasons.

What we can spend on the squad will still be limited by PSR (or new squad cost ratio rules), so I hope for incremental steps up the Premier League table, and can't see there being giant leaps.

Saying "We are Everton" is all well and good on the terraces — but does little else for us otherwise.

Clive Rogers
277 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:26:18
The bad news is that Friedkin is being linked with Southgate.

Hope it's not true.

Brent Stephens
279 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:27:36
James #273,

How would you actually get rid of all the '60s and '70s songs etc?

Dave Abrahams
280 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:33:06
Jim (265),

Let the former chairman have all the credit he deserves for the theatre business he built over the years and let him be known as the phoney bastard he was when it came to running Everton FC.

He made sure he did very well out of Everton while the club and us fans suffered under his ownership and being guardian of the club.

Brian Williams
281 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:38:48
Jim #265.

Would you like to buy a seagull, mate?

John Chambers
282 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:43:47
Steve, the ability for an owner to do inflated deals like Man City have, and perhaps we have already done with Usmanov re Megafon and stadium naming rights, is not a direct relationship between their PSR charges.

They have a separate case where they are challenging the Premier League about “associated parties” and their ability to pump money into a club.

On a related theme, we should think about how much cash is actually available to put into the club after he has spent £500M to buy us. Friedkin may be worth north of $6B but how much of that is assets rather than cash?

Clearly he has more resources than Moshiri was able or willing to provide, although his ownership is likely to have cost him several hundred million pounds, but to put big sums of money into the club, would he have to sell other assets or raise loans?

Tony Abrahams
283 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:44:56
There is always a good tradition of love and hate on these pages, though, James!

Everton have been driving us mad but I'm sure most people will agree with Colin Bell's last paragraph @271, and Goodison will hopefully be a lot happier place to be on Saturday.

I get that, Brent, but surely you would sacrifice a few positions in the Premier League table if we started winning the odd cup?

Edward Rogers
284 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:54:04
"A good tradition of love and hate" wow! never thought I'd hear a Tanita Tikarim reference on ToffeeWeb.

Apologies if it's already been noted, but massive kudos to the poster (on a previous thread), who was convinced Freidkin would 're-ignite' his interest in taking over; well done, Sir.

Joey Cannon
285 Posted 24/09/2024 at 10:58:05
About Friedkin time hey!!

(Has that joke been done yet?)

Alan McMillan
286 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:00:44
I like the way this was conducted quietly, behind the scenes. No throwing shapes, no Alan Myers Interviews on Sky.

From what I read about the deal, he is taking on the debt, not paying it off, so while we can be thankful that the days of Farhad appear to be over, we should be cautiously – not wildly – optimistic.

We have been here before with Kenwright, then Moshiri, so we need to make them earn our trust, not just give it away.

Steve Brown
287 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:10:15
Robert @ 259, it is certainly going to be a long-journey and we need to stay disciplined in our strategy.

Brighton were able to spend a huge amount this summer due to their recuitment strategy in previous years. Their net transfer spending is 17th in total over the last 5 years, but they are 7th in the table.

So there is a model there, but I agree it to be incremental improvement over the next several years with TFG.

Paul Cannon
288 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:12:12
Awful joke that, Joey #285
David Midgley
289 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:19:33
Many interesting and relavent comments about the 'New Dawn '
and being wary. True.

Mr Thellwell, Blind Pew could see that Everton have been desperate for a right- and a left-back for the last few seasons.

Why have you not been able to find any from the lower divisions or out-of-contract players?

Who would take the Everton job if Mr Dyche was sacked? Brighton managed to find a 31-year-old who's doing okay.

Carlos Corberan has been mooted, assistant to Bielsa and now Manager at West Brom. Playing decent stuff and used to a tight budget.

I think any half decent manager could get Everton playing with a pattern and a shape. Lots of people out there – just need to cast the net wide and do due diligence.

John Keating
290 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:20:40
I would like to think in 3-4 years we are well-established financially and managed. We are playing for a European spot with a good team on the pitch.

Although we have not forgotten the shit Moshiri led us to footy-wise, we can respect him for getting us the ground we've needed for years.

As for The World's Greatest Evertonian… well, he should be erased from the history of Everton Football Club.

Robert Tressell
291 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:22:49
Steve # 287. Completely agree. Youth and low-cost market scouting and recruitment, player development (loans and affiliate clubs), youth player trading, sell-to-buy strategy etc etc.

Brighton, Brentford and our delightful neighbours all use the same model. Time for us to modernise and join the club. Nothing will change until we do.

James Marshall
292 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:29:40
Fred @275,

I'm not talking about things like changing kit colours, but I would certainly advocate modernising our kit designs – along the lines of the sort of thing you see Chelsea or Juventus wearing for example. Older fans might not like such things, but we need to appeal to a younger, wider, worldwide audience – the Premier League is a world product, not just a local or scouse one.

We've been too inward, too locally focused for too long and we've been left behind. Looking at our new sponsor announced this morning, Corpay, loads of people online complaining, saying why do we need this sort of sponsor? More short-sighted fan support.

We need to broaden our appeal, especially with a new stadium, and things like foreign exchange partners are a great way of allowing Everton as a brand into the world marketplace.

Brent @279,

You get rid of the old songs by not playing them over the tannoy at games. They're embarrassing.

Paul Hewitt
293 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:35:03
It's great having a forward-thinking owner.

But never forget who you are, and where you come from.

Brent Stephens
294 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:40:06
James, surely that won't stop the fans singing them. They're not played over the tannoy at away matches but we still sing them. I think it's all about identity and emotion, James, not trying to tell a literal story?

Who will write the songs that make the whole world sing (no, please, not him!)? What will be the emotive element in those songs? "Yer know yer recent shit 'istory, but the future's not a big mystery". To the tune of??

James Marshall
295 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:48:00
Brent,

I'm not talking about fans singing them. I'm talking exclusively about them being played by the club before and after games.

It's old-hat. The fans can sing what they like, nobody can control that.

Jerome Shields
296 Posted 24/09/2024 at 11:56:05
Tony #208

I agree other teams would have not survived in the Premier League as Everton have done. I know it is hard to see, but there is something that has had Everton survive against the odds, though Robert did show that challenging teams were able to out-spend Everton.

But this takeover should cast off the yoke that has kept Everton back for years, through wanton mismanagement that has the club on its knees.

That alone is a good thing.

Brent Stephens
297 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:03:57
Got ya, James. Maybe something to soothe the nerves as the teams run out, calm the emotions.

Debussy – Prelude to an Afternoon of a Faun?

James Marshall
298 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:09:18
Maybe something with a touch more drama:

Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata?

Brent Stephens
299 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:13:47
James, we're going to have one hell of a first game at the new stadium with rousing stuff like that! I can't wait!
James Marshall
300 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:30:36
It's gonna be a real barn burner!
Christine Foster
301 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:36:22
I reckon we should come out to the music of 633 Squadron.

Now that's an anthem!

Brian Harrison
302 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:38:33
I know that both Tony @258 and Danny @261 mention what we expect from Everton and Tony suggested if the takeover only gets us to the dizzy heights of 7th, then he doesn't see the point.

But I think we have to be realistic: for us to finish 7th for the next few seasons would be a marked improvement over the last couple of years.

I think we should remember that, since 1939, we have won the league 4 times, the FA Cup 3 times and 1 European trophy, and of course promotion back in 1954. That's 8 trophies in 80 years, leaving aside the war years.

So if the takeover gets us to 7th for a couple of seasons, that for me is progress, and that would give us something to build on.

Raymond Fox
303 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:44:23
That's a good call, Christine; how about Entrance Of The Gladiators?

Thats what Wigan Rugby come out to and they don't do too bad.

Dave Abrahams
304 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:45:30
Brent (294)

I remember being at Allison's night club and Brook Benton was entertaining, not going down very well, having an off night.

Half-way though his act, he asked the audience if they wanted a favourite song for him to sing? Most people were fed up with him, my mate shouted out “Give us Fuckin' Roll out the Barrell”! He never did, maybe he didn't know it, but the audience did and had a good laugh at the shout-out.

That's the sort of song we need — loads of fun with a nice bawdy song like that!

Brent Stephens
305 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:48:08
Dave, was that Allison's in Litherland?
Christine Foster
306 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:48:21
I think if I was Friedkin, my expectations would be outside chance of Europe this season, qualification to Europa League next season, and Champions League the following season.

