Written by Doc Bowles Wednesday, 08 July 2009 07:57
There's been a load of comment on this site recently suggesting that Martin O'Neill may be a poor operator in the the transfer market. I share some of the views that he is sometimes a bit slow and sometimes a bit careful, but by and large I disagree.
I think O'Neill has issues to confront, but I don't necessarily think they are all about transfers.
First of all, we should congratulate O'Neill on one of the greatest transfer window "smash-and-grabs" ever seen in the Premier League. The swap of Baros for Carew was daylight robbery made legal: it was like swapping the Old Kent Road for Park Lane. A moment of genius, which I think transformed Villa's fortunes at a single stroke.
Secondly, and this shows a different side of O'Neill - let's look at the signing of Stan Petrov. Not exactly welcomed by the Holte End, and thereafter positively vilified after a couple of mediocre seasons, it looked as if Taglor and the cynics were right. But actually they weren't.
O'Neill was. And if I'm not mistaken, Stiliyan Petrov was voted fans', players' and club's Player of the Season last year. Maybe O'Neill does actually know a little bit more about football than us bloggers.
Thirdly, I want to talk about the signings of James Milner and Curtis Davies. These were players who O'Neill wanted to bring to the club for months and months. He didn't give up, he knew who he wanted and - even if he did pay a bit over the odds in the end - he got his men.
Many of you have questioned whether these were really top class signings. I have no doubt that both will prove to be key players in the England set-up over the next few years and, interestingly, Fabio Capello seems to be of the same opinion. Of course most of our teenage commenters know more about football than Fabio.
And as a fourth point, MON has been criticised by the Villa idiots for not being willing to pay out on a big signing. Two seasons ago, not only the blogs but also other Premier League managers were highly critical of Martin O'Neill for spending £10.65m on a player who had never proved himself in the Premiership. That player was Ashley Young. Need I say more?
Martin O'Neill is far from a mug in the transfer market, and over the past three seasons has pulled off some coups which have made Villa what they are today - a permanent top six side.
His only issue is in bringing top players like Sidwell, Reo-Coker and Luke Young to the club and then not giving them a chance in their best positions, if at all.
I have no problem with O'Neills transfer record. I only have a problem with the chances he gives for new recruits to prove themselves.
Set as favorite
Bookmark
Email this
Comments (173)
Subscribe to this comment's feed
Nath
said:
 |
... He cant make substitutes, he cant make transfers. He lost us about 7 games last season with pointless subs. END OF! |
deansaundersperm that's perm
said:
 |
... i imagine he is the sort of person who would go into tescos half an hour before they shut (this would be before they were 24 hours) and go to that little shelf with the stuff that is nearly out of date to see what he could pick up on the cheap |
kieran84
said:
 |
... It is his work in the transfer market that has got us into europe twice in three seasons.I think the dumbos are the people who have no patience,Completely ignore what has happened over his three seasons and sit around on internet forums slagging him off to be honest. |
deansaundersperm that's perm
said:
|
... and Doc, on present form do you think we will be anywhere near a top 6 position come nest season? |
Sam
said:
 |
... Totally agree about Milner, Young, Petrov and Carew - all brilliant signings. I think a lot of Villa fans just get annoyed at how long he takes to get players in - mainly because we want to start discussing how new signings will fare. I love Martin O'Neill's management skills and think he is the best manager for us since Brian Little. I hope we don't lose Young because I don't think Downing is a suitable replacement. In fact there are only 4 or 5 players I would consider as a replacement - Messi, Sweinsteiger, Aiden McGrady, Ronaldo and Park JS - but how likely are we to get any of those? 6th place or above for this season so long as we build on the squad. I don't actually think for one minute that we will sell Young but equally I don't think we'll buy any world class household names either. |
jason parkes
said:
 |
... everton want the defour transfer done as quick as poss why cant we be like that bentley deal is like a bad plot in eastenders goes on and on and on come on mon pull your finger out |
Kiwivillan
said:
 |
... Permanent Top 6 side? We'll see. With quality of our defence atm not going to happen. |
Nick
said:
 |
... Doc is spot on. People are going way overboard saying MON cannot operate in the modern day transfer window. MON does not operate like most other mangers. He doesnt speak publicly about his targets, nor does he like to throw money around just for the sake of it. We all know he is very careful with his money, we all know he likes to wait until the end of transfer windows before he makes his move. Knowing this, im not too worried at all right now. I trust MON will make the signings we need. I believe he did it in last summers window, and I believe he will do it again, eventually. |
ak_27
said:
 |
... Carew for Baros was thrown into his lap. They wanted rid of him and we wanted rid of Baros so lets not make that transfer out to anything else then being in the right place at the right time. As for Davies being an English international defender for years to come not a chance(can't pass, and can't really defend that well either). As for Petrov he was bought as our attacking midfielder but he couldn't hack it there. He was accomadated as the defensive mid and yes he has turned out to be a great player there. But that was not the role MON bought him for so no im not giving him praise for that one either. Sorry i know you are trying to be positive but this really annoys me when people try and make out that MON's activties in the transfer market to date has been cleaver and brialliant. It has not. This may well change this summer and i will wait and hope it does but no MON has not been clever so far. |
David Lewis
said:
 |
... Good post Doc...I agree. I also saw that the Independent are running a story on Everton tabling a 13 million bid for Defour. It is time to see if MON rates him. Mind you, other that Defour and his agent saying stuff about villa, has anyone ever heard MON talk about him? MON may not like him at all, or he may have watched him and thought he'd rather go for someone else, or perish the thought, he may be working that little MON magic like its going out of fashion to persuade Defour that we are more appealing than Everton. I go to work, waiting to for two things... 1) That my friend's baby will be born (due on monday 13th), and 2) that villa buy somebody. I wonder which will come first? |
whitey
said:
 |
... Spot on Doc. I trust that O'Neill will make some good signings this summer. However our squad size has gone from being very small to ridiculous now. O'Neill needs to make about 4 signings of quality this summer. A commanding centre back, a Barry replacement, a pacey centre forward and a winger to give Milner and Young competition and rest. I think we can use our very successful youngsters as the back up squad players. We don't need to sign average players for big wages to play back up. Names I am pleased that we are linked with are: Hangeland, Borowski, Tuncay and Downing. |
FatKevs
said:
 |
... A bit over the Odds for Milner & Curtis What about signing Heskey to cement our CL Spot & leaving us for seasons without a rightback Or leaving it to late to bring in players for a pre season. Why bother having a pre season without the squad All year he talks about a small squad half way thro the window & FA |
jk92923
said:
 |
... i think we are just frustrated at the lack of activity. we are over a month in and nothing, just a few random stories and media jig saw, name out of a hat, links. i think we all admire his dealings but frustration is getting the bettr of us.....so calling us Villa "idiots" isn't really justified Damo. seems you are the frustrated one becasue the posts are getting quite dull and monotonous with nothing new at all. we are as loyal to your blog as we are to MON, unless something changes, we will look elsewhere for someone to manage our expectations..... |
David M
said:
 |
... What I do find exasperating is that over the years we, as a club, seem incapable of scouting for little know players who cost very 'little' like Palacios or inumerable Arsenal players for example who then turn out to be gems. Maybe our scouting system just isn't up to scratch? Maybe, dare I say it - buying players is actually achieved by more than just one man Also - Manchester City are the richest club in the world. We all know that they can pay fantastic wages. But, even they seem to struggle to secure the exact players that they want and sometimes have to make do with choices lower down their hit list. Maybe, dare I say it - buying players is actually a little bit more tricky than purchasing an out of date pork chop from Tesco's although we all find it infuriatingly frustrating waiting for something to happen. |
Damian
said:
 |
... Time will tell. How much they spend and the quality they bring in this summer really is important. |
Andy Stedman
said:
 |
... Doc, agree with the points raised, i to was sceptical of petrov and got a lot of stick from friends. But he has come through and was our best player last year. Maybe its time for the likes of sidwell/shorey to kick on next year and prove they deserve to be in the team. If not as shrewd as MoN is in the transfer window, i just hope he does not leave to late and we either end up with signings rushed in to make the numbers or with a squad light on numbers with in theory 4 competitions to play for come the start of the season! UTV |
Panos
said:
 |
... ak_27, As for Petrov he was bought as our attacking midfielder but he couldn't hack it there. He was accomadated as the defensive mid and yes he has turned out to be a great player there. But that was not the role MON bought him for so no im not giving him praise for that one either. O'Neill was smart enough to try Petrov in a different position and it worked out pretty well. At least give the man some credit for making that adjustment. |
