05/08/2026
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Angus Kinnear’s programme notes ahead of Everton’s final home game of last season certainly caused a stir.
The now-infamous “happily dissatisfied” soundbite backfired spectacularly, while he also insisted Everton valued the “stability” of David Moyes, and the whole tone of Kinnear’s notes was almost one of having given up on a season that was still very much alive.
Everton, at one point in the game that followed, were leading Sunderland and sitting in eighth. A game-and-a-half later, Everton had finished down in 13th and the Black Cats had surged into the Europa League.
But another standout quote from Kinnear was that the club always knew it would be a “two-summer window plan”.
Here’s the sentence in full, for context: “Our job in the coming weeks and months is to continue with what we always knew would be a two-summer window plan, and ensure the squad has enough depth to mount an even more compelling challenge next term.”
That’s all well and good, but at no point did Kinnear go on to expand on the key element: What is the plan?
And this has just fed into the feeling of uncertainty and frustration surrounding Everton’s recruitment strategy this summer.
It’s absolutely fine to have a two-summer window plan; there’s nothing wrong with that at all. In fact, it’s good to see there is a plan, after years of the club simply surviving in the wake of Farhad Moshiri’s rash spending.
However, Kinnear’s comments have, perhaps inadvertently, put something of a target on his back, because in claiming it is a two-window plan, he has set a deadline.
And so fans have been left to ask, what is the plan that Everton’s leadership are working towards?
Is the plan to build a squad capable of sustaining mid-table finishes for a few seasons, and one unlikely to be in any danger of getting dragged into a relegation scrap? If that is the case, then so far, so good. And it’s hard to imagine a Moyes team getting dragged down to a fight at the bottom.
That would fit in with the general approach of the club, too. While Moyes and the players spoke of wanting to qualify for Europe, Everton did not gamble in January when, if they had just gone and brought another couple of players in, the chance of qualifying for the Champions League, never mind another European competition, was very much alive.
I won’t tread over old ground, but that failure to act felt like a cop-out at the time and one that backfired in the end. But, the club did stick to their guns.
However, I’m only guessing here.
What if ‘the plan’ is actually to turn Everton into a team capable of challenging for the European qualification places?
Now, that clearly should be the long-term ambition, but Kinnear has said this is a two-year strategy? So are they expecting two summer windows to get Everton to that point?
If that is the case, then they are going about it a strange way, because Everton’s additions so far this summer do not scream of a team that are set on mounting a European charge.
Last season was bizarre, and while you can never firmly predict how a campaign will play out, there’s a good chance the European race won’t be quite as wide open this coming season as it was in 2025-26, when at least six teams were all fighting for a couple of places come the final two games.
But we need some clarity.
That will probably now have to wait until after the window, but Kinnear should take heed that soundbites aren’t good enough. You can’t say there is a plan, but then not detail that plan.
All Evertonians can do now is sit back and hope the club really do know what they’re doing and what they’re working towards. There’s less than a month of the transfer window left, and while there has been movement, Everton have only brought in one fresh face compared to the squad that finished last season, and are still sorely lacking in positions of desperate need.
If this is the plan, Angus, then it’s not a good one.
Reader Comments (91)
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Mark Ryan
2 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:26:44
2 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:26:44
He says he wants us to mount a compelling challenge next term.
Angus, you have excelled yourself because you achieved this last season. It was the most compelling challenge I've ever faced when trying to enjoy watching Everton.
You are a bullshitter and I'd rather have Joe Kinnear or Roy Kinnear at the helm. Grade A twerp!
Angus, you have excelled yourself because you achieved this last season. It was the most compelling challenge I've ever faced when trying to enjoy watching Everton.
You are a bullshitter and I'd rather have Joe Kinnear or Roy Kinnear at the helm. Grade A twerp!
Kevin Molloy
3 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:27:53
3 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:27:53
This is our one true link to the dead hand anonymous Americans who now own Everton. And I do wonder whether they chose a complete dickhead deliberately, to make people reluctant to engage with him. Cos everything he says is nonsense.
A world class recruiting team, but then he thought Davy was a world class manager. Has anybody ever so described Davy? Even his Mum?
Since they got here, four first team spots have fallen vacant, the 6, the 10, the right back, and left wing. All filled or to be filled with players between the ages of 28 and 32, and all on the cheap.
There is no plan, it's just steady as she goes, cos they bought the club for a song, and know as did Bill, that just maintaining the status quo is winning financially.
A world class recruiting team, but then he thought Davy was a world class manager. Has anybody ever so described Davy? Even his Mum?
Since they got here, four first team spots have fallen vacant, the 6, the 10, the right back, and left wing. All filled or to be filled with players between the ages of 28 and 32, and all on the cheap.
There is no plan, it's just steady as she goes, cos they bought the club for a song, and know as did Bill, that just maintaining the status quo is winning financially.
Christy Ring
4 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:50:49
4 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:50:49
When you see him singing Moyes’s praises after our shocking finish to the season, shows how ambitious he is.
Pete Ambrose
5 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:03:10
5 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:03:10
What people seem to have forgotten is Bill Kenwright rescued Everton from oblivion under the previous owner. Kenwright wasn't super rich but he loved Everton and did his best.
Moshiri was brought in to add finance but unfortunately he was dumb where football was concerned. The biggest loss that people forget was the financial clout that a Russian oligarch brought to the table which unfortunately was lost when sanctions were imposed.
TFG have arrived but are dragging their heels on transfers while they back Roma. There seems to be a survival plan but not a plan to advance, which is a bit soul-destroying for the average Everton fan. We can but hope... but not hold breath.
Moshiri was brought in to add finance but unfortunately he was dumb where football was concerned. The biggest loss that people forget was the financial clout that a Russian oligarch brought to the table which unfortunately was lost when sanctions were imposed.
TFG have arrived but are dragging their heels on transfers while they back Roma. There seems to be a survival plan but not a plan to advance, which is a bit soul-destroying for the average Everton fan. We can but hope... but not hold breath.
Brian Harrison
6 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:05:57
6 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:05:57
Before coming to Everton, Angus Kinnear was CEO at Leeds Utd from 2017; prior to that, he was Managing Director at West Ham Utd and oversaw their move from Upton Park to the stadium used for the London Olympics.
Prior to that, he was commercial manager at Arsenal during their move to the Emirates. So, seeing he was involved in the moving to new venues for both Arsenal and West Ham Utd, maybe TFG thought he was a safe pair of hands to oversee the move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Obviously TFG are pulling all the strings while being absentee landlords. There has definitely been a policy to invest in younger players similar to Chelsea. But the level of youngsters Chelsea can buy is at a higher level than Everton.
Also, to go down this route, you surely should have a manager who is comfortable with this approach and this doesnt seem to fit David Moyes's way of working.
I would also question if Moyes was even consulted about the move to buy younger players. Maybe we are in the new era where managers have little or no say in future signings and managers have to work with what they are given?
Certainly so far our biggest expenditure on youth in Tyler Dibbling looks at present like a complete disaster, which makes me think Moyes wasn't really consulted with this transfer.
I have no idea if Kinnear is the right man for the job but so far he hasn't set the world alight in the transfer side of things.
Prior to that, he was commercial manager at Arsenal during their move to the Emirates. So, seeing he was involved in the moving to new venues for both Arsenal and West Ham Utd, maybe TFG thought he was a safe pair of hands to oversee the move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Obviously TFG are pulling all the strings while being absentee landlords. There has definitely been a policy to invest in younger players similar to Chelsea. But the level of youngsters Chelsea can buy is at a higher level than Everton.
Also, to go down this route, you surely should have a manager who is comfortable with this approach and this doesnt seem to fit David Moyes's way of working.
I would also question if Moyes was even consulted about the move to buy younger players. Maybe we are in the new era where managers have little or no say in future signings and managers have to work with what they are given?
Certainly so far our biggest expenditure on youth in Tyler Dibbling looks at present like a complete disaster, which makes me think Moyes wasn't really consulted with this transfer.
I have no idea if Kinnear is the right man for the job but so far he hasn't set the world alight in the transfer side of things.
John Collins
7 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:12:23
7 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:12:23
Pete 5.
He was super rich after selling his shares in Everton FC.
£36M for an input of £0.
He was super rich after selling his shares in Everton FC.
£36M for an input of £0.
Dave Williams
8 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:23:11
8 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:23:11
Excellent post, Brian. Managers who want to use young players usually set out to boost their confidence -- Moyes tends to criticise them in public whilst letting the errors by the likes of Tarkowski, Mykolenko etc go without comment.
It really is a poor match and it does all seem like the TFG model is to build Roma and leave us on the shelf for now, maybe to be given resources once Roma is established as a major force.
Some managers would seek confrontation but Moyes has history of playing the corporate game, thus protecting his job.
This could be harsh but, if Armstrong goes on loan again, it would be expected.
It really is a poor match and it does all seem like the TFG model is to build Roma and leave us on the shelf for now, maybe to be given resources once Roma is established as a major force.
Some managers would seek confrontation but Moyes has history of playing the corporate game, thus protecting his job.
This could be harsh but, if Armstrong goes on loan again, it would be expected.
Darren Hind
9 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:24:54
9 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:24:54
Pete 5
Excellent post
Excellent post
Keith Harrison
10 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:42:02
10 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:42:02
Me and the missus went to Rome to see David Gilmour in October 2024. I made a point of speaking to as many Roma fans as possible over the 5 days -- much to the wife's annoyance.
Of the 40+ I actually managed a conversation with, they almost to a man (and woman) hated the Friedkins. They complained about them sacking popular managers/coaches, while not communicating one iota with the Roma fans.
Just under 2 years later, I think they may have changed their minds, seeing the quiet revolution that their club is effecting. Perhaps their Roma blueprint will start filtering through at Everton at some point, although getting rid of Moyes would be a mighty fine start. Just saying.
Of the 40+ I actually managed a conversation with, they almost to a man (and woman) hated the Friedkins. They complained about them sacking popular managers/coaches, while not communicating one iota with the Roma fans.
Just under 2 years later, I think they may have changed their minds, seeing the quiet revolution that their club is effecting. Perhaps their Roma blueprint will start filtering through at Everton at some point, although getting rid of Moyes would be a mighty fine start. Just saying.
David West
11 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:50:48
11 Posted 05/08/2026 at 15:50:48
As Patric says, its fine having a two-window plan, seems common sense. But what's the target outcome after them two summer windows?
Are the club not saying what the target is, so as not to be seen as failing? Claiming you want to build a squad to challenge for Europe and not coming up with the investment needed, looks bad on them.
Is the target unacceptable to Evertoinians, so kept secret, for example? Just keep avoiding relegation for a couple of seasons, while TFG continue to grow other revenue?
The absence of a clear target, acceptable to the fans or not, will continue to fuel this distrust of the owners. If Kinnear come out and said the 2-year plan was to buy young players, to fill the squad with developing players in the hope that year 3 would have us in position where we could genuinely attract some top quality players to make the push to challenging for Europe every year, at least we'd know where we stand.
We have Moyes downplaying everything, lowering expectations; we can't make "no great strides".