But I'm not him, but if I could dream, it would be slipping into qualification for Europe this season. What an end for the old lady and what a start for "The Dock" (my nickname for the new stadium).

Of course that is a 100-to-1 shot… but you never know, hope will return!

Stan Grace
307 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:49:55
Rhapsody in Blue, surely?
Dennis Stevens
308 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:55:06
Time Is Tight by Booker T & the MGs is excellent to run out to.

I remember, as a lad, Worcester City used to use it most effectively.

Liam Mogan
309 Posted 24/09/2024 at 12:56:06
Going back to 2018-19, Roma have finished 6th nearly every season. I'd happily take a bit of that with the potential of actually winning a cup at some point.

Doubt any owner could make us title challengers or Champions League regulars, given the PSR rules. A bit of stability and a fighting chance would be a welcome change after a decade of utter tripe.

Raymond Fox
310 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:02:41
The new ownership, when it happens, does give us new hope and a new start.

What needs to happen with the Premier League are some rule changes that level up the competition, at least a little bit. I admit I haven't a clue how you can do it but it needs doing.

Problem is, the fat cats are sitting pretty with squads valued at way more than the rest and they won't be keen to relinquish that advantage.

Christine Foster
311 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:02:49
Raymond, that's a good one too... Z-Cars belongs to Goodison… it will echo there through the ages.

Given the ordinance they had to pull out of the dock, any team faces that defiance, pride and its history will surely fail.

Yes, 'The Dock" is a fortress to defend and a place others will dread.

Dave Abrahams
312 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:06:02
Brent (305), Yes that was where it was. Too add a bit of reference to my post, Brook Benton was one of my favourite singers and I booked for about twelve of us go and see him, mates and wives.

I asked one of the ‘bouncers' “What's up with him (Brook Benton)? Why's he so crap? He's not really having a go is he?

The ‘bouncer' said “He agreed a certain fee for his appearance but when he got here he asked for more but was refused, so he's got to sing or he gets fuck all and a bad reputation; that's why he's acting up.”

A couple of weeks later he was on a show on TV “ Classic Singers” or some other name, he sang A Rainy Night in Georgia absolutely perfect, but anyone who saw him that night in Allinson's would always remember how poor he was and how he let himself down. It never stopped me appreciating how good he was though.

Fred Quick
313 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:06:13
"We remain active investors in the sports industry. We love the beautiful game. The potential addition of Everton to our portfolio does not alter our focus on AS Roma. If anything, the multi-club symbiosis will only help Roma.

"Each club in our portfolio operates independently and AS Roma remains at the heart of our football ambitions. Rest assured, our commitment of time, resources, and energy to Roma will not be diminished. Our goal is clear — to see AS Roma consistently compete at the highest levels of European football.

"To our incredible fans, we acknowledge the immense responsibility we bear in leading this historic club. Your unwavering loyalty fuels us as we continue building for the future. We value your voices and want you to know — we hear you. You are the soul of this club, and we are determined to make you proud. Forza Roma." Friedkin Group statement earlier today.

I do wonder what their statement would be to Everton FC, "we'll do everything to retain your historic place in the top-flight". We'll keep spending under control, and refuse to pay too much in players salaries". "Our aim is to buy low and sell high in order to keep the club solvent." All tongue in cheek on my behalf.

If in 2 years time, we aren't at least aiming for European football, I'd be pretty disappointed… that's of course, if we do enough to retain our Premier League status this season.

As tumultuous and stressful as the last 5 years have been, I don't think we should allow those 5 years to define us as a club or overly restrict our ambitions as supporters.

Brent Stephens
314 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:14:49
Dave #312,

Did you park at Allsion's that night? There was apparently a scam going on at Allison's: park at the back; your wheels / tyres would be changed for inferior ones but you'd drive away unaware, and only realise some time later – not knowing when or where it happened.

There weren't many Reliant Robins around at the time and the scammers couldn't easily find worn-down replacement tyres. So I was safe.

Robert Tressell
315 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:18:29
The reason this is brilliant news (and it is brilliant news) is that we will definitely be relegated if we have another transfer window with Moshiri. It is impossible to survive extreme cost cutting measures for 5 years in a row when all of our rivals keep strengthening. And relegation could lead to insolvency. We absolutely had to get shot of Moshiri. Nice stadium – but a disaster on the footballing side.

As it is, the injury crisis and failure to sign a RIGHT-BACK (which was surely a priority) means that we are in a relegation fight again already anyway. But there are more than 30 games left and we're only 6 points off Man Utd and Spurs. Very early days.

Sadly, the idea that we might finish 6th to 7th because Roma do is a bit daft. It's like expecting Girona to romp to the title in La Liga ahead of Real because they're owned by Man City.

First things first: we need to consolidate our position as a Premier League club – then claw our way back into the top 10 ahead of some well-run and well-resourced clubs – and then see if we can force our way into contention for Europe ahead of a few clubs in what is now the Rich 8.

This is going to take a few years even if it all goes well.

But that really shouldn't take the shine off what a big development this is.

Clive Rogers
316 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:27:08
Brent, they only had to find three though.
Jim Wilson
317 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:35:16
Robert @ 315,

My biggest worry now is the manager's position. Would you keep with Dyche at least for the time being?

I'm not Dyche's biggest fan. Like you say, not signing a right-back or someone who can play left- and right-back is very poor. With a fully fit squad, I am hoping we will be okay but we nosedive with injuries.

To be fair on Dyche, the Bournemouth game seemed to show that he does eventually want us to play some decent football. But in the meantime, our constant lack of possession is very worrying.

But what I'm leading to is, if the new owners sack Dyche and then make a bad appointment, we could end up in freefall. I feel we need someone who won't try to make too many changes to the team too quickly and make us even more disjointed. Someone who knows a completely new system is sorted in a pre-season – not mid-season.

Danny O'Neill
318 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:37:09
I like that song we played last season "Bella Ciao". Now we have Italian connections, we could play that at the end. Very catchy and my remaining dog is called Bella!!

Her full name is Francesca Bella, ironically loosely name after Francesco Totti, as we followed Roma when we lived in Italia.

Why not have a pre-season against Roma at the Everton Stadium?

John Wilson
319 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:38:49
I said at the time, this is not a situation that cannot be resolved. I said it will take a well-worded letter from Friedkin's barrister (attorney) and that has since proven right.

At some point recently, Friedkin got a legal opinion for the risk and liability posed, whilst Textor hadn't realised his Everton dream was over before he finished his well-intended sentiment in his interview to Alan Myers of Sky Sports.

Friedkin is so efficient and sharp, like the speed of light: you see it done before it's announced.

Brent Stephens
320 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:45:04
Clive – you needed three?

Ah, maybe that's why my Reliant kept tipping over!

Rob Halligan
321 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:55:30
Seeing as Dan Friedkin flew a Spitfire in the Dunkirk film, how about the theme to The Danbusters!!
Fred Quick
322 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:56:06
Robert @ 315,

I agree with you, we can't run before we can walk, and I have previously stated how much work needs to be done, before we will see tangible improvement on the pitch. However, my last post was one about fans' ambitions and not expectations, and those ambitions have nothing whatsoever to do with what Roma does or doesn't do.

I see throughout many sites, Evertonians saying how we should be prepared for a few years, ranging from 3 to 5, of being happy with lower-half placings and get some stability etc. That's all well and good, and totally understandable, given what we've endured in the last few years, but I would hope for a bit better than that, with at least the target of regaining European football being set in a couple of years.

All I really want is for Everton to be taken seriously by our opponents and for our club to perform to its maximum on and off the pitch, with an ambition to do as well as it can.

Setting our own ceiling on our ambitions as fans, seems to me as settling for too little.

Danny O'Neill
323 Posted 24/09/2024 at 13:57:44
Sounds like Allisons was a lively place!!

Post match, we used to head back to my friend's dad's Italian restaurant "Bucca di Bacos". I can't name the street, but just off Matthew Street.

We didn't eat, just drank and debated the match. Here is another tune as it always got played and reminds me of that time.

The Whole Of The Moon. Even I used to sing to it and I'm a terrible singer, even at Everton matches!!

Clive Rogers
324 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:06:21
Brent, any blow-up dolls in the back?
Rob Halligan
325 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:07:19
Fred # 322…

I agree with you, why shouldn't we set our sights on a target higher than mid-table?

Look at Newcastle when they got taken over. They were bottom or near as bottom when the Saudis took them over. Following season, they finished 4th.

Jeez, if they can do it then so can we!