spud
said:
 |
... While there's no disagreeing that mon got us to 6th 2 years in a row, his transfer policy is a bit 5050 for me, for every Carew there's a Salifou, for every Young there's a Routledge, Harewood, Knight. I havent been entirely convinced and think that he buys players for the future in Milner, Davies etc. But what we need right now is at least 3-5 players that will walk straight into the first team to stand still |
Nick
said:
|
... I dont believe anyone is saying that MON is some sort of transfer wizard, but he isnt nearly as bad as some people try to make him out to be. He has made some great buys, some good ones and some bad ones, as all managers do. We cant really judge him until the window closes and we see how much money we have spent in this window. Its just the waiting that sucks. |
David Lewis
said:
|
... Good points David M, the trouble is, a lot of short sighted people on here need somebody to vent their aggression on... and that is all part of being a manager. You could argue that it is almost part of MON's job to manage the fans too (as well of, of course, the scouting system). But I do agree that people quite often can't see the whole picture. Off topic a litte, but a good post from Luke Young on the official website, I think he's a good player, with a lot of sense and trying to appease the fans a little while we wait! http://www.avfc.premiumtv.co.u...81,00.html |
Keith
said:
 |
... As I was reading this post I as thinking that Damian was talking sense at last, then I realised that it was Doc. Good post mate and a bit of positivity is a welcome relief. Nath "He lost us about 7 games last season with pointless subs". How many points did he win for us last season then? |
Shashwat
said:
 |
... Doc is right. But there is a doubt in the top 6 unless we make appropriate 5 signings and I know MON will do it. |
Mike Carter
said:
 |
... I still absolutely maintain that time is a luxury. If we get 3 signings made on deadline day it doesn't matter, we're talking about breaking them in for 35 Premiership games instead of 38 - so what? The players will arrive at some point. |
kieran84
said:
|
... Villa fans have simply got into the habit of wanting another manager after three seasons,Pathetic.O`neill is doing a fine job,Have some bloody patience we are not the centre of the football world,Deals take time to happen,their are so many variables even in the simple ones.Grow up and get behind a manager who has been great so far.Don`t know who you lot think is going to come to villa and get us any further up the league than we are,Mourinho is at inter and as far as i know he won`t swap it for birmingham just yet. |
Keith
said:
|
... Fatkevs Mellberg did very well at RB and playing him there allowed us to send 3 big defenders up for corners and free kicks. Something we missed last season. |
Swepal
said:
 |
... According to swedish papers Marcus Berg is close to joining Hamburg SV. According to the paper Villa never showed any interest, only Fulham. Thats it. Another target´s gone. I´m swedish and I believe Marcus will become one of best strikers in Europe, and definately good enough for Villa. |
Josh
said:
 |
... I don't think there is any reason for any Villa fan to be critical of Martin O'Neill right now. Yes, people are getting impatient because the season is starting soonish, yes we're 3 players down (but maybe 7 players up, if MON thinks the reserves are ready) but really, can you complain when you've been sweeped off your arse from flirting with relegation to challenging Champions League places and have an increasingly talented team with a great mix of experience and young enthusiasm. We will only get stronger with a team like ours, it's built to last for a long time and you can tell the players know it too. All we need (IMO) is 3 players (Barry, Laursen replacements and some creative attacking midfielder) and we'll be level on last season, add to that the growing abilities of the reserves, Agbonlahor, Young, Davies, Guzan, Gardner, Reo-Coker and Sidwell and we will have an improved team from last season. So it's not really that big of a gap. But i can understand why people are getting impatient, although that doesnt give you the right to demand things from your team's manager because he knows what he's doing a hell uvva lot more than any of us do (unless you're an ex-premiership manager) |
truevillan
said:
 |
... well at least we should know about defour pretty soon, because we need to make a move ourselves or lose out. its some of the other rumours that concern me, downing suggests young on his way, crouch suggests carew on his way, if this happens then i would definately question MON transfer policy, as this would weaken the side, not least of all as downing injured until xmas possibly! he has made some decent buys, but does seem scared of the big stars and definately of european players, he has not really ever found us a gem in the wenger type buys, young being his best to date, but we paid good money for him. look at his successes, young, no argument, carew, this was lyons interest in baros, not MON chasing carew, milner, we had already had him at villa, so not really a MON discovery, petrov, took a long time, a top 4 side would/could never have waited that long for a player to come good, and sorry, not exactly a devastating midfielder who can change a game! the rest of his buys are average to bad! (routledge, harwood, salifou) the best players in the villa squad were inherited by MON, gabby, barry, laursen, bouma and he sold our best defender prospect cahill. on top of this he has favourites, and will even change our formation to accommodate them ie. heskey, and some of his subs last year lost us games, man utd for one, we had them until he bottled it and went defensive! it may sound like im not a fan, i do like him and dont want to see him go, but 5 transfer windows and still moaning about lack of squad size, not using the money he had, and no one in the club to help him with transfers since fitzgerald left is going to catch up with us eventually. our drop off last season was not all down to players being tired, we were found out as a team and resorted to long balls, and his record of not winning a game in march is shocking! this is a crucial period and will cost you league and cup places! |
Ronan Kenny
said:
 |
... Way off the mark Doc, you seem to have forgotten to mention all the bad transfer deals he has done to date. Dont get me wrong hes a great man manager but when he comes to transfers he clearly struggles to seal the deal. Where we are now is a perfect example, smallest squad in the preiership and no signings to date, considering we need about six players, as i suspect we will loose one or two more, deals should be done at this stage. Bentley is a perfect example, we all know he wants to sign him yet he still hasnt been able to make it happen. Spurs have a big squad so its not as if they need to replace Bently before they let him go so theres no reason why this shouldnt be done. Clearly the man needs help in this department as it could ultimatley decide his future. I hope he proves me wrong but i cant see it happening, he will get players in but i suspect they could be players he didnt originally want because he lost out on his primary targets. Then again i could be wrong and he might not have the funds we think or hope he has, but surely if he wanted the likes of Tuncay who we can easily afford this deal should be done already. |
RobL
said:
 |
... Doc, I have been positive at every junction since getting rid of o'leary, but how at present positives can be drawn out of our situation baffles me. We could replace Barry and Laursen with Kaka and Vidic and we would still not be anywhere near progressing this year, and well in danger of slipping drastically. Our squad last season was effectively 16 players, and of these about 13 managed to be called regular starters. While initially i thought that 12 million was good business for Good ol' Gareth in hindsight, through lethargy, this figure presents us with probably a little over half the sum needed to bring in an effective replacement. It also leaves us without arguably one of, if not the biggest drawcard in our side, particularly for the type of player we are looking to attract, that being someone able to effectively distribute, and similarly sure up both a 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 midfield. While i am of the opinion that everyone purchased by Martin has done a job, even Zat, who in my opinion is a better player than alot give him credit for, to say that this was savvy usage of the kitty afforded to him would be naive. Paying over the odds is fine, but paying over the odds for talent from one system, that being british youth sides limits both your ability to be diverse tactically, and also compete with contrasting professional sides from around the world. This window has confirmed for me what alot of people on here have put alot more directly, that being MON is a fantastic tactical manager, and motivating figure, however his ability to use limited means effectively to ensure progression is lacking. For half the price of James Milner, who aside from my point is one of my favourites in the squad we could have gambled twice with youngsters of high standing from other continents, and if we failed, then gamble with someone from the british youth system and got on with business. To be confident of solidarity amongst a stretched squad is near impossible, and i think if we do not recruit quickly, through gambling on a few unknowns rather than bringing in 1 proven mid table signing we will slip dramatically this year. I sincerely hope i am wrong, but cheaper gambles mean the potential to fill out a paper thin squad, through having more numbers on the books and, if all gambles are successful, either financially secure ourselves through sell ons, or, if not successful, at least have players with the potential to take us to the last rounds of cup competitions. |
ruffy
said:
 |