New owners, new board, new recruitment department, new stadium... shouldn't the manager and CEO be raising expectations?
It screams to me like Kinnear and Moyes are scared of failure, that's why we have no targets... when the opposite should apply!
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations."
Are the club not saying what the target is, so as not to be seen as failing? Claiming you want to build a squad to challenge for Europe and not coming up with the investment needed, looks bad on them.
Is the target unacceptable to Evertoinians, so kept secret, for example? Just keep avoiding relegation for a couple of seasons, while TFG continue to grow other revenue?
The absence of a clear target, acceptable to the fans or not, will continue to fuel this distrust of the owners. If Kinnear come out and said the 2-year plan was to buy young players, to fill the squad with developing players in the hope that year 3 would have us in position where we could genuinely attract some top quality players to make the push to challenging for Europe every year, at least we'd know where we stand.
We have Moyes downplaying everything, lowering expectations; we can't make "no great strides".
New owners, new board, new recruitment department, new stadium... shouldn't the manager and CEO be raising expectations?
It screams to me like Kinnear and Moyes are scared of failure, that's why we have no targets... when the opposite should apply!
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations."
Mick Springstein
12 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:08:31
12 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:08:31
As an Executive coming from Leeds that knows what relegation is first hand, moving to a club that has dodged relegation several times over recent seasons, I guess that him being happy that we weren't in the mix this season is somewhat satisfying.
But I can't conceive or agree with any fan that was happy with another lower-end finish or indeed any fan that's happy with our transfer resolutions so far.
It's clear we need a striker because we don't score anywhere near enough goals; it's clear our left-back lets us down repeatedly but got another contract anyway; it's clear that we've been lumbered with a right-back who just doesn't have another level; and it's clear that the Grealish saga needs fixing one way or the other now, during pre-season.
For me, Eddie Howe should be in as manager, with a golden handshake for Moyes, and nothing other than Champions League should be good enough this season. I don't know the Latin for that.
But I can't conceive or agree with any fan that was happy with another lower-end finish or indeed any fan that's happy with our transfer resolutions so far.
It's clear we need a striker because we don't score anywhere near enough goals; it's clear our left-back lets us down repeatedly but got another contract anyway; it's clear that we've been lumbered with a right-back who just doesn't have another level; and it's clear that the Grealish saga needs fixing one way or the other now, during pre-season.
For me, Eddie Howe should be in as manager, with a golden handshake for Moyes, and nothing other than Champions League should be good enough this season. I don't know the Latin for that.
Tom Bowers
13 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:16:42
13 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:16:42
I recall a young prospect going out on loan, then coming back and being unconvincing despite an England call up. He has since struggled at other clubs... Ross Barkley.
We have a history of not getting the best of promising youngsters, so the present crop beware!
We have a history of not getting the best of promising youngsters, so the present crop beware!
Paul Hewitt
14 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:20:12
14 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:20:12
John @7.
So what did you buy the club with? Scott's mist?
So what did you buy the club with? Scott's mist?
John Collins
15 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:25:22
15 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:25:22
I didn't buy the club, Paul.
£5M of bank loans. Interest and repayment on that loan paid by Everton Football Club. Not a penny paid by Blue Bill personally.
£5M of bank loans. Interest and repayment on that loan paid by Everton Football Club. Not a penny paid by Blue Bill personally.
Joe McMahon
16 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:40:49
16 Posted 05/08/2026 at 16:40:49
After the last 7 matches of the season and Liverpool getting another one over Moyes (even the sacked manager got 6 points), including the first Bramley-Moore Dock derby, what I'm most disappointed about more than anything, after good managers that would bring hope being available, is they have stuck with Moyes.
After the England World Cup exit and the England 2nd half performance, Martina Navratilova (who knows about winning of course) posted on X: “At the top level, playing not to lose loses most of the time.”
That was/is Moyes, and the last 7 games of the season were disgraceful. I'm not ready for season 14 of Moyes.
After the England World Cup exit and the England 2nd half performance, Martina Navratilova (who knows about winning of course) posted on X: “At the top level, playing not to lose loses most of the time.”
That was/is Moyes, and the last 7 games of the season were disgraceful. I'm not ready for season 14 of Moyes.
Stan Grace
17 Posted 05/08/2026 at 17:19:57
17 Posted 05/08/2026 at 17:19:57
Pete #5,\
"What people seem to have forgotten is Bill Kenwright rescued Everton from oblivion under the previous owner. Kenwright wasn't super rich but he loved Everton and did his best."
It's pretty tricky to forget something that never happened.
"What people seem to have forgotten is Bill Kenwright rescued Everton from oblivion under the previous owner. Kenwright wasn't super rich but he loved Everton and did his best."
It's pretty tricky to forget something that never happened.
Alan McGuffog
18 Posted 05/08/2026 at 17:24:11
18 Posted 05/08/2026 at 17:24:11
We haven't had a plan in 40 years. Are we expecting one now?
We're there to make up the numbers.
We're there to make up the numbers.
Mike Gaynes
19 Posted 05/08/2026 at 17:48:09
19 Posted 05/08/2026 at 17:48:09
The thing is, it's not Kinnear's plan. It's the Friedkins' plan. And they're not gonna share it with anybody.
They tried that once before. Shortly after buying Roma, Dan and Ryan sat down for an interview on RomaTV or whatever their channel is called. They talked about their plans for the club. And it blew up in their faces.
The Roma Ultras were infuriated, accusing them of being Yank carpetbaggers who didn't get the club (sound familiar?) or respect its cultural traditions. The fans hated the plans and, as Keith #10 describes, they hated the Friedkins.
(They tried to make up to the Ultras by hiring De Rossi as manager, and what a disaster that was!)
They learned their lesson. That's why I predicted when they bought Everton that we'd never hear from the Friedkins. And we haven't.
So what's the deal with Angus? Well, as Brian #6 describes, he's a business guy, not a footballer. He was hired as CEO because of his experience in monetizing a new stadium situation and creating new revenue streams.
It would seem he's doing a fine job of it -- Hill Dickinson Stadium has hosted two wildly successful rugby events, and we have four new sponsorship deals with worldwide companies. Our revenue should be a whole lot higher this fiscal year.
As for building the team, he hired Cox and Smith and Hammond to do that. They're responsible for the scouting networks and the planning and the contract negotiations, under Kinnear's supervision of course -- and under a plan that will not be shared publicly, because TFG doesn't want that.
And that, by the way, runs against Angus's instincts. He loves to talk. At Leeds, he would regularly give remarkable podcast interviews that would run an hour and a half or more. Wide open, totally blunt, saying impolitic things sometimes, occasionally pissing off the fans. You can still find some of them on YouTube:
The Square Ball: Angus Kinnear Interview
"We had to sell two" | Angus Kinnear Interview
Won't see this at Everton.
They tried that once before. Shortly after buying Roma, Dan and Ryan sat down for an interview on RomaTV or whatever their channel is called. They talked about their plans for the club. And it blew up in their faces.
The Roma Ultras were infuriated, accusing them of being Yank carpetbaggers who didn't get the club (sound familiar?) or respect its cultural traditions. The fans hated the plans and, as Keith #10 describes, they hated the Friedkins.
(They tried to make up to the Ultras by hiring De Rossi as manager, and what a disaster that was!)
They learned their lesson. That's why I predicted when they bought Everton that we'd never hear from the Friedkins. And we haven't.
So what's the deal with Angus? Well, as Brian #6 describes, he's a business guy, not a footballer. He was hired as CEO because of his experience in monetizing a new stadium situation and creating new revenue streams.
It would seem he's doing a fine job of it -- Hill Dickinson Stadium has hosted two wildly successful rugby events, and we have four new sponsorship deals with worldwide companies. Our revenue should be a whole lot higher this fiscal year.
As for building the team, he hired Cox and Smith and Hammond to do that. They're responsible for the scouting networks and the planning and the contract negotiations, under Kinnear's supervision of course -- and under a plan that will not be shared publicly, because TFG doesn't want that.
And that, by the way, runs against Angus's instincts. He loves to talk. At Leeds, he would regularly give remarkable podcast interviews that would run an hour and a half or more. Wide open, totally blunt, saying impolitic things sometimes, occasionally pissing off the fans. You can still find some of them on YouTube:
The Square Ball: Angus Kinnear Interview
"We had to sell two" | Angus Kinnear Interview
Won't see this at Everton.
Darrel Pugh
20 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:01:26
20 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:01:26
Everton's CEO is exactly what his CV says he is: a trained marketer, Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, then two decades in football brand-building. That's his skill set, and it's on full display in his role at Everton: telling a good story to sponsors, the fanbase, and the board. Substance and outcomes were never really his department.
The pattern isn't new. West Ham's Olympic Stadium move and Leeds's relegation both happened on his watch, and both times the story sounded better than the reality. What he can be relied on to do every time is make the situation sound acceptable.
None of which has hurt him. He's on £1M+ a year and has built a career-long habit of landing softly wherever the last job left off, as a Luton Town season ticket holder.
As for what the actual fanbase needs? Judging by the auto-bounce on his email straight to the fan department, that's someone else's problem.
The pattern isn't new. West Ham's Olympic Stadium move and Leeds's relegation both happened on his watch, and both times the story sounded better than the reality. What he can be relied on to do every time is make the situation sound acceptable.
None of which has hurt him. He's on £1M+ a year and has built a career-long habit of landing softly wherever the last job left off, as a Luton Town season ticket holder.
As for what the actual fanbase needs? Judging by the auto-bounce on his email straight to the fan department, that's someone else's problem.
Jay Harris
21 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:05:31
21 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:05:31
Pete,
I don't know if that's a wind-up but Kenwright didn't rescue us from near oblivion -- he almost took us there! And but for the sale of Rooney, he would have done.
If you check your facts, Kenwright got a club with a net asset position (in other words our assets were worth more than our debts) and within 2 years, he turned that into a net liability --and, surprise, surprise, the money for Peter Johnson's shares was paid out by the club -- not Kenwright.
He then (Trump-like) proceeded to tell everyone that he was the best Evertonian around and that he didn't take a penny out of the club -- while mugging various "friends" such as the Greggs, Moshiri etc.
It makes my blood boil that some Evertonians still think highly of this egotistical clown.
I don't know if that's a wind-up but Kenwright didn't rescue us from near oblivion -- he almost took us there! And but for the sale of Rooney, he would have done.
If you check your facts, Kenwright got a club with a net asset position (in other words our assets were worth more than our debts) and within 2 years, he turned that into a net liability --and, surprise, surprise, the money for Peter Johnson's shares was paid out by the club -- not Kenwright.
He then (Trump-like) proceeded to tell everyone that he was the best Evertonian around and that he didn't take a penny out of the club -- while mugging various "friends" such as the Greggs, Moshiri etc.
It makes my blood boil that some Evertonians still think highly of this egotistical clown.
Jay Harris
22 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:16:29
22 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:16:29
Mike,
The silence is deafening as we are linked with yet another fullback because we wouldn't pay what the club are asking for our first choices. Sound familiar?
Now I'm all for bargaining but, as preseason comes and goes, we are significantly weaker than we were at the start of last season.