Tony Abrahams
326 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:17:26
I'd measure progress by winning a few cups, Rob, especially because this is more achievable than climbing right up the league in the short term.

But either way, it's just nice to finally be thinking positively, mate.

Danny O'Neill
327 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:26:25
Rob, Tony, we could be at Wembley in May. We will climb the league, but let's hope for a day out in the London sun.

Positivity at last to put us out of what we have endured.

Credit to all blues for seeing it through. Thick and thin.

Cradle to grave and as Christine said, they are our Everton and always will be, regardless of owners or manager.

Tony Abrahams
328 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:31:14
I suggested that before the Southampton game last week Danny, (the FA Cup) and this very good Evertonian told me I should go and lie down.

If Goodison is going to get the farewell party it deserves, then my own view is that Everton have got to win the FA Cup and parade it around the famous old stadium before it closes forever.

Jamie Crowley
329 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:47:27
I just woke up in America about 45 minutes ago.

Made the coffee - French press only, every day.

Fired up ToffeeWeb to see if anything was up.

I am absolutely thrilled with this news. This is the owner I'd hoped for, and when they backed out, I was really disappointed.

The club will be run professionally. We will not overspend. We will operate within our means. We will, if we can simply survive this season, climb the table again to a position where Everton "belongs."

This is arguably the best thing to happen to Everton since I was "born" in 2007.

UTFT! The sun shines, and God smiles.

Brent Stephens
330 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:49:43
Clive #324 - only Batman and Robin outfits.
Ed Prytherch
331 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:50:17
If it is true that we were spending £1M per week on loan interest, then simply paying off those loans has given us some real breathing space with PSR.

The University of South Carolina football team run onto the field to the opening bars of Thus Spake Zarathustra as in the opening of 2001 A Space Odyssey. It is really dramatic.

Brian Williams
332 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:53:07
Jamie#329.

Jamie where did you expect to wake up?

Have you been kidnapped and transported?

Jamie Crowley
333 Posted 24/09/2024 at 14:56:43
Brian – Hahaha! Jeez man, you just simply "set the stage" and an Englishman can figure out some hilarious quip! You fine people are brilliant.

Have to say I'm also over the moon, and this may not be a majority opinion, our ownership has shifted from dodgy Russian (let's be real here) to American-owned.

Our cultures are similar, it's a better fit, and "soccer" grows in popularity here and it can only help grow with American ownership in the end.

Jamie Crowley
334 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:00:54
Finally, for what it is worth, I think a climb up the table will take a few years.

TFG isn't an outfit that will pump cash for results on the pitch. It'll be done slowly over time, I'd bet, focusing on the financial health of the club.

And anyone getting impatient with that or questioning that? I'd say to them it's the right way to do it. We need to seriously get our financial house in order, stay up, and grow over time. We've tried the 'splash the cash' way – it's dangerous and if it doesn't work you find yourself battling for survival three / four years in a row. Not worth it.

Rob Halligan
335 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:12:59
Jamie, have you been asleep for the last 48 hours, or are you Rip Van Winkle?

This news broke over 24 hours ago! 😁😁

Bill Hawker
336 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:17:36
Just saw this news as I'm always last man on the deal. Man I hope this goes through.

Evertonians need a bit of good news.

Jamie Crowley
337 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:21:21
Rob,

I'm logging in for news only about once a week!

Super busy at work and in an honest moment, there's not been a hellava lot of happy reading these days!

So my time on TW has been measured and limited. I'm "out of the loop" for sure. But thrilled today!

Dave Abrahams
338 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:27:32
Brent (314), No Brent we never parked I was alive those days and would be far too drunk to drive, that's even if I could drive which I couldn't.

Danny (323), I saw The Whole Of The Moon, that was like the National Anthem in Partners, a pub in London Road, 2:00 am finish and the DJ would say “ Right, last song of the night” around 2:10am and play something, no one would move out until he played The Whole Of The Moon then the pub would erupt with fellas lifting their girlfriends onto their shoulders and dancing all over the place and finish up in the street still dancing. After all, the song was about whatever fix they were smoking or snorting, my fix was always pints of brown bitter followed by a few gins!

David Midgley
339 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:27:44
Could run out to Star Wars.

If not, George Formby has a good repertoire.

Jay Harris
340 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:28:26
Jamie,

Remind me to send you any significant positive news.

I heard this Sunday night as I was going to bed and got my thrice daily update of Everton news USA.

I am with you as I think Friedkin will give us the professionalism we need. They seem to be big on managing properly something Moshiri didn't grasp and, judging John Textor's emotional utterances, he might let his emotions get in the way of good governance.

Jamie Crowley
341 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:36:27
Jay,

Hit me up positive stuff!

I should add my sister, her husband, her daughter my niece, an aunt, another aunt and uncle, and a cousin all descended on my house Friday night and through the weekend. Busy, but fun, time. So I've been seriously occupied as of late.

And yes you and I are in agreement. We have a low-key, non-attention seeking, competent and professional ownership group now that is exactly what the doctor ordered.

Hope you're well m'man.

Tom Bowers
342 Posted 24/09/2024 at 15:41:12
If it goes through to finality and funds will be made available, one hopes that some possible signings are already being earmarked for January.

Haaland won't be available but certainly there has to be others who can do better than what Everton have at present.

Ndiaye knows where the net is but he needs more support.

Robert Tressell
343 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:03:36
Jim, would I keep Dyche? Probably, yes for the time being. It's been a shocking start but we're only 6 points off Man Utd and Spurs with 33 games remaining to play.

If things look very bleak after, say, another 3 games then it might be time for a change. I expect that is how the new (fingers crossed) owners are looking at it too.

In the meantime they probably are sounding out options like Moyes, Potter and (FFS) Southgate - because why wouldn't you when you're running the club as a business and millions are at stake? They may also test the water with more exciting options like Terzic - and even in-house options like Baines (although that would really surprise me).

But if we pick up between 4 and 7 points from the next three games then the pressure will really ease.

Ian Jones
344 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:42:09
My grandson likes this one as a song for the new stadium. He's a future blue but doesn't know it...he's only 4 :)

Down By The Docks | TBT | Thomas & Friends

Rob Halligan
345 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:46:20
Your grandson's favourite song?

Don't give us that, Ian, it's your favourite song isn't it! 😁😁😁

Jay Harris
346 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:46:47
Back at you Jamie,

Glad you had a good family weekend.

I'm just bracing for this hurricane (Helene) that's headed our way.
Poor old Cedar Key had a major fire at the weekend that burned down most of the seafront after suffering from last year's hurricane and is now in the eye of this one.

Just like Everton when you're down you just keep getting kicked. Just hope everyone stays safe.

Jim Wilson
347 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:47:34
Agree Robert and I definitely do not want Southgate.

I just hope that finally we really do have owners who know what they are doing.

Jay Harris
348 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:49:22
Robert,

Lee Carsley is the latest name added to the clickbait cowboy's list.

Although I'm not at all happy with Dyche, I do think we need to give him more time unless we continue losing games.

Ian Jones
349 Posted 24/09/2024 at 16:52:26
Rob, my secret's out!
Ray Roche
350 Posted 24/09/2024 at 17:00:27
James Marshall @273,

So,” Change it all, scrap all the old songs, move forward, grow, modernise, and maybe, just maybe we can progress, become a 21st-Century football club”

And your suggestion for a run out tune was written by a guy born in 1770. Yep, that works. That's modern…

Z-Cars isn't Goodison, it's Everton. Leave it alone. Put your headphones in and doze off to Beethoven and keep your selections to yourself, eh?

Jerome Shields
351 Posted 24/09/2024 at 17:09:11
Jamie @333,

I think it will take at least two years if not longer. I had also bedded in for the long haul, since I had no confidence in Textor. It was always apparent that The Friedkin Group were in poll position in comparison to his perceived interest, even when The Friedkin Group was nowhere to be seen.

The maxim that it takes the same time to sort a problem as to get into it springs to mind. Though I am trying to put that to the back of my mind.

It has been often said on ToffeeWeb that Everton needs changes from top to bottom and a complete clear-out so that the culture of the club can change. I am sure that The Friedkin Group know the importance of imposing their culture on the Everton organisation.

This will have little effect on the fanbase as customer care will be the priority and this will be helped by the move to the new stadium. But it will have a big impact on the staff who are currently employed by Everton. The Friedkin Group will impose accountability and performance targets.