...a permanent top six side. Dunno what planet you are on but Everton are very likely to finish above us (again) at this point and Spurs would have if they had Harry all season, Man City also have to rated very strong top 6 contenders also. Maybe you should have said "permanent top half side" lol. Agree with you on O Neill in the main part but his reluctance to spend, and I'm not talking mega signings, but simply to get premiership quality players in to bolster the squad size has cost us dear. A half decent center back would have helped so much last season, as would a striker that is marginally better than Harewood. Personally I dont know why Reo Coker got so overlooked last season, he was very good in my eyes when we finished 6th the season before and he didn't get a look in. The fans gave him a great reception every time he did get on the pitch though. He's no Gareth Barry but hes quicker and can do a decent enough job. |
Doc
said:
 |
... Taglor, very eloquently put. You may be right: however, it does illustrate the fact that patience, perseverance and belief usually have a more positive effect than cynicism. I think both Petrov and O'Neill displayed great courage in the face of the idiot boo-boys. Those who had been so critical of Petrov scarcely deserved to be rewarded by his superb season in 08-09, especially as they had been part of the problem in destroying his confidence. Anyway, I am sure you will join me in welcoming the triumph of ability over negativity. Of course you will. |
1 New Villa Blogger
said:
 |
... http://www.imscouting.com/glob...px?id=2521 following up on Berg joining Hamburg |
Villain down South
said:
 |
... Good post Doc - and I have to agree. I also think the fact that the likes of Madrid, Chelsea, City etc throw cash around sets the wrong expectations for fans of other clubs.....it's just not how the real world operates. When O'Neil wants his man - Ashley Young in case, he beat others to the chase and was willing to pay over the odds. I think Villa fans need to have realistic expectations and start getting behind O'Neil more. Is there really any other manager you'd want at the club right now? No. So we should be supporting him, not hounding him just because we haven't made signings have way into the window. |
1 New Villa Blogger
said:
|
... http://www.goal.com/en/news/46...erg-report But apparently he was joining Ajax last week! |
whining_villain
said:
 |
... apparently we ar going to make bids for downing and tuncay i think they would be good signings but what are we going to do withashley young and we are about to bid for miguel veloso and marcus berg |
Ted
said:
 |
... Taglor. Even Thierry Henry tool time to settle at Arsenal. Players very rarely instantly come into a new league and play at the top of their game. Two seasons is a long time, but better late than never. Petrov was a class above the rest of our team most games last season, a season where we very nearly made Champion's League. I could understand your cynicism if he had a few good games, but we're talking about an entire season of top-class performances. He is therefore a great signing, as you will see next season and the one after... I expect you also slag Cuellar off. He too will come good. |
Keith
said:
|
... Swepal If Villa never showed any interest in Berg how can another target be gone? He wasn't a target! ruffy As we seem to be believing every newspaper story on this site it must be true that Redknapp has put every player except Defoe, Lennon and Woodgate up for sale. Does that suggest Spurs have plaenty of money to buy players and improve? NO! Man City have added Barry and Santa Cruz to a squad that was mid table, I am not worrying about them yet. |
Billy7
said:
 |
... swepal........ marcus berg, 'villa didn't show an interest' then you say 'another target gone' 1 of YOUR targets i guess? |
jason parkes
said:
|
... panic buys coming our way everybody said 1 july something would happen, then in that week. then the week after. still we wait not a peep out of mon does anyone know where he is.all the links to villa are getting worse and still he doesnt say its all bull@@@@.if defour goes to everton god help us.top six i dont think so |
taglor
said:
 |
... Yes of course I embrace Petrov rejuvenated, I want us to win. What annoys me is that it is US the fans that pay for all of their wagesand we do have a right to expect a certain amount of star quality as we finished 6th in arguably the best professional football league in the world which is no mean feat and is full of absolutely silly money that we can only dream of, in return for my lifelong support now and forever with very little in return in terms of silverware I at least expect just one player over 3 seasons of transfers to make me proud and watch little relatives dream that they can be that player on the pitch at school, this is not achieved with bloody heskey or harewood!!!!!!! |
jason parkes
said:
|
... linked to a player who cant play to xmas (downing) i bet top four are shitting it |
Ayersy
said:
 |
... DO YOU GUYS SERIOUSLY THINK O'NEILL IS SAT AROUND DOING NOTHING? I GAURANTEE HE IS TRYING TO SIGN BERG, JOE COLE, BENTLEY, VELOSO, BOROWSKI, DOWNING, TUNCAY, KEANE, CROUCH, ETC ETC. WHY WOULDNT HE BE. JUST BECAUSE WE WANT TO SIGN THEM AND WILL HAVE MADE APPROACHES FOR THEM DOESNT MEAN THEY ARE GOING TO COME. LOOK AT THE ZAKI THING, MON AND LERNER KEEP THINGS TIGHT LIPPED WHICH OF COURSE IS THE BEST WAY, THERES LOADS OF PLAYERS THAT HAVE TURNED US DOWN, DEFOE LAST SEASON ASWELL. BIRMINGHAM ISNT THE MOST ATTRACTIVE PROPOSITION WHEN YOU CAN GO TO SPURS AND LONDON. ALSO ARE ANY OF THE SIGNINGS MADE THIS SEASON SIGNINGS THAT ANY OF US WANT OR COULD REALISTICALLY OF MADE??? NO, HAVE ANY OF OUR TARGETS GONE ANYWHERE??? NO. MON WILL MAKE SIGNINGS, HOWEVER IF WE DONT MAKE THAT MANY SIGNINGS OR FAIL TO BRING IN TOP QUALITY, IS IT REALLY O'NEILLS FAULT??? DONT BE SO NAIVE TO THINK O'NEILL ISNT GOING IN FOR TOP QUALITY PLAYERS, OF COURSE HE IS, AS IS EVERY OTHER MANAGER. WETHER WE ARE SUCCESSFUL OR NOT IS ANOTHER MATTER. MON IS THE BEST THING THAT HAS HAPPENED TO US FOR YEARS, AND 1 OF THE VERY BEST! |
ak_27
said:
|
... Keef Man City also have Tevez on the way and to be honest we were not that far ahead of them last season(they could have put 5 past us at their place). You take Barry from our team and add it to theirs and they go ahead in my mind at least. They will challenge for top 4 this season when they add Tevez and a few defenders so in reality we won't be competing with them. It will be us, Spurs, Everton and West Ham probably all going for 6/7th. |
Keith
said:
|
... ak_27 Lets wait and see who Man City buy first. They were signing Kaka and Eto'o as well weren't they? |
ak_27
said:
|
... Well i know which sqaud of players that both clubs currently have i would prefer and it is not Villa's. |
Keith
said:
|
... villabandit Downing isn't out until Xmas, where do you get your information from? Even if he was surely you sign a player for 4 or 5 years not months. http://www.skysports.com/story...29,00.html |
Tony C
said:
 |
... I work in professional football, it is not that easy to sign good players, the better they are more clubs want to talk to them. If four clubs are talking to an agent about terms, add ons, sell ons, bonus, it can take weeks, transfers are only done quickly when the player is offered silly money or a club is offered over the odds and has no other offers. The Valencia Wigan - Man Utd would have started in January for instance. Players are only just coming back off holidays, managers have just finished all their lists and analysing with their CEO's. You all act like you just phone up and send a cheque after the player has his medical, doesn't work like that. |
ruffy
said:
|
... The Villa first 11 right now as I have it: Friedel, L Young, Davies, Cuellar, Shorey, Petrov, Milner, A Young, Reo Coker, Agbonlahor, Carew. This is on the basis that playing Gardner, who has no defensive awareness, at right back is suicide. And that attacking with Agbonlahor and Young down the wings is the most effective I've seen us play. Petrov in the sitting role that he did so well and Milner can get forward and float around a bit. Reo Coker is the workhorse. Guzan, Heskey, Knight, Sidwell and Delfouneso are the (only feasible) subs/stand ins. Thats basically 16 useable players which is a pretty sad state of affairs. 5 players in the next couple of weeks please. Davies and Cuellar need to play football and improve on their passing if they are to keep their places, we need footballing center backs if we are to compete at the top level. Villa central defenders tend to either lump it and lose it, tamely play a short, nonconstructive, ball to a midfielder, or attempt a through ball or more difficult pass and fluff it up. |
Tony C
said:
|
... ak-27 you are forgeting how tired and stretched we were at their place, plus they will go through a few managers over the next few years. Hughes won't be able to deal with the pressure of all those players wanting to play, he's out of his depth, it takes a very special manager to keep a team running smoothly. |
Keith
said:
|
... ak_27 you are entitled to your opinion, but I think in defence and attack Villa are in better shape. Bellamy, Benjani, Ched Evans, Caicedo, Robinho, Bojinov and Santa Cruz doesn't impress me much. As for the £18m superstar Jo !! |
Max
said:
 |
... Not sure why so many seem desperate to sign Defour? I have never seen him play, don't even know what he looks like and the only thing I do know is that he plays in the Belgium league. Fair play that Fellani did well (ish) last season, doesn't mean they will all cut it in the PL. I know some people have tipped him to be a star, but who knows. As for Davies, I remember Ferdinand not being the best defender around his age, looks pretty good to me now though. As for the topic of the post, not overly concerned that no-one has been brought in yet, but I do believe it helps if in earlier than later, still it is what we are used to and I am much preferring the Lerner / O'Neill era to what we had previously. Going to be a tough season, I fancy West Ham to become stronger than Tottenham and City. |
gazza01
said:
 |
... Everton are bidding for Defour, because Cahill is on his way to score the goals that Barry could'nt...........i wish |
Frosty
said:
 |
... I may have interprited this wrong but I don't see any big name foreign signings coming / overpriced English ... Martin O’Neill quoted as saying he won’t be paying over the odds for players this summer. O’Neill had this to say, “I don’t mind paying over the odds for some people if you think that player will develop and become an asset for the team and be money well spent.” “I did that with Ashley Young, but if I was told that a player I value at £7m was for sale at £15m, then I would not be able to do that.” |