The silence is deafening as we are linked with yet another fullback because we wouldn't pay what the club are asking for our first choices. Sound familiar?
Now I'm all for bargaining but, as preseason comes and goes, we are significantly weaker than we were at the start of last season.
Tommy Carter
23 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:22:53
23 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:22:53
Mad to think that 24 years ago, a 16-year-old lad was dominating our preseason. Smashing in bundles of goals.
He'd go on to get an assist on his Premier League debut. These were special times and we had a special talent.
I often think that Sven included Theo Walcott in his 2006 World Cup squad because he wished in hindsight that he'd included Rooney in his 2002 squad. Because I think by the time Sven had access to him 6 months later, he obviously thought to himself, "Wow -- this guy could've been at the World Cup!"
As soon as Sven had access to him, he was starting games for his country. An automatic first pick in the cauldron of a World Cup qualifier against Turkey. He played a hell of a game at the Stadium of Light.
I'd only seen him play that well for Everton twice up until that point. Against Arsenal (of course) and at home to Blackburn - where he was phenomenal and gave a very physical Blackburn team the run around and he scored an amazing goal.
The reason why I had not seen him play that well -- or sometimes at all -- was because of old Moyesie and his 'management' of this talent.
In reality, Moyes had little clue. He stifled a young Rooney. He spent most of his time managing him by trying to put Rooney in a place beneath him -- to show he was the boss.
It's no coincidence that Sven and Sir Alex Ferguson, as soon as they had him, saw no use in managing his minutes. They saw no use in putting him on the wing or reducing him to late cameo substitute appearances.
Those pre-season reports gave me a sense of hope that I'd very rarely had as an Evertonian. Looking back, it's a shame how it all ended up.
He'd go on to get an assist on his Premier League debut. These were special times and we had a special talent.
I often think that Sven included Theo Walcott in his 2006 World Cup squad because he wished in hindsight that he'd included Rooney in his 2002 squad. Because I think by the time Sven had access to him 6 months later, he obviously thought to himself, "Wow -- this guy could've been at the World Cup!"
As soon as Sven had access to him, he was starting games for his country. An automatic first pick in the cauldron of a World Cup qualifier against Turkey. He played a hell of a game at the Stadium of Light.
I'd only seen him play that well for Everton twice up until that point. Against Arsenal (of course) and at home to Blackburn - where he was phenomenal and gave a very physical Blackburn team the run around and he scored an amazing goal.
The reason why I had not seen him play that well -- or sometimes at all -- was because of old Moyesie and his 'management' of this talent.
In reality, Moyes had little clue. He stifled a young Rooney. He spent most of his time managing him by trying to put Rooney in a place beneath him -- to show he was the boss.
It's no coincidence that Sven and Sir Alex Ferguson, as soon as they had him, saw no use in managing his minutes. They saw no use in putting him on the wing or reducing him to late cameo substitute appearances.
Those pre-season reports gave me a sense of hope that I'd very rarely had as an Evertonian. Looking back, it's a shame how it all ended up.
Jimmy Carr
24 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:45:49
24 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:45:49
No point in making good, bad or indifferent comments about the transfer window until it's closed.
That's the time to pass judgement.
That's the time to pass judgement.
David West
25 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:56:17
25 Posted 05/08/2026 at 18:56:17
Kinnear is the figurehead, he's in charge. Dan's not here, not saying a word. Who's in charge of the day-to-day running of Everton Football Club?
If TFG are going to handle Everton this way, like Hill Dickinson Stadium is Chernobyl and dangerous to go anywhere near, then he's got to lead!
If people want to say it's not his responsibility to recruit players, to deal with Ndiaye's contract situation, to give clear goals and targets, to lead the club forward, then what is he? Head of marketing? Head of brand smoozing?
Why can't him and Moyes talk up the club instead of lowering expectations, accepting mediocrity?
Wouldn't you rather join a club whose CEO was saying last season wasn't good enough, we need better, this won't be allowed to happen again?
Or you're interested in signing for EFC and hear Moyes talk of us not being able to make great strides... doesn't turn me on!!!
Perception is huge, we are not being portrayed as a forward moving, ambitious club, by the very people who's job it is!
If TFG are going to handle Everton this way, like Hill Dickinson Stadium is Chernobyl and dangerous to go anywhere near, then he's got to lead!
If people want to say it's not his responsibility to recruit players, to deal with Ndiaye's contract situation, to give clear goals and targets, to lead the club forward, then what is he? Head of marketing? Head of brand smoozing?
Why can't him and Moyes talk up the club instead of lowering expectations, accepting mediocrity?
Wouldn't you rather join a club whose CEO was saying last season wasn't good enough, we need better, this won't be allowed to happen again?
Or you're interested in signing for EFC and hear Moyes talk of us not being able to make great strides... doesn't turn me on!!!
Perception is huge, we are not being portrayed as a forward moving, ambitious club, by the very people who's job it is!
Derek Knox
26 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:02:46
26 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:02:46
What do we expect from a jumped-up cloakroom attendant?
Angus MaCoatup! :-)
Angus MaCoatup! :-)
Mike Gaynes
27 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:20:11
27 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:20:11
Darrel #20...
"Substance and outcomes were never really his department."
Making money isn't "substance"? And increasing the revenue for every club he's worked for isn't an "outcome"?
He's been aboard 14 months, and the club's new revenue-generating deals with Pepsi, Budweiser, Heinz, Aramark, Rugby League, Super League and Rugby Union would seem to imply he knows that part of his job pretty well. Yeah, he tells a good story. Good enough to get all these people to write checks to Everton that will increase our SCR limit. Yay.
Yes, it's definitely also his job to improve the product on the pitch, and he's responsible for hiring the guys with that expertise. This is their first summer window. You want to declare everything a failure already? You go right ahead.
"Substance and outcomes were never really his department."
Making money isn't "substance"? And increasing the revenue for every club he's worked for isn't an "outcome"?
He's been aboard 14 months, and the club's new revenue-generating deals with Pepsi, Budweiser, Heinz, Aramark, Rugby League, Super League and Rugby Union would seem to imply he knows that part of his job pretty well. Yeah, he tells a good story. Good enough to get all these people to write checks to Everton that will increase our SCR limit. Yay.
Yes, it's definitely also his job to improve the product on the pitch, and he's responsible for hiring the guys with that expertise. This is their first summer window. You want to declare everything a failure already? You go right ahead.
Darrel Pugh
28 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:36:18
28 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:36:18
Mike #27,
The article's real question is about his plan for performance. Do you actually agree with condescending public comments aimed at the fans paying his wages?
Every club appoints agencies to boost commercial revenue; Spurs even outsource the whole function. If sugar and alcohol sponsorships get you excited, fair enough. Most fans care more about the substance of better results and better players.
The article's real question is about his plan for performance. Do you actually agree with condescending public comments aimed at the fans paying his wages?
Every club appoints agencies to boost commercial revenue; Spurs even outsource the whole function. If sugar and alcohol sponsorships get you excited, fair enough. Most fans care more about the substance of better results and better players.
David West
29 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:58:38
29 Posted 05/08/2026 at 19:58:38
Mike G. I'm happy to wait for outcomes, I don't actually think you can judge Kinnear's work yet. He's said it's a two-summer window plan. Is that to get us stable, mid-table, to have a complete squad ready for Premier League title winning success?
So 2 years can only be to get to your first target... what's that target? Has, or will he reach it?
What's concerning, as the article points to, is the lack of communication of the plan and targets. If no-one knows the targets, you can't really fail, can you?
So 2 years can only be to get to your first target... what's that target? Has, or will he reach it?
What's concerning, as the article points to, is the lack of communication of the plan and targets. If no-one knows the targets, you can't really fail, can you?
Si Cooper
30 Posted 05/08/2026 at 20:18:31
30 Posted 05/08/2026 at 20:18:31
I'm not sure it makes commercial sense to publish your plan and specific targets and it puzzles me that fans seem to be expecting that.
All we can do is comment on what does actually come to pass and what opportunities appear to have been neglected.
That doesn't mean I'm not craving information although I actively dislike the transfer windows as I'd generally rather not have reasonable expectations shattered and would prefer for there to be no information until a deal is actually done and dusted.
It bothers me when there appear to be delays to the recruitment of fairly moderate targets -- where are we with Norgaard and Johnston?
All we can do is comment on what does actually come to pass and what opportunities appear to have been neglected.
That doesn't mean I'm not craving information although I actively dislike the transfer windows as I'd generally rather not have reasonable expectations shattered and would prefer for there to be no information until a deal is actually done and dusted.
It bothers me when there appear to be delays to the recruitment of fairly moderate targets -- where are we with Norgaard and Johnston?
Brendan McLaughlin
31 Posted 05/08/2026 at 20:32:12
31 Posted 05/08/2026 at 20:32:12
I agree, Si #30,
Perhaps I don't pay enough attention but I've never seen any team lay out short, medium and long term objectives -- at least not in the detail some ToffeeWebbers seem to be demanding.
Perhaps I don't pay enough attention but I've never seen any team lay out short, medium and long term objectives -- at least not in the detail some ToffeeWebbers seem to be demanding.
Darrel Pugh
33 Posted 05/08/2026 at 20:58:54
33 Posted 05/08/2026 at 20:58:54
But we've seen and heard plenty of managers, CEOs and owners articulate a vision of what they believe is possible for the club they are custodians of, then witness an execution plan trying to achieve it.
That would be a start -- and more galvanising than the complete absence of communication, vision and leadership so far.
Apart from a return of investment for the owners, what exactly are Everton supposed to achieve in the next 5-10 years?
And on that note -- if they back the manager, why is he on such a short contract?
That would be a start -- and more galvanising than the complete absence of communication, vision and leadership so far.
Apart from a return of investment for the owners, what exactly are Everton supposed to achieve in the next 5-10 years?
And on that note -- if they back the manager, why is he on such a short contract?
David West
34 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:00:57
34 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:00:57
Si. I do understand that point of view. Why tell your competition your plan?
I'm not saying come out and say we want this player or that player, or our budgets x, y, or z. But: What's the minimum expected? What's the goal this season?
We know Moyes will be talking about staying away from relegation. Is that the goal, and anything else is a bonus? Is it consolidation or something more?
It's not about telling opposition your gameplan, it's about informing fans of your ambitions for the coming season and beyond.
I'm not saying come out and say we want this player or that player, or our budgets x, y, or z. But: What's the minimum expected? What's the goal this season?
We know Moyes will be talking about staying away from relegation. Is that the goal, and anything else is a bonus? Is it consolidation or something more?
It's not about telling opposition your gameplan, it's about informing fans of your ambitions for the coming season and beyond.
Brendan McLaughlin
36 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:23:07
36 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:23:07
There are nine new Premier League managers in post for this coming season... a record apparently.
Have any of these clubs come out and identified what is the minimum expected or the goal for the new season with a new manager at the helm?
Have any of these clubs come out and identified what is the minimum expected or the goal for the new season with a new manager at the helm?
Darrel Pugh
37 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:39:58
37 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:39:58
So to conclude - a herd mentality of fans never questioning the motives and ambitions of billionaire owners who tell us nothing, is absolutely fine?