Next is sorting out the financial mess of the Kenwright & Moshiri legacy. This is immediately brought to mind by Everton's performance in relation to the P&S Rules. I expect firstly for The Friedkin Group to come clean regarding any hidden irregularities, as the new owners of Chelsea did. The Premier League will be doing all that they can to facilitate The Friedkin Group. The road back from financial improbity will be a slow one.

Dealing with existing lenders will be protracted. They have already come to a satisfactory arrangement with the US authorities involved in the 777/A-CAP debacle, but this will inevitably take years to sort out. Dealing with other lenders will be routine, except R&MF whose loans will have to be renegotiated.

The stadium development will be a priority since it is the quickest way to add value to The Friedkin Group's investment in Everton.

As for Moshiri & Co interests, they are being negotiated as we speak. Hopefully Moshiri is getting the two pigs he deserves and they are not fat ones. It will be interesting to see what The Friedkin Group will do with the Liver Building lease, part of one of Moshiri's failed investments.

The football organisation side I would expect to benefit from The Friedkin Group's experiences of their investment in Roma and AC Cannes. The development of the team will be heavily influenced by the P&S Rules as it is now. Progress will be following the existing lines.

The Friedkin Group at Roma had a policy of purchasing young promising players. They will be demanding performance-wise. I expect both Thewell and Dyche to continue till their contracts end. Everton will survive relegation mainly helped by the prospect of stability and the beneficial effects of that on team performance.

I expect Evertonians to be tolerant and supportive of the new owners, already tempered by their built-in residence for the long haul, having the DNA that Kenwright claimed, but never had.

At long last, the hope of generations of Evertonians will be slowly but eventually realised and the big club that Everton is and even being known as in its darkest day will emerge from its story like no other in English football history.

I don't expect anything like the Roma fan protests, though those impatient for progress will express their opinions.

Grant Rorrison
352 Posted 24/09/2024 at 17:17:37
Why do people think that Friedkin has improved Roma? They were 2nd/3rd in Italy 5 of the 7 seasons immediately prior to him buying the club. Now, they are a Top 6 side.

Their 'success' has been in winning a 3rd tier European trophy with a side that 4 years earlier was getting to the semi-finals of the Champions League. A cup that David Moyes has also managed to win. It can't be that hard.

Ed Prytherch
353 Posted 24/09/2024 at 17:41:14
Grant;

Unai Emery did not improve Arsenal but he is doing very well at Villa. It all depends on the starting position.

Friedkin will be an order of magnitude better than Moshiri.

Billy Shears
354 Posted 24/09/2024 at 17:41:40
Thank fuck that's done, finally the misery of Moshiri's tenure is over, hopefully now we can be run like a truly professional football club that doesn't spend money for the sake of it but is shrewder in the transfer market and with players’ wages.

But the most important thing is securing 3 points on Saturday and putting on a show for the home faithful!

COYB

Jamie Crowley
355 Posted 24/09/2024 at 17:43:50
Grant -

Didn't they (Roma) write hot checks to get there? I believe they were a financial mess when TFG took them over? Hell, anyone can just spunk ghost money and buy a team and win! Except Moshri of course.

Jerome -

Agree with everything you say. Patience will be a virtue, but we'll get there. I like your prognosticatory road map.

Jay -

Stay safe m'man. Didn't even know that about Cedar Key? This one I believe is supposed to skirt us on the eastern side, but we'll bo largely unaffected. Again, stay safe. If ya gotta leave, leave. It's like my Uncle Bob says - "Only idiots die in hurricanes." You know when they're coming and you might sit in traffic but you can get out of the way. Of course, as people love to dissect posts, a brash comment not fully encompassing as there's elderly, infirm, etc. that often can't be evacuated. But you catch my drift. Stay safe.

Denis Richardson
356 Posted 24/09/2024 at 18:17:19
Lots of relief and joy that the Moshiri ownership is coming to an end, which I can understand. However, to those thinking we're now going to aim for Top 4, I think a huge slice of reality pie needs to be swallowed.

The main thing this club needs is financial stability and to be run in a professional manner. The ownership change should hopefully provide this. But, and its a big ‘but’, for the club to start regularly challenging top half, never mind Top 4, there needs to be a lot of change in the playing squad.

Real quality and pace needs to be brought in and this will take time. Even if there was a large financial outlay on new players, these need to be found, brought in, and given time to settle – you can't overhaul a whole club in a few months.

I actually think Dyche and Thelwell have done a fantastic job given the circumstances. The priority was simply to avoid relegation. Yes, we'd like more but that was the absolute priority so the club could be sold (and not go bust).

The squad today is far from perfect but a lot better than 12-24 months ago. The glaring holes being at right-back and any meaningful depth beyond the first XI. However, with some funds, these can hopefully start to be addressed in the January transfer window – depending on the manager situation, I guess. (Any decent roght-backs available for loan at Roma?)

I sincerely hope Friedkin isn't tempted to play football manager and lets Dyche and Thelwell get on with things whilst his team first focus on cleaning up the mess behind the scenes. Assuming we start getting points in the next few games, there's no need to cause more disruption getting rid of the manager. With the ownership situation taken care of, hopefully everyone tied to the club can look forward – including the players.

The Palace game takes on another dimension now.

Gary Borrows
357 Posted 24/09/2024 at 18:18:04
Hi, fellow Blues,

I hope that Southgate is not in the frame to take over from Dyche – another perennial loser and defensive coach.

Please, let's start now – don't let TFG make a massive mistake. My choice for what it's worth is Lee Carsley. I'll never forget the pileup on photo I had on my wall. COYBS

Jay Harris
358 Posted 24/09/2024 at 19:05:14
Thanks Jamie,

So far no mandatory evacuation so I guess I'll hide under the mattress with a bottle of Buffalo Trace if things get bad.

Hope it misses you completely. Let's look forward to some positive vibes now as George McKane would say.

David West
360 Posted 24/09/2024 at 19:40:00
Although it's obviously positive news, I'm struggling to get excited about it, I don't know if other Blues feel the same.

I don't know if it's the years of false dawns, the scars of our last billionaire takeover, the knowledge that it takes 100s of millions spent to get to that Top 5 or Top 6 of the Premier League – and time too.

If we've learnt anything from the Moshiri years, and I hope there'll be people around to point out the mistakes of his reign, it's that money won't solve all our problems.

People, good people who are top of their profession, is what we need, be that in recruitment, sponsorships, merchandise, scouting, revenue – and a top CEO is an absolute must.

I've said before why when we've spent £20 - 30M on an average player who's had little impact, wouldn't you give a top CEO that £20M to transform the club on and off the pitch?

The off-field improvements we need are going to be vital to enable us to spend above our current limits.

Mark Taylor
361 Posted 24/09/2024 at 19:41:36
The music thing had had an outing in another thread but ,for what it's worth, I think the Z-Cars theme is worth keeping, part of our history and could be quite dramatic with a little bit of creative updating and a re-recording.

Stuff like Grand Old Team makes me cringe, and I am not young…

Brian Williams
362 Posted 24/09/2024 at 19:54:57
I think we should keep Z-Cars as well.

Those who want us to completely disregard our history are those who think footie started in 1992 IMO. You don't just drop your history.

Modernise by all means but you don't just forget tradition and become a fucking Facebook club.

Brent Stephens
363 Posted 24/09/2024 at 19:58:09
Mark,

I've heard lots of suggestions about music etc for BMD, but I've yet to hear John Cage 4'33".

Larry O'Hara
366 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:07:43
Brent (363) — nobody has 😁😁
Brent Stephens
367 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:10:06
Larry, it's all I hear from my wife when she's got a cob on.
Ray Jacques
368 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:16:43
We can't scrap Z-Cars as I don't know how to change my ring tone!
Larry O'Hara
369 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:17:46
Brent (367) — ask her for the LP version. Sorted!
Brent Stephens
370 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:20:13
Larry, she'd only bloody play it full volume!
Mark Murphy
371 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:25:00
Keep Z-Cars – hairs on the back of the neck stuff.

But please stop that spend our tanners put the candle out shite! Grinds my gears that does.

Worst nonsensical lyrics since “Sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengetiiiiiii”

UTFT

Rob Halligan
372 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:30:42
Don't know if anyone is aware, but there is an air raid siren on the wall of the hydraulic tower at BMD.

Maybe this could be wired up to work again, to let people still outside on the plaza know that the teams are on their way out, and then when the siren finishes, Z-Cars can begin inside stadium.

The siren would also let the whole of Merseyside know that the Mighty Blues will soon be in action!