Hadders7
said:
 |
... I have to say I too am more than a little frustrated at the lack of incomings at VP, but I do think it will happen! Everton going for Defour may just speed that one up if indeed he really is a target. I must say considering Everton have no money, at least they are in for a few! Have patience, the signings will come...they simply have too or I'm turning up to the Wigan game with my boots! |
Ramon Maklouf
said:
 |
... It disheartens me to read some much negativity by 'fans'. Yes, you have a right to your opinion, and yes we should expect only the best, but I help can't help but think you wait by your computer eager to see mistakes made to gloat about how disaster was always going to happen and you were right. It wasn't because you said we would fail we would.. It was bad luck, bad management at times, yes, but definetly not for your brilliant psychic powers.. Onto MON, nice piece Doc, but I can't agree wholeheartedly. I think this past month has proved that he is slow in the transfer market, and honestly, if we don't hurry up and make signings, I think we could fall backwards. With that said however, I think the team we have are capable of finishing in the top6, but better quality, and quality numbers, are neeeded to help us progress.. I hope MON makes some good signings. I am the biggest fan, but to not have made a signing and lost 2 of our most experinced campaigners is a worrying sign.. Even for me~ UTV - Keep up the work Doc.. |
BigAnd
said:
 |
... I think this frustration is enhanced by the press and agents talking all the time; this really does get those "slightly dimmer" ones amongst us agrevated very easily. MON never discusses his targets in public for obvious reasons. He has made some excellent signings, some poor signings and sold players we really should have kept hold of - but don't all managers do the same, even Sir Alex? He obvioulsy knows he needs players and as the window has only officially been open 8 days I'm not overly fussed we haven't signed anyone yet - not many teams have - he will have his targets he will have spoken to some and be planning on approaching others; we will all just have to wait and he will deliver. Some may not work out but we can be guarenteed more will be a success that will failures. My main gripe is that he doesn't give those players the opportunity they deserve; the last 10 games of last season we really should have given Sidwell and Reo-Cocker a chance to prove if they are good enough or not. MON must have known GB was on his bike so why not bring in players who will be here next season? He could have played Shorey at LB all season and within a few games our back four would of had a lot more balance and stability - he isn't the best but will certainly do a job there for you (which is exactly what MON bought him for isn't it?) He also must lose the stuborn streak as it was clear to all that the formation in the later part of the season was detremental to our CL push and teams were finding it hard to beat us with the 5 in midfield; we could all see it surely MON or one of his team must have too? Here's to 6 new signings - Upson, Naughton, Tuncay, Bentley, ANOther (goal scorer) and finally I would buy the pain in the backside Joey Barton (not everyones choice but he ran our midfield all over the place on the last three occasion he played us. No-one likes him but then no-one liked Roy Keane but he would certainly - if MON is really that good a man manager - add some much needed legs and bite to our mdfield. |
Warwick Kirk
said:
 |
... But what happens when our James and Curtis turn into Englands regulars?? They bugger off elsewhere.....aka Barry, Southgate, Platt..... |
Keith
said:
|
... Woz That's right mate it's not like Barry hung around Villa for very long was it? DOOM AND GLOOM RULES !!! |
Daniel Wilson
said:
 |
... I think Martin is just fine at getting tallent into the side, my problem is that he takes too long about it. He himself said the squad was too small, but it's preseason as of tomorrow and there are no new faces to fill the holes. We are down 2 (3 if you include Taylor which I don't) on last season and currently have a weaker squad. The peace cup kick off shortly and if there is no one in for that I really will be ripping my hair out because that would be inexcusable. My biggest fear this summer is that MON won't sign anyone and will just promote youth squad players stating the excuse that everyone he went for was priced out of the market. Unfortunatly the market gets more expensive every year and we have to realise that as a club if we are going to push on. We are so so close to achieving our short term goal of breaking the top 4 but seem unwilling to put the final nail one of the teams above us coffin. Come on mon, PLEASE prove me wrong, although how your going to get 5 /6 players in by tomorrow is beyond me? |
oo-aar
said:
 |
... Yes signing football players is difficult. I know little about what goes on behind the scenes... but other clubs seem to manage it don't they? I still think MON is a great manager. I am proud he is at the club. I would rather see players signed that will consider the ambitions of the club as well as their own and the size of their bank balance. In this respect, I tend to agree with MON about not buying over priced players that are essentially squad players. Breaking the bank for a player who will really make a difference like Ash is a different matter. Right now we need a midfielder and a central defender in that mould. I would be happy with those 2 marquee signings only - rather than 5 or 6 mediocre squad players. |
Nathan
said:
 |
... I've read that MON is looking to buy Tuncay & Downing.... hope that Downing isn't a replacement of our Ash..... Downing is shit!!!! |
Steve Badger
said:
 |
... Good post Doc. I too was half way through reading it and had to go back to the top to see who the author was  Tony C, You all act like you just phone up and send a cheque after the player has his medical, doesn't work like that. You're dead right, that's exactly how many people on here think. The Tescos analogy is a good example. As for all of these crap players that MON has signed, Salifou cost a nominal fee I believe. Routledge cost a million (I think). OK Harewood was a poor signing but we'll get most of our money back. We have the likes of Sidwell and NRC in reserve. No they're not brilliant, but they're certainly not bad signings either. They're definitely better than what we had as backup before. MON knows we need numbers and he knows we need some class. If Mr Lerner backs him sufficiently, he'll bring them in. Yes MON is bloody slow, we all know that, but he's not a dumbo. |
WinsforVilla
said:
 |
... I agree that new players like Sidwell and Reo Coker have not been given as much chance as many would like. The same applies to young members of the reserves promoted to the 1st team squad such as dazzling Del boy. But these players may be more 'Premiership ready' than many a foreign player with a fancy price tag. So the clamour to spend, spend, spend may only represent a false hope. We still need a defender with experience and aggression though, and a playmaker, and a right sided crosser of the ball and I don't mind where MON finds them! |
ak_27
said:
|
... I would be far happier if instead of spending £10m on English players like Davies he went and gambled on 2/3 players from abroad. Like Fulham did with Hangeland. You won't find any gems in England anymore without a big price tag. We will never be able to match the top clubs with spending power so why not go down the route that Wenger has gone? £15m could bring in 3/4 young talents from around the world. £15m spent in England will bring in 1 player who often is not as good as their price tag would suggest. At least that way we would have a proper sqaud of players and we would have a bit of hope that some will turn out to be future stars. |
Keith
said:
|
... I can not believe some of the moaning by so called supporters on this site, We are Aston Villa, the 4th most successful English football club. We have won the league 7 times, being runners up 10 times, won the FA Cup 7 times, losing 3 finals, won the League Cup 5 times, losing 2 finals. We have been Champions of Europe and won the Super Cup and one of only 6 clubs to win the double. We were founder members of the Football League; in fact it was a Villa director, William McGregor, that established the League. We have the record for the most England internationals with 67 and are currently the only British club to allow a charity to have free shirt sponsorship. We have been in the Premier League since its inception. We have a manager widely regarded as one of the best in the business and a young predominantly English team who will grow and improve together. We have an owner who has put his own money into the club and as well as buying players he has funded improvements to the training facilities, the Holte Hotel and new hospitality suites in the Trinity Road Stand. We are a club going in the right direction. We are ASTON VILLA FOOTBALL CLUB, we have a lot to be proud of and a lot to be optimistic about. Some of you needed reminding of this. |
Harry Stanton
said:
 |
... I'm going for the attitude of a watched kettle never boils and concentrating on the cricket for the next couple of months. Presto, when we are doing the open top bus tours and Flintoff is breathing fumes over her maj again, we will have a sack full of new signings making me wet myself with excitement about the new season. |
ruffy
said:
|
... I'm sorry for the being negative. But some on here are deluded. MON has done well yes. BUT and a BIG but has been quite lucky with injuries AND has failed to deal with the underlying issue which is that of the squad size. This lot, although decent enough, WILL NOT DO. 1 OR 2 Injuries and we are buggered. Friedel, L Young, Davies, Cuellar, Shorey, Petrov, Milner, A Young, Reo Coker, Agbonlahor, Carew. bench:Guzan, Heskey, Knight, Sidwell and Delfouneso. Given that we know maybe only around half of transfers will work out, you could argue that we need 7 or 8 in before the season starts. This is why there is such unrest. |