We crave these so-called saviour billionaire investors owning our clubs, then take it for granted that they have fans' interests embedded in their decision-making.
Ownership should bring with it a responsibility to at least communicate to a fanbase that spends grossly disproportionate time, money and effort devoting their lives to a club.
We crave these so-called saviour billionaire investors owning our clubs, then take it for granted that they have fans' interests embedded in their decision-making.
Ownership should bring with it a responsibility to at least communicate to a fanbase that spends grossly disproportionate time, money and effort devoting their lives to a club.
Daniel A Johnson
38 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:48:20
38 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:48:20
Angus Beef has no plan.
Just like we have zero forward planning or transfer strategy. The fact we've needed a right-back for 5 years and still haven't got one.
Or the fact that, when we needed a new manager, we couldn't get more creative than dinosaur Moyes.
It would be just like us to fire Moyes and replace him with Martinez. Of all the managers new to the league over the past 5 years, such as Iraola and Glasner, you can guarantee our club would have zero clue who they fucking were.
Our lack of football knowledge and awareness within the club is shocking.
Just like we have zero forward planning or transfer strategy. The fact we've needed a right-back for 5 years and still haven't got one.
Or the fact that, when we needed a new manager, we couldn't get more creative than dinosaur Moyes.
It would be just like us to fire Moyes and replace him with Martinez. Of all the managers new to the league over the past 5 years, such as Iraola and Glasner, you can guarantee our club would have zero clue who they fucking were.
Our lack of football knowledge and awareness within the club is shocking.
Si Cooper
39 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:48:57
39 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:48:57
David (34),
I guess it depends on whether you think the manager is both fully informed and empowered to speak for the owners.
You'd certainly expect him to understand the task he has been given but I think it's unlikely he's required to spill the beans every time a journalist asks him a question.
The big question is whether there is any disconnect as to what the owners expect and what the manager can actually deliver, and whether the owners are hearing (and therefore happy with) the muted expectations the manager tends to express, or whether they don't care what he actually says if they think he is delivering at or above the levels they have agreed upon.
Personally, I don't tend to get too hung up on what is said at press conferences because it may be a long way from the reality of what is discussed behind closed doors.
Long-term experience of David Moyes suggests to me he won't be the one to take us to the top and, personally, I don't think there is any absolute necessity for the club to be only seeking stability for any longer, but we don't know the details of the plan and must wait for things to be revealed bit by bit as time passes.
Darrell (38), what if they do regularly communicate all the details you crave but you don't like what they are saying? It's fine saying it's a ‘herd mentality' but personally I just think it's common sense to think we just aren't going to be treated as though we are in the ‘need to know' group.
I guess it depends on whether you think the manager is both fully informed and empowered to speak for the owners.
You'd certainly expect him to understand the task he has been given but I think it's unlikely he's required to spill the beans every time a journalist asks him a question.
The big question is whether there is any disconnect as to what the owners expect and what the manager can actually deliver, and whether the owners are hearing (and therefore happy with) the muted expectations the manager tends to express, or whether they don't care what he actually says if they think he is delivering at or above the levels they have agreed upon.
Personally, I don't tend to get too hung up on what is said at press conferences because it may be a long way from the reality of what is discussed behind closed doors.
Long-term experience of David Moyes suggests to me he won't be the one to take us to the top and, personally, I don't think there is any absolute necessity for the club to be only seeking stability for any longer, but we don't know the details of the plan and must wait for things to be revealed bit by bit as time passes.
Darrell (38), what if they do regularly communicate all the details you crave but you don't like what they are saying? It's fine saying it's a ‘herd mentality' but personally I just think it's common sense to think we just aren't going to be treated as though we are in the ‘need to know' group.
Oliver Molloy
40 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:51:38
40 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:51:38
Some people are annoyed or surprised that Friedkin is more supportive with Roma -- they made the Champions League! Of course they are going to spend money.
Personally, I already don't like the fuckers -- for me, it is a disgrace the man who now owns the club has not even turned up at a game, or the last game at Goodison.
Silence is okay; not respecting the fans, the badge, the history is another matter. They are interested in only one thing -- money and big profit.
Personally, I already don't like the fuckers -- for me, it is a disgrace the man who now owns the club has not even turned up at a game, or the last game at Goodison.
Silence is okay; not respecting the fans, the badge, the history is another matter. They are interested in only one thing -- money and big profit.
Annika Herbert
41 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:59:57
41 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:59:57
Well, that should be something we can throw at the shite fans.
Yes, you might be winning trophies, but just look at the revenue we are generating.
That should stop them dead in their tracks.
Yes, you might be winning trophies, but just look at the revenue we are generating.
That should stop them dead in their tracks.
Christy Ring
42 Posted 05/08/2026 at 22:08:52
42 Posted 05/08/2026 at 22:08:52
Ian #41,
We were linked with Molina, and he's signing for Roma, and it's reported Moyes wants Johnston, and O'Neill said we made an offer for Johnston? Everything with us is drawn out?
We were linked with Molina, and he's signing for Roma, and it's reported Moyes wants Johnston, and O'Neill said we made an offer for Johnston? Everything with us is drawn out?
Phillip Warrington
43 Posted 05/08/2026 at 22:16:44
43 Posted 05/08/2026 at 22:16:44
I suppose the owners are going to say technically we have signed 3 players already in Hackney, and the permanent signings of Rohl and George for a combined total of about £60M.
If we get Norgaard, that will be around 4 players at say £67M, they can technically say. That may keep us in the Premier League but the players are going to have to play out of their skins to get anywhere near European qualification.
I think in reality that's where the club is at the moment -- a bottom to mid-shelf budget buying club.
If we get Norgaard, that will be around 4 players at say £67M, they can technically say. That may keep us in the Premier League but the players are going to have to play out of their skins to get anywhere near European qualification.
I think in reality that's where the club is at the moment -- a bottom to mid-shelf budget buying club.
Stan Grace
44 Posted 05/08/2026 at 22:53:14
44 Posted 05/08/2026 at 22:53:14
Based on the speed of our transfer dealings, the title of this article could have been:
"What's the frequency, Angus?"
"What's the frequency, Angus?"
Mark Taylor
45 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:11:35
45 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:11:35
Unless any new evidence turns up over the coming weeks, we are a mid- to low-table Premier League team, probably good enough to avoid relegation. Moyes -- at this stage in his career -- is a decent fit for that aspiration.
Even if the owners had grand ambitions, we are bound by SCR because, even now, our turnover is pretty mediocre versus the main guys. And thus far, we have certainly lacked the recruitment genius of over-achieving clubs like Bournemouth, or Aston Villa for that matter.
At least we're not burdened with hope. Or at least I'm not. My hunch is that TFG will flip us in a couple of years, having taken full advantage of their filleting of Moshiri. Buying us is almost certainly a classic Private Equity play.
Even if the owners had grand ambitions, we are bound by SCR because, even now, our turnover is pretty mediocre versus the main guys. And thus far, we have certainly lacked the recruitment genius of over-achieving clubs like Bournemouth, or Aston Villa for that matter.
At least we're not burdened with hope. Or at least I'm not. My hunch is that TFG will flip us in a couple of years, having taken full advantage of their filleting of Moshiri. Buying us is almost certainly a classic Private Equity play.
Mike Gaynes
46 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:13:08
46 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:13:08
Delighted to see Norgaard in the shirt on the club site. He'll make it look good. And he'll be of great value while Garner is absent.
Darrel #28, I didn't find his comment condescending. Just a bit stupid. But I'll judge his work more on what he does than what he says. (In the meantime, Friedkin should probably hire a spokesman for Angus.)
And yes, questioning their motivations and objectives is fine, and it is to be expected when they don't communicate. Just don't expect them to change their pattern. They're not public people. Never have been.
Annika #43, without revenue, there will be no trophies, because without revenue our SCR ceiling will remain lower than the Straq's ass and we won't be able to compete for players. Is it possible you're not clear on that yet?
Daniel #39, of course there's a plan. No multi-billion dollar business operates without a plan. They're just not going public with it.
Mark T, there is no private equity involved with the transaction that changed Everton's ownership. None. Zero. The Friedkins are the sole owners (except for some small fry like me) and they don't do private equity.
And considering that in 60 years of operations the Friedkin family has never divested itself of anything it acquired -- not its Toyota distributorships nor its production companies nor its resort properties nor its African acreage, not anything -- I'd be happy to bet you on them keeping hold of us for the long term.
Put it this way, I'm 70 and I don't expect to ever see us sold again.
Darrel #28, I didn't find his comment condescending. Just a bit stupid. But I'll judge his work more on what he does than what he says. (In the meantime, Friedkin should probably hire a spokesman for Angus.)
And yes, questioning their motivations and objectives is fine, and it is to be expected when they don't communicate. Just don't expect them to change their pattern. They're not public people. Never have been.
Annika #43, without revenue, there will be no trophies, because without revenue our SCR ceiling will remain lower than the Straq's ass and we won't be able to compete for players. Is it possible you're not clear on that yet?
Daniel #39, of course there's a plan. No multi-billion dollar business operates without a plan. They're just not going public with it.
Mark T, there is no private equity involved with the transaction that changed Everton's ownership. None. Zero. The Friedkins are the sole owners (except for some small fry like me) and they don't do private equity.
And considering that in 60 years of operations the Friedkin family has never divested itself of anything it acquired -- not its Toyota distributorships nor its production companies nor its resort properties nor its African acreage, not anything -- I'd be happy to bet you on them keeping hold of us for the long term.
Put it this way, I'm 70 and I don't expect to ever see us sold again.
Jay Lewis
47 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:25:27
47 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:25:27
Before coming to Everton, Angus Kinnear was CEO at Leeds Utd from 2017; prior to that, he was Managing Director at West Ham Utd and oversaw their move from Upton Park to the stadium used for the London Olympics.
This fact about the Hammers' stadium move is a concern on its own. Obviously doesn't listen to the fans.
This fact about the Hammers' stadium move is a concern on its own. Obviously doesn't listen to the fans.
Mike Gaynes
48 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:31:58
48 Posted 05/08/2026 at 23:31:58
Jay, he wasn't paid to listen to the fans. He was paid to execute Gold's and Sullivan's orders on the stadium move, and he did so. It was Gold and Sullivan who owned the club and owned the move. They're the ones who didn't listen to the fans.
Christy #44, Martin didn't say we offered on Johnston, just that Davey called him. And The Athletic reports we have not made an official offer, and may decide not to. The target they are reporting is Lidle Baku of RB Leipzig and Germany.
Christy #44, Martin didn't say we offered on Johnston, just that Davey called him. And The Athletic reports we have not made an official offer, and may decide not to. The target they are reporting is Lidle Baku of RB Leipzig and Germany.
Don Alexander
49 Posted 05/08/2026 at 00:19:25
49 Posted 05/08/2026 at 00:19:25
Mike Gaynes, you've long been a very positive advocate of Mr Friedkin when it comes to owning our club, but in your post @ 50 you're essentially in league with the many of us who find fault with his unwillingness to show up to, or even speak to, us paying fans, on whose loyalty to this club he depends for his mere financial gain.