Brent Stephens
373 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:33:41
Rob, I don't think Mykolenko would be impressed!
Ray Roche
374 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:38:05
Brian @362,

Well said mate, as for our history it's all that's kept us relevant for years, at least we now can have some hope for the future.👍🏻

Dave Lynch
375 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:51:01
Yup! Drop everything bar Z-Cars.

That Grand Old Team is fucking cringe worthy, sung by that professional scouser Billy Marr... aka... remember when you could leave your front door open, no arse in your trousers...etc.

Paul Smith
376 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:56:36
James Marshall,

I salute you mate keep the common sense coming. City belt out Oasis at half time (Manc's I grant you) but how many people relate to them and worship their music?

We pump out over the tannoy, Forever fuvkin Everton. Sounds like an old Parlaphone number cracking away, it's cringe.

Andy Crooks
377 Posted 24/09/2024 at 20:57:30
Z-Cars is one of the greatest pleasures of going to see our team.

It is uplifting, a link to our history and a bond with everyone who has watched us win or lose.

Matt Butlin
378 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:03:15
Z-Cars gives you chills. That can't go anywhere.

Spirit Of The Blues gets right on my wick.

Paul Smith
379 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:03:28
Dave 338

The Whole Of The Moon was always played at the end of the night in the State, late '80s, and was a real change in time from the early dance music that was taking over the city back then.

Btw the next full moon is 17 October and apparently TFG are superstitious and want it wrapped up by then.

Mark Murphy
380 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:23:15
Paul,

Man City also belt out Hey Jude before kick-off. Ironic given their disdain of scousers. Mind, Oasis wouldn't exist if it weren't for the Beatles.

Only alternative to Z-Cars for me is We Shall Not Be Moved!

I might've mentioned this but it's only very recently I realised it's not “the team” but “the tree” that's standing by the waterside. I'd always thought the song was written for us!

Danny O'Neill
381 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:26:56
We shall never be moved, Mark.
Hugh Jenkins
382 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:28:22
I have mentioned previously that the Z-Cars theme music was based on an old Liverpool folk song called Johnny Todd.

If we wish to get away from people making disparaging remarks about us coming on to the pitch to the tune of a 1960s television police drama, let's start calling the tune, Johnny Todd.

Dave Abrahams
383 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:28:33
Paul (379)

Ah Paul, I was too old for the State, but I think Tony went to that Gaff, it was the place to go to for young people then. I'd be in the Cabaret or some other club in town.

Nevertheless, you didn't have to be young to appreciate the Waterboys singing that timeless song, the whole record was brilliant and will never run out of people listening to it, never!

Sean Kelly
384 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:36:26
I just hope Friedkin puts his expertise to good use at Everton. This club need to be run as a business. His appointment of a new manager is crucial. I hope Friedkin doesn't pick the players he wants.

Get a good football bathroom team, find them and let them develop a team while he sorts out the finances, marketing, sponsorship and gets rid of those sponging sentimentalists out of our club. That will do for me.

Neil Tyrrell
385 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:37:47
My alternative to Z-Cars (or Johnny Todd) would be War Pigs, teams walking out to that heavy droning intro with the siren would be epic. Then when it switches to the 2 note bit, everyone clapping along with the hi-hat like at a Sabbath show.

But I'm fine with keeping Z-Cars / Johnny Todd.

James Marshall
386 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:40:27
Ray @350

It was a joke about Beethoven. Jesus.

Ray Roche
387 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:44:15
Like the rest of your post?

Tony Abrahams
388 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:44:47
I often remember Free Nelson Mandela being the last song to be played in The State, Paul@379, and then along came Ecstasy, and everything changed overnight.

I don't think the song was about drugs either, Dave, but more that Ecstasy had suddenly appeared and everyone was suddenly off their heads singing and dancing to this tune.

The Old Bank on Scotland Road used to shake when they put this song on, and everyone knows how thick they used to make the walls in a bank.

Paul Smith
389 Posted 24/09/2024 at 21:55:57
Indeed, Tony. One minute it was a Letter to Brezhnev then it was everything starts with an E.

Generation XTC.

Shaun Parker
390 Posted 24/09/2024 at 22:00:30
In reply to Neil #385, (and all other Z-Cars posts):

I do believe the club ARE thinking of changing the Z-Cars theme.

Front runner is the Britney Spears song Oops!… I Did It Again! 🤣

Tony Abrahams
391 Posted 24/09/2024 at 22:02:01
I could relate to them being in the State when I was watching Letter To Brezhnev, Paul, because I used to go to the kids disco in the State, when that film was first produced!!

One of my favourite songs when I look back over my life is definitely because of that famous banner at Wembley, the day I finally got to see my team win the cup.

Sorry Elton, because I never really used to like that song, but it has always reminded me of that special day and is definitely a song I have always associated with Everton ever since.

Ryan Holroyd
392 Posted 24/09/2024 at 22:11:48
Moshiri walking away with around £25M.

What a loss.

Mike Price
393 Posted 24/09/2024 at 00:00:55
U2…The Streets Have No Name – instrumental, finished with the siren would be epic to run out to. Check out the Vancouver Canucks in a playoff game with the scarves waving, it's spine tingling.

We can't play Forever Everton anymore, it's embarrassing.

Barry Williams
394 Posted 25/09/2024 at 00:37:28
Neil Tyrrell - 385,

A man with impeccable musical taste sir!

Barry Williams
395 Posted 25/09/2024 at 00:48:50
Brent Stephens @363,

Beats a lot of the suggestions and everyone can sing/play it!

Michael Spear
396 Posted 25/09/2024 at 01:00:37
Hugh @382. Couldn't agree more!

I was at Manchester Uni in the ‘60s and would get over the homesick blues by seeing The Spinners at the student union singing Johnny Todd, In My Liverpool Home, Maggie May and other nostalgic classics.

And now, living in Watford, I'm always telling the neighbours that the tune their team runs out to is ours!

Mike Gaynes
397 Posted 25/09/2024 at 02:50:06
Grant #352,

From what I've read, Friedkin put Roma on a dramatically more stable financial footing without budget-cutting them halfway down the league table. They're still playing in Europe every year and their balance sheet is no longer setting off fire alarms.

So yeah, from an overall perspective, he has improved Roma significantly.

Paul Hewitt
398 Posted 25/09/2024 at 05:10:25
Okay, I'm going to say it.

If we have to change Z-Cars, then it's got to be ELO (the greatest band ever) and Mr Blue Sky

Bob Boote
399 Posted 25/09/2024 at 05:19:40
Paul 398.

Agree on both counts.

Ernie Baywood
400 Posted 25/09/2024 at 05:43:03
Keep Z-Cars

But let's not go down the road of an anthem that gets sung along to. That stuff makes me cringe.

Our red cousins doing their karaoke "war-ork arrr-arrr-arrr-on" bit springs to mind.

Steve Shave
401 Posted 25/09/2024 at 07:29:35
I have read every comment on this thread, mainly to try and desperately soak up some positivity and hope for the future. I feel it too but come on, some of you are utterly deluded.

I have posted many times (to the point where I probably sound like a broken record) about the weight of past expectations burdening us in the present, let's not let it cloud our future anymore.

This is a golden opportunity, if executed sensibly, to wipe the slate, realign standards and expectations across the board. Culture, attitude, expectations, accountability. New stadium, new owners, new hope.

I had a wry smile reading some of the comments "7th next season, top 4 the next" etc. Laughable. Our past glory is a part of our present sickness at the club, its so obvious. I am not trying to forget history, we are right to celebrate it and enjoy it.

However, we have to truly get our heads around what we are, a poorly performing shit show of a club and have been for years. An embarrassment. Booing our own, manager after manager, relegation fight after relegation fight, no cash...when we did have it we went on the most ill-advised, poorly executed spending spree in PL history.

If there is money to spend after the stadium is opened, it needs to be invested wisely. A few quality and pricier range loans (Roma have adopted this model) and 2-3 quality additions a season only. Slow, steady integration and an execution of a vision. Club, players and fans aligned.

Like it or loathe it, personally I plan to really get behind the multi-club model, I am going to adopt Roma as my second team. I hope we get up to speed and start using our future brothers in Italy to move players around (Calvert-Lewin to Roma in January for £25M, for example).

We should play them in a pre-season friendly to open the stadium and we should cheer their supporters, the team and our owners like they are our own.

Keep Z-Cars for me all day long, the comment above about wiring up the old air raid siren on the hydraulic tower is fucking brilliant. Have it start low key 10 minutes before kick-off, gradually getting louder and louder announcing to the city who we are until the players burst onto the pitch to Z-Cars... goosebumps!