Adey Stuttard
said:
 |
... keefvilla, As I was reading this post I as thinking that Damian was talking sense at last, then I realised that it was Doc. Good post mate and a bit of positivity is a welcome relief. My sentiments exactly, I thought Damian had changed... Thanks Doc, but you will see the same old negatives on here no matter what is written. Someone wrote that Carew was thrown into MoNs lap, well yes, but it was still a gamble for a player many of us had not heard of. Luke Young has been superb last season, and I may be in the minority but Harewood has never been given a full throw at Villa 5 goals in 29 league isn't that bad considering his flirting with the 1st team - his goal at Liverpool to secure a point, his magnificent second half display against Newcastle that allowed JC a hat-trick means he won't be slated by me EVER. Adey |
croni
said:
 |
... I've read the Tuncay and Downing and Distin stories They would all be very good additions Downing would defnitely improve under O'Neill Tuncay would be great and Distin is someone who could turn out to be a class defender if he were to improve his concentration levels, which is something that O'neill is very good at instilling |
Christian
said:
 |
... It is getting a bit ridiculous now. I know we waited until 10th July last year for our 1st signing, but we were in nowhere near such dire straights as we are now. I'm not very patient at the best of times, but I was trying to cool myself and get some perspective by listening to the positive bloggers on this site that kept reminding me that 'no-one has made any moves'. Well, that was ok, but we still haven't moved and now the others are. Man City are spending, Everton have tied up Jo for another year (did we not ask a question??), they look to be bidding £13m for Defour too. Arsenal have Vermaelen and Melo looks set to join this week too from what I gather. United are busy with Obertan and Valencia and Chelsea will get busy once Ancelotti knows what he's got. The only team in a similar boat to us are Spurs. But their need isn't as great as ours, they HAVEN'T gone backwards since the season ended, they could probably 'hold' their Top 8ish position without anyone coming in or out. Come on MON, give us something to get excited about. And something different to blog about... |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... Woz, But what happens when our James and Curtis turn into Englands regulars?? They bugger off elsewhere.....aka Barry, Southgate, Platt.. The grass isn't greener though - Southgate went to a "bigger" club, who is laughing now? I think Barry's decision will come back and bite him - Man City will not be in Europe next season or the season after, but hey getting an extra £30k a week is more important than a bit of silverware. |
Christian
said:
|
... Keef, did I just read that Bellamy, Santa Cruz and Robinho doesn't excite you much???! But Gabby, Carew and Fonz do??? I admire your positivity but come on man... |
Keith
said:
|
... Christian1983 If MON spent £17m on Santa Cruz most people on here would slag him for wasting money and paying far too much! As for Jo, are you serious? Rather Heskey any day. |
Damian
said:
|
... Or Woz Maybe, they turn into England regulars along with some other players and maybe, the team are top four by then and maybe rather than players leaving us, we are finding it easier to attract other players. Naturally, if we don't kick on, which is sort of what you are assuming I think, then who can blame them for leaving if after another two or three seasons we are still 6th and a team in the top four wants them. |
truevillan
said:
|
... i hope everton going for defour gets us involved, because he is what we need, anyone who is unsure ask liverpool, he took them apart at times in the CL. he is also an attacking midfielder that we need, thats why im not sure on velso, he is a defensive midfielder, stan has been successfully adapted into that role, and NRC, if he stays is also defensive. i think he would be a wise investment of the barry money and soon make us forget who barry was! shame if berg rumours true to hamburg, again would have been interesting signing, tuncay would be agood option or robbie keene if rumours true, trouble with spuds rumours is they clearly wont deal with us without players in part exchange, our best players at that! so we would buy and weaken at same time! what is happening with bentley? no one else seems to be linked that seems to suggest they know he is a done deal else where, but why the delay? old wax head i reckon! but they also need money so you would think they would sell |
Ronan Kenny
said:
|
... Keefvilla - we all know the history (well most of us anyway) and are very proud of it but we are at a cross roads now were we either push on or stand still. Push on means signing quality players better or equal to the players we already have. On the evidence to date its not happening, i hope im proved wrong and we do get the players in. Im convinced MON would want the players in as soon as he can, its clearly not happening that way which suggests hes struggling to close the deals. We havent won a trophy or even been close in a few years now, its time to push on not stand still. We have alot to be proud of but this optimism your talking about only comes with an improved squad capable of matching/bettering last seasons preformance.We have no evidence of that to date so please explain your optimisim. |
Michael panizza
said:
 |
... If this article was about Michael Jackson it'd tell you he was a generous, giving worldwide star loved by everyone - conveniently forgetting 'the rest'. MON has done well so far but there are areas of his management that leave me very perplexed: his ability on the transfer market was and remains one of them. |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... keefvilla, Jo has signed with Everton hasn't he? But I do agree, Santa Cruz at £17.5M, not for me (nice business for Blackburn though, £14M profit for playing 57 games!), Bellamy is a knob, and Robinho is too inconsistent, some of his games last season he just wasn't interested. |
taglor
said:
|
... Yeah petrov was so amazing that now we are having to fend off all of the bids by the top teams that want him. You delusional fools. Goodness sakes, how many years was Barry meant to stay before he wasn't a judas, other players have left that didn't give a quarter of his effort and are slated, we are going to miss him big style this season. Jusr read a really interestin article in the guardian about how not many members of the coaching staff can not get along with MON and he is viewed as outdated with his tactics and attitude for the modern game. Please tell me all you MON is god lovers how much silverware has he won at the top flight? He has not proven himself yet and as for we finished 6th again, do you know how narrow the margin was between that and a few places below, we are not head and shoulders above other teams and they have now sussed out our attack and we will be a long ball team from the start of the season. |
Keith
said:
|
... The Black Pearl "We havent won a trophy or even been close in a few years now". How long have Lerner and MON been at VP again? "we are at a cross roads now were we either push on or stand still". What have we been doing for the last 3 seasons then? |
Keith
said:
|
... Christian1983 Bellamy would only excite me if he was twatting Barry with his golf club  Robinho is a luxury that neither Villa or Man City can afford. Santa Cruz is as good as Carew. |
Dave
said:
 |
... it is quiet everywhere and the newspapers havbe been getting really desperate but this surely has to be the calm before the storm. I can't write anything new about any of the players we've been linked with but I will comment about a couple of mistakes I think he's made in the past (mistakes I'm sure he is aware of) NRC - to me (unless you're as gifted as Merson) for a proffessional footballer not be able to use both feet is appalling ennough but not to be able to pass or shoot straight is unforgivable. If we can get some money for him then we should as there are many players out there his equal we could get in for far cheaper. Harewood - not good enough, not good enough at all. Heskey - Completely ridiculous signing Knight - poor judgement on MON's part especially as Cahill was allowed to leave. There are more that I can't be bothered to go into For what it's worth I think he'll get it right this window if for no other reason than it is so obvious what we're lacking. |
Harry Stanton
said:
|
...Please tell me all you MON is god lovers how much silverware has he won at the top flight? |
Harry Stanton
said:
|
...Please tell me all you MON is god lovers how much silverware has he won at the top flight? sorry pressed the wrong button. Taglor, I assume you want him out. Who would you have replace him. As we are apparently such a shit team, who would you want who is better? Inronically it would seem you're a short-sighted boring fool. |
Warwick Kirk
said:
|
... keefvilla Did you read what I said? I said they bugger off when they become England regulars (I didnt know Barry had been an England regular for the last 12 years - I could have swore I watched every England game too . Barry would have gone a season earlier if he could! Hell, he tried everything possible to go before last season. Great, we founded the league.... no point in trying for anything else, I'm not sure that argument will hold up next time I have a chat with a Man U fan! Damian That was my point, we need to show the likes of A Young, Gabby, Davies, Milner that they can achieve their ambtion with the Villa. Not wait for them to turn into great players and leave. How will we ever get a squad of quality if that keeps happening?? BTW, I'm not being negative, I just think we have a chance to do something now and want to end the Villa cycle of 2 or 3 good seasons then manager out and start again!! |
Christian
said:
|