Given your welcome new perception, they now sound to me to be the Totally Fucking Gratuitous company I've considered them to be for a good while already.
Sigh.
Given your welcome new perception, they now sound to me to be the Totally Fucking Gratuitous company I've considered them to be for a good while already.
Sigh.
Mark Taylor
50 Posted 05/08/2026 at 00:20:48
50 Posted 05/08/2026 at 00:20:48
Mike, I said "a private equity play".
Buy it cheapish, build up the revenue... and flip it.
Buy it cheapish, build up the revenue... and flip it.
Rocco Bugaj
51 Posted 05/08/2026 at 00:35:58
51 Posted 05/08/2026 at 00:35:58
Baku is not a player who would help us immediately.
Even at RB Leipzig, he is not without his critics.
Even at RB Leipzig, he is not without his critics.
Sean Herbert
52 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:20:13
52 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:20:13
Mike @ 50, is it not possible you are not clear on the fact people are sick of hearing excuses and reasons for the apparent lack of transfer activity?
I, like many of us older fans, have been waiting years for even a hint of success. So, whilst your reasoning may be sound, being told we may have to wait up to 5 years for TFG to deliver said success isn't something we want to hear.
Wait for success, wait for the elite recruitment team to get their feet under the table, wait for the transfer rush.
You keep mentioning SCR, but does anyone actually know the amount we can spend? Not guesswork, not estimates. Because, if none of us know, how can we state there is, or isn't, money left to spend?
There is keeping your powder dry, but what use is it if it's in permanent storage?
I, like many of us older fans, have been waiting years for even a hint of success. So, whilst your reasoning may be sound, being told we may have to wait up to 5 years for TFG to deliver said success isn't something we want to hear.
Wait for success, wait for the elite recruitment team to get their feet under the table, wait for the transfer rush.
You keep mentioning SCR, but does anyone actually know the amount we can spend? Not guesswork, not estimates. Because, if none of us know, how can we state there is, or isn't, money left to spend?
There is keeping your powder dry, but what use is it if it's in permanent storage?
Mike Gaynes
53 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:21:23
53 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:21:23
Mark #54, as I've said before, some billionaires get rich by buying and flipping. Some get rich by buying and holding. If the Friedkins flip Everton, it'll be the first time they ever flipped anything.
They had a 20-year battle with Toyota of Japan to keep control of their US distributorships when Toyota wanted to buy 'em out. Guess who won.
Don #53, I have no new perceptions, and I would never be in league with you on anything.
I've spent 30+ years as a business consultant coaching C-suite executives on effective communication with the world. Some simply choose not to. They stay behind the scenes, and that's what works for them.
I'm certainly not gonna tell TFG, a company with $16 billion in worldwide annual revenues, that they're doing business the wrong way. As a fan, I do wish they'd choose otherwise.
And I definitely don't understand buying a football club and not going to the games. They're missing out on a fantastic experience, and I understand the food is pretty good. But hey, it leaves open seats for somebody else.
Sean, I definitely understand that nobody wants to be patient. I'm 70. I want to live to see us win the league again. But Everton were a complete wreck when TFG arrived, and cleaning up wreckage takes time. It took TFG six years to get Roma from 6th in Serie A up to 3rd.
I don't know our exact SCR limit (any wise owner will keep that confidential), but I do know it's determined by revenue, and our revenue for last fiscal year was a bit under £200M. That's one-fourth of what Liverpool and Man City produced. Less than a third of what Arsenal, Man Utd, Chelsea and even Spurs pulled in. In other words, they have exponentially more buying power than we do.
That's what we're competing with to get into the Champions League. And that's the part that will take time. We will have to triple our revenue, and therefore our SCR limit, before we can fight the bullies for top players on anything close to level terms.
I think Friedkin can do that with Everton. But... well, you know.
They had a 20-year battle with Toyota of Japan to keep control of their US distributorships when Toyota wanted to buy 'em out. Guess who won.
Don #53, I have no new perceptions, and I would never be in league with you on anything.
I've spent 30+ years as a business consultant coaching C-suite executives on effective communication with the world. Some simply choose not to. They stay behind the scenes, and that's what works for them.
I'm certainly not gonna tell TFG, a company with $16 billion in worldwide annual revenues, that they're doing business the wrong way. As a fan, I do wish they'd choose otherwise.
And I definitely don't understand buying a football club and not going to the games. They're missing out on a fantastic experience, and I understand the food is pretty good. But hey, it leaves open seats for somebody else.
Sean, I definitely understand that nobody wants to be patient. I'm 70. I want to live to see us win the league again. But Everton were a complete wreck when TFG arrived, and cleaning up wreckage takes time. It took TFG six years to get Roma from 6th in Serie A up to 3rd.
I don't know our exact SCR limit (any wise owner will keep that confidential), but I do know it's determined by revenue, and our revenue for last fiscal year was a bit under £200M. That's one-fourth of what Liverpool and Man City produced. Less than a third of what Arsenal, Man Utd, Chelsea and even Spurs pulled in. In other words, they have exponentially more buying power than we do.
That's what we're competing with to get into the Champions League. And that's the part that will take time. We will have to triple our revenue, and therefore our SCR limit, before we can fight the bullies for top players on anything close to level terms.
I think Friedkin can do that with Everton. But... well, you know.
Don Alexander
54 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:43:40
54 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:43:40
Mike G, I'm disappointed to read you'll never agree with me on anything.
I'd have thought two, erm, "mature" devout Toffees could do better than that. All the best though!
I'd have thought two, erm, "mature" devout Toffees could do better than that. All the best though!
Sean Kearns
55 Posted 06/08/2026 at 02:21:01
55 Posted 06/08/2026 at 02:21:01
Sign Alistair Johnston, Grealish (as a No 10 if Ndiaye bounces out) Richarlison and Delap, then all is forgiven.
I have a suspicion that we get Eddie Howe next summer too! UTFT
I have a suspicion that we get Eddie Howe next summer too! UTFT
Andy Meighan
56 Posted 06/08/2026 at 06:43:48
56 Posted 06/08/2026 at 06:43:48
I've more or less given up on everything Everton now.
I don't believe a word out of anyone's mouth, ie, the players, the manager, and the so-called professionals upstairs: they talk a pile of complete and utter shite.
Moyes with his "We're not ready for Europe" diatribe, tell that to newly promoted Sunderland -- who, by the looks of things, look like they're here to stay. A dynamic young manager, great recruitment team and a mix of youth and experience.
Meanwhile, we plod on with a manager who can't stand his own fan base, and whose in-game management is atrocious.
The only thing that's kept me going is seeing the lads and lasses who I've been friendly with for years and my after-match social with my brothers and mates. The football gets in the way of a decent day out for me.
So, Angus, you can shove your cheap words up your arse, because quite frankly, you know nothing about our fan base... or football, for that matter.
I don't believe a word out of anyone's mouth, ie, the players, the manager, and the so-called professionals upstairs: they talk a pile of complete and utter shite.
Moyes with his "We're not ready for Europe" diatribe, tell that to newly promoted Sunderland -- who, by the looks of things, look like they're here to stay. A dynamic young manager, great recruitment team and a mix of youth and experience.
Meanwhile, we plod on with a manager who can't stand his own fan base, and whose in-game management is atrocious.
The only thing that's kept me going is seeing the lads and lasses who I've been friendly with for years and my after-match social with my brothers and mates. The football gets in the way of a decent day out for me.
So, Angus, you can shove your cheap words up your arse, because quite frankly, you know nothing about our fan base... or football, for that matter.
Tony Hughes
57 Posted 06/08/2026 at 07:28:01
57 Posted 06/08/2026 at 07:28:01
TFG are an undeniably shrewd and successful business set-up, but ultimately their ownership of our club will judged by performances and success on the pitch.
If progress, a trophy, and starting to compete at the top of the table on a regular basis, isn't forthcoming -- then they'll be deemed as failures... like the previous list of owners for the last 30 years.
If progress, a trophy, and starting to compete at the top of the table on a regular basis, isn't forthcoming -- then they'll be deemed as failures... like the previous list of owners for the last 30 years.
Mark Taylor
58 Posted 06/08/2026 at 09:14:18
58 Posted 06/08/2026 at 09:14:18
Mike @55,
I hear what you are saying and, strictly speaking, what you say is accurate, they have never sold anything. However, TFG is, in financial terms, built around the car dealership and the very large cashflows that provides. Forays into other sectors are all relatively recent.
Moreover, they are for the most part, forays into areas of personal interest, pursuits that Friedkin himself loves, for example film and golf, so it would be less likely he would wish to exit these.
The entry into football is very recent and takes you into an area where your punter has an emotional connection that is unlike any other sector they operate in.
Now, if Friedkin loves Everton, he has yet to show it. We are not, I presume, a vast cash machine like the dealerships, nor are we the love of his life from the evidence so far. To make money out of football -- and why else would he buy us? -- you really need to flip it at some point.
My hunch is only a hunch and I might be wrong, but your counter argument isn't strong enough to entirely counter the idea.
I hear what you are saying and, strictly speaking, what you say is accurate, they have never sold anything. However, TFG is, in financial terms, built around the car dealership and the very large cashflows that provides. Forays into other sectors are all relatively recent.
Moreover, they are for the most part, forays into areas of personal interest, pursuits that Friedkin himself loves, for example film and golf, so it would be less likely he would wish to exit these.
The entry into football is very recent and takes you into an area where your punter has an emotional connection that is unlike any other sector they operate in.
Now, if Friedkin loves Everton, he has yet to show it. We are not, I presume, a vast cash machine like the dealerships, nor are we the love of his life from the evidence so far. To make money out of football -- and why else would he buy us? -- you really need to flip it at some point.
My hunch is only a hunch and I might be wrong, but your counter argument isn't strong enough to entirely counter the idea.
Dave Lynch
59 Posted 06/08/2026 at 09:42:16
59 Posted 06/08/2026 at 09:42:16
His plan is akin to Baldrick and his cunning plans in Blackadder... they make no sense.
Mike @55... I'm glad TFG fought off Toyota to keep their garage business; that fills me with loads of confidence... I think.
Mike @55... I'm glad TFG fought off Toyota to keep their garage business; that fills me with loads of confidence... I think.
Kevin Molloy
60 Posted 06/08/2026 at 10:23:40
60 Posted 06/08/2026 at 10:23:40
They've bought Everton to make money. That's the bottom line. And no doubt there is a lot of pumping of the tyres still to come: more concerts, higher ticket prices, American tours...
I'm sure they're right that there is more dough to be extracted. But we have a Glazer scenario: Investors from afar who know fuck-all, and care even less about footy, are now running the place.
It's not like they are being subtle, and that we'll find out they were just 'shy', and didn't want to offend anyone. No, they couldn't care less what we think, and in fact this silence is part of that message.
And we know they don't care about the footy angle cos of the appointment of Angus Kinnear. Their first priority is someone who is thinking of the dollars. Football experience? Who cares about that???