I think too a lot of the old songs are cringeworthy, the new owners should have a poll for matchday songs, put it to the fans.

The new manager choice needs to reflect our vision, our plan. Carsley or Corberan all day long for me. I admired Potter's Brighton but I believe he might be a bit of a charlatan, believes his own hype, and probably just invested a great model and set up there.

I for one am cautiously excited but also I am a realist — this is a chance for a major reset of everything and we need to grab it with both hands. COYB.

Ian Jones
402 Posted 25/09/2024 at 08:03:01
Steve, great realistic post.

On a completely separate note, how will singing We Shall Not Be Moved work when we have moved to the new place?

:)

Mark Murphy
403 Posted 25/09/2024 at 08:08:12
Ian, by simply adding the word “again”.
UTFT
John Houghton
404 Posted 25/09/2024 at 08:17:17
Steve (401),

Agree with nearly all of that, especially this section, as referenced in earlier posts

"This is a golden opportunity, if executed sensibly, to wipe the slate, realign standards and expectations across the board. Culture, attitude, expectations, accountability"

I wll probably fall short of adopting Roma as a second team mind...

Paul Hewitt
405 Posted 25/09/2024 at 08:24:33
So once Friedkin has paid R&MF, 777 Partners, and Moshiri his little bit, then we are debt-free with a fully paid-for stadium?

He's got an absolute bargain.

Tim Dalton
406 Posted 25/09/2024 at 11:53:27
Overall I think this is great news, debt free? Is there another team which can say that? Combined with the increase in revenue from the new stadium and we will have the financial clout to compete properly.

This group have experience in running football clubs, show no blind loyalty and that they are decisive.

All we need is someone to properly control the finances, and a forward-thinking manager! I think Dyche has deserved his shot at the hot seat, but he isn't the man to take us forwards.

He doesn't (quite!) deserve the sack, and should be able to see out his contract before the new stadium. We need some continuity, too much change too quickly could be very unsettling.

Colin Bell
407 Posted 25/09/2024 at 12:03:34
Tony @ 328, thanks for your comment. Now to the unthinkable….

By their own choice, and I thought it was the right one, our last home game of the season is scheduled for Sunday 18 May, 24 hours after the FA Cup final.

What price Everton to reach, let alone win, the FA Cup Final and throw all the planning into chaos? Be assured that Masters and his team at the Premier League will do little to help other than to shift the game to the Friday night prior to the final. I'm getting £10 on it.

We'll get Man City in the 3rd Round though. Everton that.

Craig Walker
408 Posted 25/09/2024 at 12:24:50
I like our history and traditions and we shouldn't ditch them but I think the pictures around the main stand and the Gwladys Street end just highlight that our present standing is far removed from where we once were. The stadium has become a monument to our past and most of our recent players can't hack it.

I like Forever Everton but "Everton's the team that plays beautiful football"?

Often we could change the lyric to "we're shite in the league and we're out of the cup" before the line about being "on the up and up".

James Marshall
409 Posted 25/09/2024 at 12:43:26
Ray @387,

I'm afraid I don't get into arguments with strangers on the Internet, I'm 51 years old, mate.

If you don't like my opinion, by all means debate it – but baiting people into an argument or simply calling my opinion a 'joke' isn't really my thing. Have a nice day.

Kevin Naylor
410 Posted 25/09/2024 at 13:04:38
I still like Waterfront (Simple Minds) followed by Z-Cars.

The opening bass guitar in Waterfront at full volume would brilliant imo.

Danny O'Neill
411 Posted 25/09/2024 at 13:11:35
Plenty of lively debate about tunes on here.

Z-Cars will always be there.

I like Forever Everton as it takes me back to the 70s. I remember my Dad blasting it out when I was playing on a park. It inspired me. It is unique to Everton. Similarly Spirit Of The Blues, my current favourite.

I know Mark won't agree, but I also like Marching Down The Goodison Road.

The only one I would ditch is If ya know yer History. It isn't unique to Everton. Tottenham and Celtic use it.

Andrew Ellams
412 Posted 25/09/2024 at 14:10:43
I think coming out to Z-Cars is actually an English footballing institution, not just an Everton one.
Christy Ring
413 Posted 25/09/2024 at 14:46:11
Alan Myers reckons Moshiri is losing £750m in the deal?

The cost of the new stadium?

Robin Gomme
414 Posted 25/09/2024 at 14:48:04
Paul H #398

Mr Moshi-rae
Please tell us why
You stuck with 777
For so long
Sooooooo long.

Ed Prytherch
415 Posted 25/09/2024 at 15:37:54
Christy: A fool and his money are easily parted.
Ray Roche
416 Posted 25/09/2024 at 15:59:37
James @409,

I don't mind joining a debate either, and I can give you a couple of decades so don't regard me as a keyboard warrior.

The ‘joke' was relating to your desire to have old Ludwig as our run-out song; I didn't for one minute think that it was a serious suggestion but you wanting to ‘bin off all the matchday shite', Z-Cars for instance, didn't go down well here.

Change for change sake, with nothing better offered?

And I'm having a rather nice day actually, and I hope you are too.

James Marshall
417 Posted 25/09/2024 at 16:34:46
Z-Cars – used by Everton, Watford, Sunderland at Roker Park, and Workington FC. So it's not exclusively ours.

Of all the old 'istory stuff, Z-Cars doesn't actually bother me that much, although after the first bit it all goes a bit brass band, honking saxophone/goose for my liking but I guess it keeps the over-60s entertained.

I just think it'll be a bit incongruous at our shiny new modern stadium. Maybe there'll still be a little girl chucking toffees into the crowd too? That always gets a good hearty round of applause.

Someone also said we should have at least one or two seats with a restricted view, just to make people feel at home. ;-)

Dave Abrahams
418 Posted 25/09/2024 at 16:42:13
Paul (405),

I could be wrong but, when Moshiri (Usmanov) bought Everton, I think we became debt free.

But leaving Thingy in charge, we started piling those debts up again!

Dale Rose
419 Posted 25/09/2024 at 16:46:46
A couple of points. Does this finally mean Stormy Daniels will open the new stadium.

Quote from RV Bob from The Simpsons: "Have you ever heard a good siren".

And finally music, The Torture Never Stops. Captain Beefheart and Frank Zappa.

Barry Rathbone
420 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:00:02
Always think the dismissal of Z-Carsis a "foreigner" thing. I can't think of a single local blue who doesn't hold Z-Cars sacrosanct.

Not to say don't try and improve it but binning Z-Cars is classic throwing the baby out with the bath water.

Kim Vivian
421 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:07:13
Somewhat off topic but I'm rather hoping that Friedkin has connections with Apple for naming rights so we can play at the Bramley Apple Stadium.
Ray Roche
422 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:15:05
James @417,

I know what you mean about the 'brassy' bit in Z-Cars, there is a version without that brass band section which I prefer but there you go, not up to me.

I didn't know Sunderland used it, I thought it was just us and then Watford. And 'keeps the over-60s entertained'? Harsh, young man, harsh.

Let's hope that the obligatory obstructed view seats don't cost more. They're at a premium at the moment in Goodison.

Ed Prytherch
423 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:20:20
Dale,

I have photos of the captain and also the mothers at Liverpool stadium, around 1973.

mred_2u@hotmail.com if you want an invite to my music photo collection on Flikr

Mark Murphy
424 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:31:14
Barry, I'm from far far away land and I love Z-Cars.

I get all emotional when I hear it.

Tony McNulty
425 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:36:15
It is always a challenge how to balance the old with the new.

The Z-Cars debate reminds me of when I went to Soho in London to add to my guitar collection a few years ago.

The manager told me he was in a battle with the owner. The latter wanted posters in the window with Keith Richards's picture given pride of place. The manager explained that most of the shop's clientele now most likely hadn't even heard of Keith Richards. People would go to a shop whose window displayed a modern guitarist.

Our challenge will be deciding which customs to retain and which ones should be consigned, as the man said, to the dustbin of history, as new, younger supporters follow the club.

Martin Berry
426 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:38:45
Question: Can Anyone answer?

In the original image of our new stadium, Everton's name was shown on the south side of the stadium in white (would be better in blue); there appears now to be no naming evident. I wonder why is this, surely we need to tell the world that this is where Everton play?

It may be obvious to us but visiting tourists from other countries, not necessarily football fans, may get the idea this stadium being in Liverpool is their stadium.