... Keef wrote: Bellamy would only excite me if he was twatting Barry with his golf club Haha!! That's brilliant! I'm surprised you don't think much of Jo, he was a revelation at CSKA, much like we all rave about Wagner Love after seeing him. And he turned Everton's fortunes around. I just think Robinho and Santa Cruz will be a menace this year, they've got better players around them this time. Agreed, Bellamy is a massive tit, but he's quality too- remember how he terrorised us when he was at West Ham? And Bojinov is a bit of easy target to laugh at, but he comes very, very highly rated (by Stan Petrov too) and his injuries have made his time here a bit of a farce, but don't write him off just yet. Defensivley City will suffer, but I'm sure Hughes will address that (albeit no chance of John Terry). Its the depth they have too, they can afford to let Jo go on loan. And Hart too. And release 4 other players. If Ash gets injured, or Carew, we're DEAD! Sorry for my negativity  |
Billy7
said:
|
... Today as said we're linked with Downing and Tuncay, i dont rate Tuncay, what is his position? Up front/behind front man. Dont score enough imo! Seems to have a bad attitude not turning up for training. Downing i would like, i rate him, would challenge Young for left wing, or move young behind the front man, would be a good addition. |
Dave
said:
|
... Stantinio - I think you're wasting yout time with Taglor as he won't have an alternative. Some of the points he makes do have a bit of validity and I agree that the gap between us and the teams below wasn't that great. I also agree that we were 'found out' last season in that all teams had to do was nullify Ashley Young and we had no threat. MON has to realise that we need more than one matchwinner. |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... The Burp Heskey - Completely ridiculous signing How? Because you don't like him? England regular who is raved about by Owen, Rooney and Carew (the guys that play alongside him, rather than watch him on telly!!) Adey |
RichT
said:
 |
... Tuncay and Downing would be great signings. Downing has tallent and would improve at VP. Tuncay is different to anything we have, he would provide a different option when we need to break teams down. Don't worry that Downing in would mean Ashley out. The left footed Downing on the left would free Ashley up to become a world class play-maker in the hole. I believe that MON will do the business we need but I do wish he'd get a move on with pre-season fast approaching! He knows what he's doing, he just doesn't tell anyone else! You all need to lay off our Martin and Heskey for that matter. Emile is better than a lot of the rubbish we are being linked with. Everton are welcome to Defour for 13-15mil, i'd take the Borough pair for 18-20 instead. |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... The Burp, Bums on seats though mate! We'd have an even smaller squad without him.... |
celticpaul
said:
 |
... Life long Villian here. I think Villa fans have to put things in perspetive. We as a club have never bought a ready made big star at the height of their career , No doubt someone will prove me wrong , Most of if not all our heros have either been bought when relatively unknown, at odds in their careers when we have taken a chance or brought through the ranks.We are always linked with players or an age without signing them while most teams get linked one day and sign the player the next, just as when we are 1-0 nil and then sit back and let the opposition back into the game giving us all heart attacks in the last ten minutes of a game.My point is This is Aston Villa the team we all love and follow and this has always been their way no matter who the manager has been.But we still all support THE CLARET AND BLUE. |
Ronan Kenny
said:
|
... Keefvilla Clearly we are slowly improving but dont forget two players we lost (Barry,Laursen) were very big contributing factors to that improvement. We struggled to win a game in the second half of the season when Laursen was injured. MON had a good idea we were going to loose these players and yet still no sign of a replacemnet. For the record possible signing Cambell is not a replacement for Laursen. You still havent explained were your optimisim is coming from, are you aware of some quality signings were not? |
Martin Clabon
said:
 |
... Keef, great reminder. Perhpaps underlines our relative lack of success lately? Agree with the sentiment though - building positivity around a club has got to be better than creating a black hole of gloom, hardly encourages arrivals (or stays) We differ on Man City, I think they will be top 4 this year - but we will see |
Harry Stanton
said:
|
... The Burp, hear what you (and Taglor) are saying and while I think some of the points are valid, I'm sure MO'N et al are well aware of the problems, especially as they have a tad more football management experience than everyone here. It's like a government opposition in that it's very easy to slate everything that's going wrong and simply say 'I/we'd do it differently'. Think I'd have more respect if the argument was how to rectify the situation (beyond, sack the manager and see what happens - not particularly thought out or helpful). Everyone is entitled to their opinion though, no matter how wrong Taglor's is. |
Michael panizza
said:
|
... celticpaul: so if we either buy young, promising players make or get them on the cheap when their career is stalling..we're no better than a Bolton, a Fulham or a Blackburn? Penny dropped. |
Vdruid
said:
 |
... Agathe is poor, heskey poor, Zat Knight and Harewood all poor. Do I need to say anymore? |
Damian
said:
|
... There is a lot of optimism today and if the likes of Bentley, Defour and Hangeland were to be brought in, I think most of us would be happy that we have maybe got as good, if not a little bit better than we finished the season. Then, if we can just add one or two more quality players, who knows what could happen. |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... Stantinio, especially as they have a tad more football management experience than everyone here But some of the guys on here player football management computer games and it only takes a few seconds to buy the greatest players in the world, come on Martin!! |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... Vdruid, Yes, back it up! Agathe played 5 games for Villa, Heskey has done ok, Harewood has never really been given the chance and I agree Knight is very poor |
Harry Stanton
said:
|
...But some of the guys on here player football management computer games and it only takes a few seconds to buy the greatest players in the world, come on Martin!! damn, I forgot about that. With that in mind I'm looking forward to Chester City's charge up the football league. If my success is anything to go by they will be a footballing world superpower within the decade (as long as they are allowed to replay the matches when they look like losing, and their manager gets their mate to take over at Barcelona and sell them all of the players cheaply). I do apologise, I thought there was more to it. |
Simeon
said:
 |
... Laughable nonsense from the quack. Carew for Baros was luck rather than judgement. Petrov cost £8m, and whilst we're all very happy that he had a good season, claiming that the signing of a 29 year old who has had one good season and two miserable ones is a masterstroke is ridiculous. Milner and Davies are two players I'd rate more highly than most Villa fans I suspect, yet they are no more than solid signings, given the fees involved. Of course, if money were no object, you could argue that they were very good signings, although there is always the counter-argument that if indeed money were no object then players of greater quality ought to be brought in. To illustrate the point, would Man City be interested in either player? And then to suggest that Steve Sidwell was an excellent signing... I'm sorry. At this point words fail me. Of course Ashley Young was a very good signing. Whoopty doo, one very good signing in three years, and, I'm guessing, £100m spent? Whatever Marty's strengths might be, transfer dealings are patently not one of them. The irony is of course that the only reason we have an article defending Marty's failiure in the transfer market is because Marty failed to make any new signings, despite pre-season training having begun today. Remind me, who is the 'Villa idiot'? |
ak_27
said:
|
... 1874AVFC i actually believe that Heskey will turn out to be a good signing for 3.5m if MON can find a system to accomadate him. But as for Harewood, he was given a chance and he proved why he was a sub for that West Ham team that should have been relegated. He is a Championship player. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
... Taglor, Jusr read a really interestin article in the guardian about how not many members of the coaching staff can not get along with MON and he is viewed as outdated with his tactics and attitude for the modern game. Is this an actual article, or someone's comment? Link? |
runtingz
said:
 |
... all villa fans want us to move forward and buy the very best player which i think the club are trying to do but top players will always have lots of options so getting these players in is always easyier said than done |
runtingz
said:
|
... TAGLOR martin oneil has won 9 trophies in top flight football including two at liecester |
MightyVilla
said:
 |
... Do you think we are going to have the same trouble we had last year when it comes to European games. Not a big enough squad to cope. I dont think i can handle hearing the excuse of having a small squad as it has been the same every year. He needs to buy more players this transfer window than he has done before so i hold out little hope for this years campaign. UTV |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
...Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler has denied he is set to leave North Queensland Fury for a move to Tranmere. Robbie Fowler anyone? |
taglor
said:
|
... Wow, I didn't realise that you only have any football knowledge or good opinion as long as it is positive and not constructive, please forgive me, from now on I will just be happy with everything the management do. Winning 1 trophy in 20 years is brilliant and now having an american billionaire that promised the world and has not is even better, how silly of me to believe the club's PR. I should be happy to be 6th, just like any other team in any other league in the world would be happy with that as it is a phenomenal achievement. Forget winning kids its the taking part that counts, that should be the premier league's new slogan as this league is dead as a competition. |
GG
said:
 |
... I'd agree that he knows what he's doing but maybe ought to give his signings more time to settle into the side. Using midfielders at fullback when he splashed out on Young & Shorey last summer never made much sense to me. It is frustrating waiting all summer to see who we manage to get, but the start of September is still the time to judge things. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
... Taglor, Winning 1 trophy in 20 years is brilliant and now having an american billionaire that promised the world So now you're blaming RL and MON for the last 20 years? I should be happy to be 6th, just like any other team in any other league in the world would be happy with that as it is a phenomenal achievement. Forget winning kids its the taking part that counts, that should be the premier league's new slogan as this league is dead as a competition. We know the competition is dead, that's why everybody moans about it. That's obviously RL and MON's fault too, I suppose? And yes 6th is an achievement imo. Look at the money Citeh are going to throw at it. We just can't match that and don't bother saying "well we ought to get someone who can", because it isn't going to happen and would only add to the problems in the game. You keep moaning mate, but I don't see where it's going to get you. I'm sure if we won the double you'd be moaning it wasn't the treble. You'll never be happy supporting the Villa. Whereas some of us will do what we profess to be. |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... Badger, You keep moaning mate, but I don't see where it's going to get you. I'm sure if we won the double you'd be moaning it wasn't the treble Never a truer word said..... And you can add in truevilla, Simeon, Vijay and ak_27 (sometimes) into that quote! |
bfastvilla
said:
 |
... Is downing injury prone? If not then surely the tucay and downing move would be a positive one. Tuncay would be a really good player to have on the bench if we need some flair or inspiration (or maybe he would fit straight into the starting 11). |
Tim
said:
 |
... I have a theroy on all the Transfers speculation. All the Links weve had come to nothing ! MON Panic Buys in the last week of Tranfer dealings, meaning players of substantial quality joining the Club ! The Fans get on his back for lack of urgency in the Transfer market after seeing all our linked players join our closest rivals, Everton , Man City, Tottenham ! Birmingam City beat us at there Ground ! MON is fired at Xmas Randy Lerner for dithering and not seeing the importance of the Fans ambitions, and we are also lingering middle to bottom of the table ! Villa Appoint a World class Manager who is able to attract big time Players and does positive things in the Transfer windows! MON gets his wish to become the England Manager next time around, then replaces The Scotch Git at Munichs when he retires ! That is My theroy as to the Events that will unfold over the next 6 Months at Villa Park. MON has had 3 Seasons and has not really bought any real success to a Club which were once European Champions. I light the Blue toch Paper ans stand well back !!! |
Ed Villa
said:
 |
... I think that we will have to be patient to secure those 'Quality' signings as I agree with a previous poster that these things take time. I think we could easily go out and sign players that will not move us forward but add to the squad like huddlestone or naugton etc but for the defour or hangelands of the world will take time. I am becoming very frustrated like many on here but taking a step back a looking at the big picture is helping me from throwing my laptop at the wall everytime there is no news. Plus I think that we have to be very careful that this does not turn into 'Martin Jol Syndrome'. The spurs fans pushed him out after two 5th place finishes and now look at them? That could be us. Please everyone trust in MON and have some patience. UTV |
Adey Stuttard
said:
|
... Damian, On a separate note, if I want to use the forum do I need to register for it or can I use these login details? |
RayK
said:
 |
...TheJohnnyVillan said: I hope you're right. Maybe £20m for Downing, Tuncay AND Wheater? I do that deal. (Although would obviously prefer about a dozen CBs before Wheater....) |
Christian
said:
|
... If the Downing and Tuncay rumours are to be believed, and some say that Wheater will be on his way then we're in for a long hard season. We've got to stop this mentality of buying in relegated players!!! 1 or 2 of the better one's is ok (Owen, or Martins, or Tuncay, or Olsson) but its risky business filling a team with them. Philips, McCant and Sorensen... |
Tim
said:
|
... If these Players were any good then Boro would have not been relegated !! Tucay looks promising as an extra attacking option but the others simply not good enough quality  |
ak_27
said:
|
... 1874AVFC if i think there is a problem with the club i love i will say it. Im not going to blindly ignore obvious problems that have been there since MON took over. My major issue is i don't believe that he is the man to bring this club back into the glory days. He is outdated and flawed and time will show this. The goal posts have moved again and it now far more difficult to break into the top 4. We don't seem to have the money i thought we had, Man City are now a huge treat also. So how are we going to break into the top 4? By playing an outdated style of football? By having a manager who can find 1/2 good players over 3 years by which point other talented players we have will have gone onto bigger things. We need a manager who can find foreign talent at low prices before they come on the radar of the big boys. We need a manager who can instill the passing and possession philophy that Fulham used to great effect last season (which by the way was the main reason for their good defensive record) We need a manager who can make tactical changes and Subs during a game if is so often needed to change the way it is going. This is the only way i can see us ever breaking the top 4 dominance. Now tell me is MON the man who can do this? I personnally don't think so. There are big flaws in this man that a lot of people just want to blindly ignore. |
Christian
said:
|
... Off subject, it does annoy me on here a bit (although never aimed at me thus far) when people who criticise MON get told "how dare you, you couldn't do a better job, as if he cares what a guy in his armchair thinks, I don't see you managing etc". It's ridiculous guys, we're here to comment, good or bad, happy or downright suicidal! Does a positive-blogger's opinion carry more weight from his armchair/non-management position??? Just thought I'd get that off my chest |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...We need a manager who can find foreign talent at low prices before they come on the radar of the big boys There's only one of those that I can think of and he's at Arsenal. The likes of Sven, Mourinho etc have spent money. Who's this genius you've got in mind? And if he's that good, do you think he would come to Villa? I personnally don't think so. There are big flaws in this man that a lot of people just want to blindly ignore. I think you'll find even us positive supporters agree that MON is not perfect. I have doubts about his substitutions, players out of position, not swapping things around and having favourites. But I still think he's the right man for the job. And two consecutive 6th places doesn't lie. So I'll ask again. Who is this genius who will improve us? |
ak_27
said:
|
... Badger i had Roberto Martinez in mind. Roy Hodgeson would do or Slaven Bilic. Anyone who would instill a passing game and have knowledge of the European game/leagues. |
Steve Badger
said:
|
... Martinez? Not yet, as he's not proven, but I can see where you're coming from. What would happen if he struggled at first though? Everone would be baying for his head. Hodgson, I rate him, but he did nothing at Blackburn. Bilic, I've heard good things about, but haven't tracked his career. I don't think he's won anything has he? I think MON is at least the equal of all those and is a proven winner of silverware, even if you discount Scotland. For me, he get's more time. |
ak_27
said:
|
... For me the way we can't pass the ball is what will stop any further progress up the table. That is coming from the manager. Now wheither that will change only time will tell but with the likes of NRC and Davies i can't see to much of an improvement this season. The premier league is moving more towards technical passing game every year. So far MON does't seem to care. But his Leicester team of 1997 would not last in today's premier league. |
RayK
said:
|
... I totally agree with ak_27 that we are severely limiting ourselves if we only sign PL or SPL players. That and squad rotation are by far and away MON's biggest weaknesses. Other than that MON is still head and shoulders over all the other likely candidates. People need to be careful on what they wish for ... |
Steve Badger
said:
|
...For me the way we can't pass the ball is what will stop any further progress up the table. That is coming from the manager. I agree with this and indeed that's why we are all calling for the likes of Defour etc. Someone with a bit of flair and skill who can pass. I'm sure MON knows it too. If he doesn't, or he does and doesn't do anything about it, that will be the start of the end, imo. But then, I think the single most important position is CB. We just can't concede in the way we did at the back end of the season. |
ak_27
said:
|
... Badger i agree about the defense. I personally wouldn't be too worried if we didn't sign any striker this window. I think we have far more pressing issues to sort out down the spine of the team. But even if we get Defour we still need our back line to be comfortable on the ball. They are usually on the ball more then the CM and if they just are not happy with it at their feet they will just lauch it over the mid. Again playing FB's out of position doesn't help. Davies is the worst culpret for this and is why im certain he will never be a full international. He is not a dominate CB and he cannot pass. What exactly is he good at? I would actually prefer Knight to Davies. We need 2 CB's. One guy who would head a stone if you put it up there and go through a wall for ball(just like Vidic) and also a CB who is nice handy ball player who is at home with the ball at his feet( like Ferdinard). Hangeland or Dunne for the Vidic role and maybe Distin for Ferdinand role perhaps. Put Naughton in as left wing back with Young on the right and that would be the defense hopefully sorted. |