He spent most of his time with Leeds in the lower leagues in fact. And disastrously for us, Angus was then empowered to make all of the footballing decisions a year ago. Despite having no track record of success in footballing matters, he got to make the raft of appointments on how we set up to succeed.
And we're seeing it play out now. Our new team are hunting for bargains in very predictable places. A million miles from what Kevin Thelwell was doing in the French leagues and elsewhere.
Now, it's the Scottish Premiership and the Premier League where our eye will scour, and no further.
For anyone thinking, "Well, there's still a month to go for a load of high quality signings..." No, there isn't.
We've already decided we want to replace the No 6 and the right-back at a combined cost of £20M. Probably our two most important positions. That tells you everything you need to know about the level of our ambition.
I'm sure they're right that there is more dough to be extracted. But we have a Glazer scenario: Investors from afar who know fuck-all, and care even less about footy, are now running the place.
It's not like they are being subtle, and that we'll find out they were just 'shy', and didn't want to offend anyone. No, they couldn't care less what we think, and in fact this silence is part of that message.
And we know they don't care about the footy angle cos of the appointment of Angus Kinnear. Their first priority is someone who is thinking of the dollars. Football experience? Who cares about that???
He spent most of his time with Leeds in the lower leagues in fact. And disastrously for us, Angus was then empowered to make all of the footballing decisions a year ago. Despite having no track record of success in footballing matters, he got to make the raft of appointments on how we set up to succeed.
And we're seeing it play out now. Our new team are hunting for bargains in very predictable places. A million miles from what Kevin Thelwell was doing in the French leagues and elsewhere.
Now, it's the Scottish Premiership and the Premier League where our eye will scour, and no further.
For anyone thinking, "Well, there's still a month to go for a load of high quality signings..." No, there isn't.
We've already decided we want to replace the No 6 and the right-back at a combined cost of £20M. Probably our two most important positions. That tells you everything you need to know about the level of our ambition.
Tony Abrahams
61 Posted 06/08/2026 at 10:35:04
61 Posted 06/08/2026 at 10:35:04
If these “ultimate monopoly players” want to see those seats that they are leaving for others getting used every other week, Mike, then things have got to start improving out on the pitch.
And after reading about the profit margins, it definitely made complete sense why they continued to stand up to Toyota, mate.
The annual profits are incredible, not even the men in white coats would be able to persuade anyone to sell such an asset.
Although football has changed and is now all about the money, these people have got to be made to realise that, until they show up, they are doing nothing to endear themselves to the fan base of Everton Football Club -- “a club that has been built on having a lot of heart and soul”.
I hadn't got as far as reading Andy's when I wrote this post, but I think he epitomises how a lot of old timers are feeling right now.
Michael will rightly point out that there are people willing to take our place, but will these people be able to create from the heart the sheer fanaticism and those incredible coach displays that definitely came straight from our Evertonian hearts?
And after reading about the profit margins, it definitely made complete sense why they continued to stand up to Toyota, mate.
The annual profits are incredible, not even the men in white coats would be able to persuade anyone to sell such an asset.
Although football has changed and is now all about the money, these people have got to be made to realise that, until they show up, they are doing nothing to endear themselves to the fan base of Everton Football Club -- “a club that has been built on having a lot of heart and soul”.
I hadn't got as far as reading Andy's when I wrote this post, but I think he epitomises how a lot of old timers are feeling right now.
Michael will rightly point out that there are people willing to take our place, but will these people be able to create from the heart the sheer fanaticism and those incredible coach displays that definitely came straight from our Evertonian hearts?
Ian Wilkins
62 Posted 06/08/2026 at 11:57:27
62 Posted 06/08/2026 at 11:57:27
The football industry is relatively new to TFG; it is not like a Car Sales franchise. It is very different from all angles.
Everton FC, in our new home, can be commercially developed way beyond the revenue limitations of Goodison Park. TFG see this and, in fairness, are seeking to maximise returns to the benefit of all, not least themselves, as the valuation of Everton FC grows.
But, there is a ceiling to revenue growth, and that ceiling is set by the success of the team on the pitch. Invest in the team, achieve success, then the fanbase grows, European football monies flow, TV monies increase, sponsorship deals improve, etc, etc.
But there are only so many Rugby matches. Don't invest and the reverse happens. Owners either choose to max out from where we are today, then exit at a higher club valuation, or invest to grow that valuation.
I'd hoped to see greater investment this window, albeit limited by SCR. We are looking like a club with little ambition. Lack of communication by owners with fanbase does nothing to allay those concerns.
There are 3 to 4 weeks left of this window: please, TFG, show some ambition... your fanbase at Everton deserve it.
Everton FC, in our new home, can be commercially developed way beyond the revenue limitations of Goodison Park. TFG see this and, in fairness, are seeking to maximise returns to the benefit of all, not least themselves, as the valuation of Everton FC grows.
But, there is a ceiling to revenue growth, and that ceiling is set by the success of the team on the pitch. Invest in the team, achieve success, then the fanbase grows, European football monies flow, TV monies increase, sponsorship deals improve, etc, etc.
But there are only so many Rugby matches. Don't invest and the reverse happens. Owners either choose to max out from where we are today, then exit at a higher club valuation, or invest to grow that valuation.
I'd hoped to see greater investment this window, albeit limited by SCR. We are looking like a club with little ambition. Lack of communication by owners with fanbase does nothing to allay those concerns.
There are 3 to 4 weeks left of this window: please, TFG, show some ambition... your fanbase at Everton deserve it.
Dave Abrahams
63 Posted 06/08/2026 at 11:59:56
63 Posted 06/08/2026 at 11:59:56
Don (56)
Going by Mike's post @55, I think he is really quite fond of you!
Going by Mike's post @55, I think he is really quite fond of you!
Dave Lynch
65 Posted 06/08/2026 at 12:26:43
65 Posted 06/08/2026 at 12:26:43
I'm not buying this... we can't get Champions League because we don't have the revenue to compete? That's defeatist from the off and Moyes will love talk like that!!
We blew European football (possibly Champions League) last season big time, and it was all down to one man... Moyes.
Tactical ineptitude, stubbornness, and a loser's safety-first mindset is what cost us. Those last 7-8 games were criminal in football terms, the man just does not have the balls or the ruthless streak needed to be a winner.
We blew European football (possibly Champions League) last season big time, and it was all down to one man... Moyes.
Tactical ineptitude, stubbornness, and a loser's safety-first mindset is what cost us. Those last 7-8 games were criminal in football terms, the man just does not have the balls or the ruthless streak needed to be a winner.
Brian Harrison
66 Posted 06/08/2026 at 12:41:16
66 Posted 06/08/2026 at 12:41:16
Dave @67,
While I applaud your optimism, the rich clubs have made sure that the likes of Abramovich at Chelsea and Sheik Mansoor of Man City can no longer pump fortunes into clubs to help them compete for the title and regular Champions League football.
SCR or its European equivalent was brought in to make sure that can't happen. You just have to look at Newcastle, who have the richest owners in football... yet, because of the financial restrictions, they are having to sell their best players after qualifying for a Champions League spot last season, to stay within SCR rules.
Now, with English teams getting 4 spots in the Champions League, and in certain circumstances it could go up to 5 or 6, there is a chance for a mid-table team to get Champions League football for one season.
While I applaud your optimism, the rich clubs have made sure that the likes of Abramovich at Chelsea and Sheik Mansoor of Man City can no longer pump fortunes into clubs to help them compete for the title and regular Champions League football.
SCR or its European equivalent was brought in to make sure that can't happen. You just have to look at Newcastle, who have the richest owners in football... yet, because of the financial restrictions, they are having to sell their best players after qualifying for a Champions League spot last season, to stay within SCR rules.
Now, with English teams getting 4 spots in the Champions League, and in certain circumstances it could go up to 5 or 6, there is a chance for a mid-table team to get Champions League football for one season.
Steve Brown
67 Posted 06/08/2026 at 13:32:05
67 Posted 06/08/2026 at 13:32:05
It has been an interesting journey to watch the position of the poster @ 55 shifting over the past month.
His starting point was that TFG have revolutionised Everton's commercial operation and sponsorships -- Budweiser, Pepsi, Aramak, Heinz cited and repeated -- with the confident predicton that we could look forward to £250M in football related revenue. He also credited (and continues to credit) TFG with stadium revenue generation despite them having nothing to do with its construction.
Basis this, we were confidently told we could be looking at potentially £125-£150M net spend on squad building this summer. The same poster praised the CEO Angus (first names terms), senior hires into the club, including the high class recruitment team and world leading analytics team. We were in good hands with top people recruited by TFG.
The same poster now writes that:
1) “Our revenue for last fiscal year was a bit under £200M. That's one-fourth of what Liverpool and Man City produced." [Excuses beginning, revenue downgraded although our financial results for 2025-26 are not even published]
2) It can take 5-10 years to build a scouting and recruitment structure like Brighton and Brentford. [Excuses gathering steam]
3) We did not have SCR range in the January window to buy players. [Excuses going full throttle]
4) We could not buy a right-back early in this window because that requires a right-back who wants to join us and a club willing to sell anywhere in the world. [Excuses moving into fantasy land]
On point 3), SCR did not apply to the January 2026 transfer window. Under PSR, which did apply, total net losses of £61.8M in seasons 2023-24 and 2024-25 gave us headroom of £43.2M for 2025-25 season.
Spookily, the PSR headroom matches the dividend payment of £44M taken out of the club by TFG in December 2025. This is something that the same poster adamantly refused to acknowledge and still does not by the look of it.
What hasn't changed is that we are confidently told that Dan and Ryan (first names terms again) don't do communications with the world, but that a number of C-suite executives choose not to do so.
Well, as someone with Communication Director as part of his job title, I have never come across a C-Suite executive who has taken that approach. But it is all stated with absolute certainty and confidence, so plaudits for the bravado.
As I said on another thread, what hasn't changed -- yet -- are outcomes in terms of football operations. In the 1.5 years that TFG have been in charge, the performances and bench strength of the Academy teams, Women's first-team squad and Men's first-team squad have not improved significantly since they bought the club.
And as for the claim that the billionaire owners will do what they want regardless of the fans' opinions? Well, I suggest we all cast our minds back to 14 January 2023, when the fans sent the Owner, Chairman, CEO and board into permanent exile.
His starting point was that TFG have revolutionised Everton's commercial operation and sponsorships -- Budweiser, Pepsi, Aramak, Heinz cited and repeated -- with the confident predicton that we could look forward to £250M in football related revenue. He also credited (and continues to credit) TFG with stadium revenue generation despite them having nothing to do with its construction.
Basis this, we were confidently told we could be looking at potentially £125-£150M net spend on squad building this summer. The same poster praised the CEO Angus (first names terms), senior hires into the club, including the high class recruitment team and world leading analytics team. We were in good hands with top people recruited by TFG.