Also, would it not be a great idea to have billboards along the northside to hide the treatment works, these billboards could show Everton's past with imagery similar to Goodison Road.

Your thoughts anyone?

Ray Roche
427 Posted 25/09/2024 at 17:58:31
Martin, I was thinking the same a couple of days ago, cruise liners from everywhere will be docking just a few hundred yards away, it's madness not to advertise the club.

You can bet that Toyota or whatever the ground is sponsored by will be seen.

Paul Ferry
428 Posted 25/09/2024 at 18:06:21
I'm Desperate Dan, please make this work.
Barry Rathbone
429 Posted 25/09/2024 at 18:09:18
Mark 424,

Just to be clear: I'm not saying all foreign fans want Z-Cars binned.

I've just never heard locals even mention it.

Danny O'Neill
430 Posted 25/09/2024 at 18:16:16
Martin, I don't know if it was deliberate, but the new stadium looks like a ship looking out to sea.

She will be the first thing travellers see as they enter the Mersey estuary.

Loud and proud. Taking back our city.

Bobby Mallon
431 Posted 25/09/2024 at 18:56:17
We should have a Roma link where members or season ticket holders can swap tickets or acquire tickets to watch each other's games.
John Raftery
432 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:02:27
Martin (425),

I wonder if the prospect of a future naming rights deal is in the thinking? If it isn't, there might be a planning approval issue preventing signage or advertising.

Brent Stephens
433 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:08:18
Martin #426, looking again the other day at images of what the new stadium would look like, one showed a shadow along the length of the pitch on the east side of the ground.

And the error is...

Brent Stephens
434 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:09:36
Danny, I think you're right.

The stadium design alludes to an ocean-going vessel.

Brent Stephens
435 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:11:58
Paul #428,

"I'm Desperate Dan".

A line from Boys from the Blackstuff! Yosser to the priest at confession. Hilarious.

Bobby Mallon
436 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:20:09
I too hope our owner sticks our name Everton right across the top of our new stadium.

It should be called Everton's Toyota Stadium, or whoever sponsors us.

Mark Murphy
437 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:36:11
Ach so!
Alles klar Barry!
UZFT!
Bill Piscass
438 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:36:52
Is there going to be a new song then? Well, it's got to be
Sailing by Rod Stewart:

Can you hear me,
Can you hear me,
Redshite far away

Billy Bradshaw
439 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:51:21
Brent @434,

I think Dan Meis said with his first designs he wanted roof structure to represent a wave washing over the dock, I could be wrong though.

Paul Ferry
440 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:53:38
Kevin N (410): I've mentioned Waterfront a few times for the 2:58 pm spot with that opening bass and explosion and also, needless to say, because of the stadium's location. Something 'into the valley[ish]' would boil things up nicely.

The club needs to consult fans. For me, the top Liverpool band now are Michael Head and the Red Electric Band but nothing in their repertoire seems right. Lily The Pink, anyone?

I'd like Wah's anthemic Story Of The Blues to feature somewhere. Miles better than that shite Watford dirge I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues with its cutting footy-like lyrics: 'Laughing like children, living like lovers, rolling like thunder under the covers [dear god] and never forget I'm your man'.

I was about to type that Andrew E (412), Z-Cars is bigger than our ground and city in the sense that it is instantly recognised up and down the land as being us. Z-Cars is irreplaceable; it's one of the things that makes up our essential identity. It's always something about us that commentators mention fondly ("You know you're at Goodison Park when …"). That opening drumbeat signifies.

Paul H (398): ELO (the greatest band ever) 😂😂😂😂😂😂 Mr Blue Sky as rabble-rousing anthemic 2:58 pm electricity 😂😂😂😂😂😂

Brent Stephens
441 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:53:52
Billy, maybe I'm reading too much into it.
Paul Ferry
442 Posted 25/09/2024 at 19:59:32
Brent, someone recognised it! Cheers!

That was the best line in Blackstuff, better for me than 'Gis a job', and in confession!

Christine Foster
443 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:17:49
Tony 425# I would buy naming rights to the sewage treatment plant and call it Anfield. So that everyone will see where they stand in the city
Tony Abrahams
444 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:25:33
Some of those Wah lyrics remind me of the Kenwright era, Paul.

I think that's the last thing we need to be reminded of now we are all suddenly thinking of a much brighter future, mate!

Paul Ferry
445 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:29:10
Well pre-Kenwright, Tony, 1983-ish, same year as the woeful Watford dirge mate.

Of course, I agree about the dead chairman. Oh, do you mean that the lyrics bring back Kenwright thoughts?

Andy Crooks
446 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:41:20
Mr Blue Sky is the worst song I have ever heard.

Why not go for something that would get everyone on their feet?

I offer: You Just Might See Me Cry, by the vastly underrated Our Kid. Proper song by proper Blues.

Craig Walker
447 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:44:02
How about Send In The Clowns with the final line “Well, maybe next year”?

That'd be fitting.

Bill Piscass
448 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:44:36
YMCA???

Okay, I will get my coat.

Tony Abrahams
449 Posted 25/09/2024 at 20:45:02
I agree with you about Desperate Dan, Paul, but I thought there was absolutely loads of classic one liners in that very hard hitting series.

I never liked the song, Paul, but as I've got older and Everton stopped winning trophies, it started reminding me of one of the happiest days of my life and I can still remember the pride and joy and happiness that winning a trophy brings.

With Goodison closing, and the memories it holds for us all, then I'm suggesting In My Life by the most famous scouse band of them all.

Dave Abrahams
450 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:00:08
Tony (449)

I don't remember Cy Tucker and the Friars singing In My Life.

Andy (446),

But I do remember Our Kid, at least one member came from around Gerard Gardens, a tenament block right on the edge of town.

Liam Mogan
451 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:01:02
Nothing wrong with Z-Cars. Link to the old Johnny Todd – check out Dylan's version on all good streaming outlets. The younger members of my family love it.

History is always important. It's when it slips into the syrupy sentimental shite (as loved by the West End empresario who shall not be named) that it becomes harmful.

We are not in the mess we are in because of our proud and storied history… but because of criminal mis-management. It's like saying the City of Liverpool should forget its history and not celebrate it.

It's part of who we are and whilst we need to embrace change and the future let's not forget that.

Liam Mogan
452 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:04:10
Music wise anything by massive blue and all round decent chap Bill Ryder Jones would suit me. Especially at half time.

Great producer too, as evidenced by the recent Michael Head stuff.

Steve Dowdeswell
453 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:04:43
Z-Cars (with the air raid siren) and All Together Now For Everton would work well for me.
Paul Ferry
454 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:11:06
My all-time favourite Beatles song, Tony; a homage to the city and memory. It would be lovely to have that as a part of the Bramley-Moore Dock repertoire, mate, and as a truly poignant 2½ minutes at the last ever game at The Old Lady (that keyboard solo sounds almost religious).

I never knew that Our Kid were dead hard and came from tenements, Dave A.

Paul Ferry
455 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:11:57
Liam, you're also into Mick Head, brill.
Liam Mogan
456 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:21:33
Tangled up in Blue - Bob Dylan
Blue Jean - David Bowie
Blue Skies - Willie Nelson
Blue Monday - New Order
Have you ever Had it Blue - Style Council
Behind Blue Eyes - The Who
Folsom Prison Blues - Johnny Cash
Stella Blue - Grateful Dead
Bullet the Blue Sky - U2
Famous Blue Raincoat - Leonard Cohen

Only songs with blue in the title should be club policy

Liam Mogan
457 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:23:45
The Magical World Of The Strands is in my top 5 albums of all time, Paul.
Alan McGuffog
458 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:28:26
Velvet
Suede Shoes
Bayou
Paul Ferry
459 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:32:12
His best Liam, though the last two REB albums are up there with doses of magical world, pacific street, and waterpistol.

Great taste mate.

Dennis Stevens
460 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:34:13
Think I prefer Water Pistols, but it's all good stuff from Mr Head.
Rob Halligan
461 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:36:02
Interesting listen to this podcast by The Athletic on the takeover.

Is Everton’s takeover saga finally over?

About 42 minutes long, but as I say, very interesting, especially the discussion on Roma…

Joe McMahon
462 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:36:13
The opening of Message In A Bottle is a fantastic riff to walk out to.

But how about anything by Napalm Death or Carcass, let the opposition and their fans know we ain't a pushover.

Liam Mogan
463 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:37:32
Off to see The Red Elastic Band in November, Paul.