Simon
said:
 |
... I think every manager who has ever worked could point to two ot three great buys. Didnt Taylor get Yorke Southgate and Platt for a song, but i would argue that these are the exceptions to the rule. Most managers have an idea what they need and invariably scouts tell them who fit the bill. Taking it a step further, they may even buy the best available option for that position, but it does not mean they will become worls beaters. However, if it suits the team formation and playing style then why not. One player who i thought was crap Das Bremner as he looked bland compared to the others. But he did his job week in week out without the plaudits and now sits at home with what is a champions league winners medal. The point of this is, you don;t need to buy world beaters to have a world beating team. Just look at Madrid!!!! |
paul mclafferty
said:
 |
... why call people idiots doc????? because they share a passion for the villa and want to see players signed and played in their positions doesnt mean they are idiots. mons other top signings have also been harewood,salifou,knight and shorey. i am not a supporter who will slag the manager off but the SMALL SQUAD excuse has got to stop as he has been here for 3 years now and i really think this is the biggest concern for the majority of the villa idoit faithfull. |
mr villa
said:
 |
... this transfer window is vital . if we dont buy quality we r screwed. spent the cash MON |
mr villa
said:
|
... there is talks carew is of to spurs wit bentley and jenas coming this way. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! if carew is going get keane coming this way. lets hope carew dont go AND we can still get keane |
mr villa
said:
|
... MON complaining about the size of the squad. i no f**king buy someone them its not r fault its yours |
Halfwit
said:
 |
... Well you all know my views on this topic Yes Martin O Snail is Dumbo in the transfer market he has no clue where to start and does not accept the help that is needed which is why we miss out on so many players due to martin wanting to do it all himself Fair enough run the football team how you want but accept help where its needed and you need help in the transfer market Like i said before unless he accept help we will always have a small squad Martin O Snail if you are struggling there is no shame in accepting help dont be too proud |
alex bk
said:
 |
... were not all teenager,s you div i live half way across the world and still have a season ticket just tired of moronic managent players out of postion ,and uefa cup joke waste of time and money ,but you probably never went so there you go. |
fastbackace
said:
 |
... i have a problem with one thing the same f**king excuse after every season "the squad is too small..." then f**king fix it, that is your job after all, and if you cant do it, get someone who can. sorry, rant over. |
Villa4life
said:
 |
... SAM...... is that you hubbal.....it has to be.....you are the only one i know that goes on about Aiden from rangers......get lost and also forget about Boyd....... |
Juan Pablo Angel
said:
 |
... Hello There, Can't help noticing that everyone keeps using a couple of transfers as evidence that MON is shocking in the transfer market: Salifou, Routledge, Harewood and even some people have mentioned Sidwell! I'm sure I can't be alone when I say that surely these players were not bought as long term solutions and merely because we needed a little cover in certain positions. Salifou cost virtually nothing on the last day of the transfer window before we had Sidwell, Milner etc and gave us the opportunity to send a few of the kids out for experience on loan rather than just sitting on the bench in case someone got injured i.e. osbourne, bannan etc. Routledge cost i think about 2m? Cover in a wide position which we really did not have before we signed Milner and were playing Gabby on the right wing and we recouped half of that when we sold him on to QPR. If he'd worked out and got near the form he was in at Palace we would have all been raving about the deal of the season, as it was, in on the cheap out on the cheap and no great loss. Harewood is a player Villified by a lot of people on this blog and don't see why. Sure, the guy is pretty useless but he does work hard and throws himself into the club cause. He should be sold this close season as we now have plenty of cover, but when we signed him for 3.5m we only had Carew who wasn't entirely fit and Gabby... no Delfouneso, no Heskey and if anyone can be arsed to go and check on how many goals he scored in that first season, work out how many points those goals were worth i.e winners, equalisers etc i think you'll find that we wouldn't have finished sixth if he hadn't been in the side. So whats the problem with that? MON knew he had the Fonz and Gabby coming through and needed a stop gap player who could score the odd goal and set a decent example of effort to the young players. Job done! As for Sidwell, he is an exceptional box to box player who can pass, score and will run his legs off for the team. Signed when Barry looked like leaving he was a contingency plan and i'm sure MON has him in his mind as Barry's eventual successor. The fact Barry stayed meant he was limited in terms of appearances, however when Carew was injured and we played 4-5-1 he looked class in the middle with Barry and Stan and was part of the longest winning streak we had last season. I'm sure we'll be seeing more of our ginger ninja in the middle of the park although he'll have a fight on his hands with Nigel and Craig vying for it too. Someone is gonna have to step up and make that spot theirs and who knows, they might find themselves in SA next summer. MON is as adept as any manager in the transfer market. People argue that Wenger brings the awesome kids through but he's been there over ten years? MON has brought in a number of youngsters over the last three seasons i.e forrester, licaj, carruthers etc, but they are young and we will see the benefits of his youth signing policy in years to come. Others would argue that why can't we go and sign the next ronaldo like Sir AF did.. does anyone remember that he also signed Kleberson and that complete cleft Djemba Djemba the same year? Where the hell are they now? some signings work and some don't. Fortunately the ones that haven't worked for Villa, i.e Salifou, Routledge etc didn't cost the earth and we knew they were s**t to start with anyway, lets be honest and so did MON, he just neeeded cover with the smallest squad in the league while waiting for his preferred targets. Kind Regards Juan Pablo Angel |
Graymo
said:
 |
...Those who had been so critical of Petrov scarcely deserved to be rewarded by his superb season in 08-09 Hang on a minute...they pay his wages. |
scott
said:
 |
... bloodey hell peeps just have patience my theory may be wrong but i think he uses the first half of the window negotiating and finding deals and the second half completeing deals so have no fear when 1 comes many will follow(hopefully) oh and MON never signs people early on. very promising statment from him today though!! |
Rodin
said:
 |
... I don't think that MON is awful in the transfer market at all.Is it MON's fault if the players he's after don't want to join us.I,like the other villa fans on here,am worried about not signing anyone yet.But,who knows what is happening behind the scenes?As for milner,he cant cross the ball at all,and such a player will be key in the england team..lmfao!!!No wonder the english football team fails in major tournaments!Ashley young is much better,but average at best.Never performs when we play the top teams. |
Rodin
said:
|
... Most of the squad we have are average players,who aren't capable of taking us into the top 4.Honestly,how many of our players would the top teams want to buy?Answer : NONE |
Rodin
said:
|
... With the squad we have,and the recent form we are in,i'd say we'd be lucky to stay up! |
Write comment
This content has been locked. You can no longer post any comments.
Latest Rumours from the Web
- Rumour time: Karl Henry and Alexander Hleb
- Craig Gardner set to leave Aston Villa for Birmingham City
- Spurs want John Carew and they are willing to offer Robbie Keane if we stump up cash too
- Transfer window is open, speculation is mounting and Craig Gardner is off
- Emile Heskey: Will he stay or will he go?
Wemberlee t-shirt
Follow Us
More Posts
- Aston Villa Academy make semi-final and Doyle and O'Hara
- Headache for Martin O'Neill equals discussion topic for Aston Villa fans
- John Carew Carew, Chelsea at Wemberlee and Mr Lerner, take more
- Aston Villa beat Reading, Carew scores three and Wemberlee
- Aston Villa at Reading, Lerner cash cow and the FA Cup
- Aston Villa travel to Reading in the FA Cup and seventh isn't the new fourth
- Aston Villa player threatens to quit and others will be leaving too
- Krulak talks, the club say thanks and Vidic isn't wrong
- Manchester United just better than Aston Villa
- Aston Villa v Manchester United: No live text, but maybe plenty of banter
Partners and Friends
Lucozade Sport on Facebook
Lucozade Sport loves Football as much as we do. They’ve been fuelling Aston Villa players for over 15 years and using this expertise to support amateur Footballers across the country. Visit their Facebook page for expert advice, video clips and Football chat. 
Login
Latest World Cup 2010 News
|
|
Get your online avatar
This blog is Gravatar friendly. That basically means, if you use Gravatar and leave a comment, as long as it's the same email address you registered at both sites, we'll show your avatar. It's a cool little site, we like it. Register here! Latest AVFC Blog Tweets
AVFC Blog
avfcblog
- follow:
- updates:2095
- followers:375
Loading...
Last 4 tweets in past 30 days from avfcblog:
People talking about '@avfcblog':
Leaving Comments
Only registered users can post comments without the need for it to be approved. Registration is free and takes two minutes so if you want your comments to show up straight away click here to register.
The Internet is Changing