The same poster now writes that:
1) “Our revenue for last fiscal year was a bit under £200M. That's one-fourth of what Liverpool and Man City produced." [Excuses beginning, revenue downgraded although our financial results for 2025-26 are not even published]
2) It can take 5-10 years to build a scouting and recruitment structure like Brighton and Brentford. [Excuses gathering steam]
3) We did not have SCR range in the January window to buy players. [Excuses going full throttle]
4) We could not buy a right-back early in this window because that requires a right-back who wants to join us and a club willing to sell anywhere in the world. [Excuses moving into fantasy land]
On point 3), SCR did not apply to the January 2026 transfer window. Under PSR, which did apply, total net losses of £61.8M in seasons 2023-24 and 2024-25 gave us headroom of £43.2M for 2025-25 season.
Spookily, the PSR headroom matches the dividend payment of £44M taken out of the club by TFG in December 2025. This is something that the same poster adamantly refused to acknowledge and still does not by the look of it.
What hasn't changed is that we are confidently told that Dan and Ryan (first names terms again) don't do communications with the world, but that a number of C-suite executives choose not to do so.
Well, as someone with Communication Director as part of his job title, I have never come across a C-Suite executive who has taken that approach. But it is all stated with absolute certainty and confidence, so plaudits for the bravado.
As I said on another thread, what hasn't changed -- yet -- are outcomes in terms of football operations. In the 1.5 years that TFG have been in charge, the performances and bench strength of the Academy teams, Women's first-team squad and Men's first-team squad have not improved significantly since they bought the club.
And as for the claim that the billionaire owners will do what they want regardless of the fans' opinions? Well, I suggest we all cast our minds back to 14 January 2023, when the fans sent the Owner, Chairman, CEO and board into permanent exile.
Eric Myles
68 Posted 06/08/2026 at 13:47:50
68 Posted 06/08/2026 at 13:47:50
David #34
"Is it consolidation or something more?"
Being the successful businessmen they are, they'll know consolidation is the next step after bringing stability to a company.
"Is it consolidation or something more?"
Being the successful businessmen they are, they'll know consolidation is the next step after bringing stability to a company.
Mark Taylor
69 Posted 06/08/2026 at 14:00:33
69 Posted 06/08/2026 at 14:00:33
To be fair to Friedkin, for this window at least, I'm not convinced we have a lot of headroom left with our SCR ratio. Possibly as little as £5M.
Your net transfer allowable within that is higher because of the way amortisation works but, even so, we are almost certainly not in the market for £30-40M players unless we raise the money through player sales.
Your net transfer allowable within that is higher because of the way amortisation works but, even so, we are almost certainly not in the market for £30-40M players unless we raise the money through player sales.
Mike Gaynes
70 Posted 06/08/2026 at 14:41:53
70 Posted 06/08/2026 at 14:41:53
My position hasn't changed one little bit, Steve, and your smarmy blathering cannot show otherwise with anything resembling facts, which I quote on a regular basis.
I have correctly cited the club's revenues, then the SCR rules of how much of those revenues we are allowed to spend. You cannot dispute those facts. Yet you project and misrepresent my positions while spouting garbage inventions of your own, like TFG having nothing to do with the stadium construction, even though it's a matter of record that they helped complete it with their financial execution... Or that they have nothing to do with revenue generation events. Who is putting on those events, Steve?
The sheer idiocy of believing that a new ownership with 18 months in the chair, supported by a new executive structure with less than 12 months, should have had an instantaneous effect on game results – clearly the manager and entire playing staff should have been turned over by now, right, Steve? — is matched only by the sheer ignorance of believing that the dividend would have come out of the transfer budget.
I wonder how a “director” of anything could possibly believe that. But then I was merely the president of my company. What do I know?
Folks, I'm done with this sneering fake. You're welcome to believe his bilious crapola if you want.
I have correctly cited the club's revenues, then the SCR rules of how much of those revenues we are allowed to spend. You cannot dispute those facts. Yet you project and misrepresent my positions while spouting garbage inventions of your own, like TFG having nothing to do with the stadium construction, even though it's a matter of record that they helped complete it with their financial execution... Or that they have nothing to do with revenue generation events. Who is putting on those events, Steve?
The sheer idiocy of believing that a new ownership with 18 months in the chair, supported by a new executive structure with less than 12 months, should have had an instantaneous effect on game results – clearly the manager and entire playing staff should have been turned over by now, right, Steve? — is matched only by the sheer ignorance of believing that the dividend would have come out of the transfer budget.
I wonder how a “director” of anything could possibly believe that. But then I was merely the president of my company. What do I know?
Folks, I'm done with this sneering fake. You're welcome to believe his bilious crapola if you want.
Ian Jones
71 Posted 06/08/2026 at 14:47:21
71 Posted 06/08/2026 at 14:47:21
I'll read this thread later as I just skimmed through some of the comments.
My only addition so far would be to add, whilst I would entertain short- and long-term strategies, both on and off the pitch, there's only so many times we can surely hear that we are in transition.
I haven't heard it recently but no doubt the expression will be said at some stage this season.
My only addition so far would be to add, whilst I would entertain short- and long-term strategies, both on and off the pitch, there's only so many times we can surely hear that we are in transition.
I haven't heard it recently but no doubt the expression will be said at some stage this season.
Tony Hughes
72 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:18:48
72 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:18:48
Transition, 3-year projects, stability but transitioning, two summer transfer window plans...
Will we ever just get there and start looking like a serious, competitive football club again???
Will we ever just get there and start looking like a serious, competitive football club again???
Dale Self
73 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:27:53
73 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:27:53
I don't want to aggravate the situation but, forgive me Mike:
C-Suite? I see sweet fuck all!
Sorry again Mike, just a bit of fun there.
C-Suite? I see sweet fuck all!
Sorry again Mike, just a bit of fun there.
Tony Abrahams
74 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:55:43
74 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:55:43
I’m not the most educated Mike, but when you quote “sheer ignorance believing that the divided would have come out of the transfer budget” I just think to myself that (a) we didn’t sign anyone last January (b) knowledgeable football people, would have seen a chance of us doing something quite remarkable, if we had been prepared to sign a couple of players (c) paying themselves a dividend so early into their tenure showed us the real reason why TSF, have purchased Everton.
Nothing wrong with making money, the more successful they can make us, the more money they will make for themselves, but there is nothing to convince me that Everton, are just another leveraged buyout, which tally’s up with you telling us that our owners don’t sell anything.
Buy Everton, use x-amount of our own money. Pay ourselves dividends, slowly get the reconstructed debt down, and make ourselves a fucking fortune in the process, is how it currently looks to me.
I hope I’m wrong because I don’t want any involvement with people like this, but currently TSF, unfortunately just remind me of Bill Kenwright, on steroids, even though I’m aware they possess a lot more business acumen, than The Joker.
Nothing wrong with making money, the more successful they can make us, the more money they will make for themselves, but there is nothing to convince me that Everton, are just another leveraged buyout, which tally’s up with you telling us that our owners don’t sell anything.
Buy Everton, use x-amount of our own money. Pay ourselves dividends, slowly get the reconstructed debt down, and make ourselves a fucking fortune in the process, is how it currently looks to me.
I hope I’m wrong because I don’t want any involvement with people like this, but currently TSF, unfortunately just remind me of Bill Kenwright, on steroids, even though I’m aware they possess a lot more business acumen, than The Joker.
Kevin Molloy
75 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:01:39
75 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:01:39
to paraphrase Bill Clinton, 'it's the first team, stupid'.
At the end of the next season, we will be able to look back at the team TFG inherited some two and a half years ago, and look what changes will have been made.
to the defence, a right back from the SPL recruited at £12m (Plus Ad ons!)
to the midfield, K\\\\DH at £25m, Norgaard at £8m, and George at £16m.
and to the attack, we still have Beto, but alternating now with Barry £25m.
Marvellous.
At the end of the next season, we will be able to look back at the team TFG inherited some two and a half years ago, and look what changes will have been made.
to the defence, a right back from the SPL recruited at £12m (Plus Ad ons!)
to the midfield, K\\\\DH at £25m, Norgaard at £8m, and George at £16m.
and to the attack, we still have Beto, but alternating now with Barry £25m.
Marvellous.
Dave Lynch
76 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:42:19
76 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:42:19
Kevin @77.
That's cheered me up no end mate.
For any Yanks reading... that was sarcasm.
That's cheered me up no end mate.
For any Yanks reading... that was sarcasm.
Jay Harris
77 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:57:40
77 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:57:40
We can say what we like about TFG and their ownership but, as lifelong Evertonians, we only care about our club, and to see us described as a second-rate Premier League by other clubs, agents and the media should create shame in the corridors of power. It's not about budgets, it's about action.
For example, I would have expected there to have been a play for Wan-Bissaka as soon as West Ham were relegated. Then we could have looked for better quality having addressed that significant weakness.
If we don't see some action soon, Hill Dickinson Stadium will be empty and the fans will demonstrate.
For example, I would have expected there to have been a play for Wan-Bissaka as soon as West Ham were relegated. Then we could have looked for better quality having addressed that significant weakness.
If we don't see some action soon, Hill Dickinson Stadium will be empty and the fans will demonstrate.
Brendan McLaughlin
78 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:33:40
78 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:33:40
Christian Norgaard:
"When I spoke to David Moyes and others involved in the transfer, I heard about the whole project and I was very intrigued."
"Potayto... potahto... project... plan...
Let's call the whole thing off"
"When I spoke to David Moyes and others involved in the transfer, I heard about the whole project and I was very intrigued."
"Potayto... potahto... project... plan...
Let's call the whole thing off"
Brendan McLaughlin
79 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:33:42
79 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:33:42
Ooops!
Phil Roberts
80 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:16:43
80 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:16:43
Brian #68,
We need to keep repeating this: Clubs in Europe can only spend 70% of their revenue while clubs not in Europe can spend 85%.
Let us take the revenue as £200M -- a nice number to work with. And anyone who knows the rules better, please shout... but I assume that applies to the year after rather than the current year.
Year 1 -- not in Europe = Spend £170M (85% of revenue) and qualify for Europe.
Year 2 -- in Europe, so bigger squad to handle the extra games. Revenue still based on £200M = £170M
Year 3 - fail to make Europe. Revenue £220M but spend @ 70% = £154M. Have to make £16M of cuts to stay within the rules.
Year 4 - £200M but 85% so can spend £170M... and so it goes on.
Getting into Europe one year and not the next will give the problem that Newcastle have got of selling players to stay within the rules.
As I have said on a couple of occasions, did we not push in the last 7 games because it could have messed up the 2026-27 season with a squad too small for a small European Competition and the Premier League, with the result of a finish below 17th this coming season?? Just a thought.
We need to keep repeating this: Clubs in Europe can only spend 70% of their revenue while clubs not in Europe can spend 85%.
Let us take the revenue as £200M -- a nice number to work with. And anyone who knows the rules better, please shout... but I assume that applies to the year after rather than the current year.
Year 1 -- not in Europe = Spend £170M (85% of revenue) and qualify for Europe.
Year 2 -- in Europe, so bigger squad to handle the extra games. Revenue still based on £200M = £170M
Year 3 - fail to make Europe. Revenue £220M but spend @ 70% = £154M. Have to make £16M of cuts to stay within the rules.
Year 4 - £200M but 85% so can spend £170M... and so it goes on.
Getting into Europe one year and not the next will give the problem that Newcastle have got of selling players to stay within the rules.