Playing in Huddersfield where I unfortunately now reside!

Dale Self
464 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:42:40
Ed 423,

I don't think we can sing to it but how about I Love You, You Big Dummy by Captain Beefheart. It fuckin' rocks ass maaaan!

Paul Ferry
466 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:54:40
They always seem to play in huddersfield type places when not in Liverpool, London, or Manchester, Liam. Lucky you mate.

What an album, Dennis: tracks 2 & 3.

Dennis and Liam, have you read Mick's autobiography: Ciao Ciao Bambino: A Magical Memoir – that came out last month?

Dennis Stevens
467 Posted 25/09/2024 at 21:59:26
It's on the list, Paul.
Liam Mogan
468 Posted 25/09/2024 at 22:03:36
No, I haven't, Paul, but I will do.

Thanks for recommendation.

Matt Traynor
469 Posted 25/09/2024 at 22:14:31
I see Uefa has stripped the San Siro of hosting rights for the 2027 Champions League Final and has opened a new bidding process.

I hope someone from Everton has a good look at this. Would be great for the city.

Paul Ferry
470 Posted 25/09/2024 at 22:16:29
I was thinking that myself, Matt, although won't the dock be on the smaller side?

But what an event that would be.

Rob Halligan
471 Posted 25/09/2024 at 22:33:26
Apparently the stadium hosting the Champions League Final every year must have a capacity of at least 70k, although this could be reduced if there is a lack of interest to stage the 2027 final.

I can't see there being any lack of bidders to stage the final though.

Paul Ferry
472 Posted 25/09/2024 at 22:35:30
Keeping it in the family, Rob.
Bill Piscass
474 Posted 25/09/2024 at 23:34:49
Liam @456,

You missed Elton John.

Ed Prytherch
475 Posted 26/09/2024 at 00:36:08
Dale 464: That would scare the shit out of the visiting team, Great!

A few years ago, I stopped by Antelope Valley High School in Lancaster, California, and paid homage to the great man. He was definitely one of a kind.

Barry Hall
476 Posted 26/09/2024 at 01:19:00
I happen to love Z-Cars, and am nostalgic for Forever Everton and Grand Old Team so I don't really want a change.

But a song that gets me fired up is the opening of AC/DC Thunderstruck.

Ed Prytherch
477 Posted 26/09/2024 at 03:22:52
On the BBC website:

Everton's prospective new owners the Friedkin Group want to bring in former Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri, who left Lazio in March, as their new manager. (Corriere dello Sport - in Italian)

Fasten your seat belts!

Matt Traynor
478 Posted 26/09/2024 at 05:11:35
Rob #471,

A quick check of recent final venues and you're right, albeit with a couple around 65k mark.

Maybe the club could look at future "minor" European finals, Conference League and that crap. I'm sure with new owners, they'll be looking to sweat that asset.

Mike Corcoran
479 Posted 26/09/2024 at 08:15:34
Beefheart Dale Self? Would have to give Her Eyes Are A Blue Million Miles a look in surely?
Ray Roche
480 Posted 26/09/2024 at 09:21:01
The way we’ve performed recently it should be Willie Nelson, Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain.
Dave Abrahams
481 Posted 26/09/2024 at 09:50:48
Paul (454), I never said Our Kid were dead hard, I said they came from a tenament block near town, all different types of people came from those tenaments mostly genuine hard working people, and I know Paul you were just making an off the cuff remark with no offence intended!
Hugh Jenkins
482 Posted 26/09/2024 at 10:03:12
Bob Dylan sings "Johnny Todd / Z Cars". You won't ghet a bigger or better endorsement than this:_

https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=bob+dylan+johnny+todd#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:f189d495,vid:nXjd_1PxBWU,st:0

Paul Turner
483 Posted 26/09/2024 at 10:12:09
Ed @ 423 - I was there for the Captain at the Stadium in 73. Also at the Top Rank some years later - joined in with "webcaw, webcaw".
Les Callan
484 Posted 26/09/2024 at 10:17:52
Great that Hugh.
Laurie Hartley
485 Posted 26/09/2024 at 11:29:11
Hugh # 482 - it was a great post that! I won’t the tee shirt!
Barry Williams
486 Posted 26/09/2024 at 13:10:17
Joe McMahon - 462

Well, Carcass do have local connections, as did Napalm Death once upon a time - 2 bands I have seen live spread over the decades - the 80s and 2020s!

How about Motörhead's Teach You How To Sing The Blues!

Ace Of Spades might fit – 'You know I'm born to lose'! … but then again.

Ed Prytherch
487 Posted 26/09/2024 at 14:36:43
Paul, you had great taste. Hope you still have. Beefheart's songs are timeless.

I had a deal with one of the bouncers at the stadium. He allowed me up front between the barrier and the stage and I gave him photos.

Sean O'Hanlon
488 Posted 26/09/2024 at 16:46:47
Ed #423.

What great memories of the Mother's at Liverpool Stadium September, 1973. Great concert featured the brilliant violinist Jean-Luc Ponty.

What stood out for me was at the end, when the audience were baying for an encore, Zappa said they'll do their encore now to save them walking off the long way to the dressing room!

As it was the old Liverpool Boxing Stadium, and the stage was the boxing ring – it certainly was a long walk back to the changing rooms!

Thanks Ed for the memory!

Danny O'Neill
489 Posted 26/09/2024 at 16:58:38
As we're on songs, I have to admit, a more recent memory was in the Winslow after that Palace match.

Elton John's I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues came on. It was something to behold in the emotion of the moment.

Neil Lawson
490 Posted 26/09/2024 at 17:00:10
Mr Dyche says the takeover will bring stability. He is correct.

After his full English, he will be able to spend all day on the golf course.

Mark Murphy
491 Posted 26/09/2024 at 17:17:53
Ed,
who's Sarri now?
Mark Murphy
492 Posted 26/09/2024 at 17:27:15
Laurie

https://evertonthegear.co.uk/archive-2/

Ed Prytherch
493 Posted 26/09/2024 at 18:38:14
Sean,
Zappa was the complete opposite of Rory Gallagher who would have kept on playing all night with perhaps a break in the Cross Keys.
Ed Prytherch
494 Posted 26/09/2024 at 20:41:04
Sean,
I can send you a link to Photos of the band that night + others.
mred_2u@hotmail.com
Laurie Hartley
496 Posted 26/09/2024 at 23:28:18
Thanks Mark.
Gerry Quinn
497 Posted 29/09/2024 at 10:30:37
I didn't realise that Dan Friedkin was a neighbour of mine in Houston.

Well, almost – he lived in River Oaks (backing onto the Golf Course) and I lived in Katy, just over 24 "neighbourly" miles – or, as they write in the good ole US of A – neighbor!

Bill Hawker
498 Posted 01/10/2024 at 17:10:16
What part of Houston Gerry? I'm in Sugar Land.
Rob Halligan
499 Posted 01/10/2024 at 18:35:31
The Friedkin Group will now provide the final few million quid to finish BMD, while also providing funds to cover the day to day running costs of the club, before the takeover is complete. The only way from now on is UPWARDS!!……………………..

https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/friedkin-group-step-provide-millions-30044792

Liam Mogan
500 Posted 01/10/2024 at 19:22:58
Just saw that both Billy Joel and Springsteen are booked to play Mordor next summer.

With our new state of the art iconic stadium we need to be all over this type of thing. Surely a better venue than that scruffy piss stained lean-to over the park?

Hopefully the new owners will bring some expertise, but can't help but think we've missed a trick. A summer of superstar concerts would have been the perfect showpiece for BMD.

Liam Mogan
501 Posted 01/10/2024 at 19:22:58
Just saw that both Billy Joel and Springsteen are booked to play Mordor next summer.

With our new state of the art iconic stadium we need to be all over this type of thing. Surely a better venue than that scruffy piss stained lean-to over the park?

Hopefully the new owners will bring some expertise, but can't help but think we've missed a trick. A summer of superstar concerts would have been the perfect showpiece for BMD.

Ray Roche
502 Posted 01/10/2024 at 19:36:29
You’re right Liam, but we’ll have to fix the leaking roof first!😁
Liam Mogan
503 Posted 01/10/2024 at 19:39:45
Not for Bruce. I went to see him at Stadium of Light in May. Weather was horrendous, The Boss was, well, boss.
Gerry Quinn
504 Posted 04/10/2024 at 08:45:09
Bill (498) - I was in Tuscola Lane, Katy, from 2000 to 2017 - back home in Scotland now...

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