As I have said on a couple of occasions, did we not push in the last 7 games because it could have messed up the 2026-27 season with a squad too small for a small European Competition and the Premier League, with the result of a finish below 17th this coming season?? Just a thought.
George Freeman
81 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:29:09
81 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:29:09
Phil, correct me if I've got it wrong but I assume that whatever the amount we are allowed to spend on transfers has to cover both transfer windows in one season.
Perhaps TFG are saving some back in case we need to tweak the team in January but we need a decent right-back and a striker now. We live in hope, don't we?
Perhaps TFG are saving some back in case we need to tweak the team in January but we need a decent right-back and a striker now. We live in hope, don't we?
Mark Taylor
82 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:39:35
82 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:39:35
I'm not here to defend Friedkin, my mind is not made up yet, but for sure, I am much happier (or less unhappy bordering on despairing) than when Kenwright and his attached clowns were (not) running the place.
We were, let's face it, a club in total limbo, a basket case, not even sure we could finish the stadium and about to fall into the hands of people with as much fantasism and denial as that Cambridge professor...
I know we owe Moshiri for most of the stadium build but I'm glad he took a very big bath. Not so happy with the size of Bill's bath.
We were, let's face it, a club in total limbo, a basket case, not even sure we could finish the stadium and about to fall into the hands of people with as much fantasism and denial as that Cambridge professor...
I know we owe Moshiri for most of the stadium build but I'm glad he took a very big bath. Not so happy with the size of Bill's bath.
Jay Harris
83 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:03:02
83 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:03:02
If we would have finished 6 places higher, that would have been worth £15M -- so a free full-back -- and the gate receipts and commercial income from being in Europe would have dwarfed the £30M difference in SCR allowance, so for me, it was important to qualify for Europe and be consistently there.
After all, we are a "big" club... aren't we???
Years ago, before the Premier League, we would have laughed at the likes of Roma, Villarreal, PSG, Stuttgart etc; now, we are looking up at them.
How I curse the day Kenwright ever got hold of our club.
After all, we are a "big" club... aren't we???
Years ago, before the Premier League, we would have laughed at the likes of Roma, Villarreal, PSG, Stuttgart etc; now, we are looking up at them.
How I curse the day Kenwright ever got hold of our club.
Phil Roberts
84 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:52:14
84 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:52:14
George,
Squad Cost Ratio is a financial regulation that limits Premier League clubs' on-pitch spending to 85% of their football-related revenue and net profit or loss from player sales. It is about how much you can spend on squad costs which cover player and head coach wages, agents' fees and amortisation or impairment of transfer fees.
Amortisation is: Buy Hackney for £16.5M on a 5-year deal means that we will he will cost his salary plus £3.3M against that limit in each of those 5 years.
Jay, I presume you would have preferred Agent Johnson to still own the club???? I seem to recall virtually all supporters were happy when Kenwright took over from Johnson.
Similarly, all were happy when Moshiri took over from Kenwright and TFG from Moshiri... And now a few are moaning about TFG not spending their money and not visiting our club!
Squad Cost Ratio is a financial regulation that limits Premier League clubs' on-pitch spending to 85% of their football-related revenue and net profit or loss from player sales. It is about how much you can spend on squad costs which cover player and head coach wages, agents' fees and amortisation or impairment of transfer fees.
Amortisation is: Buy Hackney for £16.5M on a 5-year deal means that we will he will cost his salary plus £3.3M against that limit in each of those 5 years.
Jay, I presume you would have preferred Agent Johnson to still own the club???? I seem to recall virtually all supporters were happy when Kenwright took over from Johnson.
Similarly, all were happy when Moshiri took over from Kenwright and TFG from Moshiri... And now a few are moaning about TFG not spending their money and not visiting our club!
Brendan McLaughlin
85 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:07:36
85 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:07:36
Phil #80,
I don't think SCR is applied retrospectively. It's 70% or 85% of current year revenue.
You can however spend up to a further 30% in any year but you have to reel that back in within a 3-year rolling period.
I know you'll be busting to revisit your previous calculations with that information, mate!
I don't think SCR is applied retrospectively. It's 70% or 85% of current year revenue.
You can however spend up to a further 30% in any year but you have to reel that back in within a 3-year rolling period.
I know you'll be busting to revisit your previous calculations with that information, mate!
Phil Roberts
86 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:13:21
86 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:13:21
Thanks, Brendan -- but no thanks!
Yes, I agree: it is current year revenue, which is why I am suspicious that the scenario I gave of being at only 70% of revenue for 2026-27 could put us in danger of not having the players to fight on two fronts of Europe and staying in the Premier League.
The choice was to stay in the Premier League as it was worth more than a few nights of excitement in Europe and the revenue from one or more years in the Championship.
Yes, I agree: it is current year revenue, which is why I am suspicious that the scenario I gave of being at only 70% of revenue for 2026-27 could put us in danger of not having the players to fight on two fronts of Europe and staying in the Premier League.
The choice was to stay in the Premier League as it was worth more than a few nights of excitement in Europe and the revenue from one or more years in the Championship.
George Freeman
87 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:55:28
87 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:55:28
Thanks, Phil, I understand how it works now.
Let's hope the real time monitoring is accurate and we get it right. There's always a first time, I guess.
Let's hope the real time monitoring is accurate and we get it right. There's always a first time, I guess.
Phil Parker
88 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:50:39
88 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:50:39
If we had beaten the worst Liverpool team since Roy Hodgson, a team who didn't seem interested and whose manager was soon to be sacked... if we had won that game, we then needed just 2 wins from our final 6 games to guarantee Champions League football.
Over £100M in Champions League money, and an extra £32M in Premier League place money. What is wrong with our club? Why can't we take an opportunity like this?
Why do some of you say we are not ready, including our manager? Ready for what, ambition, aspiration, success? 8th place next year will be sold as progress. Not for me. Nil Satis Nisi Optimum.
Over £100M in Champions League money, and an extra £32M in Premier League place money. What is wrong with our club? Why can't we take an opportunity like this?
Why do some of you say we are not ready, including our manager? Ready for what, ambition, aspiration, success? 8th place next year will be sold as progress. Not for me. Nil Satis Nisi Optimum.
Brendan McLaughlin
90 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:02:53
90 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:02:53
Phil #88,
8th place next season will be progress. It doesn't have to be "sold" as progress.
8th place next season will be progress. It doesn't have to be "sold" as progress.
Paul Hewitt
91 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:35:35
91 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:35:35
Phil @88.
It might have been the worst Liverpool side since Hodgson. But it was still far better than us.
It might have been the worst Liverpool side since Hodgson. But it was still far better than us.
Tony Hughes
92 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:46:18
92 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:46:18
"TFG not spending their money"?
Don't we receive funds from the biggest, most lucrative TV deals ever from Sky and TNT each season?
Don't we receive funds from the biggest, most lucrative TV deals ever from Sky and TNT each season?
Paul Hewitt
93 Posted 07/08/2026 at 07:05:03
93 Posted 07/08/2026 at 07:05:03
We spent around £120M last season without any major sales. We've spent another £50M this season again without any major sales.
So that's £170M in two seasons. You can hardly say TFG haven't spent any money.
So that's £170M in two seasons. You can hardly say TFG haven't spent any money.
Stu Gre
94 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:02:32
94 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:02:32
Very interesting reading these comments, I always love reading the passion of our fans -- even though we might not all agree on everything, we all have one thing in common.
The anger and opposing defense of TFG is really incredible when you think about it. They've only been here 20 months or something, but the honeymoon period ended very quickly. They can't magic funds against an unfair SCR system to buy an overpriced Rogers. But they are still getting grief, in my opinion, deservedly -- but it still feels bizarre.
Problem for me is: 1) they have an incredibly passionate but success and optimism starved fan base; and 2) they forgot to engage us -- and they can do it as they showed with Roma:
A statement from Dan and Ryan Friedkin for example.
They have a fine balance: protect their asset vs provide entertainment. They appear to be choosing the former, the appointment of Moyes pretty much guaranteed that.
But what about us? What's the plan for us? At the moment, we pay for shite. I wouldn't test drive a Toyota that only did 15 mph and sometimes didn't get you to where you want to go and then think "You know what, I'm going to spend £30k on that, I'm sure it'll get better."
Football is different, I think Friedkin knows that. Toyotas have to be excellent for people to pay. Everton don't. The last 32 years tell you that.
But I'd like them to talk to us, send us a message that we matter, but it will take time. I don't want to hear "happily dissatisfied" from a man who appears to be out of his depth.
And I certainly don't ever want to listen to Moyes again. I haven't listened to him for months and I will continue to avoid his negative, fun tampering, enjoyment sapping, expectation buggering noises for the rest of my life.
But Friedkin, please show us some love. Until you do, I will treat Everton like a broken Toyota and not pay for shite.
The anger and opposing defense of TFG is really incredible when you think about it. They've only been here 20 months or something, but the honeymoon period ended very quickly. They can't magic funds against an unfair SCR system to buy an overpriced Rogers. But they are still getting grief, in my opinion, deservedly -- but it still feels bizarre.
Problem for me is: 1) they have an incredibly passionate but success and optimism starved fan base; and 2) they forgot to engage us -- and they can do it as they showed with Roma:
A statement from Dan and Ryan Friedkin for example.
They have a fine balance: protect their asset vs provide entertainment. They appear to be choosing the former, the appointment of Moyes pretty much guaranteed that.
But what about us? What's the plan for us? At the moment, we pay for shite. I wouldn't test drive a Toyota that only did 15 mph and sometimes didn't get you to where you want to go and then think "You know what, I'm going to spend £30k on that, I'm sure it'll get better."
Football is different, I think Friedkin knows that. Toyotas have to be excellent for people to pay. Everton don't. The last 32 years tell you that.
But I'd like them to talk to us, send us a message that we matter, but it will take time. I don't want to hear "happily dissatisfied" from a man who appears to be out of his depth.
And I certainly don't ever want to listen to Moyes again. I haven't listened to him for months and I will continue to avoid his negative, fun tampering, enjoyment sapping, expectation buggering noises for the rest of my life.
But Friedkin, please show us some love. Until you do, I will treat Everton like a broken Toyota and not pay for shite.
David West
95 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:59:56
95 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:59:56
Paul 93.
Our problem has been all the saleable assets were sold before TFG came. So net spend will always be high until there's a healthy squad at first team, U21 and Academy levels.
Other teams have players who barely play, our squad is paper thin. The model now should be, buy the immediate players needed to solve first-team issues, like Norgaard.
Buy young players, like Hackney and George, who will play and grow in value. Buy top young talent to build up the academy; some will make it, some won't, some should generate returns.
Our problem has been all the saleable assets were sold before TFG came. So net spend will always be high until there's a healthy squad at first team, U21 and Academy levels.
Other teams have players who barely play, our squad is paper thin. The model now should be, buy the immediate players needed to solve first-team issues, like Norgaard.
Buy young players, like Hackney and George, who will play and grow in value. Buy top young talent to build up the academy; some will make it, some won't, some should generate returns.
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1 Posted 05/08/2026 at 14:13:43